The first sod has been turned for a more than $10 million package of works at Longreach Hospital that will deliver a new renal dialysis unit for the Central West region.
The new nurse-assisted haemodialysis unit will be the first for the Central West Hospital and Health Service and will be built as an extension to the South Wing of Longreach Hospital, close to the Allied Health service. The existing pathology laboratory and the pharmacy department will also be upgraded and expanded as part of the works.
Health Minister Shannon Fentiman said this would be the first nurse-assisted haemodialysis unit in Central-West Queensland.
People on haemodialysis spend, on average, five hours a day three days per week connected to a haemodialysis machine to maintain life, with one in 10 people needing kidney dialysis.
“We know how tough it can be for people who travel long distances to receive dialysis, as well as for their families,” she said.
“These new works will ensure Longreach Hospital is fit-for-purpose for our hardworking frontline staff to continue delivering their world-class healthcare, benefiting Central West residents for years to come.”
Ms Fentiman said there would still be people who would have to relocate for specialised treatment.
Central West Hospital and Health Service chief executive Anthony West said having this vital service closer to home for Central Queenslanders would be an immense improvement for those suitable when it becomes available.
“Nurse-assisted dialysis is a complex service to deliver, requiring access to specialist medical and allied health support and on-site nursing staff,’’ he said.
“For this reason, the Central Queensland Kidney Service at Rockhampton has partnered with Central West Health to support the safe provision of dialysis care at Longreach.”
Brisbane-based Quadric Pty Ltd was announced as the successful tenderer for the works in December last year.
Work is expected to be completed by mid to late 2024, weather permitting.
Upgrades and refurbishments to Longreach Hospital have been underway since 2017, bringing the total investment to more than $30 million.
Previous upgrading works at Longreach Hospital have already been delivered, including a new and expanded maternity unit. a new day surgery unit, a new medical imaging department that includes the Central West’s first CT scanner, an upgraded emergency department, new air-conditioning system, upgraded electrical systems and extensive upgrades to the nurse call and medical gas systems.