Health Minister Yvette D'Ath today officially opened the $10.1 million Mossman Hospital upgrade which delivers a modernised Emergency Department and significantly improved facilities for the local community.
The project team have taken care and time to protect the heritage of the historic Mossman Hospital which was built in 1930 and has been the centre of medical care in Mossman for 91 years.
It is the only Queensland public hospital designed with Spanish Mission style exteriors, a design that was popularised in Australia in the late 1920s. The iconic main entrance has been reopened as part of the work.
"This work substantially enhances conditions for patients and staff and provides a more comfortable experience for patients and a smoother flow from the Emergency Department to the rest of the hospital," Ms D'Ath said.
"The refurbishment sees key improvements to the Emergency Department including: a new triage area, a new main administration area, a new patient waiting room, four stretcher bays, an additional four fast track treatment chairs, two new consultation rooms, two resuscitation bays, a dedicated plaster room, a dedicated eye exam room, a new patient shower and toilet and a purpose fit room for medical records."
"There are also significant improvements to the hospital's air conditioning and water supply systems.
"The patient drop off and pick up area has been improved and a new covered ambulance bay with direct access to the Emergency Department which will enhance patient transfer in all weather conditions," she said.
Cynthia Lui MP, Member for Cook said the upgrade, built by Cairns based contractor WIP Construction, employed 12 local apprentices during its construction period.
"Several local businesses have supplied architectural and engineering services, as well as trades people to support construction activities," said Ms Lui.
"80 out of the 86 tradespeople and suppliers engaged on the project came from the local Cairns region," she said.
Director of Nursing Peter LeGriffon said the new Emergency Department design is improving Mossman Hospital's ability to triage and treat emergency presentations.
"Our old Emergency Department was designed around twenty years ago when we had an average of 5 to 10 presentations to the Emergency Department a day - but now we are averaging 38 presentations per day," Mr LeGriffon said.
"So, we were excited to see this work completed in early June. It gives our staff in the Emergency Department a lot more room to work and a well-designed workspace.
"Our patients have commented that it's terrific to see the hospital modernising and moving with the times whilst still retaining its historic charm," he said.
