Cooley Dickinson Hospital, Emergency Department Remain Open During Construction

NORTHAMPTON, MA – Cooley Dickinson Hospital is reminding the public that all its services, including the emergency department, remain open during its current construction.

The hospital’s emergency department is currently undergoing a $26 million upgrade that will increase its size by 40%, adding nine new patient rooms, four beds for those needing mental health care, a family waiting area, and an in-unit CT scanning machine for more timely access to diagnostic imaging.

In response to comments from community members about the construction, president and chief operating officer Dr. Lynnette Watkins said the hospital’s emergency department remains open 24/7, as before, and will remain open throughout the duration of the project. “Patients and their families who come to the emergency department present during their most vulnerable moments. We will continue to provide a safe, warm, welcoming environment to every patient,” she said.

To help patients navigate the construction, patient ambassadors are available at both the emergency department and north building entrances. The ambassadors are customer-service liaisons who can answer questions about parking and provide directions to patients and families.

As part of the current phase of construction, ambulances enter the hospital property via Denniston Place, an access road slightly east of the traffic light on Route 9. EMS Coordinator Sara Burgess stated that the modified route will not add to additional time to transport patients seeking emergency care. “Our pre-hospital partners have practiced this route and are familiar with the new on-campus traffic pattern,” she said.

Patients who have appointments for endoscopy procedures should look for signs that direct them to the north building entrance for check-in.

The expansion of the Cooley Dickinson Hospital Emergency Department is being funded by local residents and area businesses. To learn more about the campaign, or to make a gift, visit https://www.cooleydickinson.org/giving/campaigns-and-initiatives or call 413-582-4483.

People who have questions about the construction project can email feedback@cooleydickinson.org.