Capital needs remain, and delays only increase costs. Many rural organizations, however, start facility planning by calling the architect first and only later considering their budget and the actual demand for healthcare services in their community. This often results in a plan that is more wish list than need focused, can’t be financed, and a team that becomes defensive and conflicted when the project needs to be reevaluated.
This session is designed for busy rural healthcare leaders and board members seeking a clear roadmap for planning and financing a successful capital project. We begin by addressing common pitfalls: plans that exceed budget, finance and the board being left out, and projects that stall because real-world conditions and initial visions don’t align. Then, we walk through a proven sequence—focusing on economics first, followed by demand modeling and facility planning rooted in those financial realities—and know when to prioritize reuse and investments in existing campus facilities instead of full replacements. You will leave with a practical framework for your next step, whether you’re still exploring options, building your case for the board, or preparing for financing and implementation.
