SYRACUSE — The newly expanded rapid-evaluation unit (REU) in Crouse Health’s Pomeroy Emergency Services Department (ED) is now assisting patients. The Aug. 16 opening followed a four-month renovation project, Crouse Health said in its announcement that day. When patients arrive at the ED walk-in entrance, they are directed to a team of health-care professionals (usually […]
SYRACUSE — The newly expanded rapid-evaluation unit (REU) in Crouse Health’s Pomeroy Emergency Services Department (ED) is now assisting patients. The Aug. 16 opening followed a four-month renovation project, Crouse Health said in its announcement that day. When patients arrive at the ED walk-in entrance, they are directed to a team of health-care professionals (usually a physician and a technician) who then assess the patient’s condition. This includes all walk-in critical and non-critical patients, Crouse Health noted. “As part of the rapid evaluation process, the Crouse ED team assesses the patient’s medical history, performs necessary tests, and determines the appropriate course of action,” Hilary Reeves, a registered nurse and Crouse Health’s emergency services director, said in the announcement. “By streamlining processes and dedicating specific staff to lower acuity cases, patients receive timely, efficient care without compromising quality.”. The process helps manage ED flow by “efficiently” caring for patients who need lower-acuity care, Dr. David Mason, medical director for Crouse’s emergency services, said in the announcement. “This benefits all patients by preventing overcrowding,” Mason said. “Faster evaluation and treatment lead to improved patient satisfaction.” The REU project was made possible through a federal grant of $1 million secured by U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (D–N.Y.). “Senator Schumer’s tireless focus and dedication in securing critical funding for our region’s healthcare providers continues to have a major impact on thousands of patients,” Dr. Seth Kronenberg, CEO of Crouse Health, said in a release. The renovation of the ED’s main entrance also included the installation of a weapons-detection system, which is meant to “increase access and safety in the department overall.” Crouse Health went on to say that the physical environment has been designed to support safety and security with an open floor plan that “enhances visibility throughout the space.” “The grand opening of Crouse Health’s newly renovated Rapid Evaluation Unit is a shot in the arm for Central New York’s healthcare system. Crouse’s REU will help advance operations in their emergency department, allowing for improved evaluation and treatment of patients to streamline the best care possible,” Schumer said in the Crouse Health announcement. “I was proud to help secure $1 million for this project to ensure that Crouse receives the resources it needs to continue saving lives.”