Millinocket Regional Hospital (MRH) in Maine has initiated a transformative $17 million construction project to modernize and expand its emergency department, with completion expected in 14 months. This upgrade aims to improve healthcare access and quality for the local Katahdin Region and the over 250,000 tourists who visit annually.

On December 31, hospital officials held a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off the project, which will be managed by A/Z Corp., a contractor from Connecticut. "Right now, we have five working bays... [but] the new ER will have 10 working bays, all much larger, all private," said Robert Peterson, CEO of MRH, to WABI-TV in Bangor. He highlighted the advanced design, including rooms adaptable for negative or positive air pressure, which will enhance infection control measures.

More than 80% of the project funding comes from federal grants and state approvals, with an additional $2 million still to be raised. Support from local commissioners, Maine Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and individual donors has been critical. "We want to be a hospital that can meet the needs of any patient... not just a Band-Aid station," Peterson emphasized.

The modernization effort will feature increased treatment capacity, dedicated trauma and cardiac care rooms, and improved decontamination facilities. A larger ambulance entrance will also streamline emergency management.

Construction will occur in two phases to minimize disruptions. Phase One will see the creation of a new main entrance and emergency department while continuing services in the existing space. Once the new facilities are operational, Phase Two will renovate the current emergency department, merging the two areas into a unified, state-of-the-art unit.

Peterson acknowledged potential inconveniences during construction, including parking and access challenges, but assured that temporary adjustments would be made to maintain operations. The main entrance will be temporarily closed, with clear signage directing patients and visitors to alternate routes.

"This is an exciting event in the rich history of MRH," Peterson stated in a news release. "We are building a modernized facility capable of meeting the needs of the communities we serve for decades to come."

The project represents more than just a healthcare upgrade; it signifies hope for Millinocket’s economic future following years of economic struggles due to mill closures.