EMERGENCY ROOM FRONT AND CENTER

The changes to the Emergency Room/Emergency Department have been in the works for quite some time. The renovation began back in November of 2017 and the patient entrance was relocated to the front of the hospital back on May 15, 2018. Andrea Pilkington, ED Director at HRMC, notes that there are a number of benefits to the public. “The entrance is now more visible day and night – when you’re hurting, scared, worried it’s difficult to locate an entrance at the back of a hospital that is not easily seen. Parking is better for patients and families and it is an easier pull up access to the front entrance.” Pilkington explains that the upgrades run much deeper. “Changes have included not just an updated appearance but also new equipment and the design of exam rooms.
Room design was to increase the efficiency of medical
staff in being able to access equipment and the patient. Room carts in every exam room limit the need for staff to have to leave the room and hunt down supplies. The clocks in every room are tied to our computer system so there is never a discrepancy in documented times. New furniture was also placed in all exam rooms. Staff has also increased, and we currently have approximately 40 staff – nurses and technicians and 12 – 15 medical providers (physicians, Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants). We are also now designated as a Level 3 Trauma Center, but we treat all trauma patients that are brought to us.” Plans currently call for a total of 27 total rooms.” states Jones.