By Dan Hounsell, Senior Editor, Facility Market

Englewood Community Hospital recently started construction on a multi-phase emergency department renovation. The $10 million project will expand capacity, helping the hospital meet the needs of the growing community and the Southwest Florida region.

When complete in summer, 2022, the emergency department will expand the number of patient care areas to 18. This includes new bronchoscopy and endoscopy suites. Two new behavioral health safe rooms and expanded trauma suites will also be added.

Phase one includes construction of a dedicated lounge for EMS crews. The project also includes a new waiting area, registration area, a private consultation room, and increased emergency support space. All systems and equipment are being upgraded for energy efficiency and reflect current design trends in healthcare.

The renovation of the emergency department is part of the hospital's commitment to serving the greater area. Over the years, Englewood Community Hospital, an HCA Healthcare facility, has earned 18 consecutive A grades for hospital safety from the Leapfrog Group, a national nonprofit organization that evaluates hospitals on their safety.

Now that the project is underway, the entrance to the emergency department is located on the north side of the hospital and continues to care for patients 24/7 without interruption. During phase 2, planned for 2022, the emergency department entrance will relocate to its permanent location on the east side of the building.