HONOLULU (KHON2) — The Queen’s Medical Center has unveiled its newly expanded emergency department, which is now named The Uytengsu Family Emergency Department.
A blessing and maile lei untying ceremony marked the occasion on Tuesday, June 10. The ceremony was attended by government leaders, agency representatives, invited guests and staff.
The emergency department at Queen’s is the busiest in Hawaiʻi. The staff there serve more than 62,000 patients annually. It is also the only Level 1 trauma center in the state, the only comprehensive stroke center, the only organ transplant program and the busiest STEMI center.
In addition, it provides care to the highest number of patients with behavioral health conditions. This expansion enhances its ability to serve the most critically ill and vulnerable populations in the state.
The Uytengsu Family Emergency Department is scheduled to officially open and accept patients later in June.
Here are the key updates and improvements to the facility:
- Increased treatment capacity: The number of treatment rooms has grown from 35 to 76. This expansion will support increased access to emergency services and provide the ability to treat more patients efficiently and effectively.
- Expanded size and upgraded technology: The emergency department’s physical footprint has been enlarged to include advanced diagnostic and treatment capabilities. These now feature state-of-the-art CT and X-ray services located within the department.
- Dedicated space for behavioral health patients: A new, specialized area has been created for patients with behavioral health needs. This space was designed to provide the safest possible care while respecting the dignity of every individual.
- Improved patient flow and infection control: The redesign includes improved patient flow systems. This allows for safe separation of patients with suspected or confirmed infectious diseases from other patients. This includes those at greater risk due to pre-existing conditions.
- Mechanical system upgrades: The new systems include negative air pressure features and enhanced air filtration. Surface and air disinfection measures have been upgraded to better prevent the spread of viruses.
The Uytengsu Family Emergency Department was named in honor of Candice Uytengsu, who made the largest individual donation in Queen’s history to support the expansion.
The facility also includes The Wo Family Foundations Waiting Room that came due to a $1 million contribution from the Wo family.
You can click here to learn more about Queens Health Systems.
The Queen’s Health Systems continues its mission, founded by Queen Emma and King Kamehameha IV, to provide quality health care services to Native Hawaiians and all the people of Hawaiʻi.