Health Team

WakeMed opening new children's hospital

WakeMed is preparing to open its new 45-bed children's hospital next month. The $99 million project will be the hospital's largest expansion since its founding in 1964.

Posted Updated

RALEIGH, N.C. — WakeMed is preparing to open its new 45-bed children's hospital next month. The $99 million project will be the hospital’s largest expansion since its founding in 1964.

“The physical space within each room is larger, so we have much more opportunities for families to remain with their children,” said Dr. Mark Piehl, medical director for WakeMed pediatrics.

WakeMed is the only level one trauma center in Wake County. It also serves several other rural counties. The new facility includes more state-of-the-art intensive care units as well as family lounges and play rooms.

“(We have) an area for teens to play games and receive continuing education if they're missing school,” Piehl said.

The hospital also has a new entrance, which opens to a spacious lobby surrounded by big windows and beautiful views. Before, WakeMed had very little outdoor space in which to sit or walk. Now there's a huge landscaped courtyard between the existing hospital and the new four-story patient tower.

May 22 is the target date to move in patients. Then, the old space will be renovated to include more neonatal intensive care units. With the new facility, the hospital is bringing in more pediatric specialists who will provide additional services. WakeMed also plans to add more operating room space and outpatient services.

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.