BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — After a decade of planning and development, Dignity Health Mercy Southwest Hospital is preparing to open the long-awaited Thomas M. Hardt Tower on December 8 a major expansion aimed at improving access to advanced medical care for the growing Southwest community.

Toni Harper, vice president of philanthropy, says the project represents years of dedication and collaboration.

“Our collective spirit is one that builds life-saving hospitals, navigates regulatory mountains, and makes miracles happen for every person in our community,” Harper says.

Hospital leaders describe the new tower as a critical step in addressing long-standing capacity challenges. Mercy Hospital President and CEO Simon Ratliff says limited resources have often made it difficult for patients

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