Silver Cross in the News
Right Move On Hospital A new Silver Cross Hospital is the right option, according to the Illinois Health Facilities Board, and we wholeheartedly agree. Silver Cross will use its 70-acre modern facility along U.S. 6, near Interstate 355, to provide some of the finest equipment and medical services available in the Joliet area. Now that the decision has been reached, it is time for all groups to end the divisiveness toward the $398 million plan and instead embrace it. We hope the city of Joliet leadership will keep the future health care of its residents in mind and let this project get rolling. Also, while community leaders, especially on the city's East Side, are concerned, we believe a newer hospital will provide better services to the needy. This approval by the board is a significant development in continuing to give quality medical care throughout this fast-growing county. And Silver Cross officials have stressed that the hospital has no intention of "abandoning" the East Side. Hospital officials instead talk about plans to turn the current $18 million Keck Emergency Pavilion into either an urgent care or primary care center or a combination of both. Also, the hospital is committing $8 million to prepare its current site for redevelopment. Furthermore, Silver Cross, through its "Charity Care Commitment," promises to set aside $4 million a year for 10 years to cover the cost of medical bills for people who can't pay them. With the state board's decision, the time has come for all parties involved to shake hands and move on. As we indicated just six weeks ago, much work needs to be done right away, especially regarding what to do with the current Silver Cross location. We see the new Silver Cross Hospital as a golden opportunity for everyone. Now comes the need for teamwork to make this plan a golden reality. Congratulations to Silver Cross Hospital and to the Illinois Health Facilities Board for making this wise decision. 
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