Major milestones for SCGH ED redevelopment and ICU expansion

There were big smiles and even bigger announcements at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital (SCGH) this week, with Western Australian Premier Roger Cook, Health Minister Hon Meredith Hammat, and Minister for Health Infrastructure Hon John Carey visiting our site to celebrate the next chapter in our hospital’s evolution.

The trio were joined by Department of Health Director General Dr Shirley Bowen, SCGH ED Head of Department Dr Tom Cassidy and SCGH ICU Nurse Manager Chloe Pitos to unveil the new ICU 10-bed pod project moving to construction phase soon and announce that works have started on the emergency department (ED) redevelopment.

North Metropolitan Health Service (NMHS) Chief Executive Robert Toms said these two projects are a great addition to our health service and is excited to see them develop.

The $49.5 million ED redevelopment will deliver a bigger and better space for our emergency teams and patients, including a new entrance canopy, larger triage and waiting areas, and a dedicated urgent critical care toxicology unit to support those presenting with drug and alcohol-related conditions.

The ICU will add a 10-bed pod that is carefully designed to be physically separated from the main unit giving our ICU teams the flexibility and greater capacity to manage patients who require isolation or specialised care.

“We’re thrilled to see this level of commitment to SCGH and the incredible work being done across our site each day,” Rob said.

“These projects will not only ease pressure on busy areas but also future proof our services as we continue to grow with our community.

“This is an exciting step forward for our health service and these upgrades will allow our teams to continue to deliver world-class care in a modern environment that supports both our staff and patients.

“It’s heartening to see this level of investment in public health, and in the dedicated staff who go above and beyond each day.”

Speaking to the media at the event, Premier Cook emphasised the government’s commitment to making WA “the healthiest state in the nation”.

“These are significant milestones for our health system, our frontline workers, and for the WA community,” he boasted.

Health Minister Meredith Hammat highlighted that the upgrades are about putting patients first and creating a modern, more efficient space.

Minister Carey noted that the ICU expansion is a “critical investment” into our health system.

Standing with the Premier and Ministers was Tom and Chloe who both spoke proudly to the media about what these projects will mean for their teams and the patients they care for.

Tom shared how the ED works will help staff continue to deliver life-saving care in a modern fit-for-purpose environment. While Chloe shared how the ICU pod will support patient care and provide critical care staff with additional space and resources.

Read more about the projects here.