Nason Completes Onley Community Health Center

Eastern Shore Rural Health System opens facility, wins construction award

Onancock, VA, February 8, 2011: Construction of a new Onley Community Health Center, for the Eastern Shore Rural Health System, was necessary to meet the increasing need for access to medical care on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. The new 20,000 square foot facility more than doubles the existing 9,000 square foot facility it replaced. The building was designed so six medical wings flanked a central nursing station to incorporate a “one-stop” model of healthcare for the facility. The design allows for the ability to add more wings in the future, if needed.

The health center’s six wings, which increase the number of exam rooms to 40, reduces waiting times and enhances privacy for patients, consist of space for internal medicine, family practice, pediatrics and corporate account services. The winged design enhances Onley Community Health Center’s ability to provide a “one-stop” model of healthcare for patients, who will have the ability to see a doctor, have lab work done and have digital X-rays taken in one convenient location. The center will also be a first response site in case of a catastrophe, as it has a backup generator and is hurricane-force wind resistant.

The health center incorporated new practices, while maintaining previous services offered in the facility it replaced. This includes health education, pharmacy assistance and other outreach services for patients. The Community Center’s corporate accounts wing provides local companies access to “fast track” care, allowing employees to receive physicals and drug screens in a timely manner.

Nason Construction recently nominated the Onley Community Health Center project for an award with the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Chesapeake Shores Chapter’s 2010 Excellence in Construction competition, where it received 1st place honors.