Minister opens new day surgery unit for Northam

19/11/02
Health Minister Bob Kucera today opened Northam Hospital's first day surgery unit, allowing people needing non-invasive and uncomplicated surgery to return home the same day.
Mr Kucera said approximately 30 people would benefit from the unit each week.
The Minister said a significant increase in day surgery procedures since the new Northam hospital opened in 1995 supported the need for the service.
"Since 1995, the number of day surgery procedures at Northam Hospital has increased from 40 per cent of all surgical procedures to a massive 84 per cent," he said.
"Advances in technology are changing the way in which health care is delivered.
"Previously, operations such as cataract removals and vasectomies required overnight hospital stays, but now people can often return home the same day."
Mr Kucera said the new unit, which cost over $300,000, was fresh and modern and blended in with the original hospital design perfectly.

"These contemporary, purpose-built rooms provide greater privacy for patients and make it more attractive for visiting specialists," he said.
"In addition to a greater capacity to cope with patient flow, the beds now can be used for two purposes, acute admissions and day surgery."
The need for the day surgery unit at Northam was first identified in 1997 when Avon Health completed its strategic planning process.
"I would like to thank all the staff and patients of Northam Regional Hospital for their patience during the six months this important facility was being built," Mr Kucera said.
"The new day surgery unit for Northam is another example of the State Government's commitment to providing quality health care for all Western Australian people, within their own community."
Minister's office: 9213 7000