Swan Hill families are a step closer to having better healthcare closer to home, with work on an upgraded emergency department at Swan Hill District Health, Victoria set to begin.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas today announced the next stage of the $48.7 million project is about to start. The upgrade will more than double treatment spaces so locals can access emergency care quicker.
Early works will be completed by AW Nicholson and are expected to get underway later this month. The initial steps will involve demolition and construction of a temporary pathology lab and cafeteria allowing for the main construction works to begin.
The main construction works will replace the old emergency department and add a four-bed short-stay unit as well as mental health patient care and treatment rooms to support people who may need to isolate.
The redevelopment will also add large waiting areas to create a more comfortable environment for patients and their families.
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These important additions will support the privacy of patients, provide a safe and efficient working environment for staff and ensure the hospital can meet the current and future health needs of the local community.
“These important upgrades of the emergency department will mean patients can get faster access to the care and treatment they need – whilst providing a more safer and suitable work environment for Swan Hill’s amazing health care workers,” says Member for Northern Victoria Mark Gepp.
The main construction works are expected to get underway in early 2023.
The project is on track to be completed in 2025 and will create nearly 150 jobs during its peak. The project is being delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) in partnership with the Federal Government, who are contributing $30 million towards the redevelopment.
Designs for the emergency department building and clinical spaces have been developed in consultation with those who will use it the most, including staff.