WIMMERA Health Care Group leaders are pleased with the progress of a new sub-acute unit in Horsham.
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Group chief executive Chris Scott said major structural work was underway on the building in Read Street.
Roof trusses and batons were installed and plumbing was in progress.
“This is the largest development to happen at Wimmera Health Care Group in many years and it is exciting to watch the building progress,” he said.
“The electrical and mechanical services are about to start working on the site and windows are being manufactured locally ready for installation.
“Next year is going to be an exciting year for Wimmera Health Care Group.”
The $10-million purpose-built sub-acute unit consists of 10 rehabilitation beds, six geriatric evaluation management beds and four transition care beds.
The centre will deliver services including physiotherapy, mobility improvement, dietary and speech therapy.
The Federal Government is funding the project.
Melbourne-based firm Balcombe Griffiths is the project architect.
Mr Scott said the unit was designed to specifically meet the needs of the targeted client group.
“The design process was extensive and involved research, consultation and numerous site visits,” he said.
“Specialist equipment has been incorporated into the unit to assist with the management of clients with complex needs including ceiling hoists to assist in the care of non-mobile clients, bariatric equipment to allow care of clients up to about 200 kilograms and specialist seating, cushions and mattresses to ensure best practice in pressure care management.”
Wimmera Health Care Group’s chief occupational therapist Kristen Coats said the unit arose after the Australian Health Care Reform identified a gap in services for the Wimmera.
“Because of our ageing population and increased number of people living with chronic diseases, mapping of services highlighted a shortage of rehabilitation in the region,” she said.
“For clients, this often resulted in service delays, travel to Melbourne and Ballarat and trouble negotiating the often difficult maze of health care systems.
“It is anticipated that our locally-based facility will have wonderful outcomes for our clients offering access to a quality rehabilitation service, reducing travel for clients and families, allowing maintenance of social connections with friendship groups at a time when support is essential and assisting with making the transition from hospital to home an easy one with links to local services.”
Ms Coats said the unit would be staffed by a specialist workforce, creating more employment opportunities in the region.