Methodist Health System will be expanding its Emergency Department at Methodist Charlton Medical Center, adding 40,000 square feet to double the size of the ED and increase the number of beds from 45 to 70.
The emergency department is currently rated as a Level III trauma center, and will have larger waiting and triage areas. Increased trauma rooms, expanded ambulance bays, and new imaging equipment are all part of the plan as well. There is a floor currently being shelved for future use, and the building is designed to to expand vertically to at least four additional floors.
“More space makes the emergency room a more welcoming and accessible community resource. A new emergency department exemplifies the ongoing commitment of Methodist Health System to ensure that those who live in the southern sector of Dallas receive outstanding quality healthcare,” said Fran Laukaitis, President of Methodist Charlton Medical Center, via release.
The investment comes amidst a global pandemic where many hospital systems are furloughing and laying off employees. The Methodist hospitals are the only two hospitals with trauma centers south of downtown in the city of Dallas. At Methodist Charlton, most patients arrive through the emergency department, according to Dr. Jeffrey Butterfield, Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Methodist Charlton.
Methodist has invested $175 million in Methodist Charlton over the last several years, including a new oncology unit, expanded cardiology and robotics departments, and construction of a new patient tower.
Methodist Health System Board Chair Julie Yarbrough adds via statement, “The new ED at Methodist Charlton reflects the dedication of Methodist Health System to its mission to improve and save lives through compassionate quality healthcare.”
Construction on the new department will begin in early 2021 and should be open by summer of 2022.
