From March 2005 issue
'Inspired and innovative'
Community medical center prepares its 'Vision for the Future'
Merle West Medical Center is embarking on an inspired and innovative expansion and modernization.
Crews have started preparing the site for the $40 million project that will enhance care delivery and prepare the community medical center for a bright future. Actual construction will begin this spring with completion in late 2006.
Architect's drawings dominate a large wall in a room on the medical center's second floor. A scale model of the project is there for public viewing along with two room mock-ups. They provide a glimpse of the progressive philosophy the project reflects.
"Everything about the new facility is forward-looking, yet anchored to the traditions and strengths of our home town," says Neal Eberlein, a former member of the Merle West Medical Center Board of Directors and now chairman of the project's capital campaign.
"When you see these (drawings), you begin to appreciate the thought and care that has gone into the planning and design of the modernization."
Whether it's the new entrance driveway, the lobby entrance and three-story atrium, or the subtle patterns in the floors and walls, you'll see the smooth curves representing segments of the "circle of life" that continues throughout the design, Neal notes.
"The materials in the new construction will reinforce the feelings of strength we get from our community," he says, adding the project will preserve the natural texture and colors of the Klamath Basin.In many locations, material will be in arrangements that resemble old-fashioned quilts.
"As with a quilt, where many small pieces are assembled into a single blanket that has greater comfort and a greater purpose, this project brings together the many elements of who we are," he says. "When it comes to preparing for the future, we're united in purpose and with the good of the community at heart.
"We're stronger when we work together."
Built just in front of the original medical center, the new construction will consist of new larger inpatient care facilities in a thoughtful arrangement to help enhance the medical center experience for patients and their families. It also will move some care services closer to patients.
The Emergency Department also will be expanded as part of the project.
A three-story atrium represents the philosophical heart of the modernization. It is open, light, spacious and welcoming with every part serving a specific function.
Open spaces and plenty of Klamath sunshine streaming through the windows will highlight the main lobby. There also will be a soothing waterfall and access to quiet spaces and restful, rejuvenating gardens.
"The design team did an excellent job incorporating natural beauty in a facility where form truly follows function," Neal says.
The team also worked hard so the new rooms work very well for patients, families and visitors, and care providers. "The design puts renewed emphasis on privacy and restored control to our patients."
The modernization extends the Merle West Medical Center philosophy of care for the whole person.
"Health is not simply the absence of sickness," says Paul Stewart, the medical center's president and chief executive officer.
"Creating and maintaining health means investing in people, in equipment and facilities, and in services that promote and nurture wellness and care delivered with kindness and dignity. All of us at Merle West Medical Center are dedicated to those ideals.
"This project builds on the past, responds to the present, and prepares for the future. It is truly an investment in our community; a 'Vision for the Future.'"
Call 885-4768 to learn more and to schedule a tour of the project planning room.