A controversial plan to build a psychiatric hospital in the Quad Cities goes back before a state panel Thursday. Two weeks ago, the Iowa State Health Facilities Council held a hearing, but adjourned after 10 hours of testimony.
A Tennessee-based company called Strategic Behavioral Health would like to build a 72 bed hospital in Bettendorf, and needs permission from the council. But the plan is opposed by the two hospital groups in the Quad Cities, Unity Point and Genesis Health System. They say they're expanding the mental health services they offer, and a stand-alone psychiatric hospital is not needed.
Earlier this year when it was short one member, the council split 2 to 2 on the proposal. But all five seats are now filled, so it could make a decision on the application by Strategic Behavioral Health for a "certificate of need."
The hearing will be held in Des Moines.