Hospital boom continues in KY

Against the backdrop of a weak national economy and concerns about the long-term impact of federal healthcare reform, Kentucky's major hospital systems are making high-profile capital investments across the commonwealth. At least a half dozen major construction projects are under way in nearly every urban sector of the state. Louisville's Norton Healthcare System has committed $120 million to convert Suburban Hospital into Norton Women's Hospital and Kosair Children's Hospital, with a project completion date in late 2013. Pikeville Medical Center is investing $130 million for a new medical office building and upgraded parking facility that is nearing completion.