Mater plugs gap in emergency service
MORE than 8500 people have been treated at Mater Hospital’s emergency department since it reopened a year ago, showing how important the service is.
The not- for- profit Catholic healthcare service took the step to reopen the emergency department at its Pimlico campus last year, convinced there was a need for the facility.
The government- funded Townsville Hospital emergency department had more than 82,000 people attend its facility last financial year.
Mater emergency department director Dr Philip Gaudin said the results showed the service was needed and that providing choice was important.
The hospital today marks one year since reopening the emergency department.
Dr Gaudin said when they opened their aim was to provide the community, both those with or without private cover, an alternative choice in emergency care.
“When we opened the Mater had a strong commitment that the people of Townsville deserved a choice when it came to emergency care. The results speak for themselves that this was a much- needed facility,’’ Dr Gaudin said.
He said 1500 people had chosen to come to the emergency department via the Queensland Ambulance Service, while the remainder had self- presented or been referred by their GP.
Dr Gaudin said there had been a wide range of acute conditions treated by the ED team.
“On a daily basis we can see anything from patients with acute medical, cardiac or respiratory conditions through to acute workplace and sporting injuries,’’ he said.
In the past year the ED has seen about 1300 children and teenagers up to the age of 16.
“Parents are particularly appreciative of our service when they can receive treat- ment from experienced doctors and medical staff with minimal wait times,’’ Dr Gaudin said.
“The other advantage for all patients, and especially parents, is they can return to the emergency department any time in the following two weeks with no out- of- pocket ( expenses) if they require follow- up care for the same condition.’’
The emergency department has created a jobs boost, with 64 staff employed to work in the facility.
Mater Hospital CEO Ger- ard Wyvill said the health service was proud of the services being provided by the ED.
“The Mater has been part of Townsville for more than 70 years and will continue to invest in clinical service provision and facilities for our community,’’ he said.