Atlanta, GA — The Grand Opening of Arthur M. Blank Hospital
On September 29th, the brand-new Arthur M. Blank Hospital officially opened its doors to the public. The grand opening was marked by a significant event as Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta successfully moved 202 pediatric patients from Egleston Hospital to the new state-of-the-art facility located on North Druid Hills Road. The entire process was completed in under 12 hours, making it one of the largest single-day pediatric hospital moves in the country.
The massive relocation effort required extensive coordination, involving 65 ambulances and support from 15 state and local agencies, including Georgia State Patrol, Brookhaven Police, DeKalb County Police, Emory Police, and Sandy Springs Police. To ensure the safety and well-being of the patients during the move, houses of worship along the route held virtual services, creating a serene atmosphere for the transition.
With the move complete, the Egleston Emergency Department is now closed, and all clinical services have been relocated to Arthur M. Blank Hospital. The new 19-story, 2-million-square-foot facility boasts 446 beds, significantly expanding Children’s capacity to offer advanced pediatric care to youngsters from Georgia and the Southeast region.
In an emotional beginning, Brithany Morales, an 8-year-old needing a kidney transplant, was the first patient admitted to the new hospital. Her admission symbolized a new chapter for pediatric care in the region, filled with hope and advanced medical capabilities.
Looking forward, the Arthur M. Blank Hospital is expected to bolster the local economy by adding 4,500 more workers to the North Druid Hills Campus, which already employs over 8,000 people. While many of these employees will be transferred from Egleston Hospital, around 1,000 new positions have been created to support the expanded operations. The sprawling 76-acre campus also houses the Center for Advanced Pediatrics and the Children’s Support Center.
The hospital’s prime location at the intersection of North Druid Hills Road and Interstate 85 in Brookhaven ensures easy accessibility for families in the area. This accessibility, combined with the hospital’s advanced facilities, marks a significant step forward in pediatric healthcare for the region.
Conclusion
In summary, the opening of Arthur M. Blank Hospital not only enhances Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s capabilities but also reinforces their commitment to providing top-tier healthcare services. The successful move, coordination amongst numerous agencies, and the grand opening represent a milestone in pediatric care. The community can now look forward to improved healthcare services and economic growth in the area.
