By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
ST JOHN of God Hospital’s new emergency department will work “collaboratively” with Barwon Health, according to its new director of emergency medicine.
Dr Michael Ragg this week gave the Independent an exclusive preview of the new emergency department, part of a $65 million redevelopment of central Geelong’s corner of Moorabool and Myers Sts.
The project, now undergoing a fit-out, is on track with commissioning anticipated for next June.
The project includes underground car parks, extra wards, rehabilitation services, a hydrotherapy pool and surgical theatres.
“The community needs this private emergency department. Only one is not enough for the population of the region,” Dr Ragg said.
“We’re collaborating closely with Barwon Health on areas such as staffing, policies and protocols so we understand the appropriate cases for each ED.
“While major trauma cases will still go to Barwon Health emergency, we’ll transfer patients between the two, so cooperation is critical to the success of this new emergency department.
“We want to make it the best regional ED in the country through quality of care, timely care and providing a pleasant environment.”
Quota International Geelong president Rosemary Stewart presented the group’s second fund-raising cheque to Dr Ragg to help equip the department.
