Sentara Obici Hospital in Suffolk, Virginia has launched an expansion and modernization of its emergency department.
The 21-month, $13-million project will add 7,000 square feet of space, increase the number of treatment spaces from 23 to 37, including nine “vertical care” spaces with comfortable chairs. The modernization will enhance privacy with doors on patient rooms instead of curtains and add an additional safe space for behavioral health needs.
The project will involve some temporary changes for patients. The walk-in entrance to the ED waiting room is moving during construction to the present outpatient surgery entrance. Patient, staff and physician parking is also being reconfigured. Ambulances will continue using the existing campus entrance and access door. Signage will guide motorists and patients to parking lots and entry doors.
The project team includes architect HDR and construction manager W. M. Jordan.
