PRINCE CHARLES HOSPITAL UNDERGOING ITS LARGEST EVER UPGRADE

Two new operating theatres which are temporarily closed are part of the Prince Charles Hospital’s largest ever redevelopment, Health Minister Stephen Robertson said today.

Mr Robertson said the hospital’s $134 million project required minor disruptions to activity.

“Hospitals cannot undergo improvements on this scale without making some allowances,” Mr Robertson said.

“But when this redevelopment is completed next year, it will allow the hospital to treat around 6,800 more patients a year across medicine and surgery.

“The hospital identified some safety concerns involving two new theatres as part of the redevelopment, and management decided to take them off-line temporarily for about four weeks, from May 5 until June 9.

“Minor modifications will be made to the theatres as part of an agreed plan to address these concerns.”

“The two operating theatres have been boarded off to allow the modifications to be made in line with health and safety precautions and to maintain the sterility of the surrounding theatres.”

“I’m advised that there has been no adverse impact on patients as a result of the theatres being taken off-line.

“Seven operating theatres remain operational and are functioning normally at the hospital.”

MEDIA: Joshua Cooney 3234 1185