Replacement hospital designed to enhance staff efficiency

Baltimore-based architect Hord Coplan Macht is leading a multi-disciplinary team designing a $268 million, 598,000-sf replacement hospital for Western Maryland Health System in Cumberland, Md. The first three levels of this 275-bed hospital are devoted to diagnostics and treatment departments, with the upper floors functioning as an inpatient tower. For maximum patient convenience, the main lobby provides immediate access to outpatient services. The design also enhances staff efficiency through features such as charting alcoves that complement nurses' stations. Completion: winter 2009.