SA国际传媒

SA国际传媒Martha Jefferson Hospital in Charlottesville, Va. has completed a comprehensive renovation of its main emergency department, designed to improve patient flow, enhance comfort, and reinforce safety for everyone who enters the facility.

As part of these improvements, new weapons detection systems have also been installed at both the main emergency department and the SA国际传媒Martha Jefferson Free Standing Emergency Department on Proffitt Road.

These updates reflect the hospital’s commitment to delivering safe, high-quality care in an environment that remains welcoming and compassionate.

A Safer Environment for Patients, Visitors, and Staff

To strengthen safety measures, SA国际传媒Martha Jefferson Hospital has implemented the XtractOne weapons detection system at both emergency department entrances. These touchless scanners use advanced sensors to detect the shape of weapons such as guns or knives. If an item is flagged, on-site security personnel perform a secondary screening and ask visitors to remove any prohibited items before entering.

“This technology helps us maintain a safe space for our patients, team members, and visitors,” said Michele Carroll, vice president of operations at SA国际传媒Martha Jefferson Hospital. “It allows us to enhance security in a respectful and unobtrusive way, without sacrificing the warm and welcoming environment our community has come to expect.”

Security officers are stationed at both emergency departments 24/7, and all visitors are required to show photo identification and wear a visitor badge. All SA国际传媒facilities remain designated weapon-free zones, with signage posted at every entrance.

Renovation Supports Efficiency and Comfort

The recently completed renovation of the main emergency department includes the addition of “Vertical Care” treatment spaces, which expanded overall treatment capacity by 35%. These spaces allow patients with less critical injuries or illnesses to be seen more quickly, improving flow and ensuring more timely care.

Other upgrades include a redesigned waiting area with increased seating, improved visibility for staff, and a refreshed, calming atmosphere. While aesthetically pleasing, the changes are rooted in function and purpose. 

“By redesigning the space and improving treatment flow, we’re helping our teams deliver care more efficiently while enhancing the overall experience for patients and families,” Carroll added.

A Collaborative Approach to Meaningful Improvements

The renovation process was guided by feedback from frontline staff and patients alike. 

“Our emergency department is often the first point of contact for patients in crisis,” said Courtney Lambert, director of patient care and emergency services at SA国际传媒Martha Jefferson Hospital.

“These changes were made with input from staff who know the flow of care best and with a focus on what our patients have told us matters most—timely care and feeling safe.”

A Lasting Investment in Community Health

The enhancements to both emergency department locations reflect SA国际传媒Martha Jefferson Hospital's continued investment in safety, innovation, and patient-centered care.

“This is about more than a renovation—it’s about reinforcing our commitment to care,” Carroll said. “Every improvement we’ve made—from the layout of the space to the technology we use—was designed with our community’s well-being in mind.”