Babies on board at Fiona Stanley Hospital

• Maternity and neonatal services now open at Fiona Stanley Hospital

• Emergency department to open in next phase, in February 2015 

The first baby to be born at Fiona Stanley Hospital is due to greet the world within the next 24 to 48 hours.

Maternity, gynaecology and neonatal services opened at the new hospital today, signalling the completion of the second phase of opening.

The maternity ward, birth suite and neonatal ward are now open and operational, along with a third operating theatre for obstetrics.

Health Minister Kim Hames said Fiona Stanley Hospital's maternity and neonatal services would provide a modern and vibrant environment for new mothers south of the river in the public health system.

"The hospital will not only accommodate mothers in a modern and nurturing environment, but will also provide a range of maternity services such as antenatal clinics, visiting midwifery services and parenting education," Dr Hames said.

"It also provides a maternal and foetal assessment service, neonatal outpatient provision and gynaecology services."

The opening of maternity services signals the next milestone following the successful opening of rehabilitation services in October and the first surgery undertaken on November 18.

The progressive opening of the hospital continues to show positive results in ensuring that the safety and quality of patient care is continued across the health system. The emergency department is scheduled to open in Phase 3, at 7am on February 3, 2015.

       Fact File

• Fiona Stanley Hospital is part of the State Government's $7 billion hospital building and refurbishment program

• For more information, visit http://getthebiggerpicture.health.wa.gov.au 

Minister's office - 6552 5300