In 2010, with over 30,000 visits each year, Bellin Health’s over 50-year-old Emergency Department needed an upgrade to better meet the community needs. A team of Bellin leaders, providers and community supporters joined efforts to update and expand the emergency services pavilion. This renovation created a 32,448-square-foot space that provided more room to ensure better flow and access for patients.
Longtime Bellin emergency physician Dr. Paul Casey shared the background for this important capital campaign. Casey said the project was initiated due to changes in service coverage in the market and a clear rise in need that the former model of care was not able to meet.
A few key components of the project included:
- Reception area configured to minimize front-end backups, speeding triage and reducing demand for waiting room space
- Multifunctional treatment to maximize flexibility in bed placement, allowing for seamless expansion and contraction of areas as needed
- Alternative treatment spaces to provide care to less urgent cases and patients requiring further monitoring, freeing up beds for those who truly need them
- Aesthetically pleasing design, including natural light and high ceilings with skylights
- Dedicated emergency department observation area allowing overnight patient surveillance to avoid unnecessary admissions
- Private bathrooms in every patient room to avoid the need of bedside commodes
- Incorporation of a child-friendly KidCare space
Casey said the positive impact of the changes and facility improvements are still in place today. Coupled with outstanding service, the facility helped Bellin continue to expand its emergency services market share. With volumes continuing to increase, Dr. Casey said he foresees the future need for additional space.
Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) also was a major contributor to the project, with naming recognition in the KidCare area.
“WPS serves electric and natural gas customers in northeast and central Wisconsin, including providing utilities to the area’s hospitals,” said WPS Foundation President Beth Straka. “The WPS Foundation is proud to support health and human service philanthropic initiatives with community partners, including Bellin Health, to enhance the quality of life in our service areas. The expansion of Bellin Health’s Emergency Department aligns with our foundation’s mission, enhancing the level of emergency health care for WPS customers and employees and the community as a whole. We are proud to continue to be a partner with Bellin, and we are happy to congratulate the Bellin Health Foundation on its 30th anniversary. Thank you for enhancing health care in our communities.”