A previously shuttered inpatient unit at the University of Iowa Health Care Downtown Campus – formerly Mercy Iowa City – has reopened following a months-long renovation effort.
The 26-bed unit known as “3 Center” by staff is fully outfitted with upgrades to technology, infrastructure and workflow efficiency for staff and faculty, resulting in a dedicated space for inpatient family medicine.
According to the university, an inpatient family medicine unit generally cares for a broad spectrum of patients, with the exception of those requiring intensive or surgical treatment. Patients admitted to this unit may have been hospitalized for issues such as heart conditions, diabetes, chronic illnesses, serious infections or kidney-related issues.
The renovated space is part of an ongoing effort by university officials to revitalize the downtown campus at 500 E. Market St. following its acquisition in 2024. The inpatient unit had been closed for years prior to the university taking possession of the hospital.
“By reviving this unit and converting it into an inpatient family medicine unit, we’re delivering on our commitment to maintaining and improving access to high-quality, compassionate, and hospitable care in our community,” said Dr. Denise Jamieson, UI vice president of medical affairs and the Tyrone D. Artz Dean of the Carver College of Medicine. “We will continue to adapt services at our campuses to meet patients’ evolving needs, so they can receive the right care, at the right place, at the right time.”
Patients will now have more options on where to receive their care, university officials said, and the renovated unit will provide learning opportunities for resident physicians to practice at a hospital with a community feel.
“The reopening of this unit is an exciting milestone for all of us who have been dedicated to this campus for many years,” said Kim Volk, longtime staff member and RN. “Every improvement we are making enhances our ability to deliver high-quality, compassionate care in an environment that is easy for patients to navigate, with a personal touch from familiar faces.”
The downtown medical center saw more than 72,000 patients within the first year following the university’s acquisition and that number has steadily grown, university officials say.
“I’m proud of our staff for their commitment to this campus and how they’ve adapted to a number of changes over the past year and a half,” said Jennifer Miller, chief administrative officer for the downtown campus. “The reopening of the 3 Center unit is symbolic of this campus’ revival and is a testament to the strength and resilience of our team.”
The unit will welcome its first patients this month.
