- New health centre to replace Cunderdin hospital
- Convenient location to benefit older people and those with disability
- Made possible by the Liberal National Government's Royalties for Regions
Final plans for the new Cunderdin Health Centre have been revealed, promising a new era for local health care.
Health Minister John Day said the new centre was being built as part of the Liberal National Government's $500 million Southern Inland Health Initiative (SIHI), made possible by Royalties for Regions.
"The centre will focus on promoting good health, the prevention of illness and the management of chronic disease, so people can stay well and minimise their time in hospital," he said.
"In addition to improved primary and community care facilities, it will continue the provision of round-the-clock emergency care from an upgraded emergency department."
The new emergency department will include state-of-the-art equipment, with Emergency Telehealth Service (ETS) access, outpatient facilities equipped with videoconferencing, multi-purpose consultation and treatment rooms, and group therapy rooms. The local general practice will also be located within the health centre.
"I congratulate Iredale Pedersen Hook Architects, who have designed a light-filled health building which promises a positive experience for patients and staff," Mr Day said.
"The centre's shape and materials reflect its surroundings and will complement the natural environment."
Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said the new health facility would enhance patient outcomes.
"Royalties for Regions is investing in strategic health initiatives to ensure regional patients can receive timely and effective care, closer to home," Mr Redman said.
"The provision of quality, modern care is essential to the long-term sustainability of our regional communities."
Staff and community members were involved in the design, with the local Cunderdin Project User Group reviewing plans and providing feedback.
"The centre will be located alongside new housing being built to benefit older people and those with disability," Mr Redman said.
"These residents will benefit from close proximity to medical care, hopefully helping more people live locally for longer as they age."
Construction of the Cunderdin Health Centre is due to start in mid-2017 and is scheduled for completion by September 2018.
Fact File
- SIHI's $300 million capital works program is the biggest undertaken by the WA Country Health Service, with new builds and upgrades to 37 hospitals and health services in the Wheatbelt, South-West, Great Southern and Mid-West - http://www.health.wa.gov.au/southerninland
- It includes about $34 million to redevelop four small hospitals in Cunderdin, Pingelly, Mullewa and Dongara
- Find out more about Royalties for Regions at https://rfrmap.drd.wa.gov.au
Health Minister's office - 6552 6200
Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700
