After more than 20 years, Victoria Hospital will soon receive a brand-new emergency centre worth more than R70 million.
Health MEC Nomafrench Mbombo says the two-year project to expand the centre will commence this month but will not affect patients.
She explains the current centre was built as a temporary unit more than 20 years ago to service the community until a new centre was built.
“Unfortunately due to budget constraints the temporary unit became a more permanent fixture until approval was given to commence with the new centre,” says Mbombo.
“The infrastructure of the existing prefabricated and temporary centre is too small and no longer conducive for patient care, due to population growth and service demands.
“Extensions are being made to the existing temporary centre to accommodate the increased patient load until the new centre is complete.”
The main treatment area will increase from seven cubicles to 17, with four resuscitation beds.
The observation and overnight ward will increase from currently having eight beds to 18 beds after the new centre has been completed.
“The new EC will be spacious, modern and more functional for staff and patients and will also reduce waiting times due to the increase in bed capacity.”
Mbombo urged the community to work with them while construction is in progress.
“Staff parking will be affected for the duration of the construction project and temporary staff parking space is being prepared opposite the hospital.
“The current budget allocation is R72.2million which is subject to change.”
monique.duval@inl.co.za