Julia Gillard starts the construction of Werribee Mercy Hospital’s extension and an artist impression of what the finished product will look like. 88855 Picture: KRISTIAN SCOTT
By XAVIER SMERDON
PRIME Minister Julia Gillard officially launched construction works on a new two storey extension at the Werribee Mercy Hospital last week.
The $28 million upgrade of the hospital will see a rehabilitation and geriatric medicine service added to the building.
It will include 30 specialist beds, a gymnasium and a two storey rehabilitation centre that will provide a rehabilitation service to people of all ages who are disabled, frail, chronically ill or recovering from traumatic injury.
Ms Gillard said the major upgrade would help improve resident’s access to the hospital’s services.
“We want to make sure that all Australians have access to the care they need when and where they need it, which is why we’re investing in projects like this one to improve access to health services for our fast-growing region,” Ms Gillard said.
“By investing in the availability of subacute care services in this way, we’re improving the ability of our health system to meet the challenges of an ageing population and improve the health outcomes and quality of life of our residents.”
Mercy Health Chief Executive Officer, Adjunct Professor Stephen Cornelissen, said the redevelopment will help to meet Wyndham’s growing aged care and rehabilitation needs.
“Mercy Health is dedicated to the care of older people in Melbourne’s southwest, and to providing a range of services that meet the needs of the community,” Prof Cornelissen said.
“It’s important that Wyndham residents who need geriatric or rehabilitation services can access them close to home, so it’s great we will be able to provide these specialist services locally and in a purpose built facility.”
The Rehabilitation and Geriatric Medicine Service will create 51 new jobs across its three main services and is due for completion in September 2014.
The Prime Minister also launched construction of the GP Super Clinic at 504 Ballan Rd in Wyndham Vale which she said would have a strong emphasis on chronic disease care and preventative measures.
