McLeod Health opens the new McLeod Seacoast Emergency Department Tuesday, June 7, 2016. The 9,600 square-foot Emergency Department nearly doubles the size of the existing space, allowing for more streamlined services, including new exam rooms and state-of-the-art trauma facilities. This is first of many enhancements to McLeod Seacoast Hospital.

The expanded Emergency Department features 23 spacious exam rooms with advanced diagnostic equipment, including three trauma areas and two triage rooms. The open floor plan creates a comfortable environment for patients and their families, and supports efficiency in patient flow.

“A large percentage of our admissions to our hospitals arrive through the Emergency Department,” said Dick Tinsley, Administrator for McLeod Seacoast and McLeod Loris Hospitals. “This is their first impression of our efficiency, quality and service. This new Emergency Department accommodates the healthcare demands of our growing area and provides access to quality healthcare when emergency services are needed.”

The new addition also offers an OB/GYN exam room, designated for OB/GYN emergency cases. The enhanced waiting area, divided into four separate sections, offers a warm and intimate environment for visitors. A private family consult room also allows for providers to meet with family members. Additionally, adjacent parking for Emergency Department visitors and patients offers convenience and ease of entry.

“With the new Emergency Department, McLeod Seacoast has answered the community’s call and allows us to serve twice as many patients, while continuing to offer quality care,” said Cindy Hyatt, Vice President of Patient Services. “Last year, the Emergency Department treated more than 27,000 patients. This expansion enables us to serve more patients and decrease wait times. McLeod Seacoast is projected to have 35,000 emergency cases in 2016. We are ready to meet that need and committed to growing our services for communities we serve.”

The second phase of construction offers six fast track rooms to rapidly treat less complex emergency cases, which supports easing congestion and lowering wait times. The second phase follows, with completion in Fall of 2016.

The Emergency Department expansion is the first phase in an overall construction plan that includes a new inpatient tower and operating rooms as well as an expanded same-day services suite. The addition of a concourse highlights the most visible renovation for the public. The concourse changes the appearance of McLeod Seacoast and offers a public thoroughfare at the hospital entrance for ease of navigation to services and access.