Ben Taub Opens New EC Space
First phase of major EC overhaul completed, now moving into next phase


About 4,200 square feet of new space has opened at Ben Taub Hospital, increasing the size of its Emergency Center to 14,500 square feet.

The $2.1 million project is phase I of two phases to renovate existing and construct new hospital space in the next three years.

“Our goal is to make the future EC and the first floor area more patient- friendly, more efficient for healthcare providers to use, provide easier access for our patients, promote high clinical quality and safety and eliminate non-value added steps and processes,” said Terry Cunningham, hospital Administrator. “Our final decision on the design will be guided by what is in the best interest of improving the delivery of care to our patients.”

Phase I will add a covered portico for emergency patient drop-off at the intersection of MacGregor and Lamar Fleming. The renovations have added new restrooms, enlarged the waiting area, widened hallways and enlarged the EC pharmacy to handle emergency patients.

In December, the spacious new lobby and waiting area opened for emergency and urgent care patients. The space also includes offices for Social Services and Patient Business Services, an isolation room and new triage area.

Planning for phase II, which could add 30,000 square feet of reconfigured EC space, has begun. As part of the planning, architects have been hired to conduct one-on-one interviews with staff about their needs and wants for the space.