The Jewel & Jim Plumb Heart Center at Mercy Medical Center was envisioned as a cardiac center of excellence that brings together cutting-edge technology with simplicity, accessibility and deep community connection. The project reflects the organization’s mission of compassionate care while embracing inclusivity and innovation to meet the evolving needs of the diverse community it serves.
The Owner aimed to consolidate specialized cardiac services into one centralized facility that streamlines care delivery and improves patient experience, especially for those traveling from rural Eastern Iowa. By integrating diagnostics, treatment, rehabilitation and support under a single roof, the center simplifies patient journeys and enhances communication among care teams, promoting a compassionate, efficient environment.
Compassionate Care Meets Innovation Through Design-Build
Community engagement was equally prioritized, with a public-facing ground-floor lobby designed as a hub for health education. The space offers AED training, screening stations and classrooms supporting programs that introduce cardiac wellness and healthcare careers to people of all ages. Flexible meeting areas facilitate ongoing learning for both staff and community partners. The center’s design reflects its mission of healing and dignity, inspired by stained glass detailing and enriched by outdoor patios and green spaces that invite connection and reflection beyond the clinical setting.
Leveraging design-build enabled the team to deliver a high-performing, patient-centered facility on time and under budget despite the challenges of a global pandemic, complex site logistics and evolving design needs. Advanced technology, like Reality Capture with LiDAR, enhanced quality control, while database-driven decisions kept the project aligned with goals. A culture of trust and accountability underpinned the team’s success, breaking down silos, encouraging open communication and adapting processes to meet challenges such as supply chain risks. Early procurement of critical materials and cross-disciplinary expertise optimized outcomes beyond contractual expectations.
This center sets a new standard for design-build excellence by delivering a beautiful, functional space that exceeds expectations and strengthens community health and connection.
Design-Build Team
| Client/Owner: | Mercy Medical Center |
| Design-Builder: | Ryan Companies US, Inc. |
| General Contractor: | Ryan Companies US, Inc. |
| Architect: | Ryan A+E, Inc. |
| Engineer: | IMEG |
| Project Cost: | $41,721,605 |
| Construction Duration: | 19 Months |
Photos
Photo Credit: Wayne Johnston, Main Street Studios