Children's Medical expands with new patient tower
The new tower adds 140 universal and ICU-capable inpatient beds, and the new emergency room has doubled in size.
Photo: Marko Geber/Getty Images
Children's Medical Center Plano in Texas, part of Children's Health, has just opened a 395,000-square-foot patient tower, with the expansion tripling the campus's bed capacity, the health system said.
The new tower adds 140 universal and ICU-capable inpatient beds, increasing the total to 212. The new emergency room has nearly doubled in size, with 48 exam rooms and the resources necessary to build a Level II trauma center.
New imaging and radiology capabilities have expanded with advanced MRI, CT, PET, CT and SPECT/CT scanners, as well as expanded X-ray and ultrasound equipment, the system said.
WHAT'S THE IMPACT
The expansion is being made with additional future growth in mind, with an eye toward increasing access for pediatric patients across specialty care programs encompassing cardiology, oncology, gastroenterology, orthopedics, neurology, pulmonology and surgical services.
The hospital also plans on expanding heart center outpatient services, including a fetal heart program and new sports oncology program; orthopedic and sports medicine offerings; and non-chemotherapy-based infusion services.
Technologically, the tower is digitally integrated and features bedside tablets, digital signage and a digital front door, as well as a microgrid to ensure uninterrupted care during power outages. The hospital touts itself as one of the first hospitals in the country to provide full-building backup power for use during such events.
Set on a 180-acre campus, the tower features a nature-themed environment with local Texas habitats featured on every floor, highlighted with both native plants and animal themes. The campus also includes outdoor balconies, green space and grazing horses to promote tranquility.
ON THE RECORD
"At Children's Health, we know that patients heal best when they are near their homes, schools and support systems," said Vanessa Walls, chief market executive at Children's Health. "This significant expansion reflects our unwavering commitment to bringing world-class pediatric care closer to home for the families we serve. From advanced technology to nature-inspired design, every element was created with our patients and families in mind. The new tower enables us to provide increased access and enhanced care for patients and their families in the heart of their own communities."
Jeff Lagasse is editor of Healthcare Finance News.
Email: jlagasse@himss.org
Healthcare Finance News is a HIMSS Media publication.
