Maryborough Hospital’s refurbished Ward 1, providing an additional 18 beds, has celebrated its first birthday, providing an opportunity to reflect on the benefits it’s provided to the Fraser Coast community.
Maryborough Hospital’s refurbished Ward 1, providing an additional 18 beds, has celebrated its first birthday, providing an opportunity to reflect on the benefits it’s provided to the Fraser Coast community.
The addition of Ward 1 to Maryborough hospital formed part of a $12.13 million state government funding injection to employ more frontline healthcare workers and improve patient outcomes at both Maryborough and Hervey Bay hospitals.
Wide Bay Hospital and Health Board Chair Peta Jamieson said the Board was thrilled that Wide Bay Hospital and Health Service (WBHHS) had reached this significant milestone.
“In 2020, we asked our dedicated health providers what they needed to deliver better care to the people of our region. One of the overwhelming themes was to update and expand our facilities, especially in the Fraser Coast region, with its growing and ageing population,” Ms Jamieson said.
“Our health service advocated for the addition of Ward 1, converting existing space into a new ward with 18 beds for the people of the Fraser Coast and it was wonderful to open it last year.
“The opening of the ward coincided with an increase in after-hours medical cover at Maryborough Hospital which means it has 24/7 coverage from a senior doctor, rather than relying on support from local emergency department doctors as well as remote overnight support from Hervey Bay Hospital.
“This in turn helps to ensure patients are receiving the best possible care, in the right place at the right time.”
WBHHS Chief Executive Debbie Carroll said the celebration of Ward 1’s opening and the increased after-hours medical cover was an important part of recognising the significant difference it has made to staff and the community.
“The additional 18 medical beds continue to help ease the current demand on inpatient services and increase our overall hospital capacity,” Ms Carroll said.
“Since the opening of Ward 1, we can move patients from the emergency department to a ward bed more quickly. This allows patients to be treated in a more peaceful ward environment.
“But most importantly it’s ensured more patients are receiving the best possible care, where and when they need it.”
Nurse unit manager Theresa Johnson praised the multidisciplinary team for the exceptional care provided over the past year.
“Since opening, Maryborough Hospital Ward 1 has cared for over 1,700 patients. I commend all our wonderful health professionals for the exceptional patient-centred care they provide to the Maryborough community,” Ms Johnson said.
“Their compassion and commitment are at the heart of our first birthday celebrations.”
This initiative/event aligns with our strategic plan objective Optimise and transform and Equity and access.
Find out more about our 2022-2026 strategic plan Care, connection, compassion for all.