New Denmark Health Service officially opens its doors

The new $18million Denmark Health Service will be officially opened today by Health Minister Dr Kim Hames.

Dr Hames said the recently completed complex had the latest clinical facilities which would support the delivery of quality health services to the community.

"I am extremely pleased that the health service is now open to help meet the health needs of the growing Denmark population," he said.

"This is an important development for the town which will mean that local people have access to health and aged care in a modern purpose-built facility."

The new 32-bed complex has an expanded emergency department which includes modern x-ray equipment and specialised trauma care facilities.  It would initially have 11 residential aged care beds, one respite bed and 10 acute beds, with the capacity to open 10 more residential aged-care beds.

The Minister said the additional aged care bed capacity had been designed to accommodate the future needs of the town.

"The population of Denmark and its catchment area is expected to increase steadily in the next decade, with the growth in the 65 and older age group expected to be particularly strong," he said.

The modern facility has many design features, including improved car parking for patients and visitors, landscaped courtyards and outdoor spaces featuring local art.

Dr Hames said the new facility, which was built by Doric Constructions, was a welcome replacement for the old hospital, which was built in the 1920s.

"I know the local community has eagerly anticipated the opening of their local health service and it will be a big boost to regional health services in Western Australia," the Minister said.

Patients and staff moved into the facility on February 2 and the transition has been smooth.