| News & Events |
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New Emergency Department Opens at St. Anthony Wednesday, 16 December 2009 The $4 million project was approved by the hospital board of directors in 2008 to address an upturn in the number of patients seen in the ER, and concerns for the security and privacy of patients, families and staff. The number of patients who use St. Anthony’s emergency services grew from 5,767 visits in 2005 to an expected 7,140 visits in 2009. Part of this growth is the result of St. Anthony’s decision to provide 24-hour, seven-day-a-week, 365 days-a-year ER physician coverage for the community. The Emergency Department renovation and expansion project has increased much needed space for trauma treatment and addresses the need for patient, family and staff privacy and security issues. “The design of the new emergency area transforms our former Emergency Room concept into a fully functioning Emergency Department,” said Gary Riedmann, hospital president. “The Department has increased the space devoted to two trauma rooms that can expand to accommodate four patients, a cast room, and five exam rooms – all within visibility of the nurses’ station. Access to the area is now limited to those involved in emergency services and allows us to provide privacy for patients and grieving families, and adds additional security for patients, families and employees. In addition, sleeping quarters have been included in the Department to keep physicians more easily accessible.” A $1 million capital campaign has been lead by a committee that includes the following individuals:
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