Most people recognize a 626 phone number as a Lititz exchange and a 786 number as being from the Quarryville area. 299, 399 and 290 – Lancaster. But what about 544? Starting in late June, 544 became the new exchange for telephone numbers at Lancaster General Hospital, Lancaster General Health Campus, Lancaster General Women & Babies Hospital and the Visiting Nurse Association.

 

The 544 exchanges gives Lancaster General nearly 7,000 additional direct dial numbers. In addition, 544 spells out “LGH” on the phone. To make the switch, Lancaster General changed the first three digits of close to 3,000 pre-existing 290 phone numbers. The last four digits of all LGH direct dial numbers have remained the same.

 

If you’re confused about what number to call, don’t worry. Lancaster General took steps to make sure that the change was as easy as possible.

 

Many 290 numbers are being transferred automatically to the new 544 number and appear seamless to the caller.

 

The automatic transfer feature will remain for another year, until July 1, 2004. After that date, callers will be required to use the 544 number.

 

For other 290 numbers, you will receive a message that explains that the number has changed. The message also provides the new 544 number. You can then hang up and dial the new number to reach the person or department you are seeking. These messages will also remain for another year, until July 1, 2004.

 

Phone books, letterhead, brochures, promotional materials and the Internet are all being updated to reflect the new numbers.