Proposed hospital site plan

Seneca Hospital is a small California designated Critical Access Hospital (CAH) with a “Community First” and medical Best Practice approach to serving our patients. Our healthcare campus is located in the town of Chester California in the heart of the Lake Almanor Basin. Many patients and families tell us they appreciate the family like atmosphere blended with science and technology which brings a different approach than larger medical facilities. The act of putting “Care” back into Healthcare and Hospitality back into Hospital will always be our goal.

Rendering of proposed new hospital

Artists Rendering of Proposed Site

The past several years have been anything but normal as we have all faced some daunting challenges. But change does not wait for all things to be perfect. In fall of 2020 we welcomed our new CEO, Shawn McKenzie. Over the past year under his leadership, Seneca has embarked on many projects of renewal with our existing healthcare facilities and culturally, with the way that we interact with our patients, families and teammates. Our effort to constantly improve the delivery and quality of care is a continuous effort and will be core to our values in everything we do.

In September of 1994, The California Governor signed California Senate Bill 1953, (Hospital Facilities Seismic Safety Act Requirements). This piece of legislation significantly effects Seneca Healthcare District Hospital as the main building was built in 1952 and does not meet any of these structural standards. Additionally, the current hospital facility cannot be retrofit to meet these requirements and as such, will cease operations in only eight (8) years.

Our Facilities Master Plan to build a new Seneca hospital reflects a significant work effort. Staff, Board Members, Volunteers and Vendor Partners have been diligently working on facilities planning to bring a new and modern hospital in support of life-saving care to the communities we serve.

Proposed new hospital rendering

Artists Rendering of Proposed Building

After extensive research and consultation, we have determined an innovative way to move forward with a plan to build our new hospital and expand services. This Master Plan to Build Seneca Hospital brings our long-planned hospital build to fruition.

Proposed New hospital conceptual design - front entrance

Covered Entrance to The New Hospital

The new, updated facility, which is expected to be completed by 2025, will create comfortable spaces for patients and families, and will provide ample space to accommodate state-of-the-art medical equipment. The facility will incorporate new technologies and advances in medicine to expand our expertise and fulfill our goal to be your healthcare provider of choice.

New Hospital Covered Entrance

Entrance to New Hospital

The facility will add much-needed space, design and resources— Expanded resident capacity in our long-term care unit; upgraded and modern patient rooms; additional surgical suites and post-surgical care unit; enlarged and additional emergency treatment rooms; spaces for equipment; and room to make the most of new and evolving technologies.

This ambitious campaign will activate previous commitments to the hospital campaign and will enhance endowment funds to uphold Seneca’s mission into the future.

Now is the time to support the Campaign to Build the new Seneca Hospital and provide our community with a new state-of-the-art hospital.

Proposed conceptial design for new hospital, covered entrance

Together, we can ensure Seneca continues to serve our patients with the care and kindness.

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