The Palmerton Hospital Medical Unit, built in Gilbert along Route 209, was toured by more than 500 people during an open house program held there last night.

Barbara Spadt, hospital administrator, said the unit is expected to be in operation by Aug. 12. She said installation of a heavy-duty transformer by the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company and a general cleanup are the last details needed to be finalized.

The unit, which was inspected and approved by the PA Department of Labor and Industry, was designed for emergency treatment on weekends by hospital physicians in residence. It will be open from noon Saturdays to 6 a.m. Mondays.