Board inspects hospital upgrade

MEMBERS of the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Board toured Tully Hospital yesterday for the first time since being appointed in June last year.

The $3.43 million refurbishment of the emergency department was one of the items for discussion during the visit which also included a meeting with stakeholders.

The board holds regular meetings throughout the year, rotating between Cairns and the Health Service’s rural facilities.

Meetings have already been held at Mareeba, Innisfail, Mossman and Atherton.

Health Service Board chairman Clive Skarott said it was the best way of getting out and about across the region to see and hear about the care being provided.

“It’s an exciting time for Tully Hospital. This refurbishment will bring the hospital’s emergency department in line with latest guidelines and best practice,” Mr Skarott said.

“Currently, the department shares rooms with Allied Health and the hospital’s GP clinic.

“The new design will make it easier for people to access the department, and improve our ability to care for the community.”

A complete redesign, refurbishment, and remodel of the resuscitation, triage, outpatients, emergency and ambulance access areas is proposed, with the project tender to be called in October.

Construction is expected to begin in early 2019.

“There’s an information session for local businesses and contractors next week, so they can learn about the opportunities available in the project,” chief executive Clare Douglas said.

“The Health Service is committed to supporting local businesses and contractors wherever possible, and it’s important they’re made aware of the opportunities for work and how to pursue them.”