The NSW Government has announced the appointment of a contractor for works at Wollongong Hospital. Photo: ISLHD.
New MRI and CT scanners will be up and running at Wollongong Hospital by late 2025, says newly appointed main works contractor, Taylor Construction Group.
The NSW Government announced the appointment of the contractor this week.
The work is part of a $21.9 million investment in health services and infrastructure at Wollongong Hospital, which includes an additional MRI and CT machine to meet increased demand for these imaging services at the hospital.
These machines will be in addition to the one MRI and two CT machines at Wollongong Hospital.
Health Minister Ryan Park’s office said Taylor Construction Group was engaged after “a competitive tender process to redevelop the space within the hospital”.
The existing Medical Assessment Centre (MAC) will be moved to a new location within the hospital as part of the works.
The minister’s office said the relocation of the assessment centre would enable the provision of expanded outpatient services at the hospital, and improve patient flow from the emergency department.
The works will ensure CT and MRI scanners are closely located to the Emergency Department (ED) on the ground floor of the hospital, so patients have faster, easier access to scans.
Mr Park said the additional scanners would help to ease pressure on the beleaguered Wollongong Hospital.
“I’m thrilled that we are moving forward to house these extra MRI and CT scanners, which will meet the Illawarra community’s growing demand for these important services,” he said.
“The expansion will mean faster and more efficient care for patients and more resources for the hardworking staff at Wollongong Hospital.”
Main works construction is expected to start in early 2025, with the medical imaging works expected to be completed in late 2025.
The $21.9 million investment also includes funding for planning of Wollongong Hospital’s future expansion. The community will continue to be updated as planning progresses.
Member for Wollongong Paul Scully said Illawarra patients shouldn’t have to travel outside the region to access services.
“The works to deliver additional imaging technology will provide the best healthcare for our region,” he said.
“It will support Wollongong Hospital’s growth and provide patients access to the latest medical technology at their doorstep.”
Original Article published by Zoe Cartwright on Region Illawarra.
