The new 11-bed Acute Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM Unit at Port Macquarie Base Hospital (PMBH was officially opened on Monday, March 4.
The GEM Unit will provide short stay accommodation for older people with mild dementia or other complex, chronic or multiple healthcare requirements.
The unit is designed to provide a homely, non-threatening environment for clients who are expected to be active and mobile during their stay.
The GEM Unit consists of a dedicated 11-bed ward providing early multi-disciplinary rehabilitation intervention to aid the assessment, management and treatment of geriatric symptoms of older people in the hospital setting.
Port Macquarie-Hast-ings Clinical Network Geriatrician, Dr Matthew Kinchington, said the aim of the GEM is to focus on the older patient and tailor treatment and management to the assessed needs of the individual.
“It promotes independence of the older person and empowers patients to acquire the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to better manage their own health condition,” said Dr Kinchington.
Also attending were representatives from the Tacking Point Lions Club, which raised more than $30,000 to construct an outdoor exercising area known as the Wandering Path.
Mid-North Coast Local Health District Governing Board Chair, Warren Grimshaw, acknowledged the Lions Club’s donation, as well as the support of other local groups and businesses.
A morning tea for staff, guests and volunteers followed the official opening by Member for Port Macquarie, Leslie Williams.
