A temporary emergency department is to be built at Canberra Hospital to boost the ACT’s preparedness for an increase in COVID-19 patients.
In a statement, the Health Directorate said the temporary facility would be dedicated to patients with moderate to severe cases of COVID-19.
“It will significantly increase acute services capability during a time of heightened demand on our health care system,” the Directorate said.
It said input into the design of the facility was being sought from experts at the World Health Organisations and from international clinical experts.
“The Government is working with Aspen Medical to finalise details of the facility, including the model of care and location,” it said.
“The delivery of this facility is just one example of how we are preparing for COVID-19.”
Chief Minister, Andrew Barr said the pandemic would have a profound impact on the ACT community.
“And it will continue to affect the health and wellbeing of all Canberrans as we all adjust to physical distancing and ‘stay at home’ directions and guidelines,” Mr Barr said.
“We have seen examples across the world of the significant impact the virus can have on a health system,” he said.
“The ACT Government’s top priority is to prepare and respond to the spread of COVID-19 in our community, ensuring we are doing everything we can to protect the health of Canberrans and our healthcare workforce,” he said.
