LOUISVILLE, Ky. — UofL Health opened its new $186 million West Tower Wednesday at the University of Louisville Hospital.
The seven-story tower features a two-story atrium, concierge desk, chapel, coffee shop and gift shop. It brings major enhancements to patient care, including new surgical suites, private inpatient rooms and a 24-bed observation unit. Six additional observation beds are located on inpatient floors.
“UofL Hospital is a hub for critical and acute care, with lifesaving capabilities and innovative treatments to support our community and the entire commonwealth,” said Jason Smith, UofL Health CEO. “The investment in this tower represents our ongoing commitment to ensure our patients have access to the very best in care, in a healing environment, with an expert team of collaborative and compassionate caregivers guiding their recovery.”
Serving more than 1.5 million patients annually, UofL Health said the West Tower adds more than 193,000 square feet to the hospital, increasing its footprint by 43%. The facility has regularly operated at 90% or higher capacity in recent years, UofL Health noted.
The added patient rooms and the observation unit create capacity for nearly 100 more patients, enabling the hospital to operate at its full licensed inpatient capacity of 404 beds, UofL Health said.
“The West Tower was built to elevate patient-centered care and streamline nursing workflow,” said Shari Kretzschmer, UofL Health chief nursing officer. “Our nurses had significant input in shaping these improvements to ensure care is efficient and compassionate. Patients and families will experience enhanced accommodations, including private rooms. Spacious, thoughtfully designed rooms and open areas create an environment that promotes healing and comfort whether recovering from surgery, illness or injury.”
The opening of the West Tower is the first phase of broader modernization at UofL Hospital. As patient care units transition into the new space, renovations will begin in existing areas, including the neonatal intensive care unit and emergency psychiatric services. Modernization is expected to be completed over the next several years.
“This expansion of UofL Hospital is about more than increased capacity; the improved space provides an excellent setting for developing the next generation of physicians, nurses and allied health professionals,” said UofL President Gerry Bradley. “This is the type of first-rate facility that our clinical instructors – and most importantly, our patients – deserve.”
Visit UofL Health’s website for more information on UofL Hospital and the new West Tower.