Description:

Increasing clinical and academic workloads in Rush University Medical Center's pathology department made the testing laboratory, renowned for its vital work, functionally obsolete. The large urban teaching hospital began a $4,000,000 retrofit of the facility when an inspection by the College of American Pathologists (CAP) -- which scrutinizes labs to assure compliance with strict regulations -- pronounced the space plan and operational efficiency outdated.

John H. Driscoll, Alter+Care President, who previously was responsible for Rush's real estate development activities, closely coordinated efforts with the pathology department director to structure a four-phase, year-long renovation that did not compromise critical ongoing work. Rush installed upgraded mechanical, electrical, sprinkler and life safety systems in the 1960s-vintage building to support today's state-of-the-art equipment. Large high-velocity fans mounted on the roof significantly increase exhaust flow and exceed CAP standards. The medical center achieved significant cost savings by using existing ductwork to connect the fans to the fifth-floor lab. Rush's retrofit brought the lab into compliance with CAP guidelines, and operates more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Contact Information:

John Driscoll
President
Alter+Care
(847) 568-5871
jdriscoll@altergroup.com