New Expanded ER Nears Completion - Open House Set for July 17

"Just amazing!" That's what Bernadine Wemken exclaimed after her experience in Beloit Health System's new Emergency Department. The $11.6 million expansion and renovation are scheduled for completion this summer, however, the ER continues to care for patients throughout this 22-month rebuilding process. The three phases of construction began in September of 2008 and will be finished on schedule and on budget.

A community Open House is planned for Saturday, July 17 where the complete project will be open for families to tour. The morning event will showcase one of the most effective, state-of-the-art Emergency Department in Wisconsin- a welcome gift to the residents of the Stateline area.

"Modernizing the ER not only makes our patients' emergency experience more comfortable, high tech, and efficient," explains Tim McKevett, Senior Vice President, "but it also helps attract and maintain the best emergency medical and clinical staff."

Phases III and IV, the final phases before completion, will include new treatment, reception, and staff support areas, as well as the addition of a covered entrance for easier patient access.

"The ER staff couldn't be happier," remarks Dr. Richard Barney, Emergency Room Medical Director, and lead advocate for the expansion project. "From the planning process through this final realization, it has been a very exciting journey for our staff and community."

Beloit Health System's ER, which is one of the busiest in the state, previously cared for about 90 patients per day, however, it was not uncommon for this to increase up to 125 on some days. The new expansion corrects the concern of some patients leaving without receiving treatment due to previous long waits.

"There are much greater efficiencies behind the scenes, as well," adds Jeannie Yowler, Director of Emergency Services. "With the additional private treatment rooms for patients and larger central staff areas, there is much less noise and disturbance. Our patients now feel they are a priority."

"The Stateline area rallied to provide impressive support for this project," states Ann Sitrick, Foundation Executive Director. "Thanks to Tom Finley and Dale Reeves, who co-chaired the steering committee, we were able to benefit from generous corporate and individual gifts to finance a portion of this improvement."

Beloit Health System's new Emergency Department features:

• A total of 27 treatment rooms including a second trauma room equipped with state-of-the-art equipment including Pediatric/Adult crash carts, fiberoptic camera scope, double monitors, and more.
• Separate areas for minor illnesses in the Fast Track area or general emergency care.
• A new ambulance garage that can hold up to six emergency vehicles when needed.
• Larger private treatment rooms and additional waiting areas including a separate area for families.
• New Digital X-ray and CT located within the Emergency Department, all PACS digital diagnostics, plus new lab transport systems.

Hats Off to ER

"My husband came into the ER in a lot of pain and I have to say, my hat is off to everyone we came in contact with. The new ER is wonderful and has so much more space, we were just amazed. The testing could be done in the room, with results right on the in-room monitors. It's just 10 minutes from my home in Roscoe, so why would I drive all the way to Rockford?" Marvin and Bernadine Wemken, Roscoe, IL

Grand Opening Celebration

Saturday, July 17th from 9 a.m.- 12 noon Join us for tours, healthy snacks, giveaways, and family activities. We will have fire trucks, ambulances, and the Med-Flight helicopter available for tours. The ER will continue to serve patients during this time, so special accommodations have been made.