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Health care


Inova Heart and Vascular Institute opens

Virginia Business

January 2005

Inova Health System recently opened the Inova Heart and Vascular Institute on the campus of Inova Fairfax Hospital. Inova Fairfax is the dominant hospital in its region, the Virginia suburbs around Washington, for cardiology and vascular surgery procedures, according to Virginia Health Information.

The four-story building offers 156 patient rooms, 132 of which are private and 24 semi-private. There are 48 intensive coronary beds and six operating rooms. Cardiovascular services include cardiac rehabilitation, noninvasive cardiac services, outpatient services and education/conference facilities. Inova also included an innovative indoor/outdoor “healing garden” on the grounds, to encourage and accelerate recovery. “Research has demonstrated that a healing environment helps patients by enhancing the effects of drug therapy and medical technology,” says Dr. Edward A. Lefrak, medical director of cardiac surgery for Inova Health Systems. The institute’s goal is to provide an environment that maximizes the healing process.

Inova Health System wants the institute to serve as a center for research, preventive medicine, disease management, care interventions and rehabilitation. “As the area’s population grows older, it is essential that quality care, the most advanced technology, service and education are available,” says Dr. Alan Speir, section chief of cardiac surgery. “The Inova Heart and Vascular Institute allows us to ensure that all area residents have access to the care they need.” The $152.2 million building was designed by the architectural firm of Wilmont/Sanz and was built by Turner Construction. Lewis & Scully Landscaping designed the grounds and healing garden.

Return to Virginia Business - January 2005