Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital (SBCH) has completed a significant phase in its Emergency Department remodel project, made possible by community support and donations.

The Emergency Department, which remains accessible from Junipero Street, has been redesigned for improved patient flow.

Lobby of renovated Cottage Hospital Emergency Department, which is named for contributors Ben and Naomi Bollage.
Lobby of renovated Cottage Hospital Emergency Department, which is named for contributors Ben and Naomi Bollage. Credit: Couortesy photo

“Thanks to the renovation, we now have the ability to serve more patients and remain prepared for future healthcare needs,” said Dr. John Anis, medical director for Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital’s Emergency Department.

“Prior to the remodel, we were able to see 45,000 patients annually, now we are equipped to accommodate up to 75,000 patients,” he said.

The remodeled Emergency Department was designed with the following features:

  • A new patient care model that includes a specific area for prompt evaluation and treatment of patients with lower acuity levels. This means many patients now can remain seated in a specially designed patient chair – rather than requiring a bed – for complete evaluation and treatment. A new waiting area, staffed by nurses, is designated for use while low-acuity patients wait for test results before discharge. The care model has been shown to expedite care and enhance the patient experience, while freeing Emergency Department beds for acutely ill patients and those arriving via ambulance.
  • Security upgrades, including a state-of-the-art electronic screening system, have been added to existing security measures. Everyone entering will be scanned to ensure prohibited items such as weapons, cigarettes, vapes and lighters are not brought into the hospital. 24/7 security teams will help keep the hospital a safe and healing environment for patients, visitors and staff.

“This is a huge step forward. Our expanded state-of-the-art Level 1 Trauma Center and Emergency Department will revolutionize our workflows and the way we deliver care for patients,” said Dr. Brett Wilson, emergency medicine physician.

“Because of generous community support, we will be able to provide for the emergency needs of patients in the region for many years to come,” he said.

Through the Reaching Higher Together Campaign for Excellence, SBCH Foundation raised $26.3 million to benefit Emergency, Trauma and Critical Care projects, including the Emergency Department renovation.

The Emergency Department has been named in honor of Ben and Naomi Bollag, whose philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted the hospital and its services.

Additionally, the Elaine F. Stepanek Foundation, Peter and Robin Barker, the Herbert Simon Family Foundation, and the Santa Barbara Foundation pledged generous contributions.

The remaining phase of the remodel will focus on revamping the trauma ambulance bay and rooms.

SBCH is a Level I Trauma Center for adults and a Level II Trauma Center for pediatrics, verified by the American College of Surgeons and Santa Barbara County Emergency Medical Services Agency.

For more about the SBCH Foundation or to make a contribution, visit cottagehealth.org/donate.