Dec. 13, 1999

A huge expansion project is set for the University Hospital. For patients it means the kind of relief that can't just come from doctors.

It's so crowded at the University Hospital, equipment is stored in hallways, operating rooms are maxed, and the vice president's conference room had to be gutted to make way for more intensive care beds.

"WE'RE JAMMED UP THERE, WE'VE TURNED ELEVATORS INTO OFFICES. WE'VE MOVED PRACTICALLY EVERYTHING THAT'S NOT CLINICAL OUT OF THE HOSPITAL."

Now a new expansion project will ease the hospital's growing pains. Three new stories to be finished in about 2 years will improve patient care.

John Dwan/University Hospital: "WE'RE TURNING PATIENTS AWAY THAT NEED OUR CARE, NOT THAT JUST WANT OUR CARE, THAT NEED OUR CARE, BECAUSE WE DO THINGS AT THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL THEY DON'T DO ANYWHERE ELSE IN THE INTERMOUNTAIN WEST."

Hard to believe, but when it was first built people marveled at this expansive hospital.

Not any more. In order to continue its mission of treating patients and educating medical students, this facility needs some critical care of its own.

"THE PLACE IS BOOMING! IT'S JUST UNBELIVABLE THE DEMAND FOR THE SERVICES AT THE UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL."