Kootenai Medical Center on Tuesday unveiled plans for an outpatient health care center here.

The hospital for two years has considered building a medical campus west of Coeur d’Alene.

“We don’t know what our (exact) plans are now for Post Falls,” said Joe Morris, the hospital’s chief executive officer. “But we have an interest in Post Falls, because we have a high volume of patients who come from the area.”

Panhandle Health District plans to open a public health clinic at the Kootenai Medical Center facility in Post Falls. Larry Belmont, the district’s director, said preliminary plans are to build a 3,500-squarefoot clinic.

A consultant has been hired by the hospital to determine what kind of services are needed in Post Falls. Local doctors also have been surveyed.

The consultant’s report is expected in 60 days. Construction could begin this year.

The center will be built on 10 acres given to the Kootenai Medical Center Foundation by Post Falls residents Manuel and Gladys Schneidmiller.

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