After years of planning and preparation, Torrance Memorial’s new Main Tower is becoming a reality. In what has been deemed one of the largest construction projects in Torrance’s history, work has begun on the new seven-story, 390,000-square-foot patient care structure.
“This is truly a historic time for Torrance Memorial, and the entire community,” says Craig Leach, Torrance Memorial President and CEO. “What we are creating here will be a significant presence in our community for many years to come.”
For months leading up to the presentation of the initial proposed building plans, staff and physicians from throughout the medical center met regularly with project architects to provide their input. Torrance Memorial’s “Hospital of Tomorrow,” reflects evidence-based design based on recent experience of other newly built hospitals.
- A mock patient room was constructed for staff to give their input on design details to improve the patient experience while providing the highest level of care
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Features of the private rooms, interior and exterior spaces pay special attention to the comfort of patients and family members
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Plans include a Healing Garden which features a soothing fountain and lush landscaping
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Interior spaces allow for greater family involvement and minimize unnecessary stressors such as noise and light
- Space for new surgical and interventional procedures will be equipped with the latest medical resources and technologies
Additional features also include:
- Environmentally sensitive design: recyclable building materials and water-efficient landscaping
- Family-focused amenities: comfortable lounges, the capability for family members to spend the night
- An on-site chapel
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Patient care units designed for fewer patient transfers; when transfers are necessary, destinations are closer
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Larger lounges, work spaces and storage areas, and workflow efficiencies are built into the design
“The synergy that has taken place in our interdisciplinary planning team has been exhilarating,” said Senior Vice President, Patient Care Services, and Chief Nursing Officer Peggy Berwald, R.N. “Everyone — staff, managers, clinicians, physicians, administration, support personnel, community members — has been uniformly focused on providing the safest, high-quality patient care and service.”
“With the closure of numerous area hospitals, this expansion of Torrance Memorial will allow us to serve the current healthcare needs of our community today and for generations to come. This is an exciting new chapter in the history of Torrance Memorial,” said Torrance Memorial President and CEO Craig Leach.