Tom Fox / DMN

Paramedic technician Kelli Moore (right) helps patient Johnny Jones check into the ER using an automated self check-in kiosk.

DALLAS - While for years emergency room patients at Parkland Memorial Hospital have endured long lines and an average 8 to10 hour wait, h ospital officials said they hope sweeping emergency room renovations will help cure some of those problems.

Gina Smith was among many patients Monday in the Parkland ER having a hard time with patience while waiting to receive medical attention.

"I need to lie on my side, but I can't do that," she said. "I have to wait here in a chair."

But a new computerized self-check in system, similar to ones at the airport, is designed to cut down on frustrating delays and pinpoint emergency room patients in real crisis.

"And they can identify what they're here for so they can see if it's in emergency situation and be able to take them back faster," said Jennifer Hay, the hospital's ER manager.

The kiosks are part of an estimated $650,000 Parkland ER renovation. The upgrades include more waiting room, though overwhelming need means patients often still end up sitting on the floor.

The system did find Larry James Law help faster than usual. He waited just one hour, instead of 10, with a broken jaw. But Law said that hour felt like forever.

"I'm hurting real bad," he said. "This ain't no joke. It's hurting me."

E-mail jstjames@wfaa.com