Blackwater’s new multipurpose health service is open for business today, providing a modern space for contemporary hospital and aged-care services.
The new facility features a 24/7 emergency department with six treatment spaces, four more than the old hospital, and a dedicated triage room.
The future-proof facility also includes an inpatient ward, space for six residential aged-care beds, medical imaging services, outpatient services, dental services, and additional consultation rooms.
To celebrate local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, commissioned artworks are used throughout the facility, helping to create a culturally safe environment for the community.
The new facility is adjacent to the old Blackwater Hospital, which will be demolished by the end of the year.
It was delivered as part of Queensland’s Health $14 billion Big Build.
Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service Chief Executive Lisa Blackler said the old hospital served the Blackwater community well for 50 years, and the new building would transform healthcare delivery into the future.
“We are extremely excited to start providing services to the Blackwater community from this wonderful new facility,” she said.
“Our team in Blackwater works tirelessly to provide great care to the community, and this will enable them to do that in a contemporary, fit-for-purpose space that will infinitely improve their workspace, and their patients will appreciate the benefits this new hospital will bring.
“It will also support our recruitment efforts into the future, when it comes to attracting healthcare staff to this regional area and retaining them.”
A rural Multipurpose Health Service is a versatile healthcare facility that combines various services, including acute hospital care, residential aged care, community health, home and community care, and other health-related services.
This combination of services allows for flexible care delivery, particularly in rural areas where populations may not be large enough to support a separate hospital, residential aged care facilities and community care services.
Blackwater Multipurpose Health Service | Central Queensland Hospital and Health Service