The general public, physicians and donors toured a suite of new private patient rooms today at NSMC Salem Hospital. They also got to see the new space where the NSMC Breast Health Center will be.

The 16 new private patient rooms on Phippen 6 and Phippen 7 feature:

updated medical equipment
private bathroom and shower
individual temperature controls
window seat that converts into bed for guest
wi-fi computer connectivity

In addition, two rooms on each floor are equipped with ceiling lifts and other equipment geared for larger patients, and there are 16 mobile telemetry monitors for patients with cardiac conditions.

The central nurses station was maximized for staff efficiency and improved work flow.

Private patient rooms enable:

• enhanced patient privacy
• easier communication between physician, nursing team, patient and families
• better infection control
• increased flexibility for room assignments, improving patient flow from the Emergency Room

The new NSMC Breast Health Center on Phippen 4 will provide screening mammography and diagnostic exams; it features:

• Patient welcome desk, registration area and waiting room for guests
• Two new all-digital mammography units for screening exams
• Ultrasound unit for diagnostic testing
• Stereotactic biopsy exam room for advanced biopsies
• Two patient interview rooms for technologists to review questionnaire with patients; enhancing privacy, alleviating patient back-up and maximizing efficiency
• Three private patient changing rooms (one wheelchair accessible); lockers for patient belongings
• Private gowned patient waiting area, equipped with television
• Consultation room for physician and patient
• Physician work rooms where radiologists read and interpret mammogram images

In addition to the new location, the NSMC Breast Health Center will be enhancing patient service through:

• Reports of normal test results within one week
• Call back within 48 hours if additional follow-up is needed
• Breast Health "Navigator" to help guide patients with positive results through the next steps
• Appointment with a surgeon within 48 hours if necessary

NSMC Breast Health Center also includes services at NSMC Union Hospital in Lynn and the NSMC Women's Health Center in Danvers. Breast MRI services are provided in Peabody.