New clinics make hospital more hospitable

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Torri Ingalsbe
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  After about a year of renovations, three clinics opened their doors Feb. 19 at the Lakenheath Hospital. 

The 48th Medical Group Physical/Occupational Therapy, Allergy/Immunizations, and Pediatric clinics reopened in the main complex. The pediatric and PT/OT clinics were located in temporary buildings before the renovations. 

The three completed clinics are part of an 11-million dollar renovation project which includes new windows, roof repair and a new fire alarm system. 

"We are delighted with the opening of our new clinics," said Col. Kathleen Dobbs, 48th MDG commander. "The new clinics provide a professional, attractive environment along with state-of-the-art facilities where our patients receive care." 

All the new clinics boast more space as well as upgraded equipment. Each clinic also has specific changes that add to patient care. 

The pediatric clinic has separate waiting rooms for sick children and well children, additional treatment and exam rooms and an extended breastfeeding room. 

"These additions help decrease the spread of infection," said Maj. Shayne Stokes, 48th MDG Pediatric flight commander. 

He said the additional rooms also allow them to perform minor outpatient procedures and bring in an additional pediatric provider. 

The new PT/OT clinic now has several windows to enhance the rehabilitation experience. 

"The new clinic is a tremendous morale booster for both our patients and staff. It allows our therapists and technicians to continue to provide high-level, evidence-based care to our patients in an environment that is on par and even superior to some civilian PT/OT clinics," said Maj. Verona Boucher, 48th MDG PT/OT flight commander. She said the extra space helps provide better patient care and a more healthy-living atmosphere. 

The allergy/immunizations clinic still offers the same services as before, but they are now both merged in one location. 

"Having the clinics merged helps utilize the staff more efficiently, which should result in faster services," said Maj. Pierre Dauby, 48th MDG Allergy Asthma Immunology Clinic chief. The clinic specializes in the evaluation of environmental allergies, food allergies, insect allergies, asthma and disorders of the immune system. 

"The clinics look wonderful," Colonel Dobbs said, "words don't do them justice." She encouraged people to come and see them for themselves. 

"Another important benefit is that our hard working staff will be able to enjoy the bright, modern facilities. That is a morale booster," Colonel Dobbs added.