Henry Ford Health Expands Data Center

Henry Ford Health System is expanding its Rochester Hills data center by more than 20,000 square feet -- and bringing new jobs to the area.

The data center and an additional building on the site are now completely leased by Henry Ford for a total of 86,000 square feet. The center has been leased by Henry Ford since 1987. The lease is extended through 2022.

Nearly 300 technical and managerial employees, including long-term contract personnel, work at the center.

"We plan to hire 20 to 30 more people over the next year, and add that same amount to our staff every year for several years," said Art Gross, HFHS senior vice president and |CIO.

Planned upgrades to both buildings on the site include power, a contemporary work environment for staff -- which will enable more collaboration -- and additional restrooms. In addition, an enclosed walkway will be built to connect the data center and the second building.

The technical staff is focusing on the rollout of CarePlus Next Generation, the newest version of the electronic medical records that Henry Ford has been using for more than 20 years. Developed and maintained by Henry Ford, CarePlus has evolved to become an interactive tool that allows health care providers to document patient data directly into their computers. All caregivers in Henry Ford facilities across southeast Michigan have access to the same patient information in real time, including lab results, x-rays, medications, and physician notes.

CarePlus Next Generation is a technology which improves the safety, quality and coordination of patient care at Henry Ford. It complies with regulatory requirements, including those in the new health reform law, and has the ability to generate research data.

Construction is scheduled to begin in the spring.