A significant milestone has been marked for the new inpatient Supportive and Palliative Care Unit at Westmead Hospital, with construction now underway.
Delivered as part of the Minns Labor Government's $93 million World Class End of Life Care program, the new Unit will feature 15 beds with ensuites, and provide specialist care in a comfortable, home-like setting that supports patients, their families and carers.
The new Unit will provide privacy, comfort, and dignity to support people with life limiting illnesses who have complex symptoms and those in their final stages of life, and ensure they receive the highest standard of care and support.
The new Unit has been designed in close consultation with health professionals who provide supportive and palliative care, consumers with a lived experience and Aboriginal, multicultural and multi-faith representatives.
Located on level 5 of the Central Acute Services Building at Westmead Hospital, it features communal and private spaces, a multi-faith room and outdoor access from every room, to provide a welcoming and supportive environment for patients and their families.
The new Unit will boost supportive and palliative care services in the Western Sydney Local Health District, complementing existing units at Auburn Hospital and Mount Druitt Hospital.
The World Class End of Life Program will deliver new or redeveloped palliative care facilities across the state. In addition to Westmead, other locations include Wyong, Nepean, Tamworth and Orange Hospitals.
The new Supportive and Palliative Care Unit at Westmead Hospital is being delivered by Health Infrastructure and Western Sydney Local Health District, with Interior Construction Group engaged as the construction contractor.
Construction is expected to be completed in 2026.
More information on the program here: World Class End of Life Care Program - Health Infrastructure NSW
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park:
"We are committed to ensuring people with life-limiting illnesses can access high quality end-of-life care right across NSW.
"The need for in-hospital supportive and palliative care services continues to grow. This is why we have invested $93 million to deliver five purpose-built or refurbished units across the state.
"At Westmead Hospital, the new Supportive and Palliative Care Unit will offer patients and their families a private, comfortable setting where they can access the care and support they need."
Quotes attributable to the Member for Parramatta, Donna Davis
"This new Unit at Westmead Hospital will improve access to high-quality end-of-life care in a purpose-designed setting, ensuring patients and families receive the support they need.
"Extensive consultation with staff and communities has focused on ensuring the new Unit meets the diverse needs of Western Sydney residents.
"I look forward to seeing this important project move through construction."
