Monroe County Hospital and Clinics (MCHC) Outpatient Expansion

Albia, Iowa

Monroe County Hospital & Clinics completed a multi-year, $18 million outpatient expansion to modernize its 35-year-old facility. Planned through a 2017 master facility strategy, the project added nearly 30,000 square feet and renovated existing areas to expand services, improve efficiency, and enhance patient and staff well-being.

A new prominent north-side entrance with drop-off canopy, lobby, and centralized registration clarifies campus identity and arrival. Centralized registration streamlines intake while maintaining privacy with visually distinct desks that remain operationally linked. The lobby and concourse connect the Rural Health Clinic, Visiting Specialty Clinic, Therapy/Rehabilitation, Infusion Center, and education spaces with carefully designed sightlines to simplify wayfinding.

The expansion includes an upgraded Rural Health Clinic and Visiting Specialty Clinic, a new Infusion Center with views to a secluded courtyard, an integrated Therapy and Rehabilitation Center, and added educational and community spaces. Human-centered design—natural light, warm finishes, calming colors, living green walls, and regional imagery—reduces stress and connects patients with nature.

Critical infrastructure upgrades—pharmacy modernization, energy-efficient mechanical systems, controls, roof replacement, and parking/helipad reconstruction—improve safety and sustainability. Inclusive planning with more than 100 staff and community participants ensured the design reflects real needs and ownership. The result strengthens patient experience, staff workflows, recruitment, and long-term community health.

Project completed while at INVISION — Role: Healthcare Planner

Photos by Cameron Campbell; Integrated Studio