BARWON Health’s new $6.38 million surgical hub is improving patient experiences while preparing for future demand and growth at University Hospital Geelong.
Minister for Health Jill Hennessy officially opened the $6.38 million hub at University Hospital Geelong on Tuesday 5 December.
Completed in mid-October, the 22-month project in the old ICU space on level four was made possible with funding from the Department of Health and Human Services and the combined efforts of the Operating Services and Capital Works teams.
Barwon Health CEO Ruth Salom said the new surgery hub accommodated multiple functions, including day of surgery admissions and second stage recovery, which see around 50 patients a day.
“This fantastic project refurbished our operating services areas, including day of surgery admissions, second stage recovery, front reception, change rooms, staff rooms, equipment stores and office accommodation,” Professor Salom said.
“The new hub also features a dedicated paediatric area to support children and their families, with a colourful and non-clinical feeling space we’ve named the Tree House.
“With an average of 35 day of surgery admissions patients per day through the new area, we are pleased to be meeting the demand and we now have room to match that demand as it continues to grow.
“The introduction of an electronic journey board will support the flow of patients through the department, which is just one of the ways this project has improved the overall patient experience.”
Mr Simon Williams, Clinical Director Surgical and Critical Care Directorate and Orthopaedic Surgeon said operating services treated about 21,000 cases annually, with 75 per cent coming through day of surgery admissions.
“From admission to discharge, the new surgery hub accommodates this demand and allows for future growth,” he said.
