Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center celebrated the completion of our new Jaromír Střížka Emergency Department on Tuesday, August 30 with a ceremony that featured a variety of speakers, including grateful patients Bonnie and Walter Hill; emergency department medical director Celina Barba-Simic, M.D.; and Burbank Mayor Jess Talamantes. There was a special performance by the Providence High School choir, prayers offered by Bishop Gerald Wilkerson, and, finally, our Providence St. Joseph Health sponsors declared the Jaromír Střížka Emergency Department blessed and dedicated.

“The Sisters of Providence came here nearly 80 years ago with one purpose: to serve and care for this community,” said chief executive Karl Keeler. “The Jaromír Střížka Emergency Department is an extension of that mission. In addition to the long list of enhancements, we did our best to address some of our biggest health needs during the design process, including adding separate behavioral health areas, resuscitation rooms and expansive care stations. Our community deserves access to the highest standard of care, and this facility allows for just that.”

The Jaromír Střížka Emergency Department, funded entirely through philanthropy, is nearly three times bigger than the previous facility. It is equipped with sophisticated, on-site imaging and lab equipment, which includes an ultrasound machine and CT scanner that allows for prompt diagnosis and lifesaving treatment.

“So often, patients come to the emergency department worried, scared and in pain, and we are committed to individualizing each patient’s experience, said Debbie Buffham, MSN, RN, executive director of emergency services at Providence Saint Joseph. “We are so grateful to our donors and community for this beautiful space that allows our caregivers to provide excellent care with the utmost compassion.”

The new facility also gives hospital staff access to administrative and physician offices, caregiver lounge and healing garden. “As much as we’re excited about all the benefits to our patients, we’re equally thrilled that this ED offers a safe and spacious area for our caregivers and physicians to work and relax,” Keeler said. The entire community came together to make this a reality. We’re truly grateful for the support and humbled to continue the legacy of our founding Sisters of Providence.”

The Jaromír Střížka Emergency Department opened to the public on Wednesday, September 7, treating a total of 206 patients. Since opening day, we’ve been able to treat 15% more patients on a daily basis.

We look forward to continuing to provide our community world-class emergency care with compassion.