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s western Wisconsin's hospitals struggle to keep pace with demand, a potential lifeline has emerged in the form of a proposed purchase. The University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Foundation is exploring the acquisition of the former Sacred Heart Hospital building site, a move that could bring much-needed healthcare resources to the region.

    The Blugold Real Estate Foundation, a non-profit entity affiliated with UW-Eau Claire, is leading the charge on this potential deal. According to Executive Director Curt Krizan, the foundation's Board of Directors is currently conducting due diligence on the property. If the purchase goes through, additional details will be shared at that time.

    The former hospital site has already seen some activity in recent months, with Blugold Real Estate purchasing two parking lots behind the main campus in October. Located near the UW-Eau Claire dorms, these lots offer a glimpse into the potential future of the property.

    The closure of Sacred Heart Hospital and 17 other clinics in western Wisconsin last year left many patients scrambling to find new healthcare providers. With hospitals now operating at capacity and appointment wait times on the rise, the need for additional resources has never been more pressing.