THE new emergency department at Williamstown Hospital was officially opened on Friday, a much-needed renovation to the vital local service.
Premier and Member for Williamstown Steve Bracks was on hand for the event, unveiling a plaque in the company of some of the hospital’s oldest and most dedicated local supporters.
Mr Bracks said it was remarkable that the hospital had operated for so many years with an emergency department that was outdated, with a congested layout and poor ambulance access.
“The (new department) has helped ensure the Williamstown community continues to have a hospital it can be proud of, and which will cater to residents’ needs well into the future.”
CEO Jon Evans said the new emergency department would finally bring the hospital up to date, with modern equipment, including a negative pressure room for infectious disease cases, and an environment that would enable staff to do their work more effectively.
“This is the culmination of a lot of planning and hard work,” he said.
“To appreciate this new set-up, you just need to take a look at the old department; you can see how much this will improve the way we do things here.”
