Mary Black Health System held a ribbon cutting, September 8, 2009 for its new $8 million Emergency Department, Local dignitaries, government officials, local business leaders, members of the Mary Black Board of Trustees and descendants of the Mary Black family joined the management and ED staff of Mary Black Hospital as the ribbon was cut symbolizing the pending opening of the new ED.
The new ED which is more than 18,500 square feet, double the size of the former ED has increased capacity from 14 to 24 beds. The new design was created with input from physicians, nurses and other ED staff to enhance patient flow and decrease wait times. Focus groups with business and community leaders were also conducted to help develop new ED procedures and protocols which best suit patient needs in an ER environment. “Of course, we are excited to have a new facility but, more importantly we are elated for what this new facility will mean for our patients – improved wait times and overall service….we are committed to creating a whole new kind of ED experience,” stated Bruce Bourdon, M.D., Medical Director of Mary Black Health System’s Emergency Department.
Pending final state inspection, plans are to officially open the new ED to patients tentatively within the next two weeks. During final approval of the new ED, the old department remains open to care for any potential emergency needs.
Following the occupancy of the new ED later in September, construction will begin on Phase II of the new ED. This phase will include: the modification and retrofit of portions of the current ED for support offices, the construction of a new radiology area within the ED which will house a digital x-ray machine, the raising of the ground elevation to match the circular drive and existing grade and the construction of a vending area. Phase II is expected to be completed by year end in December of 2009.
The Mary Black ED currently treats approximately 27,000 patients each year. This number is expected to significantly increase over the coming years.
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