The New Assuta Hospital

[Arnon Krongrad, MD]

The new hospital received a fair amount of media attention and the buzz positions it as the future of health care, a facility among the most advanced in the world. I know one woman who toured it and described it as "super modern," referring to its architecture and construction detail, not its medical programs.

1) What is your impression? Is it a direct impression?
2) Is there an oncology program? Does it include radiation facilities?
3) Do you know anybody who has has surgery there? How did it go?
4) Which services do you think are available that could not be found at Beilinson, Rambam?
5) Would you as a patient follow the doctor or follow the hospital? Which matters to you?
6) Is traffic congestion a deterrant to using the new hospital?

[Phil]

I recently had surgery and was hospitalized at the new Assuta. I'll be happy to share my experiences and impressions. I've had previous experiences with Assuta, in the old building, and have been very pleased with the facilities and staff. Upon entering Assuta, there's a feeling that you're being well taken care of, by people who really care.

Since there was an oncology program in the old facility, I presume that it also exists in the new hospital and almost certainly includes radiation. I can only cope with one medical issue at a time. Also, I'm doing my PCa treatment at Tel Hashomer so I didn't check out the oncology service at Assuta.

The surgery went very well. The pre-admission interview included one of the most complete assessments and histories that I've experienced. The admission procedure was speedy. The new rooms are spacious and airy, limited to 2 patients in a room (private rooms are available at extra cost)- and every bed has its own computer! Not all computer operations are currently online but the place is still being finished.

The surgery went like clockwork. The anesthesiologist came to see me prior to surgery, in a waiting area. My surgeon saw me post-op, just before I returned to my room from the recovery area, and again the next day for discharge.

I would always follow the doctor for hospital services. I have some preferences about hospitals but the doctor is the crucial, deciding factor for me.

I don't understand why traffice congestion would be a factor to influence one's choices of hospital!

Phil

[Arnon Krongrad, MD]

That's great insight.

Traffic, parking, and waiting times are among the factors patients cite in choosing to avoid certain centers. I know my wife absolutely will not go to the university because of these logistical issues. I had head that traffic was thick at Assuta and believe I saw a video in which the architect actually speaks to how he worked to overcome this barrier.

Thank you.