NE Piedmont News

The Emergency Department renovation project at Maria Parham Health has officially begun. Construction contractors have closed off part of the department, and demolition is underway as the hospital aims to transform its emergency care infrastructure. The renovation started on March 17, 2025, and is focused on improving services for vulnerable populations in Vance and Franklin counties, particularly those with behavioral health needs.

The renovation will establish dedicated spaces within the Emergency Department to address the specific requirements of behavioral and mental health patients. These modifications aim to create a more supportive environment for patients and staff while enhancing the hospital's overall efficiency. The main lobby has been temporarily modified to ensure continued patient care during the construction period. This includes dedicated areas for waiting, triage, registration, and other essential services, guaranteeing the seamless flow of care.

Although the front part of the Emergency Department is closed for the renovation, the hospital's main lobby will temporarily function as the intake, registration, and emergency care area for patients arriving by personal vehicle. The renovation is expected to take about 16 weeks, with completion anticipated in July 2025.

During the renovation, patients arriving by personal vehicle for emergency services are directed to the main entrance. Emergency Medical Services (EMS) entry will remain unaffected. Radiology patients should go to the main entrance for registration and will be guided to a separate waiting area.

Other services, including Lab, Outpatient Surgery, Inpatient Rehab, and General Visitation, should use the Heart & Vascular Center entrance, located to the right of the hospital’s main entrance. Signage in front of the hospital will provide additional guidance to help patients navigate the campus during the renovation.

The project was made possible by funding allocated to Maria Parham Health in October 2023, as part of a joint initiative led by the Vance County District Attorney’s Office, Granville Vance Public Health, the Vance County Board of Commissioners, and the North Carolina General Assembly. The funding underscores the region's commitment to improving mental health treatment services, and it will significantly benefit the community by offering more effective and compassionate care for behavioral health patients.

"We are excited about this important renovation that will better serve the needs of our community," said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. "The changes will help us provide the highest level of care to those who need it most, and we are grateful for the support of our partners and the local community in making this project a reality."

Maria Parham Health encourages the public to stay updated on the renovation's progress through the hospital’s Facebook page and local news outlets. The hospital remains committed to delivering high standards of care, safety, and patient satisfaction throughout the renovation, ensuring that patients continue to receive the care they need during this transformation.