04 December 2007

$3.2 million to redevelop Bowral Hospital Paediatric Unit

NSW Minister for Health, Reba Meagher, today announced that Bowral Hospital's Paediatric Unit would be redeveloped to provide a modern, child-friendly environment.

Ms Meagher said tenders for the first stage of the $3.2 million redevelopment would be called next week.

"The first stage of the redevelopment project is expected to be complete by March next year, with the whole project scheduled for completion in March 2009," Ms Meagher said.

"The redeveloped Paediatric Unit will include two single isolation rooms for the care of children with infectious diseases.

"It will also provide a more modern environment that better caters to the needs of children and their parents, with a dedicated parents' room and a play area."

The redeveloped unit will also include an interview and clinic room to accommodate the hospital's paediatric outreach programs.

"These outreach programs are designed to provide the care and support children and their families need so they don't need to be admitted to hospital," Ms Meagher said.

"There is significant local community support for Bowral Hospital, especially the Paediatric Unit.

"I know that this redevelopment will be welcomed by the community. It is great news for local families."

Ms Meagher said the redevelopment would be undertaken in three stages to ensure minimal disruption to the delivery of health services at the hospital.

"The redevelopment will involve the relocation of the hospital's medical records department and short stay unit," Ms Meagher said.

"Hospital management will work with staff and patients to ensure there is as little disruption as possible while the new Paediatric Unit is being built."

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au