Minister commends successful Gold Coast University Hospital move

The very last patients have arrived at the new Gold Coast University Hospital as staff complete the monumental task of moving an entire hospital.

 

Health Minister Lawrence Springborg commended all involved in the history-making move, which resulted in 219 patients safely and efficiently transported to the new hospital.

 

"The whole process was a resounding success without the need to use allocated contingency time on either day," Mr Springborg said.

 

"Our patients and their safety are our priority and were at the forefront of every planned move.

 

"The transition and the meticulous planning that underpinned it is a wonderful example of people working together to achieve a truly enormous task."

 

Mr Springborg said Department of Health Director-General Mr Ian Maynard oversaw some of the move yesterday and praised everyone involved in the extremely smooth transition.

 

"Together we would like to thank the Gold Coast Hospital and Health Service staff, Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Fire Service, Queensland Police Service, specialist groups and the volunteers who all assisted in the transfer of patients," he said.

 

"The support of Southport Hospital staff has been paramount to this highly successful move, as is the support of partnering hospitals.

 

"Everyone involved should be extremely proud of their efforts and contribution to this significant event.

 

"The move saw 109 patients moved yesterday and 115 patients today, including a set of triplets transported in incubators this morning.

 

"I have heard hospital staff are thrilled by the result of the transition and rightly so. Everyone should be proud of their efforts."  

 

The Gold Coast Hospital at Southport has now closed and the Gold Coast University Hospital is officially open to patients.

 

(ENDS) 28 September 2013

Media Contact: Cameron Thompson 0407 585230