Honoring Our Commitment to the Community

On June 13, the new Valleywise Health Medical Center officially opened its doors, ushering in a new era of healthcare with advanced technology and enhanced comfort. Starting at 3 a.m., over 200 patients were relocated from the outdated county hospital to the cutting-edge facility.

The massive relocation effort involved numerous volunteers and staff members, who worked diligently to ensure a smooth transition. The two buildings, though geographically close, represent a journey spanning more than half a century. The old hospital, built in 1960s, could house up to four patients per room, while the new, 10-floor structure features private rooms and a state-of-the-art infrastructure.

This new medical center also signifies the fulfillment of a commitment made to Maricopa County voters who backed a $935 million bond measure for a new public hospital and healthcare centers. A 2012 panel of civic and health leaders recommended this development to replace the outdated 1971 facility.

The transformation of the healthcare system began in earnest after the 2014 bond measure was approved by 63% of voters. Since then, various community health centers have been opened, and the Maryvale hospital was acquired to address critical emergency department needs.

Construction on the new Valleywise Health Medical Center commenced in 2020, right before the pandemic-induced labor and supply challenges. Nonetheless, the promise to the community to deliver high-quality healthcare in a modern setting was steadfastly upheld.

The new facility boasts 233 private rooms with natural light, larger spaces for visitors, and adjacent bathrooms equipped with showers. The Diane & Bruce Halle Arizona Burn Center now occupies the entire fourth floor, making it the second busiest civilian burn center in the nation.

The comprehensive center includes 16 adult ICU beds, 24 adult acute care beds, and 10 pediatric ICU/acute care beds. It also features playrooms for children and teens with burn injuries and a large wellness area for physical and occupational therapy.

The Level I Trauma Center has been significantly expanded, and the new adult and pediatric emergency departments now offer 88 private treatment rooms. Despite these modern upgrades, Valleywise Health’s longstanding mission remains – to provide exceptional care to the underserved community, a legacy that has persisted since 1877.

Steve Purves, President & CEO of Valleywise Health, reflected on this monumental achievement, emphasizing the organization’s continuous dedication to community care.