In the early 1970s, Altamonte Springs was merely cow pastures and orange groves. Now the city is home to more than 40,000 residents, and with that growth comes the need for the expansion of community services. For the past 31 years, Florida Hospital Altamonte has seen a rise in occupancy rates and admissions to the emergency room. In order to accommodate the growing need for health care in the community, Florida Hospital Altamonte is adding a patient tower, expanded emergency room, and parking garage.
“As Seminole County’s population continues to increase, the demand for services also grows. It is essential to have a hospital that can support the growth of the area,” said Dick Van Der Weide, Seminole County Manager.
The first phase of the construction project, a five-story parking garage, has been completed and plans for the 195,000 square foot hospital expansion were recently revealed.
“One of the major changes coming with this expansion is the emergency department (ED),” explains Terry Owen, COO for Florida Hospital Altamonte. “We will be tripling the size of our ED allowing us to streamline processes and treat more patients in a more efficient manner.” In addition to the ED, a six-story patient tower will add 83 beds. Construction will begin in Spring 2005 with completion expected by the end of 2007.
“Florida Hospital Altamonte is a key member of the Altamonte Springs community,” said Russel Hauck, Altamonte Springs Mayor. “It is vital that our community hospital grow along with the community. These expanded services and beds will truly benefit every resident in the area.”
