06 June 2008

More Investment at Fairfield Hospital

NSW Minister for Health Reba Meagher said a new Medical Assessment Unit to be established at Fairfield Hospital will provide in a major step forward in the treatment of elderly patients and those with chronic diseases.

The Iemma Government is investing $1.88 billion to deliver better services and improve health infrastructure across the Sydney South West Area Health Service in 2008-09, an additional $78.7 million over last year.

Ms Meagher said the investment is part of a $13.15 billion State Health Budget aimed at better managing chronic illnesses in the community so that hospitals can continue to provide access for people who need acute care.

“For people living in south-western Sydney that means funding for more beds, more doctors and nurses and expanded community health services,” Ms Meagher said.

“This year’s Budget includes funding for an extra 8 beds at Fairfield Hospital as part of a statewide investment to expand the Medical Assessment Unit program.

“Medical Assessment Units are part of a wider strategy to address the challenges of providing health care to a population which is ageing and getting sicker.

“The number of people aged 75 years and older who are going to public hospital emergency departments is rising by 20 per cent each year and the key challenge is to find the best way to provide the right type of care that these patients need.”

Medical Assessment Units are a new type of ward where specialist doctors, nurses and allied health professionals design and lead the care of older patients with chronic illnesses.

“Under this new model of care, patients will stay in the Medical Assessment Unit for a maximum of about 48 hours while they are assessed and a comprehensive treatment plan is developed,” Ms Meagher said.

“For some patients, this intensive period of assessment and work up will be enough to get them ready to go back home with the support they need to manage their health. Those who do need further treatment will be admitted to a hospital ward with their care plan already well underway.”

Residents across south-western Sydney will also benefit from a $32 million statewide investment in new hospital equipment, including $5.82 million locally for important hospital ward equipment such as blood pressure machines, ECG machines and lifting equipment.

“The Iemma Government is boosting health funding right across the Sydney South West area to ensure local communities have access to high quality health services closer to home,” Ms Meagher said.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au