More patients in south-west Victoria will get the high quality care they need thanks to an Andrews Labor Government funding boost for upgrades at Warrnambool and Camperdown hospitals.
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney today announced South West Healthcare would receive $2 million through the first round of the Labor Government’s new Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
The $200 million fund – the largest of its kind in Victorian history – will rebuild rural and regional hospitals to ensure all Victorians can access the high quality care and facilities they need, no matter where they live.
We are investing $750,000 to refurbish areas of the operating theatre complex and old chemotherapy unit at Warrnambool Hospital. Works are expected to be completed by mid-2018.
Elective and emergency surgery patients will benefit from better and safer care, and improved comfort. Staff will be even better equipped to deliver high quality and efficient care thanks to modern facilities.
Meanwhile, an additional $1.2 million will be delivered to buy specialist medical equipment at both Warrnambool and Camperdown campuses.
This includes the latest advances of equipment for endoscopy and ear, nose and throat procedures, as well as a microscope and an anaesthetic machine.
The Warrnambool community will continue to be key partners in discussions about the future works at South West Healthcare, with Member for Western Victoria James Purcell MP chairing a new Community Advisory Group.
In 2016/17, South West Healthcare will receive $125.3 million in funding from the Labor Government. This is $9.5 million – or 8.2 per cent – more than provided the previous financial year.
Quotes attributable to Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
“Our investment will make a real difference to the lives of surgical patients who will get the safe, high quality care and treatment they need.”
“Dedicated doctors and nurses at South West Healthcare do a remarkable job. We’re supporting them to do their job saving lives and keeping locals healthy by giving them the modern facilities and equipment they truly deserve.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“While we engage with the community on the future at Warrnambool, we’re making the critical upgrades needed now to existing facilities so doctors and nurses can continue delivering high quality, safer care and meet growing demand.”