Md. system wins OK to build replacement hospital

A new hospital in Hagerstown, Md., won state regulatory approval after four years in limbo. The $233 million, 267-bed facility will replace the current 264-bed Washington County Hospital. Planners hope to break ground in November and open the new hospital in July 2008. The hospital's parent -- private, not-for-profit Washington County Health System -- proposed the new facility in 2001 but was challenged during the certificate-of-need process by Hagerstown officials, who objected to the cost and location. The system dropped plans to add 30 beds to the hospital as a result. -- by Tony Fong