The state grant will fund a critical expansion and modernization of the hospital’s emergency services, promising shorter wait times and enhanced patient care.

Rome Health is set to transform its emergency care capabilities after securing a $5 million state grant, a move that addresses the growing demand for urgent medical services in the region. This crucial funding, announced Monday by State Senator Joseph Griffo, will fuel a comprehensive renovation and expansion of the hospital’s Emergency Department. The project is designed to increase capacity, modernize equipment, and create a more efficient and private environment for patients, directly tackling concerns over wait times and overcrowding that have become more pressing in recent years.

What the $5 Million Grant Means for Patient Care

The grant, awarded through the New York State Department of Health’s Statewide Health Care Facility Transformation Program, is a landmark investment in Rome’s healthcare infrastructure. Hospital officials say the project will fundamentally reshape the patient experience from the moment they walk through the door.

Rome Health President and CEO AnneMarie W. Czyz expressed her gratitude and excitement for the project. “This is a monumental day for Rome Health and our community,” Czyz said in a statement. “Our Emergency Department team provides exceptional care under challenging conditions. This grant allows us to build a facility that matches their expertise, ensuring our patients receive the best possible care in a modern, comfortable, and efficient setting.”

Key Features of the Emergency Department Expansion

The renovation project is ambitious and focuses on several key areas identified as critical for improving patient outcomes and operational flow.

The planned upgrades include:

• Increased Treatment Bays: The number of private patient treatment rooms will be increased by nearly 40%, from 14 to 20. This will significantly reduce wait times and improve patient privacy.
• Dedicated Behavioral Health Suite: A new, separate area will be constructed to provide a safe and secure environment for patients experiencing a mental health crisis, away from the high-stimulus main ER.
• Advanced Trauma and Cardiac Rooms: Two state-of-the-art resuscitation rooms will be equipped with the latest medical technology for treating critical trauma and cardiac arrest patients.
• Improved Triage and Waiting Areas: The entrance and triage area will be redesigned for faster patient assessment, and the waiting room will be enlarged and made more comfortable for families.

“Every aspect of this redesign is centered on the patient,” said Dr. Mark Murphy, Chief Medical Officer at Rome Health. “From reducing the time it takes to see a doctor to creating specialized care areas, this expansion will save lives and improve the healthcare experience for thousands of people in our region each year.”

The Impact on Rome and the Mohawk Valley

This investment extends beyond the hospital walls. A modern, high-capacity Emergency Department is a critical piece of community infrastructure that can attract new residents and businesses to the area. The construction phase itself is expected to create dozens of local jobs.

Senator Griffo highlighted the project’s regional importance. “Strong, accessible healthcare is the bedrock of a thriving community,” he noted. “By investing in Rome Health’s emergency services, we are investing in the health and security of every family in Rome and the surrounding towns. This is a critical step in ensuring our healthcare infrastructure can meet the needs of the future.”

The expansion comes at a time when hospitals across the nation are struggling with emergency room overcrowding. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these challenges, highlighting the need for flexible and robust emergency medical facilities. The Rome Health project is a proactive step to ensure the region is better prepared for any future public health crises.

A Healthier Future for the Region

The $5 million state grant for Rome Health’s Emergency Department is a significant victory for the Mohawk Valley. It promises not only a state-of-the-art facility but also a tangible improvement in the quality and accessibility of urgent medical care for tens of thousands of residents. This project represents a forward-thinking investment in the community’s well-being.

As the project moves from planning to construction, the Mohawk Valley Voice will continue to provide updates. For now, this news offers a powerful dose of hope and a clear sign that the health of our community remains a top priority for our leaders and healthcare providers. We encourage our readers to support Rome Health’s mission as they embark on this vital transformation.