Renovations Begin at Maria Parham’s Emergency Department with Wall-Breaking Ceremony

At 9am on Monday, March 17, 2025, renovations at Maria Parham Health’s Emergency Department (ED) kicked off in dramatic fashion with a wall-breaking ceremony attended by hospital leadership and local officials. CEO Bert Beard, Sheriff Curtis Brame, Granville-Vance Public Health Director Lisa Harrison, DA Mike Waters, and other community partners and hospital staff took turns hammering holes in the ED’s walls, marking the start of a transformative multi-million-dollar project designed to improve patient care and safety.

The ceremonial sledgehammer strikes were symbolic of Maria Parham’s commitment to growth and progress. “As we look to the next hundred years, it feels especially fitting that we’re taking such a significant step forward with this project,” said Bert Beard, reflecting on the hospital’s 100th anniversary this year.

The renovation project was born out of years of collaboration and partnership with key community stakeholders. Talks began six years ago with Granville-Vance Public Health, District Attorney Mike Waters, Henderson Police Chief Marcus Barrow, Sheriff Curtis Brame, and other local leaders. Together, they recognized the urgent need for a safe space to accommodate patients experiencing mental health crises, a group that often faces significant vulnerabilities in the hospital ED settings.

The project will focus on creating a designated area for patients with mental health disorders and those in crisis, providing much-needed safeguards to ensure their safety and the security of hospital staff. Under the current system, there are few protections in place for these patients, leaving them at risk of eloping from the property or causing harm to themselves and others. Additionally, law enforcement officers are often required to stay at the hospital, further straining resources.

Once completed, the new space will feature dedicated beds for patients in mental health crises, alleviating some of the strain on law enforcement and ensuring the well-being of everyone within the hospital. Approximately half of the existing ED space, including the area beyond the front desk, will undergo extensive renovations.

To ensure patient care remains uninterrupted during construction, the back access to the hospital will remain open for EMS, while the front half of the ED will be closed for four months. A temporary emergency waiting room, fast-track area, and triage space have been established to accommodate normal services.

In addition to the renovation milestone, the ceremony recognized several outstanding staff members for their dedication to the hospital and community. Dr. Darius Divina took a moment to honor the following individuals for their exceptional contributions:

• Clinical Director of the Year: Crystal Hobgood, for her commitment to providing top-tier patient care and fostering camaraderie among her team.
• Ancillary Director of the Year: Tracey Moseley, for her tireless leadership and hard work in managing resources and supplies across facilities.

Kimberly Smith, chairperson of the MPH Awards and Resilience Committee, presented the Employee of the Year award to James Boyd, for embodying the spirit of teamwork and always being ready to lend a hand with humility and a positive attitude.

“This is a great day for Maria Parham Health, and a great day for our community,” said Beard. “Together, we’re ensuring that our hospital continues to evolve and provide the highest level of care for all our patients, especially those in need of specialized support.”

The renovation project marks an exciting chapter in Maria Parham Health’s commitment to improving patient care and expanding its capacity to meet the needs of the community. As construction continues over the next few months, hospital officials are optimistic that the new facility will enhance the safety and well-being of all who rely on the hospital’s emergency services.