When efficiency, speed, and precision are key, strategic planning and collaboration become essential. CORE demonstrated this with the recently completed MRI Replacement project at The CORE Institute Specialty Hospital (CISH) in Phoenix, AZ. The project encompassed two critical components. First, transforming existing shell space into a sophisticated MRI Suite with entirely new mechanical systems. Second, updating and modernizing another suite by replacing an MRI unit and refreshing interior finishes. Designed by GHC Orcutt | Winslow with a $90,000 budget, the project met rising demands for faster scan times and increased patient volume.
The newly installed 1.5T Philips MRI technology significantly enhances diagnostic capabilities and patient comfort. Kerrie Short, CISH Director of Medical Imaging and Ancillary Services, praised the upgrade, “This new MRI technology represents a major step forward in the quality and comfort of the diagnostic care we provide. By bringing this level of innovation to our hospital, we’re enhancing how we evaluate orthopedic conditions and reinforcing our commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.” The system features high-resolution imaging, faster scans, and ambient lighting to reduce patient anxiety, allowing for a more relaxed experience.
CORE completed the Design Phase in just five months and executed construction in only three months. This rapid timeline was made possible through strategic early procurement. Josh Nader, Director of Healthcare at CORE, highlighted this proactive approach, “The biggest item to help us was the early procurement of the equipment chiller. We worked closely with the Design Team and vendor to select and order it while the project was still in the Design Phase, ultimately shaving four weeks off of our original schedule.”
Budget management was equally effective. CORE leveraged our relationships with trusted Trade Partners to optimize timing and reduce any mobilization costs. Nader explained, “We utilized the same Trade Partners from another project with The CORE Institute that had just been completed. Seeing as the scopes of the two projects were nearly identical, we timed this transition so that they could move from one site to the other, thereby keeping their mobilization costs down.” Additionally, CORE’s proactive problem-solving saved the Client nearly $20,000. Instead of defaulting to the initial plan of installing a new air handling unit, the team thoroughly investigated the existing unit. Nader noted, “We recommended diagnosing the existing equipment’s issues first. Our HVAC partner determined it only needed a part replaced to make it operable and we avoided the cost of a brand-new unit.”
CORE’s thoughtful and collaborative approach not only ensured an advanced facility tailored to healthcare professionals and patients but also delivered considerable time and financial savings. Through meticulous planning, proactive problem-solving, and strategic partnerships, CORE continues to set new standards in healthcare construction excellence.
