Community Healthcare—Wausau Hospital executives recognized the need to improve the surgical services and cardiology programs offered at Wausau Hospital. Several key goals were identified for the project, including: align ambulatory surgery with the main OR; create an ambulatory center; streamline preadmission services/address confidentiality issues; develop a resource center; create a new exterior image; align cardiology services and surgery; improve support service areas; improve patient safety; and create a healing environment.


The design team identified objectives by utilizing a process engaging all levels within the organization to develop solutions to the above goals. The two-story solution provides convenient outpatient access to the upper level, where a concierge directs patients to the adjacent check-in and a valet parks their cars. An atrium space unifies cardiology and surgery while creating a welcoming first impression. Designed to calm a nervous patient, it combines elements of daylight, plants and a running stream.

The cardiology space was designed to provide a direct link to surgery via a new elevator, referred to as the “moving room.” It was sized to accommodate a patient, crash team, equipment and life safety support to sustain a patient during transport. Cardiac catheterization suites were arranged to move to a sterile environment utilizing a supply-core concept, and additional shell space was designed for future expansion. Ambulatory services on the upper level established convenient access to outpatient surgery, preadmission, testing, laboratory, radiology and the resource center.

PROJECT CATEGORY New Construction and Remodel/Renovation (completed August 2001)

CHIEF ADMINISTRATOR Paul A. Spaude, FACHE, President and CEO, (715) 847-2259

FIRM Plunkett Raysich Architects, (414) 359-3060

DESIGN TEAM Michael H. Scherbel, AIA, Partner-in-Charge; Grant Reginato, AIA, Project Manager; Brian Nelson, Designer; Steve Margis, AIA, Project Architect; Paulette Billington, Interior Designer

PHOTOGRAPHY Steve Mofle

BED CAPACITY N/A

TOTAL BUILDING AREA (SQ. FT.) 115,030

TOTAL LAND AREA (ACRES) 5.1

TOTAL COST (EXCLUDING LAND) $19,859,000

The design team attained Wausau Hospital’s physical, psychological, social, cultural and economic goals through its innovative approach to improving a Top-100 nationally ranked facility


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