March 17, 2016 | Christine Kaminski

Patient Comfort and Convenience are Key in New Hospital Tower

The new tower of UConn John Dempsey Hospital will offer patients and visitors amenities to make their visit and hospital experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.

An architectural rendering of the main An architectural rendering of the main lobby in the new tower at UConn John Dempsey Hospital.

An architectural rendering of the main lobby in the new tower at UConn John Dempsey Hospital.

The new tower of UConn John Dempsey Hospital will offer patients and visitors amenities to make their visit and hospital experience as comfortable and convenient as possible.

Upon entering the building, individuals will find an inviting and open lobby and a concierge to greet them. In addition to the concierge, an information desk will also be located in the lobby where individuals can inquire about visiting hours, directions, and general information about UConn Health services. The information desk will be open from Monday thru Friday from 5:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on the weekends.

A new amenity for our hearing impaired visitors will be a video phone located in the lobby. A deaf or hard of hearing person can make telephone calls directly to other videophones or to any standard phone through a relay service company.

Behind the information desk, guests will be able to take the stairs or elevator to the main level where they will find amenities such as the Connucopia Gift Shop, the Murray- Heilig Chapel, and a Starbucks café.

Murray-Helig Chapel
The Murray-Heilig Chapel will also be relocating from the main building. The contemporary, new interfaith chapel will be three times larger than its current size.

A staple at UConn Health since 1975, the Connucopia Gift Shop will relocate from the main building to the new tower in mid-May. “The gift shop will continue to feature popular items with visitors and patients alike such as Alex & Ani jewelry, Willow Tree products, stuffed animals, greeting cards, baby clothing, officially licensed UConn merchandise, fresh flowers, snacks and more,” says manager Debbie Baril. Gift cards are available, and all purchases are exempt from the state sales tax. Staffed by UConn Health Auxiliary volunteers, the gift shop will be open Monday thru Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and noon to 4 p.m. on the weekend.

The Murray-Heilig Chapel will also be relocating from the main building and joining the Connucopia Gift Shop on the main level. The contemporary, new interfaith chapel will be three times larger than its current size and will offer patients and visitors a serene environment in which to meditate, pray, or reflect. The chapel will be open at all times.

The new tower will welcome a new addition to the UConn Health family with the opening of a Starbucks Coffeehouse in the fall. In addition to their signature coffee and beverages, Starbucks will offer a full menu including a variety of pastries and sandwiches.

While enjoying refreshments, guests will be able to relax in the seating area on the main level that overlooks the lobby. And for those who would like to use their mobile device or laptop, complimentary Wi Fi is available.