The Andrews Labor Government will provide $10.6 million to expand and refurbish maternity and surgical services at Djerriwarrh Health Services in a major boost to patient care, access and safety.
Minister for Health Jill Hennessy today announced Bacchus Marsh Hospital would share in the first round of the new Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
The $200 million fund – the largest of its kind in Victorian history – will rebuild rural and regional hospitals to ensure all Victorians can access the high quality care and facilities they need, no matter where they live.
Djerriwarrh Health Services will receive $9 million for a state-of-the-art expansion of its operating theatres.
The project will see the construction of two extra operating theatres for surgeries, while also refurbishing the existing theatre, fitting it out with the latest technology and equipment.
There will also be new recovery areas, ancillary areas, as well as patient and staff change rooms.
On top of this, we will invest a further $1.6 million to renovate and expand the maternity unit at Bacchus March, increasing the number of post-delivery beds from 11 to 15 and delivering a new three-bay nursery to improve access, care and comfort for mothers and babies after birth.
The Government also announced that Dr John Ballard had been reappointed as the administrator of Djerriwarrh Health Services for another 12 months.
Dr Ballard was appointed as administrator of Djerriwarrh Health Service in October 2015.
Since then, in partnership with hospital staff, he has overseen significant improvements including the appointment of a new Director of Obstetrics and Consultant Director of Medical Services, a new 24-hour on-call specialist paediatric service, medical equipment upgrades and more education and training for staff.
Two new community advisory committees chaired by Member for Melton Don Nardella will be established in Bacchus Marsh and Melton to provide Djerriwarrh Health Services with local voices that ensure the needs of the community are being met.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“We’re working to bolster the ongoing sustainability of Djerriwarrh Health Services so the community can feel confident knowing they can access safe, quality care and birthing services, close to home.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Melton Don Nardella
“The new community advisory committees will give local residents a direct say on how the health service can best meet the needs of the community.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Buninyong Geoff Howard
“We’re investing in the future of Bacchus Marsh hospital with a modern revamp of its operating theatres and maternity services, giving patients and staff the modern and safe facilities they deserve.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020