Kaiser Vacaville Unveils Expanded Emergency Department

Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center had plenty to celebrate Wednesday as it unveiled a major expansion of its Emergency Department, marking a significant step forward in emergency and trauma care for Solano County and beyond.

Health care leaders, local officials and members of the community gathered at the hospital for a ribbon-cutting ceremony filled with smiles, applause and a shared sense of pride. The expansion adds 12 new emergency beds, bringing the department's total to 36, and includes upgraded trauma bays equipped with the latest medical technology.

"This is an extension of our commitment to the community," said Dr. Eric Au, chief of physicians for Kaiser Permanente Napa-Solano. "It feels like family here in Vacaville, and it's beautiful to see the step we're taking today."

As Solano County's designated Level II trauma center, Au said that Kaiser Vacaville plays a vital role in treating the most serious emergencies, from car accidents to complex injuries. The newly expanded trauma suites now include everything necessary to stabilize and perform emergency surgical procedures on critically injured patients, right on-site.

"This expansion allows for greater accuracy, efficiency, and compassion in our care," said Darryl Curry, senior vice president of Kaiser Permanente Napa-Solano. "We are proud to bring this to our community."

During the expansion and renovation, the hospital operated with two temporary trauma bays, the Trauma unit now features fully equipped, enlarged permanent trauma rooms. The temporary spaces will now be used to treat non-critical patients who do not require monitoring — helping streamline services and reduce wait times, said Taya Roberts, D.O., Emergency Department chief at the hospital.

In addition to increased capacity, the new emergency pod offers upgraded amenities that prioritize patient comfort and privacy, including televisions and sliding doors (not just privacy curtains). The department is also leveraging advanced telehealth services, enabling real-time consultations with Kaiser specialists across its extensive network.

"With the volume we've been seeing, this was needed," said Roberts. "This expansion will reduce patient wait times."

Vacaville Vice Mayor Sarah Chapman praised Kaiser's ongoing investment in high-quality care and its role as a vital partner in the city's well-being.

"To maintain level II trauma certification, the standards are incredibly high," Chapman said. "What this place does for families — it saves lives, 24/7. Vacaville is truly blessed."

Police Chief Chris Polen also recognized the hospital's impact on public safety.

"Our mission is to provide a high quality of life, and Kaiser is an extension of that," he said. "I hate to say it, but with traumas growing in Vacaville, if you build it, they will come."

Since opening in 2009, Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center has added trauma care, neurosurgery, maternity services, a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and now, this significant Emergency Department expansion.

Dr. Travis Gerlach, chief of trauma at the hospital, emphasized the team's commitment to excellence.

"Our trauma bays are equipped for all ages, from pediatric to adult," he said. "We work hard to meet — and exceed — the American College of Surgeons' strict standards."

Wednesday's celebration was more than just the opening of new rooms; it was a reaffirmation of Kaiser Permanente's role as a trusted health partner for Vacaville and surrounding communities, the hospital leadership noted.

"This is more than an expansion," said Dr. Au. "It's an extension of our commitment to the community."