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With an investment exceeding $21 million, the Dr. Ramón Ruiz Arnau University Hospital (HURRA in Spanish) has made significant enhancements to its medical services and facilities, establishing itself as a contemporary and efficient healthcare institution dedicated to the community.
These enhancements are aimed at addressing the current demands of patients and positioning the hospital as a benchmark for advanced medical services in Puerto Rico.
Among the most remarkable developments is the acquisition of advanced precision medical apparatus, including a state-of-the-art CT Scan, a 1.5 tesla MRI, and cutting-edge X-ray equipment. These investments enhance the hospital’s diagnostic capabilities, decrease waiting periods, and elevate accuracy in the management of critical cases. Additionally, HURRA has broadened its medical workforce by recruiting over 40 radiologists and six specialized surgeons, who now provide outpatient services in external clinics. These modifications ensure expanded and expedited access to surgical and diagnostic care.
To maintain operational continuity during emergencies, the hospital has developed a robust energy framework featuring three 2.5-megawatt generators that can sustain full power for the institution for five consecutive days. Furthermore, it boasts internal and external fuel reservoirs that guarantee long-term reserves. These initiatives equip HURRA to be a resilient facility ready to confront adverse situations and emergencies without service interruptions.
HURRA has also revamped its clinical spaces with strategic investments aimed at enhancing patient experience and ensuring staff safety. With an investment of $444,000, the hospital now hosts the largest isolation area in Puerto Rico, specifically designed to safely manage cases that necessitate a controlled setting. A total of 11 PYXIS advanced medication dispensing systems have been procured and the pharmacy clean room has undergone a complete renovation, backed by an investment exceeding $1 million, thus improving safety and efficiency in medication administration.
Moreover, this modernization includes the addition of ramps for individuals with functional diversity and LED lighting in parking areas, fostering an accessible and secure environment for all visitors and patients.
Health Secretary Carlos Mellado López underscored the favorable impact of these advancements.
“We aspire for HURRA to not only meet existing standards but to set a new benchmark of excellence in medical care throughout Puerto Rico. The enhancements in infrastructure and services reflect our dedication to maintaining a healthcare environment that addresses the needs of our community and is ready for emergency scenarios,” he stated.
The ultimate ambition behind these investments and projects is to restore the Dr. Ramón Ruiz Arnau University Hospital to the esteemed status it has held since its inception in 1975. Through these enhancements, the hospital not only fortifies its operational capabilities but also elevates the quality of medical care, positioning itself as a beacon of resilience and excellence in health. “The evolution of HURRA into a resilient and progressive hospital is the outcome of a collective effort from a team devoted to excellence,” Mellado concluded.
Patients at Dr. Ramón Ruiz Arnau Hospital (HURRA) now benefit from an additional assurance of medical excellence following the acquisition of Joint Commission accreditation, an international acknowledgment that confirms the highest standards of quality and safety in healthcare.
This milestone not only validates the hospital’s commitment to ongoing enhancement but also secures its participation in the Medicare program, which guarantees vital services for countless patients in Puerto Rico.
“The Joint Commission accreditation showcases our team’s steadfast commitment to quality and safety in medical care. This achievement reaffirms our continuous endeavors to uphold the highest standards in every facet of the hospital,” stated Mellado López.
The evaluation performed by the accrediting organization encompassed administrative aspects, infection control, physical environments, and surgical services. The findings confirmed that HURRA meets top-tier international standards, solidifying its status as a pillar of excellence in medical care within Puerto Rico.
Yesarel Y. Pesante Sánchez, executive director of the hospital, highlighted the significance of this recognition: “The accreditation signifies a considerable endorsement of the diligent efforts of our clinical and administrative teams. We will continue to work towards establishing HURRA as a reliable and outstanding health center for our community.”
