Good Shepherd ready to show off private rooms, other features
Although the modernization project at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital won't finish until next summer, the work reaches a major milestone next month when several key features, including four stories of private patient rooms in the new north pavilion, are completed and opened to the public.
To celebrate and thank members of the community for their patience during the $247 million renovation that began in 2013, the hospital near Lake Barrington is hosting an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 14, when visitors can get their first look at the new features.
Hospital President Karen Lambert said the new private rooms are what have people most excited. Each room has a private bathroom with a shower, as well as a couch that can pull out into a bed for family members.
Other features include new smart-room technology to provide more information to every member of a patient's medical team and family.
While the north pavilion will change the experience of those needing inpatient care, the new south entrance will make navigating the hospital easier for those at the hospital for tests or other minor procedures.
“It really creates a one-stop shop,” said Alison Wyler, the director of the campus modernization project.
“It was really a thoughtful futuristic concept when we designed it, and I think it is working well.
“As much as I love every other feature of the project, (the new entrance) really is stunning and it really provides that first impression of the excellent care we've provided for years,” Wyler said. “You'll see a lot of natural light throughout the facility and it just gives you this sense of calm, like you're in good hands.”
Other features opening in May include new operating rooms that are bigger than the current rooms to accommodate new technology, said Liz Donofrio, a manager of public affairs and marketing for the hospital.
At the open house, visitors will be able to go on self-guided tours of the new areas — including the operating rooms, usually accessible only to medical professionals and patients — as well as enjoy free food and music.
The first 200 people will receive a bike helmet, and police officers will be there to provide free car seat fittings.