Case Study: MedStar Georgetown University Hospital – Surgical Pavilion Relocation
Time & Location:
- Washington, DC
- February – October 2023
Project Overview:
MedStar Georgetown University Hospital required the safe and seamless relocation of its inpatient units, Emergency Department, and critical clinical equipment into a newly constructed Surgical Pavilion. The move involved approximately 60 truckloads of medical equipment and materials, coordinated over a tight six-day schedule. The challenge: maintain operational continuity and patient care while executing a large-scale healthcare transition.
Scope & Strategy:
Hoffberger Moving Systems (HMS) deployed a highly experienced healthcare relocation team, supported by project executives, supervisors, and trained movers. The approach included:
Pre-Move Planning:
- Bi-weekly planning meetings for three months prior.
- Site walks, access route planning, and full-size floor plan reviews.
- Coordination with specialized vendors for equipment requiring prep or installation.
Staff Relocation:
- Pre-move of ~100 personnel and support staff into new spaces ahead of clinical moves.
Clinical Relocations (6 days):
- Daily crews of 25–30 personnel, including supervisors and project managers.
- Staggered day and afternoon shifts for continuous coverage.
- Dedicated teams for sterile processing, Biomed support, Pyxis medication systems, and patient records, ensuring compliance with clinical standards.
- Use of “bunny suits” for sterile storage relocation, maintaining infection control protocols.
Post-Move Support:
- Two additional days for equipment sweeps, Biomed/pharmacy fine-tuning, and removal of packing materials.
Outcome:
- Successful relocation of 8 inpatient units, Emergency Department, and 60+ truckloads of equipment in just 6 days.
- All departments fully operational in the new Surgical Pavilion immediately following the move.
- Zero disruptions to patient care reported during the transition.
- Client praised HMS for its organization, highly trained staff, and ability to manage large-scale healthcare relocations.