21/09/05
The State Government will pump an extra $115.2million to redevelop Swan District Hospital as one of Perth’s four major general hospitals.
Health Minister Jim McGinty said a total of $182.7million has been set aside to either redevelop the existing hospital or build a new hospital nearby in Midland.
“This is a significant investment that will increase access to health care services for people living in the eastern suburbs,” Mr McGinty said.
“By 2010, Swan District Hospital will be substantially upgraded, with an extra 120 beds and the most up-to-date clinical services and facilities.
“The redevelopment will see an upgrade to the emergency department and enable the hospital to provide an increased range of medical services, including general surgery, orthopaedics, general medicine, gynaecology and paediatrics.
“Expectant mothers will also have access to new birthing and delivery facilities at the hospital, which will become the main centre for obstetric services in the eastern metropolitan region.”
Stage One of the redevelopment is due to begin in April 2008 and will include the construction of a new 15-bed critical care unit, as well as improved renal dialysis, ambulatory care and therapy facilities.
Bed numbers will be boosted from 206 to 326 in 2010, further increasing to 334 in 2015. There will also be an increase in acute mental health beds from 41 to 51 beds and rehabilitation beds from 24 to 48 beds.
A taskforce will assess the options for upgrading or rebuilding Swan District Hospital and submit a report to the Minister by the end of the year.
A further $15million has been allocated to upgrade Kalamunda Hospital as a sub-acute and primary care facility, specialising in aged care, rehabilitation and mental health services. Maternity and surgery services will be relocated to Swan District Hospital.
Mr McGinty said the additional funding to redevelop Swan District Hospital was part of a total rebuild of the State’s health system.
“Our booming economy means we can invest an extra $890million to build new hospitals, upgrade existing hospitals and open an additional 800 beds,” he said.
“The Government has developed a ten-year health blueprint with a massive $3.6billion capital works program for hospitals right across the State.”
Minister's office: 9220 5000
