The Larnaca General Hospital has unveiled an upgraded emergency department, aiming to enhance patient service and significantly reduce waiting times.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
- The Larnaca General Hospital has unveiled an upgraded emergency department, aiming to enhance patient service and significantly reduce waiting times.
- “There are major differences in the renovated space,” Kliridou explained. “The space is larger, we have more beds to accommodate patients and the effort is to reduce waiting times.”
Emergency department: Improved Facilities and Increased Capacity
The revamped Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) treated 122 patients within its first 24 hours, a volume consistent with typical daily figures for September, according to hospital officials. Dr Maro Kliridou, head of Larnaca’s A&E, noted, “Everything ran smoothly during the first 24 hours,” adding that patient numbers during this period usually range between 120 and 130.
Photo: in-cyprus.philenews.com
Expansion of Emergency Services
The renovation marks a substantial expansion of the hospital’s emergency services. The new department now boasts 15 beds, including designated areas for infectious diseases and short-term care, a significant upgrade from the previous three permanent beds.
“There are major differences in the renovated space,” Kliridou explained. “The space is larger, we have more beds to accommodate patients and the effort is to reduce waiting times.”
Phased Construction Approach
The first phase of the construction included the completion of examination rooms, paediatric facilities, triage areas, and a rapid patient transit room. A second phase is set to introduce two additional examination rooms, along with trauma and resuscitation facilities. Kliridou reassured that temporary configurations are in place to meet immediate resuscitation needs.
State-of-the-Art Medical Equipment
The new department has been equipped with advanced medical technology and specially designed chambers, all manned by a skilled team trained to respond to critical incidents. The Cyprus Health Organisation (SHSO) confirmed that plans are in place to bolster staffing levels, with two new medical appointments set to increase the number of doctors in A&E from 14 to 16.
New Access Points for Patients
Patients should be aware that the emergency department entrance has moved to the north side of the old building, where COVID-19 patients were previously admitted. Access is facilitated through the main entrance of the old structure, allowing for brief stops to expedite service for urgent cases.
Rapid Patient Transit Clinic
Since 18 July, Larnaca General Hospital has also been operating a Rapid Patient Transit Clinic on peak days, specifically Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, from 2:30pm to 9:30pm. The parking area remains unchanged despite the upgrades to the facility.
