Houston-based Harris Health System will undertake a $70 million expansion project to ensure the trauma unit at Houston-based Ben Taub General Hospital retains its Level I certification, reports Houston Public Media.
Below are four things to know about the proposal.
1. In January 2015, the American College of Surgeon's trauma committee warned Ben Taub surgical deficiencies at its facilities could result in the downgrading of its Level I trauma center. ASC asked the hospital to coordinate a plan to its improve operating room capacity and surgical staffing. The expansion is part of Ben Taub's commitment to retain its Level I trauma certification.
2. Along with Memorial Hermann, Ben Taub is one of two hospitals with a Level I trauma unit in Houston. It is critical Ben Taub retain its Level I designation so it can continue providing complicated emergency services to patients in the area. According to Houston Public Media, the Houston region should have at least six Level I trauma centers to support the size of its population.
3. Ben Taub currently has 11 operating rooms. The $70 million proposal will add seven new operating rooms with updated layouts and equipment, giving Ben Taub a total of 18 ORs.
4. Construction is slated to begin early next year.
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