Future of Derby hospital assured

17/7/02
Derby Hospital will undergo a major redevelopment within the next three years as part of the State Government's commitment to improving health and hospital facilities across the Kimberley, Health Minister Bob Kucera announced today.
Mr Kucera said residential aged care services would also be improved with the construction of a new, culturally-sensitive nursing home to suit both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal residents.
"Far from downgrading health services in Derby, the State Government is improving health services throughout the Kimberley," he said.
"The Government set aside $34million over four years for capital investment in the Kimberley and it is intended that the distribution of these funds will be guided by careful and expert health service planning.
"The revamp of Kimberley Health services is about ensuring an equitable range of services across the region."
Mr Kucera urged interested residents to participate in the forthcoming Derby Health Summit, which he would be attending, together with Kimberley MLA Carol Martin.
"This summit, which will be held in August, will provide an opportunity for us to discuss health issues confronting the Kimberley and discuss with the community the type of health services they would like to see in their area," he said.
"This will enable us to undertake informed, detailed health service planning for the future in Derby."
Mr Kucera said some medical specialist services would be transferred from Derby to Broome to ensure the long-term sustainability of regional services.
However, the full complement of GPs with skills in areas such as obstetrics and anaesthetics would be retained in Derby, as would the services of a resident specialist surgeon.
"This means that 24-hour coverage for anaesthetics, general surgery, caesarean sections and obstetrics will be retained," the Minister said.
"Derby will retain the same of level of services as is currently delivered in Broome and Kununurra."
Minister's office: 9213 7000