Released 16/02/2018
Expectant mothers in Canberra’s north will soon have access to more comfortable, spacious birthing facilities with a major refurbishment and expansion of the maternity unit at Calvary Public Hospital announced today.
The newly refurbished maternity ward will increase its bed capacity from 15 to 18, offering a combination of
10 single rooms with ensuites and four large two-bed rooms with bathrooms.
“The ACT has some of the best maternity services in Australia, and we want to make sure we our maternity wards are comfortable, inviting and well-equipped.
“The $2.6 million refurbishment announced today will offer new mothers, particularly those on the growing northside, better access to high-quality, modern birthing facilities.”
The upgrade includes:
- Refreshing the look and feel of the maternity ward by providing more space for mothers, their babies and their families;
- A new patient and family lounge room and beverage bay;
- A new baby and parent education and assessment room; and
- Contemporary Birth Suite rooms.
“The work is scheduled to begin at the end of February and take around four months to complete. So women expecting their babies in July 2018 can be the first to try out the newly refurbished facilities.
“The ACT Government is committed to improving health services across the territory, and we’re very pleased to support this upgrade to Calvary as it celebrates its 40th anniversary.
“Calvary has a wonderful team of dedicated midwives and doctors, with more than 1,550 babies born at Calvary last year. It’s a great option for expectant mums to consider, particularly if they live on the northside, and after this refurbishment it will be even better,” said Minister Fitzharris.
Calvary Public Hospital Chief Executive Officer Barb Reid welcomed the Minister’s announcement.
“Our team of midwives, nurses, doctors and specialists are delighted that this project will develop facilities and deliver refreshingly new clinical surroundings for mothers and families,” Ms Reid said.
“While ‘bricks and mortar’ are only a small part of a safe and happy birth, it is important that mothers, babies and families are comfortable through their pregnancy and during their admission. Calvary is grateful to the ACT Government for funding of this exciting project,” Ms Reid said.
From Friday 23 February, the maternity ward at Calvary Public Hospital will be temporarily relocated to level 6 of the Xavier Building (previously used by Calvary Private). Work is currently underway to accommodate this transition.
- Statement ends -
Meegan Fitzharris, MLA | Media Releases
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