A new community hospital for Pakenham is a step closer, with local families contributing to the services it will provide.
Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos announced Member for Bass, Jordan Crugnale will chair the Pakenham Community Consultation Committee, which will give the community a say over the future of the hospital.
The Andrews Government is investing $675 million to build or upgrade 10 new community hospitals close to major growth areas in Craigieburn, Cranbourne, Pakenham, Phillip Island, Sunbury, Torquay, the City of Whittlesea, the Eltham area, Point Cook and Fishermans Bend.
Community Consultation Committees are being established so carers, patients, families and volunteers can work with health service providers to ensure each hospital meets the particular needs of locals.
Monash Health will manage the Pakenham hospital which will offer services including general medical, pathology and imaging, family safety, community mental health and alcohol and drug assessment.
It will improve access to specialist services like day surgery, chemotherapy, chronic disease management and public dental.
“When a loved one gets sick, people want to know that the very best care is just around the corner. Community hospitals
will improve access to the care locals need, when and where they need it,” Bass Mp Jordan Crugnale said.
“It’s really important that these hospitals are shaped by the communities they serve, because each area is different.
We want to make sure Pakenham locals get a say – this advisory group will do that.”
Construction is expected to start in 2022 and finish by 2024.
The new hospital will be developed in partnership with local community health services and Monash Health. It will connect a range of health and human services under one roof.
The Pakenham Community Consultation Committee will include approximately 15 representatives from the local community as well as key organisations such as local councils and health services providers.
The EOI process to sit on the Committee will open in the coming weeks.
For more information visit www.vhhsba.vic.gov.au/health-infrastructure/community-hospitals-program
