New partnership will bring expanded health care access to Pierce County

PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — Pacific Lutheran University (PLU), MultiCare Health Systems, and the Washington State University (WSU) announced a partnership Tuesday that will help expand medical services to people in Pierce County.

According to PLU, demand for health care in Pierce County is expected to rise, with volumes increasing by 11% for acute care, 5% for emergency services, and 20% for hospital outpatient and surgical care -- which includes both diagnostic and preventive procedures during the next 10 years.

“The timing is critical, as the communities surrounding PLU are growing exponentially. More than 172,000 people live in the region currently, and the population is expected to grow by 6% in the next five years,” PLU said in a press release.

PLU and MultiCare Health Systems will be responsible for building the new medical center. PLU plans to use up to 15 acres on the southeast corner of its campus for the center.

Officials said the partnership will ensure health care is available to residents, veterans and military families of Parkland, Spanaway and beyond while helping to train the next generation of health care leaders.

Members of PLU's nursing school and WSU's Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine will get the opportunity to develop their skills at the new medical center.