Wyndham Hospital refurbishment completed ahead of time and on budget

Refurbishment works to Wyndham Hospital have been completed on budget and earlier than expected, Health Minister Kim Hames announced today.

Dr Hames was in Wyndham attending an open day to celebrate the completion of the hospital works and launch a community health and wellness screening program.

"I am delighted this work has been completed within budget in less than 11 weeks, about half the time originally estimated," he said.

"I would like to thank the chairperson of the local District Health Advisory Council and community members who have worked closely with health service management and staff to achieve this result.

"The State Government recognised the importance of the hospital to the Wyndham community and encouraged local representatives to have a say in the upgrade works.

"The community-based project working group, including Monsoon Architects, Ricon Constructions and local staff, is to be congratulated on the high standard of work and the level of co-operation shown."

A total of $7.5million for the hospital redevelopment and staff accommodation package was provided by the Liberal-National Government and the Federal Government through the National Partnership Agreement East Kimberley Development Package.

"The enhanced hospital facilities include upgrades to emergency department treatment bays, doctors' consulting rooms, inpatient areas and bathrooms," the Minister said.

"The redevelopment has allowed the expansion of the primary health facility at the hospital to support health services provided to the Wyndham community."

The $1.5million staff accommodation component of the package is progressing, with the WA Country Health Service entering into a contract to build three three-bedroom houses in Wyndham.

With the hospital redevelopment complete, community members, health services staff and local service providers are leading a campaign to improve the health and wellness of Wyndham residents.

Community members are being encouraged to take part in health wellness checks which include the collection of non-identifying health information relating to smoking, alcohol consumption, nutrition, weight and physical activity.

This information will help build a picture of the state of health of the Wyndham community and enable residents to be involved in planning for the future delivery of health services and development of local health promotion strategies.

"I commend the people of Wyndham and staff on this initiative and their dedication to improving the wellbeing and lifestyles of their community," Dr Hames said.