Overcrowding at Norwood Hospital Studied-This Day in Norwood History-June 27, 1957

Trustees OK Survey By Hub Firm

Overcrowding of facilities at the Norwood Hospital has become such a serious problem that a complete study has been authorized by the Board of Trustees in order to determine what steps, must be taken to meet the increasing demand for hospital care by the people of the area, it was announced yesterday.

For some time the hospital has been operating in excess of the 80% occupancy factor, in relation to the number of patients and beds available in which to care for them. This occupancy relation is necessary to provide sufficient space for the segregation of sexes, age, type of illness, and standby reserve.

During the past few years, when additions and alterations were made in the hospital, these projects were carried out with a view to meeting the need of additional beds in the future. The new cafeteria, laboratory, laundry, and X-ray departments are so planned for this expansion.

In accordance with the vote of the trustees, James H. Ritchie and Associates of Boston, hospital architects, and engineers, are conducting a survey of the existing facilities and the population of the area and will submit a recommendation for meeting the situation.

(All articles were originally published in the Norwood Messenger unless otherwise noted)