People in Geelong’s northern suburbs are one step closer to having additional health services with the first sod turned on the Barwon Health North project today.
Minister for Health Jill Hennessy joined Member for Lara John Eren to mark the important milestone for the project, which will include an urgent care centre among other key health services.
The Andrews Labor Government is delivering a new $33 million flagship health hub in Geelong to give local families the world-class health care they deserve – on their doorstep.
In addition to the urgent care centre the facility will include medical imaging facilities, pathology, pharmacy, consulting suites and renal dialysis services.
Barwon Health North will play an important role in easing the strain on the University Hospital Geelong’s busy emergency department - patients will be able to access a range of ‘walk-in’ health services at the new facility
Once Barwon Health North opens its doors, patients nursing illnesses or injuries such as sprains, cuts or minor infections will be able to receive treatment on the spot, without an appointment – during business hours and on weekends.
The Corio Community Health Centre, which is also run by Barwon Health, will continue to operate and complement the range of services available at Barwon Health North.
Construction is due to be completed in mid-2019. The project is also a big boost to the Geelong economy with more than 130 construction jobs created.
Our investments are in stark contrast to the Liberals who cut billions from health funding. With a commitment to build a new Women’s and Children’s Hospital in Geelong announced earlier this year, the Labor Government is righting the Liberals’ wrongs in Geelong when it comes to healthcare.
Only last month, the Liberals’ broken promise to build a new public hospital came back to haunt Geelong families, as an oversaturation of private hospitals forced Geelong Private Hospital to close its doors.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“More families are moving into Geelong’s northern suburbs. Today we are breaking ground and getting on with building a facility that truly reflects the growing needs of this flourishing community.”
“It means more Geelong families will have better and quicker access to the very best and safest healthcare in the very best facilities, right on their doorstep!”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara John Eren
“Extended hours for urgent care when it’s hard to find a GP is not only essential for Geelong families, but it will also help take the pressure off Geelong’s busy emergency department.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020