Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital expanding its Emergency Department?
As one of only three Level I Trauma Centers in New Jersey, an academic medical center and a state and regional leader in emergency and trauma care, RWJUH regularly addresses some of the most serious illnesses and accident-related injuries in the state. Due to our Level I Trauma Center and Pediatric Trauma Center designations and the fact that our academic medical center offers many specialty services and destination therapies available at only a small number of elite institutions nationally, patient demand continues to grow for RWJUH's services. Our Emergency Department serves as the entry point for thousands of patients who seek our services each year.
Is this project in response to the volume of patient visits to the Emergency Department?
In part, yes. RWJUH currently cares for more than 95,000 emergency department and trauma patients annually. The enhancements made as a result of this project allow us to meet this demand, provide high-quality care to our patients and make their comfort and safety our top priority.
What is the scope of the expansion?
Plans call for expanding the Emergency Department from 40,000 square feet to 60,000 square feet.
What enhancements will be made as a result of the project?
In addition to giving us the added capacity to treat more patients, there will be several enhancements made including:
- The expanded department will feature more than 100 new, private treatment areas for patients
- Separate, expanded Pediatric Emergency Department specifically dedicated to children and families
- Fast-track option for patients who arrive at the department with less emergent diagnoses
- In-department radiology imaging to increase efficiency and reduce wait times for test results
- New walk-in entrance
- New ambulance bay with capacity for eight ambulances at one time
When will the project end?
Phase I of the project began on March 6, 2017 and is expected to be complete by July 2018. We anticipate completing the entire project by early 2020.
Will there be changes in traffic patterns and access to RWJUH during this time?
There will be some changes as we complete the expansion. We will proactively share information and engage our community partners throughout every step of the project.
