Geisinger Holds Groundbreaking for New Lock Haven Clinic

LOCK HAVEN – The rain held off and a large audience was on hand Thursday as Geisinger and Highmark Health hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for the Geisinger Medical Clinic Lock Haven building.

A host of dignitaries turned the shovels for the symbolic start of the new, two-story facility to be constructed at Spring and W. Fourth streets, the old Lock Haven High School football practice field. The new facility, scheduled for completion in early 2021, is part of a clinical joint venture between Geisinger and Highmark Health finalized earlier this year.

Speakers included Dr. Jaewon Ryu, Geisinger president and chief executive officer and Karen Hanlon, Chief Operating Officer, Highmark Health. Dr. Ryu said, “As the needs of our communities evolve, we are looking toward the future and partnering with Highmark Health to make health care more accessible, more affordable and easier for our communities. With this new partnership, we’re making it easier for residents of Lock Haven and the surrounding area to live their healthiest lives while building towards an overall healthier community.”

Ms. Hanlon lauded the joint Geisinger/Highmark collaboration and said, “We are happy to say that the joint venture will provide comprehensive access to the services of this medical clinic for both Highmark and Geisinger Health Plan members.”

Services will include a walk-in urgent care center, adult and pediatric primary care offices and imaging and lab services. The new facility is also to house physical and occupational therapy, as well as a specialty clinic with dermatology, cardiology, gastroenterology, surgery and women’s health services.

Geisinger late last year had completed its $1.93 million purchase of the several connected third ward Lock Haven holdings as part of its plan to build the new health services clinic.