News Release: July 31, 2009

Yesterday, Presbyterian Healthcare Services announced at a news conference that the construction of the Presbyterian Rio Rancho Medical Center is once again underway and full steam ahead. Rio Rancho Mayor Tom Swisstack, Sandoval County Commissioners and Rio Rancho City Councilors were on hand for the major announcement.

“The construction of the Presbyterian Rio Rancho Medical Center continues the positive momentum taking place in our city as this project is another example of new development that will enhance the quality of life for our residents,” said Mayor of Rio Rancho Tom Swisstack.

Presbyterian will invest $165 million in the construction of the Presbyterian Rio Rancho Medical Center. This is the single largest investment in Presbyterian’s 100-year history. The facility will feature labor and delivery services, intensive care, operating rooms, cardiac services, MRI and imaging, emergency care and more. Rio Rancho and West Side residents will no longer need to cross the river for essential hospital care.

“Presbyterian is committed to building a 21st Century medical center for Rio Rancho and West Side residents,” said Jim Hinton, Presbyterian president and CEO. “We appreciate the community’s patience and support during this process.”

During the last few months, Presbyterian has continued to invest in pre-construction site work and maintained permits and plans. As a result, the 66-bed Presbyterian Rio Rancho Medical Center is expected to be completed in 2011.

Included in the hospital design, the Presbyterian Rio Rancho Medical Center will feature lighting and low noise to promote healing, spacious rooms for patients and their families and an environmentally sensitive plan. Presbyterian will build a visionary hospital worthy of the City of Vision.