Big year at local hospital
Last year was a big year for a local hospital, according to its chief executive.
Ms Kathy Beverley said that a building program was completed at Brisbane Waters Private Hospital in Woy Woy.
"The next stage of the hospital development was completed which comprised of a new commercial kitchen, a purpose-built rehabilitation ward consisting of 24 beds all with private ensuites, new gym, hydrotherapy pool, hospital reception and cafe, drop off zone and additional off street parking for visitors and doctors," she said.
"The hospital now has a total of 109 beds.
"With the creation of the new ward, we employed a rehabilitation coordinator and increased our comprehensive allied health team.
"Along with doctor recruitment, our surgical services have also expanded with the commencement of additional gastroenterologists, further orthopaedic surgeons, bariatric surgeons and a neurosurgeon.
"Neurostimulation services provided in our mental health ward have also increased dramatically and we have introduced new programs and services including, the Parkinson's Disease Warrior program and a Cancer Day Rehabilitation program," Ms Beverley said.
Other 2018 highlights for the hospital included the introduction of the Caring for Kids program.
The program was the brainchild of the hospital's ear, nose and throat surgeon, Dr Shashi Singh.
The program focuses on ensuring child patients, who often are undertaking their first stay in hospital, have a positive experience.
According to Ms Beverley, hospital staff have gone to great lengths to ensure the program's successful integration.
"We want to ensure the memory is pleasant and as anxiety-free as possible for the child and their family," Ms Beverley said.
"All team members from reception, nursing, theatre and catering participate by dressing up to ensure the magic is not lost along the way and to reassure the child and family of what to expect.
"The interactive program commences with admission where our large range of teddy bears sitting at reception greet the children on arrival.
"Once admitted they choose a bear to keep them company throughout their stay and to take home with them.
"Private rooms are individually named and decorated to suit each child, whether it is rainbows, unicorns, astronauts or dinosaurs.
"Super heroes and princess posters adorn the walls and team members dressed up as lady bugs and bees create an atmosphere of friendliness and warmth.
"Free meals are provided for the parents staying overnight with their children while our littlest patients can enjoy a never ending supply of ice cream, jelly, custard and ice confectionary in every possible flavour.
"Bravery awards are given and photos are taken so our star patients can show family and friends what it was like to be a patient in hospital.
"At the time of discharge, parents thank the team for making what can be a frightening time into something so welcoming and friendly.
"From the time the family arrives, every team member the parents meet have been just wonderful, creating such a positive experience for all the family," Ms Beverley said.
Other 2018 achievements included the successful launch of the hospital's new mental health service for young adults, being accredited by the Australian Council of Healthcare Standards (codes 1,2 and 3) and receiving a Master Builders Association acknowledgement for their 2018 extensions and renovations throughout the year.
SOURCE:
Newsletter, 20 Dec 2018
Haydn Murray, Healthe Care Australia