The New Department Fills a Growing Need for Services

The Emergency Department facilities at Lankenau were originally constructed in the 1970s to handle about 15,000 patients each year. Currently, the Department staff is seeing about 30,000. In addition, changes in technology and treatment approaches required changes in the layout of the department.

The relocation moved the Emergency Department from the back of the Lankenau campus to the front, on the eastern side. The driveway was reconfigured so that patients and ambulances are able to drive directly to the ED. There are separate entrances for ambulances and walk-in patients. ED patient parking can accomodate 40 vehicles. Registration has been streamlined.

The new ED is designed to see 45,000 patients a year, and the Department’s enlargement will reduce waiting time for patients with the housing of 26 treatment rooms. The Department was constructed with state-of-the-art treatment technologies and equipment, as well as modern approaches to care such as a decentralized nursing station. Services and capabilities were expanded, including on-site X-ray and CT scanning. There is also a “fast-track” area, for less seriously ill or injured patients.

The all-new facility has also improved the quality of the environment for patients and their families. Patient privacy in the treatment areas is improved. Waiting areas are larger, with snack area and machines and access to the cafeteria for families. Family members are able to be with the patients in their treatment rooms when the doctor allows.

This new Emergency Department is part of a multi-year program of facility improvement at Lankenau, updating our buildings and services to continue to provide the best in patient care, comfort, and convenience. Other recently renovated areas include a new Interventional Cardiology Lab and Ambulatory Procedure Center; and new patient rooms, and a rebuilt Operating Room. A reconfigured Outpatient Diagnostic Center will be completed in the next two years.

Published:1-1-2002