A new children’s hospital tower is the centerpiece of a major expansion project underway at Banner Desert Medical Center. The new children’s facility will be built with the unique needs of children in mind. The expansion project encompasses 538,890 square feet, with a total cost of $328 million. Completion of the project is slated for 2009.
See an architectual presentation of the new Banner Children's Hospital at Banner Desert Medical Center.
“Everything we’ve learned and know about pediatric health care leads us to one conclusion: that kids are not miniature versions of adults and their health care setting must reflect that,” said Rhonda Anderson, pediatric administrator of Banner Children’s Hospital at Banner Desert Medical Center. “Our current model of operating the children’s hospital inside the adult care setting has served its purpose, but we have run out of room and must now expand to meet the needs of children in a new and larger facility.”
Unprecedented population growth and a current lack of local capacity for hospitalizing children are driving the need for the new tower and ancillary care building to house Banner Children’s. During peak seasons, it’s not unusual for children to be sent out of the area or even out of state for care because pediatric beds are not available.
A child-friendly atmosphere will be accented by soothing colors and large windows. Outside, gardens will incorporate fountains, sculptures and other elements to foster relaxation.
The new facility will expand many programs, including: