$750,000 for Upper Hunter Emergency Departments
8 February 2011
Improving the comfort and care of patients is the main aim of refurbishments planned for emergency departments in Muswellbrook and Scone this year.
A total of $750,000 is being spent on refurbishing the emergency departments and reception areas at Scott Memorial and Muswellbrook hospitals.
The funds have been provided by the NSW Government in line with recommendations to help improve the comfort and care of women who may be experiencing problems in early pregnancy.
Upper Hunter Cluster General Manager Dr Debbie Jaggers said planning for the projects is well underway.
Construction is expected to start toward the middle of the year and will take several months to complete.
“The improvements we will be making will not only benefit women facing pregnancy problems but anyone who may need to access these Emergency Departments and reception areas. It will improve the amenity and comfort for everyone,” Dr Jaggers said.
“Emergency departments are busy places and it is important that our patients who are awaiting treatment are safe and as comfortable as possible.”
Among key changes, seating will be improved and the nurse triage areas will be redesigned. Public toilets located in the emergency waiting area will also be fitted with an emergency call button so members of the public can call for assistance if they need it.
“And we want to make sure that all of our patients are visible to the triage nurse at all times,” Dr Jaggers said.
“We will be making a number of changes inside the Emergency Departments themselves including building a special consultation room that will provide privacy and dignity for patients.”
Architects and project planners are currently working with staff and stakeholders to finalise plans.
Additional funds have also been provided to Muswellbrook Health Service to incorporate a safe assessment room for mental health patients who present to the Emergency Department.
The Emergency Department refurbishment is one of a number of planned capital works improvements for Muswellbrook Health Service, including refurbished staff accommodation. A master plan for the Muswellbrook campus that will consider longer-term facility requirements is also being developed.
Contact: Frances Holz
Phone: 4939 2216