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The key stage of Wellington’s Wakefield Hospital redevelopment is on track for completion by the end of the year, with the Evolution Healthcare-owned facility set for opening in mid-January.
Evolution Healthcare chief executive for hospitals and day surgeries Michael Quirke says unprecedented demand for quality, reliable healthcare has been the major reason for undertaking the $185 million project.
This continued demand has meant some of the facility originally ear marked as ‘futureproofing’ has been brought forward to be operational early next year.
Wakefield’s new hospital will feature an impressive five-story structure encompassing a range of cutting-edge technology and amenities. The fifth level that was initially planned to be constructed as just a shell for future capacity is now currently undergoing a $7 million fit-out to allow for a further 16 patient-beds to come online in January, with capacity for a further 16 beds after that.
“The funding of this fit out now during the general construction phase, means it significantly reduces patient disruption at a later date,” says Michael. “That was always a key consideration for us, and we’re pleased to have been able to bring this additional capacity forward to meet the significant demand.”
The increase in operating theatres within the new facility will enable Wakefield Hospital staff and specialists to treat approximately 20 per cent more patients, significantly enhancing its capacity from 8000 to well over 10,000 patients annually.
Michael says Evolution is committed to building sustainable healthcare facilities that cater to the community’s needs now and into the future.
“Most significantly, the facility has also been designed to the latest seismic codes and standards with the use of base isolators making Wakefield one of the safest hospitals in New Zealand.”
Wakefield Hospital general manager Carole Kaffes says Wakefield Hospital will transform the patient experience for healthcare services in the region as well as provide our clinicians with a superior healthcare environment in which to provide world-class care while also meeting growth for future healthcare demand.
“Due to the number of specialists approaching Wakefield Hospital for an opportunity to join, plans are already being developed for additional consulting and additional theatres.
“We are already undertaking expressions of interest for these spaces and intend to have them up and running from mid next year.
“Patient rooms and ensuites are beautifully appointed with heated flooring, 55” wall-hung TV’s and silent nurse call systems so other patients are not disturbed,” says Carole.
Wakefield’s stage two follows the successful opening of stage one in July 2021, which involved the construction of the Wakefield Specialist Centre, Wakefield Heart Centre, Wakefield Gastroenterology, medical imaging, procedure rooms and a café.
