Clinic construction ensures compliance with ADA, safety

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Emerald Ralston
  • 341st Space Wing Public Affairs Office
MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. --  Construction is currently underway at the base clinic to ensure compliance with the American Disability Association, correct potential safety issues and enhance the interior décor. 

The $3 million construction effort began in January and is scheduled to be complete in September. 

Compliance with the ADA is being reached by providing each section of the clinic with lower-cut, wheelchair-accessible windows. The new entry will also be wheelchair-compliant. 

Also, the ceiling has been remodeled, as the old acoustic ceiling tiles presented a safety hazard since tiles could potentially fall, said Capt. Don Rousseaux, 341st Medical Support Squadron executive officer. 

The pharmacy is another major construction effort. The new pharmacy will have four windows to ensure more privacy and efficiency, and will be relocated. 

"For approximately 160 days, beginning April 21, the pharmacy will be at the east end of the clinic in the Chief Schaub Assembly Room," Captain Rousseaux said. "Also, the main entrance will be closed and patients will be directed to the east and west doors, along with the dental doors." 

"The renovation project is broken down into phases," Captain Rousseaux said. "As the project moves through the clinic, signs will be posted for that specific phase to direct patients. The Medical Group would like all patients and the community to know they can stop any Medical Group personnel to ask for directions or be escorted." 

Even with all the changes going on, the construction at the clinic should have minimal impact on Retiree Weekend, April 25 to 27, Captain Rousseaux said. Clinic personnel will assist in coordinating the traffic flow for all events in conjunction with Retiree Weekend. 

"I don't think this will affect delivery of health care, as we've put up signs alerting patients of where things are and telling them to ask staff members for directions," said Lt. Col. Martha Johnston, 341st Medical Operations Squadron commander. "In the long term, the remodeling will be beneficial to the clinic since we're updating the infrastructure and making sure we're current with safety and fire codes, as well as providing updated ADA compliant services for our disabled patients. We just ask that our patients have patience as we complete these updates and construction." 

Any questions concerning construction at the clinic can be directed to Captain Rousseaux at 731-2674.