Her Majesty Queen Máxima reopened the Central Military Hospital in Utrecht on Wednesday morning, the 19th of June. She was accompanied by Defense Minister Ank Bijleveld.
The Central Military Hospital (CMH) on the university grounds "De Uithof" in Utrecht offers healthcare specifically to Dutch soldiers. The building has been renovated and expanded over the past two years, with EGM architects in charge of the design. The renovation and expansion have given the hospital a new function as a collective building. This is where primary and secondary care come together, fitting in with the new way of thinking of the Ministry of Defense. The CMH has been given a multifunctional and more open character in which both office spaces, consultation rooms and medical treatment rooms come together.
The extension has a robust wooden façade with a new, inviting and recognizable entrance. The old atrium, with a reception and waiting area, has been transformed into a warm, informal meeting place which constitutes the heart of the building. Wooden elements and neutral light tones define the look of the interior. This creates a professional and modest environment that fits in with the military culture of trust and companionship. During the large-scale expansion and renovation, the CMH remained operational and labour was carried out in phases.
In the CMH, the treatments focus on helping soldiers be serviceable again through medical care in the event of repatriation from abroad. In addition, the CMH specializes in specific health issues that occur among soldiers. The building also houses the Defense Dental Service and the Military Mental Healthcare.
After the opening ceremony, Queen Máxima was given a tour of the renovated hospital. She visited various departments including the Family Room and day care.