2 Central Peninsula Hospital Shaun Keef, CEO Central Peninsula Hospital Photo by Karin Sunden A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO Planning for the future Central Peninsula Hospital (CPH) recently launched a comprehensive planning process to address the growing health care demands of the Central Kenai Peninsula. This initiative, which began in November 2024 and is set to conclude in July 2025, aims to chart the hospital’s course for the next 5 to 10 years as it relates to programs, space needs and capital improvements. We are collaborating with all departments, the medical staff, the Kenai Peninsula Borough and various committees. The purpose of this planning project is to proactively approach the future growth and needs of the health care system. In the past several years, the hospital has reported significant increases in inpatient demands, outpatient visits, emergency room utilization and many other key metrics. In addition, CPH has brought on more services to provide for community needs, allowing people in our service area to stay close to home for care. Surges in utilization and the addition of services can strain resources and infrastructure, highlighting the necessity of a longterm master plan. The master plan will address challenges such as capacity constraints and evolving community health needs. CPH has always prioritized community needs, demonstrated in our response to the results of the 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). Mental health and substance abuse care were top priorities identified in the 2022 CHNA. In response, CPH added psychiatric services through the Mental Wellness Clinic and added to the bed capacity of the substance use disorder detox unit. Goals to improve care Key objectives of the planning process include evaluating current facilities, forecasting future demand and identifying necessary capital improvements. The plan will also explore innovative solutions to enhance patient care and operational efficiency while maintaining CPH’s commitment to health and wellness through person-centered care. By involving diverse stakeholders and aligning with community priorities, CPH aims to ensure that its services remain responsive and sustainable. This forward-looking approach will enable the hospital to continue meeting the health care needs of its growing population while addressing emerging trends over the next decade.
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