The $143 million ProMedica Charles and Virginia Hickman Hospital is an over 200,000 square-foot state-of-the-art facility, with 40 surgical beds, 10 critical care beds, four operating rooms, three minor procedure rooms, 27 emergency rooms and eight labor and delivery rooms. The magnitude of the space will allow the hospital to provide care for more people throughout the community. The new hospital building is one of many new projects in the area and will be adjacent to the new YMCA of Lenawee County.

The overall design of the hospital focuses on maximizing natural light as much as possible, to enhance the patient experience. Green space is emphasized, with outdoor seating options for the cafeteria, walking trails and large windows. An innovative tube feature transfer system will move medications and specimens allowing more time with patients. Operating room equipment will hang from the ceiling to allow for better use of space and removal of tripping hazards.

With vast experience within the healthcare sector, OCP was awarded the project. The project proposed unique challenges during construction due to extreme winter weather conditions and the magnitude of individuals on-site for a ground-up project.

The team found strategic ways to successfully and safely complete the project, with additional supervision for the 40-50 individuals performing framing and overtime schedule to complete work on-time despite inclement weather.

Enhancing customer service, Lathrop offers a lean last planner system that required foresight and support from OCP. Each week a plan was presented then reviewed and graded for how well it was completed and planned. Other lean initiatives included daily large drawings with details and expectations for field workers at the beginning of the day.

The project is on target for a June 2020 completion and will be fully operational by early September.