Allegheny Health Network (AHN) has announced a $6.2 million expansion of services at AHN Allegheny Valley Hospital and AHN Forbes Hospital. This initiative aims to address the increasing needs of patients in the eastern service area of AHN. The expansion will enhance inpatient rehabilitation at Allegheny Valley Hospital and increase medical-surgical bed capacity at Forbes Hospital.
“These changes are part of our ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional care and improving the patient experience across our health system,” stated Mark Rubino, MD, president of AHN Allegheny Valley and AHN Forbes Hospitals. “By strategically investing in these two important services, we are strengthening both hospitals and ensuring that our communities have access to the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”
The project involves turning Allegheny Valley Hospital into a center for inpatient rehabilitation services, with construction beginning in July 2025 and completion expected by year-end. A new unit will be created with 29 inpatient rehabilitation beds featuring advanced equipment and technology.
In response to increased demand for acute medical and surgical care, Forbes Hospital will convert its former inpatient rehab unit into 20 new medical-surgical beds. This conversion is intended to improve patient management, reduce wait times, minimize transfers, and enhance overall patient flow.
“The emergency department at Forbes is one of the network’s busiest,” said Jeff Carlson, Chief Operating Officer of AHN Allegheny Valley and AHN Forbes Hospitals. “We need more space and more beds for these patients.” He added that making AVH a hub for inpatient rehab services would aid patient recovery.
Last year saw over 40,000 visitors to the AHN Forbes emergency department while about 300 patients were treated in AVH’s inpatient rehab unit.
Both hospitals plan enhancements beyond clinical improvements. Early this summer, AVH will introduce a Healing Garden and Courtyard thanks to donations from local supporters. Meanwhile, Forbes Hospital will start a $2 million renovation of its main lobby this summer to upgrade security features and modernize facilities.
“This is an exciting time for our hospitals,” Dr. Rubino remarked. “These improvements represent our deep investment in both the health and experience of our patients.”
