Houston Medical Center Receives Approval for Surgery Expansion

 Special to the Journal

Continuing to serve one of the fastest growing areas in the

state, Houston Healthcare has received Certificate of Need approval from the

Georgia Department of Community Health which will allow Houston Medical Center

to begin construction on renovations and an expansion of the surgical services

area. This 64,647 square foot area includes 29,992 square feet for renovations

and 34,655 for newly constructed space. This area will provide six surgical

suites, five endoscopy rooms, two pain clinic procedure rooms and one exam

room, along with a cystology suite, bronchoscopy room, and additional pre-op

and recovery bays.

“The new renovations and expansion of our surgical services

area will be a great benefit to our patients, their families and the entire

community,” states Cary Martin, Chief Executive Officer for Houston Healthcare.

“With the continued growth our community is experiencing, we will be able to

better meet the needs of our patients. The community can be confident we are

investing our resources in a manner that will enhance their care, including

utilizing the most up-to-date equipment and technology to assist the staff and

physicians providing care.”

Construction for the five-phase project will begin in April

and the total project is estimated at $41.8 million. The first phase will

include renovation and expansion of the current surgery area, and the second

phase will complete the endoscopy suites. Once those phases are complete,

construction for the recovery rooms, as well as staff and physician areas will

begin. The project also includes a new waiting room and exterior entrance to

the hospital. Surgical suites, patient bays, procedure and exam room will also

increase in square footage. The entire project is scheduled to be completed by

Spring 2015.

“We are pleased to be able to move forward with these

renovations and expansions,” says Stephen Machen, Administrator for Houston

Medical Center. “By working in phases, we will be able to provide continuous

care and not disrupt the daily operations of each area. The design of the space

also allows for a more efficient work area for the staff and physicians and

will enhance the overall patient experience.”

HHJ News