Hospital to give health huge boost
The State Government has committed to creating more than 300 local jobs to build a $61 million hospital in the remote mining town of Newman.
The project, originally expected to cost $53.7 million, would have 12 inpatient beds, six emergency bays, two dental chairs, six general practitioner consult spaces and capabilities to connect patients with specialists across WA with Telehealth and videoconferencing technology.
Premier Mark McGowan was in Newman to award ADCO Constructions the contract for the project today, and said more than 300 jobs would be created for Pilbara locals.
“The redevelopment of the Newman Health Service will provide considerable opportunities to local businesses during the program of works, providing a boost to the local economy,” he said.
“This Government has remained steadfast in its commitment to ensuring residents of rural and regional WA have access to quality healthcare regardless of their postcode.
“We know this is something the community want and need, and we’re pleased to work with BHP to deliver this much needed infrastructure project to the Pilbara region.”
The hospital will also have dedicated rooms for outpatient consults, therapy, medical imaging and pathology.
A host of other services will be housed in the new building, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, counselling, community health nursing and mental health.
Works will take place in three stages, with the first starting next month with an expected completion date in the second half of 2022 and subsequent stages expected to be completed by mid-2023.
The existing centre will remain operational during construction.
Mr McGowan was due to turn the first sod of soil for the hospital yesterday signalling the start of a modern project the people of Newman have been waiting a long time for.
Shire of East Pilbara president Lynne Craigie said she was excited to see the project progress.
“We are grateful to the State Government for recognising our need for a new hospital and we look forward to a modern facility which will provide a noticeable improvement for patients and medical professionals,” she said.
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