A Healthier Future: DVH unveils expansion plan

The Reporter - October 23, 2024

Delaware Valley Hospital in Walton is gearing up for a transformative expansion to enhance healthcare access in Delaware County, as presented to the Delaware County supervisors Oct. 23 by DVH CEO Rolland “Boomer” Bojo and public relations representative Cindy Ray. The hospital seeks a letter/certification of support for its plans to establish a “medical neighborhood” aimed at modernizing healthcare delivery and expanding its offerings to better serve the community.

Bojo emphasized the need to invest in the hospital’s facilities, which have reached full capacity, limiting its ability to grow. “We’re literally out of space,” Bojo said, citing recent expansions that included primary care and rehabilitation services, but noted that even storage closets have been converted into office space to accommodate staff.

The ambitious project, estimated to cost approximately $60 million, will consolidate inpatient and outpatient services under one roof, creating a more integrated healthcare hub. By adding new space for services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pharmacy facilities—including a drive-through pharmacy—the hospital aims to improve efficiency and access. The plan also includes community rooms for health and wellness programs, which will allow for nutrition classes, EMS training, and chronic disease management sessions.

Ray highlighted transportation challenges as a significant barrier to healthcare in the county, where many residents struggle to access medical services due to the lack of public transit.

“As we all know, the most significant barrier to healthcare in this county is transportation. Currently, Delaware County has no public transportation, although that may change, and we all hope that does - but the size and the population density of the county means that this is going to be an ongoing hurdle, but DVH is in the ideal position to bring the vital services closer, making them more accessible to the people in the county,” Ray said.

Delaware Valley Hospital is pursuing multiple funding avenues, including grants from New York State’s Health Care Transformation Fund and the USDA, along with community fundraising efforts. If successful, the expansion will ensure the hospital can continue to meet the evolving healthcare needs of Delaware County for decades to come.

The presentation concluded with a call for the county’s support, stressing that the initiative is an opportunity to drive healthcare advancements and improve quality of life in the area.

“It’s time to move Delaware County healthcare into the future,” Bojo stated.