Patients from Newman and surrounds will soon be able to receive renal care closer to home following the announcement of $1.3 million in funding for renal dialysis facilities at Newman Health Service.
The new renal chairs deliver on a McGowan Government election commitment as part of its Plan for the Pilbara.
The $1.3 million will fund the construction of a renal unit which will house four renal dialysis chairs and supporting infrastructure, adding to the already committed funds of $47.4 million for the Newman Health Service Redevelopment Project.
Construction of the new purpose-built hospital, which received a $10 million commitment from BHP Billiton, is expected to commence in 2020. The new health campus will include eight inpatient beds, six emergency department treatment bays, outpatient consult spaces and therapy rooms, two dental chairs, four renal chairs, six GP consult spaces, medical imaging as well as pathology and procedure rooms.
Along with new bricks and mortar comes the installation of state-of-the-art information and communications technology, including telehealth links and videoconferencing to facilitate services such as emergency telehealth and more options for access to specialists.
The new renal chairs add to the existing renal services in the Pilbara region at Port Hedland, Onslow, Roebourne and Jigalong.
The Newman Health Service will support the East Pilbara district - an area of 380,000 square kilometres.
As stated by Health Minister Roger Cook:
"This commitment of $1.3 million for a new renal unit that will house four renal dialysis chairs delivers on a McGowan Government election commitment and will bring significant benefits to many vulnerable residents in Newman and surrounds.
"This Government is absolutely committed to culturally appropriate care and this funding will allow many Aboriginal patients to receive treatment on country."
As stated by Pilbara MLA Kevin Michel:
"Families are often forced apart to access lifesaving renal dialysis services. These new renal chairs mean patients can stay near home, their family and loved ones.
"I am pleased that the new Newman Health Service is on track with construction expected to commence in 2020."
