Over the past five years, increasing numbers of clients and the services provided per client, along with growth in education and outreach programs, have stretched PPSCM beyond capacity. We have extended hours and days of service, gained efficiencies through technologies, and worked creatively to fulfill our mission across a six-county service area. But, working beyond capacity also has its limits!
The West Health Center in Kalamazoo was built 20 years ago to serve 2,500 clients. In 2005, that number reached 10,000 clients who made 34,800 visits to the same facility.
- Cramped quarters challenge confidentiality, timely service, staff efficiencies, and the benefits of a welcoming, healing environment.
- Inadequate space for education programs and activities limit outreach.
- Once convenient ‘Walk-In’ services are limited by too few parking spaces and long lines in a too-small reception area.
- Costly repairs and downtime result from aging infrastructure and computer systems that can’t keep up with demand or communicate between facilities.
The East Health Center in Battle Creek opened in 1992, planning to serve 800 clients in a small leased space. The space was doubled in 2002 to accommodate rapid growth that occurred when Calhoun County elimated family planning services. In 2005, the number of visits reached 10,600—an increase of over 187% since 2002.
- The facility is simply too small and poorly laid out for present and future healthcare services and education programs.
- Outdated information and communication technologies and security systems need replacing to meet Planned Parenthood and governmental standards.
- Layout throughout the facility, including client service areas, laboratories, and storage spaces is inefficient and awkward for staff, clients, and visitors.
PPSCM: Building for Tomorrow
Through the $4.6 million Building for Tomorrow Capital Campaign, PPSCM will address these needs by increasing capacity for access, education, and outreach, today . . . and for generations to come. Two significant building projects are planned to meet these growing demands.
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