Upgrades for spinal injury service at Princess Alexandra Hospital

• An initial investment of $20 million will go towards immediate improvements at the Queensland Spinal Cord Injury Service at Princess Alexandra Hospital
• The immediate upgrades will provide a better quality of care for patients while a new facility is built
• A future state-wide service model for spinal cord injury services is also being developed

Following consultation with hundreds of stakeholders, the Queensland Spinal Cord Injury Service (QSCIS) will remain at the Princess Alexandra Hospital (PAH).

An initial $20 million investment has been earmarked to provide a range of improvements to the existing unit on the PAH campus. 

This will address patient concerns, with improvements including more bathrooms, toilets, therapy spaces, and a new food service model.

New nurses and allied health staff have recently been employed to ensure patients receive timely and quality care.

This announcement follows the government’s commitment in June of $5 million for a business case to begin planning a new state-of-the-art building.

It means the QSCIS will not be relocated to the Surgical Treatment and Rehabilitation Services (STARS) building at Metro North HHS.

Queensland Health is also working with stakeholders to develop a new state-wide service model for spinal cord injury services, which will inform how care can be better provided.

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services and Minister for Women Shannon Fentiman:

“This is another important step towards ensuring that patients with spinal cord injuries are receiving the best care possible here in Queensland.”

“The decision follows feedback from hundreds of patients, consumers, family and staff.”

“This initial investment of $20 million will mean patients receive the highest quality of care while also remaining close to a broad range of specialist services which are well-established at the PA.”

“Immediate upgrades to the existing building will lead to safer and more dignified care, as well as vastly improved patient privacy.”

“I know this process has been challenging for many people, particularly the unit’s patients and staff, and I appreciate their feedback, patience and resilience.”

ENDS

Media Contact - Phoenix Campbell 0439 949 719