Official opening of emergency section at Kojonup hospital

13/2/97

Health Minister Kevin Prince will today officially open the new $500,000 accident and emergency section at the Kojonup District Hospital.

"This new facility is part of a significant upgrade at the hospital and will enhance patient care as well as improve conditions for staff," Mr Prince said.

"It now includes two beds and equipment which was previously stored in a corridor.

"An undercover ambulance entrance has also been added to the unit which should prove to be an invaluable asset to the hospital and the Kojonup community."

Redevelopment works at the hospital started early last year.

Mr Prince said substantially improved facilities at the hospital now included:

·      the larger two-bed accident and emergency department;

·      GP's consulting room;

·      patients' sunroom;

·      pharmacy storeroom;

·      administration offices in close proximity to medical records; and -

·      a boardroom/meeting room.

"The State Government is of the firm view that all Western Australians - no matter where they live - should have access to the best possible health care," Mr Prince said.

"Regional hospitals are being developed as centres of excellence in health care, providing a broader range of specialist services and having access to new technologies.

"It is our intention to take, wherever possible, the services to the people, not the people to the services."

Media contact: Kirsten Stoney 221 1377