Upgrade of facilities at Exmouth Hospital

6/10/96

Health Minister Kevin Prince today announced a $460,000 upgrade of facilities at the Exmouth Hospital.

"The redevelopment is important to service the future needs of Exmouth which has a growing tourist population and a number of high risk industries," Mr Prince said.

"It will also overcome the primary concern of the local residents about the provision of a low-risk obstetric service for the women of Exmouth."

Mr Prince, who visited the hospital today, said funding would be allocated over a two-year period for the project.

The redevelopment, which would commence shortly, would include:

+ the reintroduction of a low-risk obstetric service and provision of an enhanced birthing suite,

+ improvements to the outpatients' clinic; and -

+ additions to the accident and emergency department.

"These improvements to the existing facilities will not only allow the hospital to better manage emergencies but will also enable the hospital to perform some obstetric emergency procedures," the Minister said.

"We will also conduct suitable staff development and training to ensure the services, and in particular obstetrics, are provided in a safe and appropriate environment."

Mr Prince said that the Health Department would provide financial support to assist with transport and accommodation costs incurred by women requiring obstetric services until the redeveloped Exmouth facility was fully operational.

Media contact: Kirsten Stoney 366 0300