Work to replace the vinyl flooring in the Emergency Department (ED) started yesterday to provide a safer environment for staff, patients and visitors.
The AKMH Emergency Department (ED) will remain open and continue to deliver its full range of services, while work is carried out in five different stages, but certain areas of the ED will be closed off and clinical services will be temporarily relocated.
AKMH executive director Chris Bone said patients and visitors will need to be particularly mindful of the new waiting areas later this month, which will be marked by sign posts, while the changes are taking place.
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READ NOW‘This is a serious undertaking, which the public need to be aware of,’ Mr Bone said. ‘While we will still be providing our full range of services, there will be a disruption to the normal flow.’
Patients needing immediate attention will still be seen to straight away, but patients with less severe and non-life-threatening illnesses or injuries may experience an increased wait.
If people are unwell, but do not require emergency medical attention, they are asked to see their local GP or after-hours GP.
A list of bulk-billing GPs is available from the hospital’s main reception.
The final stage of the flooring replacement, expected to take place in late March, will interrupt the ambulance entry for about 10 days. As a result, ambulances will be diverted to other hospitals during this time. More information regarding how this will impact incoming patients, will be released closer to the time.
Anyone who has a health concern, but is unsure of what to do is advised to call Healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222.