Published: 10-Jan-2025
Case study: Revitalising Healthcare - Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital expands facilities with WACO Modular's innovative units
Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital stands as a provider of quality medical care within the Northern Cape Province of South Africa
Nestled in the picturesque town of Kathu, often referred to as the 'place under the trees', Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital stands as a provider of quality medical care within the Northern Cape Province of South Africa. Originating as a mining hospital, established by local mines, Lenmed Kathu has evolved to meet the growing needs of the community. Acquired by Lenmed as the town expanded, Kathu Private Hospital became the primary source of private healthcare within a 200 km radius. Despite its crucial role in the region, the hospital faced challenges that limited its ability to expand and grow, potentially hindering its mission of delivering exceptional medical and emergency services.
Overcoming space constraints using modular building solutions
One of the major hurdles Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital had to navigate was the issue of space constraints. The hospital premises were occupied by subcontractors and non-essential personnel, leading to congestion. This affected the hospital’s ability to provide premium-quality services and curtailed plans for expansion in line with the community's increasing demands. Additionally, navigating regulatory and land constraints further complicated these expansion efforts.
Henri Buys, Branch Manager at WACO Modular, approached the hospital management team with a solution to solve their spatial dilemmas. Buys proposed a modular space solution using cabins and container units that could efficiently address both present and future space requirements.
Innovative solutions and fast implementation
The initial focus was on transitioning contractors, such as cleaning staff, out of the hospital premises. These staff members previously used hospital facilities for offices, eating areas, storage, and changing rooms. By erecting modular structures just 10 meters outside the hospital, these essential facilities were relocated, thereby freeing up critical space inside the hospital for additional beds and essential areas such as operating theatres. Similarly, the hospital’s non-critical administrative staff, including accounts, the hospital manager, and nursing manager, were also fabricated to the modular units. This strategic move allowed for a significant decluttering of hospital premises, creating more room for crucial medical functions.
The project’s immediate success inspired Lenmed to delve deeper into expansion opportunities with WACO Modular’s EzeeSpace solution, incorporating multi-slice units. These innovative units are not only eco-friendly and durable but also versatile and scalable, catering to a range of needs. Their swift assembly on-site makes them ideal for projects with tight schedules or limited construction resources on-site.
The next step for Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital involved creating four 9m by 12m EzeeSpace doctors’ suites to attract and accommodate new specialists to the region. Each suite was designed to include a reception area, consulting rooms, gender-specific bathrooms, a kitchenette, and a waiting area. Fully equipped with flooring, electrical fittings, and other necessities, these suites only required furniture and medical equipment to be operational. Building on this momentum, a 6m by 6m EzeeSpace unit was also deployed for an audiologist.
Recognising the efficacy and potential of these modular solutions, the hospital commissioned three additional units for use by an internist, gynaecologist, and orthopaedic surgeon. The swift construction timelines, ranging from two to four weeks depending on customisation needs, underscored the practicality of the solution.
Tangible benefits and positive outcomes from the EzeeSpace solution
The implementation of WACO Modular’s EzeeSpace solution brought about a multitude of benefits for Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital. By relocating subcontractors and non-essential personnel to the modular units outside the hospital, space within the hospital was optimised, leading to significantly increased revenue potential. The modular units also provided dedicated spaces for doctors and specialists, allowing them to enhance their services and improve referral capabilities for the hospital. This not only boosted operational efficiency but also positively impacted the hospital’s financial health.
Benjamin Ericksen, Hospital Manager from Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital states, “Our partnership with WACO Modular has been nothing short of transformative. The modular units have allowed us to optimise our space, enhance our service offerings, and attract more specialists. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to providing exceptional healthcare to the Kathu and surrounding communities.”
The collaboration between WACO Modular and Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital showcases how innovative modular solutions can overcome significant challenges. By optimising internal space, the hospital has enhanced operational efficiency, service delivery, and revenue growth, ensuring the Kathu community continues to benefit from high-quality healthcare and reinforcing the hospital's vital role in the region.
Looking forward – a vision for continued expansion
With an eye towards the future, Lenmed Kathu Private Hospital is enthusiastic about continuing its relationship with WACO Modular to address any upcoming space requirements and further extend its specialist services. This ongoing partnership reflects Lenmed’s dedication to advancing healthcare expertise within the Northern Cape, ensuring that the community continues to receive top-tier medical care.
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