The $240,000 redesign project will deliver better services and patient care for local residents inspired by community feedback and funded in partnership by Hunter New England Health, Kaleidoscope and Woolworths Limited.

General Manager of the Greater Newcastle Acute Hospital Network Todd McEwan said the redesign would deliver improved access and communication, increased safety and added comfort for patients and visitors while they are waiting for treatment in the state’s busiest Emergency Department.

“Our staff are really excited about the improved environment which will enhance the patient experience in the emergency setting,” Mr McEwan said.

“We hope these improvements will make the experience easier on our patients and their families.”

The refurbishment will mean that children and their families can now wait safely in an adjoining Children’s Waiting Room.

“Providing this separate room is important for children and their families,” Mr McEwan said.

“This child friendly environment also includes features designed to distract and entertain children while they wait. This includes an in-floor LCD panel with interactive pictures and moving scenes.”

Other physical changes of the redesign include a redesign of triage assessment and seating areas to provide better communication and access to triage stations. The redesign has also improved the line of sight between triage nurses and patients.

Mr McEwan said the project was also a great example of the cooperative partnership between John Hunter Hospital and John Hunter Children’s Hospital.

“John Hunter Hospital and John Hunter Children’s Hospital have a long history of working in collaboration to provide the best possible care and treatment for both our adult and young patients and I am proud that this project has once again highlighted the strength of this relationship.”

Mr McEwan acknowledged a donation from Woolworths Limited, a major corporate supporter of the John Hunter Children’s Hospital and significant partner in this project, and thanked them for their commitment to the front-of-house redesign. 

He also commended the support of the Hospital Auxiliary, the John Hunter Site Carers, for their contribution towards digital signage and securing new seating.

“We hope that, thanks to their support, the redesign will greatly improve the experience of the 61,000 patients including 18,750 children who are treated in the emergency department each year,” Mr McEwan said.

Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery also acknowledged all those involved in the project.

“I would like to congratulate all those who have contributed to this great initiative.  The partnership between Woolworths, Kaleidoscope and all those staff at the two hospitals is a great example of a practical partnership that will bring great benefits for patients in the Emergency Department.  Congratulations,” Ms Hornery said.

Contact: Sharna McCarthy

Phone: 4921 4501