Open arms for Community Hospital designs

LONG awaited designs were revealed for the new Phillip Island Community Hospital (PICH) last week. 

Operated by Bass Coast Health, PICH will offer a range of everyday health services including urgent care, dialysis, chemotherapy, day surgery, public dental, allied health, women’s health, family violence support, and community mental health. 

Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas and Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale released designs for the multi-million-dollar facility, which will expand the current Phillip Island Health Hub in Cowes. Located at 50-58 Church Street Cowes, the facility’s exteriors, main reception and waiting area and public courtyard have been designed to create a safe and comfortable environment for staff, patients and families. 

The Victorian Health Building Authority is delivering the project in partnership with Bass Coast Health and architect, HDR. 

A builder to deliver the main construction works is expected to be appointed in early 2023. 

While an early works contractor is preparing the site for construction.

The Phillip Island Medical and Health Action Group Incorporated (PIMHAG), a group of dedicated Island volunteers working since 2009 to convince the different levels of government that Phillip Island needs better medical facilities, warmly welcomed the designs last week.

“PIMHAG and Island Voice are both very excited about this project. The pictures provided look terrific; welcoming, spacious and light-filled,” the organisation stated. 

“The PICH will improve the lives of so many people providing dialysis, chemo, day surgeries, imaging (except for MRI), paediatric services etc. 

“Services will be publicly billed and save many hours of travel to get treatment. This removes two major barriers that prevent people getting the care they need.

“PIMHAG has begun advocacy for increased Mental Health services and more Aged Care beds to meet the growing needs in these areas.”

The community hospital will be two storeys and will not replace the Urgent Care Centre currently operating at the hub.

The expanded Urgent Care Centre will be operational 24/7 for minor bumps, bruises and non-emergency care. 

The remainder of the facility will operate extended business hours and will not accommodate overnight stays.

There will be no emergency department for the community hospital, but it is hoped the facility will relieve pressure on Wonthaggi Hospital. 

The Phillip Island Community Hospital is one of 10 community hospitals being built, under the $675 million Community Hospitals Program. 

Early works are expected to get underway later this year with the facility on-track to be completed in 2024. 

Designs are available on the project website at vhba.vic.gov.au/Phillip-Island-community-hospital