The operating theatres and surgical spaces at the new Maitland Hospital will not only have greater capacity to treat patients, but will embrace interactive technology that will include digital screens and state of the art medical service pendants.
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Health infrastructure NSW this week revealed more information about the new $470 million complex currently under construction.
Medical pendants hang from the ceiling and provide critical access to oxygen, air, suction and power, reducing the risks associated with using long cables and tubes. It means increased clinical care manoeuvrability, and greater flexibility in the type of surgery being performed.
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There will also be two dedicated endoscopy procedure rooms.
Dr Gerard Coren, head of general surgery at Maitland Hospital, has played an important role in the design of the operating spaces.
"I've been involved in the design and it has been a dynamic process," Dr Coren said. "I think we've come up with a plan now that will work really well.
"Maitland has a rapidly increasing population and we want the capacity to treat more patients in a timely fashion."
He said staff couldn't wait to get into the new hospital.
The new facility will also have a dedicated day surgery space with patient privacy a key element in the design of the unit. The inpatient rooms consist of both single and double rooms with window outlook and ensuite bathrooms.
The hospital will also offer emergency care, chemotherapy chairs, surgical services, critical care, maternity services, paediatric care, cardiac catheterisation, mental health, palliative care, outpatient clinics and dental services.
The new hospital will be across seven levels, comprising two podium levels plus four levels above and one level below ground. The building has a total ground floor area of about 49,000 sq/m.
The building features two 'towers' in a north-south alignment, with a connecting wing over a common podium. The overall look will reflect a slender, elongated 'H'.
The building's main entrance is on the western facade, with pedestrian paths leading to car parks and other entries. A secondary entrance is located at the northern end, 60 metres from the main entry.
A double height canopy structure is proposed along the western and northern elevations to provide sun protection and cover to pedestrians and sufficient space for patient transfers via wheelchairs. It will also include casual seating areas.
The Emergency Department is located in the south-west on the ground floor.
A dedicated ambulance entry is located on the southern facade. It has been designed as a discrete entrance to ensure it is delineated from the main public entrance. Six ambulance drop off bays are located on the southern side, providing direct access to the Emergency Department.
Four internal courtyards are proposed, designed to provide a link to a more natural setting and a green outlook.
Car parking for patients, staff and visitors is also a key priority for the new hospital.
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