MaineHealth Franklin Hospital to begin two-year emergency department renovation

MaineHealth Franklin Hospital in Farmington has plans on the drawing board for a two-year renovation and expansion project.

The goal of the renovations is to expand and modernize its facility in order to streamline services, according to a news release.

The renovation is designed to address a surging demand for emergency services, enhance the patient experience and expand vital services. 

The project marks “a significant investment” by MaineHealth in the hospital’s infrastructure and capacity, the hospital said.

Emergency department

The cornerstone of the project is full modernization of the emergency department, which will be performed in phases over two years. Planning for the project is underway, with a goal to begin construction this winter. 

The phased approach is expected to ensure minimal disruption to patient care while allowing for the department’s modernization to accommodate growing patient volumes. 

The new department will include additional patient rooms, dedicated behavioral health spaces and a fast-track triage room for low-acuity emergency department visits.

Since 2018, Franklin’s emergency department has experience a significant increase in the demand for emergency medical services. In 2018, there were approximately 13,000 to 14,000 patients annually. This year, the department served nearly 20,000 patients.

“The phased approach for the emergency department modernization ensures that patient care remains our top priority throughout the renovation process,” said Barbara Sergio, the hospital’s president. 

Backed by U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, MaineHealth Franklin Hospital has applied for Congressionally directed spending funds to support the project. 

The project cost has been estimated at $11 million.

Cancer care

The hospital recently completed the renovation of its cancer care and IV therapy space. 

The $3.5 million project allows the hospital to increase patient access by up to 30% and create a more welcoming and comfortable environment for patients and families utilizing these services, the hospital said. 

The new space also streamlines services by centralizing all aspects of consultation and treatment.

“These enhancements will go a long way in improving patient experience and care offerings for our community members undergoing oncology and infusion treatments,” said Sergio.

Hospital modernizations

Other hospitals are tackling emergency department capacity and upgrades. Earlier this year, Mount Desert Island Hospital in Bar Harbor was awarded $5 million in congressionally directed funds to renovate, expand and add equipment to its emergency department; and Millinocket Regional Hospital was awarded $9.9 million to construct and equip an expanded emergency department.

And a number of hospitals and health care centers have additional projects in the pipeline, including new machinery, systems, dental, medical and behavioral health centers and Islesboro’s purpose-built clinic.

In 2021, Northern Light Mercy Hospital opened its new emergency department in Portland.