The ER team celebrates the completion of phase 1 of the expansion
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Inova Fairfax Hospital ER
Our Greatest Needs: Inova Fairfax Hospital ER Expansion
Inova Fairfax ER is Northern Virginia’s only Level 1 Trauma Center and the 3rd busiest in the U.S.
In addition, we continue to see compelling outcomes from our innovative EmPATH (Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing) Unit, a core part of the first phase of this ER project, which opened in late 2024.
Every day, Inova provides life-saving care for trauma, stroke, cardiac emergencies, pediatric crises, and beyond—often for more than 300 patients in a single day. In 2025 Inova served more than 120,000 adult patients and 64,000 pediatric patients in the ER.
In November 2025, we completed the next stage in our expansion designed to enhance patient flow and reduce waiting times, including a dedicated ultrasound room that supports faster diagnostics. The new state-of-the-art spaces we are building make it easier for our ER teams to provide the kind of exceptional and compassionate care our patients deserve.
Hundreds served
EmPATH has provided timely care for patients in crisis, reducing unnecessary inpatient admissions and easing ER congestion.
Improved outcomes
Only 8–12% of patients require discharge to a higher level of care, compared to the national average of 20% for other EmPATH units.
Positive feedback
Patients and families consistently share gratitude for the supportive environment and the dignity-centered approach to care.
Fairfax Hospital ER Timeline
Our newly redesigned Children’s ER provides a welcoming, family-friendly environment, including a separate entrance for pediatric emergencies, a dedicated reception area, and 40 specialized treatment bays.
“This was the first time we've experienced the newly renovated and expanded children's ER at Inova and it's wonderful! The facility and staff were wonderful and having a separate, dedicated entrance and space for children was amazing! Thank you!”
– Grateful patient
