Summary
United Regional will begin construction by the end of 2014 to expand and renovate its Emergency Department, creating a new Center for Emergency Care.
The project will be completed in two phases, including both new construction as well as renovation of the existing space. The current Emergency Department encompasses 20,800 square feet with a total of 35 rooms; the expanded Center for Emergency Care will include 41,800 square feet with a total of 53 rooms, including two trauma rooms, three critical care rooms, 40 universal treatment rooms, and eight patient evaluation/triage rooms. In addition, the expanded/renovated space will include six rapid treatment areas, a 10-bed clinical decision unit, disaster preparedness areas, and expanded ambulance bays. The project also includes a new public walkway from the emergency department entrance to the Bethania Building.
Renovating and enlarging the Emergency Department will further expand quality of care and safety for patients by providing more treatment areas for multiple levels of care and allowing medical personnel the necessary space to more effectively care for patients. The new treatment rooms will provide enhanced patient privacy and comfort, including individual temperature controls and additional seating for family members. In addition, expanding the Emergency Department will help reduce wait times, improving service to patients and families. The project is expected to enhance satisfaction for patients, visitors, employees, and physicians.
The project’s total cost will be $28 million and will be funded from United Regional’s cash reserves and investments, supplemented by philanthropy. Contribution commitments thus far include a naming level gift from the J.S. Bridwell Foundation, lead gifts from the Fain Foundation and the Bryant Edwards Foundation, a generous commitment from the United Regional Auxiliary, and support of the members of the United Regional and United Regional Foundation Boards of Directors.
The projected completion date is scheduled for the end of 2016.
About United Regional
United Regional Health Care System is located in Wichita Falls, Texas and provides comprehensive medical care including inpatient and outpatient services, advanced diagnostics, surgical specialties and life-saving emergency care to a 9-county service area. It has the area’s only Level II Trauma Center and serves as the Primary Stroke Center for the region.
