St. Luke’s plans new $14M ICU

St. Luke's Hospital in New Bedford is investing in a new $14 million intensive care unit. / COURTESY SOUTHCOAST HEALTH

NEW BEDFORD – A new $14 million intensive care unit at St. Luke’s Hospital will more than double size of the hospital’s current ICU and move it toward its goal of establishing a Level II trauma center next year, Southcoast Health announced Thursday.

Located on the hospital’s fourth floor, the 16,300 square-foot unit will be equipped with the latest technology and include 16 patient rooms, a conference area for physicians to meet with families and a large lounge. Construction began in May, and is expected to finish next March.

St. Luke’s current ICU is 7,300 square feet.

As the hospital works toward a Level II trauma center designation, the new ICU will contribute to that process by increasing St. Luke’s capacity to care for seriously injured patients, according to Southcoast.

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“Our investment in advanced intensive care will provide our patients with greater access to clinical excellence, close to home,” said Southcoast president and CEO Keith A. Hovan.

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell toured the site Wednesday, and commended the health care system for its initiative.

“Needing the services of critical care can be an emotional and trying experience for patients and families,” Mitchell said. “This new unit will have the space, technology and skilled care team that will make all the difference during someone’s time of need.”

Southcoast did not immediately respond to questions for additional details, including an expected completion date.

ICU manager Maria Tassoni said her staff contributed meaningful suggestions and ideas for the new unit’s design and features.

“I am excited about the opportunity for our nurses, physicians and staff to work within a new state-of-the-art unit that is designed to provide an optimal experience for patients, families and providers,” she said.

St. Luke’s has made a series of investments over the last five years, including a nearly $14 million renovation at the Stoico/FIRSTFED Maternity Center in 2014 and a $4 million rapid assessment zone in the emergency department in 2017.

Elizabeth Graham is a PBN staff writer. Email her at Graham@PBN.com.

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