DC Mayor Muriel Bowser has championed a partnership that she says will bring high-quality medical care to the new St. Elizabeths East hospital.

The partnership, which is supported by several local leaders and organizations, including the George Washington University Hospital and the GW School of Medicine and Health Sciences, will provide comprehensive adult health services in the 136-bed facility as well as two new services. emergency / opening of outpatient services in wards 7 and 8.

GWU will also provide medical leadership and medical direction for all health care activities, according to Bowser’s office, who added that the new hospital will offer a wide range of medical services that will include maternal and child health, behavioral health. , primary care and advanced care. surgical services.

“With this agreement, we are delivering on our commitment to provide a high quality system of care to the St. Elizabeths East campus and surrounding communities,” Bowser said in a statement. “We know that today too many residents are moving across town to access their health care. With GW’s talented healthcare professionals for the new hospital, thousands of Washingtonians will be able to get the right care at the right time at a world-class hospital near their home.

“This is a monumental step toward transforming our health care system, addressing long-standing disparities in health outcomes and building a healthier and more equitable Washington, DC,” added the mayor.

The agreement, which also partners with the George Washington School of Medicine and Health Sciences, further provides for the creation of a family medicine residency that will focus on the health care needs of residents of Wards 7 and 8, said the mayor’s office.

“This is a momentous day for George Washington University, GW SMHS, GW MFA, and for the citizens of the district,” said GW President Thomas LeBlanc. “With a long tradition of collaboration over GW’s 200-year history, the work of the University has been an important common thread in the tapestry of this vibrant city. This partnership reflects GW’s great value to the city and its deep commitment to the citizens of the district.

Bowser announced last month that an agreement has been reached between Universal Health Services and Children’s National for pediatricians, nurses, physician assistants and other medical staff to provide care to infants and children at Children’s National. . Specifically, Children’s National staff will operate the pediatric emergency department and neonatal intensive care unit, according to their office.

“We are proud to already partner closely with GW and GW MFA in caring for residents across the region. Through this enhanced partnership, and working with the district, we will create a comprehensive and fully integrated academic medical network that will be positioned to provide the highest quality care at the right level and in the right setting for all residents of the district, Said Kimberly Russo, CEO of George Washington University Hospital and vice president of the UHS group in the DC region. “We look forward to bringing these vital services east of the Anacostia River, as we remain firmly committed to improving access to health, equity and outcomes for all people living in our capital. country. “

The construction of the new hospital is financed by the district with a first shovelful of earth planned for the beginning of 2022. The establishment should open its doors at the end of 2024.