29 September 2008

Manning Hospital Emergency Department construction update

Minister for Health, John Della Bosca, said builders had commenced the internal fit-out of Manning Hospital’s new $13.2-million Emergency Department.

“The construction is progressing well and is due for completion in January 2009,” Mr Della Bosca said.

“After some recent delays due to rain, Lahey Construction Pty Ltd recently erected the new emergency department roof and the builders are now completing the plumbing and wiring of the building.

“Being the major referral hospital for the Lower Mid North Coast region, Manning Hospital’s emergency department treats 23,000 people each year.

“The new facility is being built to meet the current and future needs of the Lower Mid North Coast region.

“It will include a new paediatric area, an extra 13 treatment spaces, staff facilities for teaching, mental health treatment areas, an isolation room and ambulatory care consultation rooms for people with less serious illnesses or injuries.

“The new purpose-built facility will better reflect the excellent medical care being provided at Manning Hospital, incorporating a vastly improved space and better privacy.

“Having the capacity for specialised treatment areas for children, mental health patients and people requiring additional privacy such as assault victims, will make appropriate treatment much easier for staff,” Mr Della Bosca said.

Once the new emergency department is completed, the old emergency department will become the hospital’s new medical records department.

“This investment by NSW taxpayers will provide a huge boost to Manning Hospital and the community it serves,” Mr Della Bosca said.

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