Mater gearing up to reopen private emergency department ED choice promise
FINAL preparations are nearing completion on Townsville’s second emergency department ahead of its opening in just over a week’s time.
The Mater Emergency Department will open its doors on September 25 for the first time in more than 18 years.
The hospital previously operated an ED but closed because of a lack of physicians.
The director of the new Mater Emergency Department, Dr Philip Gaudin, said this time the department would operate under a proven service delivery model and had a group of emergency- trained doctors and nurses committed to making it a success.
“The ED also has the support of the broader medical community,’’ Dr Gaudin said.
“If the people of North Queensland get behind our ED, it will only go from strength to strength.’’
A $ 1.2 million and fivemonth refurbishment of the old ED at Pimlico has been completed and staff are now undergoing advanced training and final equipment checks before the opening.
More than 30 new jobs have been created including doctors, nurses, administration staff and orderlies.
Emergency physician Dr Gaudin is a James Cook University- trained doctor and has returned to Townsville to head up the ED.
“This is something the people of Townsville deserve: a choice when it comes to emergency care. Why should we miss out?’’ he said.
“Other cities like Geelong in Victoria with the same- sized population have two private emergency departments, and even Toowoomba, with a smaller population, has a private ED.’’
Before proceeding with the facility plan, the Mater surveyed the community and found overwhelming support for a private ED. Everyone can access the service.
“The Mater Emergency Department is for the people of North Queensland and our patients do not need to have private health insurance,’’ Dr Gaudin said.
Some patients such as DVA Gold Card Holders and approved work cover patients will have no out- of- pocket costs.