Medicare begins a major change next month that could save older diabetics money and time when they buy crucial supplies to test their blood sugar – but it also may cause some confusion as patients figure out the new system.Lutheran Hospital will reopen its lobby Monday after a $340,000 renovation project that included an expanded pharmacy now run by Walgreens, hospital officials announced today.
“Offering the patient the option to have their prescription filled before they leave the hospital will get them where they want to be quicker, which is home,” Brian Bauer, Lutheran’s CEO, said in a statement.
The hospital leased its outpatient pharmacy to Walgreens in the summer before the renovation project nearly doubled display space. The retailer also sells over-the-counter products, snacks and other items to patients, visitors and staff.
Lobby updates included removal of some non-support columns, installation of terrazzo floor tile and relocation of the information desk so it’s closer to the registration area.
The changes are intended to make the lobby more patient-friendly and family friendly by improving the internal traffic flow.
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