A major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing critical healthcare services in Vero Beach has reached a significant milestone. Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital is moving forward with the next stage of its multi-year emergency department expansion, a development designed to streamline patient care and accommodate the region’s growing medical needs.
Hospital leadership and community members gathered this week to celebrate the groundbreaking and initial wall demolition for this crucial phase of the project. The expansion, which has been in progress since 2025, focuses on improving patient flow through the facility by adding dedicated triage areas and increasing the number of treatment rooms available for emergency cases.
The need for this expansion is driven by the high volume of patients utilizing the facility. Cleveland Clinic Indian River Hospital currently handles approximately 55,000 emergency department visits annually. Administrators emphasize that the additional space and redesigned layout are essential for maintaining high standards of care as demand continues to rise across the Treasure Coast.
Hospital leaders noted that the expansion is critical to keeping pace with growing demand, stating that the project will allow staff to treat patients more efficiently while significantly improving the overall experience for families entering the Emergency Department.
Philanthropic Support Drives Growth
The ambitious project is being funded through a combination of capital from Cleveland Clinic and significant philanthropic contributions. A notable $5 million investment from the Clark Foundation has been instrumental in realizing the full scope of the renovation. This funding specifically supports the creation of expanded triage capabilities, eight new acute care rooms, and a complete redesign of the front entrance and lobby area.
Project Timeline and Phases
The construction is being executed in three distinct phases to minimize disruption while maximizing capacity:
- Phase One (Complete): This initial stage focused on expanding infusion bays at the Scully-Welsh Cancer Center. This strategic move was necessary to free up space required for the future growth of the emergency department.
- Phase Two (Underway): Construction crews are currently working on a new “Flex Care” area. This phase is set to add 20 new treatment spaces, significantly boosting the department’s immediate capacity to handle patient surges.
- Phase Three (Late 2026): Once the Flex Care area is operational, the final phase will commence. This stage will involve the construction of the expanded triage area, the addition of eight more acute care rooms, and the renovation of the main entrance and lobby to create a more welcoming and efficient environment.
As construction progresses through the year, residents can expect continued updates on how these changes will improve access to emergency medical services in Indian River County.
