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Work on two significant projects at Toowoomba Hospital are well underway, with both aimed at improving the capacity of the inner-city facility.
The hospital’s emergency department is being expanded to include an additional 21 treatment spaces, including dedicated areas for patients requiring mental health care.
Secondly, a 17 bed isolation ward is being installed on the hospital site to allow for the appropriate and safe treatment of infectious patients.
Both projects were funded by the State Government at a cost of $17 million.
Toowoomba Hospital Executive Director Shirley-Anne Gardiner said the works would significantly improve the hospital’s capacity.
“We are currently experiencing unprecedented demand for services at Toowoomba Hospital,” Ms Gardiner said.
“Our staff do an incredible job each and every day to make sure our patients receive the very best health care we can provide.
“This expansion to the ED and the new isolation ward will enable staff to work more efficiently and effectively.
“It will also result in improved services and facilities for our community.”
On average the emergency department sees 170 patients per day, with almost 20% of these patients requiring urgent, life saving care.
Darling Downs Health Director of Infrastructure Dr Paul Clayton said the works would result in modern facilities.
“The work commenced in early May with the installation of temporary fencing,” Dr Clayton said.
“These projects will greatly improve the hospital’s ability to cope with the current demand for our services and provide additional capacity for future growth.”
Both projects are expected to be completed later this year.