Bidwill site adding hi-tech facility
Bidwill Trust Hospital general manager Tina Rogers on the site of a building to accommodate specialised radiology equipment. Work is expected to start next month.
Bidwill Trust Hospital is being extended by 450 square metres, with the majority of the extra space earmarked for Pacific Radiology’s latest hi-tech equipment.
Pacific Radiology chief radiologist Dr Jeremy Sharr said the community will benefit from the purpose-built facility which will house new specialist radiology imaging and diagnostic services.
‘‘Providing patients with exceptional care and local access to world-leading radiology services, using the most advanced medical imaging technology and equipment is our number one priority,’’ Sharr said.
‘‘We look forward to expanding our Timaru-based Pacific Radiology services to include CT imaging, ultrasound and X-ray services from this new facility.’’
Sharr said South Canterbury doctors, and other leading healthcare professionals, will have access to the company’s expertise.
Sub-specialisations include abdominal imaging, cardiothoracic CT, ENT, musculoskeletal and interventional imaging oncological, obstetrics and gynaecology and paediatric imaging, Sharr said.
Bidwill general manager Tina Rogers said the extension to the hospital building will be along the eastern side of Elizabeth St where there is a vacant lot.
‘‘Pacific Radiology will lease part of our site,’’ Rogers said.
She said they will have a tenancy agreement for 300sqm with Pacific Radiology, while Bidwill will use 150sqm to increase its sterilising area and storage.
Bidwill is a private surgical hospital which was built in 2001 and redeveloped in 2011, having provided health services since 1912. It has 14 inpatients beds and a 14-bed day surgery unit.
Rogers said she could not discuss the budget for the extension as the tender process is underway.
Construction is planned for February, with the aim of a completion date in August.