Moving into new space is challenging for hospital departments that are operational 24/7. The departmental staff have little extra time to effectively plan, prepare, open, and occupy the new space. Chandler Regional Medical Center (CRMC) understood the inherent risk and engaged The Innova Group to reduce the stress and time commitment on internal staff, and to provide quality assurance and oversight only available from an outside party.
To transition to the new space without disruption, The Innova Group began by developing a plan, identifying risks, and assembling a tool set. Preparation and occupancy activities included communicating and coordinating the plan and schedules with all stakeholders, training, unit stocking, and preparing the facility for patient arrival. “Dry-Run” activities to ensure a seamless transition to the new facility included internal ancillary support staff/departments, and external providers and agencies. These activities were part of planned “Dress Rehearsals” for opening and addressed patient and public access, supply logistics, and First Responder/EMS access.
The Innova Group also assisted with the coordination of opening the new Emergency Department, while simultaneously shuttering the existing Emergency Department facility. As part of the transition strategy, a decommissioning plan was established for the old unit.
