A new state-of-the-art facility has led to more people seeking care at Franciscan Health’s new hospital in Michigan City.

The $243 million hospital, which fronts I-94, opened its doors to patients on Jan. 12, 2019. Franciscan hosted a week-long anniversary celebration, which began Jan. 20.

Since the new Michigan City site opened, Franciscan representatives say the hospital, when compared to the former facility, has seen an increase in births, more emergency room visits and additional operating room cases.

Trish Weber, vice president of operations and chief nursing officer, said more surgeries prompted Franciscan to add two more operating room suites to the Michigan City hospital.

Dean Mazzoni, Franciscan Health Michigan City president and CEO, said it’s the system’s people that are the difference makers.

“I want to take a moment to thank every person on our incredible team for the important work that you do and the services you provide,” he said. “Each member of our team, by living our values every day, makes a positive and memorable difference in the lives of our patients and their families.”

Sister Petra Nielsen, vice president of mission integration said, “The mission spirit here is something that we should all be proud of.” She pointed to the installation of the Safe Haven Baby Box as part of that mission, which provides a safe place for a mother in crisis to leave her infant.

The site of the former Franciscan Michigan City hospital on Homer Street houses a Franciscan ExpressCare facility.