New palliative care suite at Augusta Hospital

11/12/07
Augusta's palliative care patients can now receive local care in comfortable surroundings following the establishment of a palliative care unit at Augusta Hospital.
Health Minister Jim McGinty thanked the Friends of Augusta Hospital who contributed $20,000 towards the new unit $40,000 unit.
"The new facility means that palliative care patients in Augusta are now able to receive care in their local hospital with the support of family and friends," Mr McGinty said.
"The unit will mean fewer people need to be transferred to Bunbury or Perth.
"The unit has a bedroom, private ensuite, a small foyer away from the main ward for family and friends to visit and a separate entrance.
"There is an extra sofa bed for family members to stay overnight, making it a comfortable environment where the patient's loved ones are welcome.
"The patient's bed can also be wheeled into the garden courtyard which is covered and screened to provide privacy and protection from the elements."
The larger than average hospital room has been upgraded with comfortable furnishings and medical equipment.
South-West MLC Adele Farina said it was great to see a space that had not been used for some time being upgraded for such an important purpose.
"I am sure this upgrade will make a big difference for local people and their families at what is a really difficult time," Ms Farina said.
"It is pleasing to see the Department of Health and the local community working together to make a difference.
"Renovations included the installation of air-conditioning, additional lighting, new plumbing, kitchen fittings and new doors and windows.
"New quilts and linen, a television and DVD unit, a sofa bed, roman blinds, an air chair tilt bed and a table and chairs add the finishing touches to what is a very comfortable and homely room."
District manager Ms Brenda Bradley said hospital administration were keen to continue to work collaboratively with the Friends of Augusta Hospital into the future.
"We are very grateful to the Friends group whose fundraising enabled the new unit to be built," Ms Bradley said.
"Their continued support and input has been invaluable."
Minister's office - 9422 3000