Work to commence on Bundaberg Hospital

Bundaberg Hospital will be treating patients in an extended emergency department with six new beds by next winter under a preferred option for the State Government’s $41.1 million redevelopment project.

Health Minister Stephen Robertson said today hospital staff were being consulted about the planned redevelopment which also included a new emergency department, maternity ward and a 20-bed medical ward.

“A team of architects and project consultants have now been appointed for the major project and work to extend the current ED is expected to start early in 2008 for completion mid-year,” Mr Robertson said.

“A new six-bed observation bay in the ED will help the hospital meet increased demands over the winter period and ease the pressure caused by bed block.

“Construction of a new ED and maternity unit is also expected to start in 2008 to be completed in 2009.

“This will then allow space in the existing ED and maternity unit to be converted into a better environment for pharmacy, records and a larger rehabilitation ward with four new beds.

“The existing rehabilitation ward will then be redeveloped into a 20-bed medical ward which will also reduce bed block at the hospital.

“Other aspects of the project involve community health services relocating to facilities offsite to accommodate improved surroundings for allied health services.”

Mr Robertson said in addition to increased bed capacity and better facilities, the redevelopment will improve the day-to-day running of the hospital by:

• Relocating maternity suites close to operating theatres;
• Improving internal circulation and public access to the hospital; and
• Improving connection between related services in the hospital.

“This project is crucial for the hospital’s ability to meet population growth and a forecast increase in activity across the board,” he said.

“The significant growth the Bundaberg region has experienced over recent years is projected to continue with its current estimated population of 104,000 increasing to nearly 124,000 by 2016 and over 133,000 by 2021.

“The number of people being treated in Bundaberg’s ED has increased by 8% in the past year and the amount of surgery it performs has also grown.

“We have increased Bundaberg’s bed capacity in recent years to around 160 beds but that total needs to increase as the hospital treats more patients.

“Consultation with key stakeholders will occur shortly with preliminary works due to start as soon as possible and the entire expansion scheduled to finish in 2010.

“This is an exciting project that will revitalise the Bundaberg Hospital for years to come.”

19 December,  2007

MEDIA: Joshua Cooney 3234 1185