MOUNT Gambier Hospital will receive close to $80,000 for upgrades to its paediatric and neonatal ward, including an outdoor play area in a bid to improve comfort for children at the medical facility.
A Variety SA grant will bring the project to fruition, with the changes expected to enhance patient experience for both sick newborns and children within the care of the city’s hospital.
The outdoor play area – which has not been in use for several years – is planned to receive new fencing, shade and softer turf.
Acting director of nursing Pam Schubert said the ward upgrades will allow for enhanced comfort and care for sick newborns and children across the South East.
“The generous grant will be life-changing for some children in our region,” Ms Schubert said.
“The funding will be used to improve infrastructure and upgrade medical equipment to advance clinical care for babies and children.
“It will also improve the outdoor play area for our young patients and their families.”
With the aim to improve children’s experience at the hospital, Variety SA spokesperson Ian Weber said within the past year the organisation has helped up to 41,000 children across the state.
“This is an extension of that and is a great thing to be part of,” Mr Weber said.
“Variety is proud to have made a contribution to help the paediatric ward here in Mount Gambier, especially because we believe every child deserves a fair go.”
Mount Gambier Health Advisory Council presiding member Maureen Klintberg said it is a great development for the hospital.
“This grant will enable the maximum care for the children who are patients here,” Ms Klintberg said.
“It will also make it a family oriented environment which is important for the patients.”
Over the past year, the council has focused on raising funds for the paediatric ward, something now supported by the grant.
Infrastructure and equipment upgrades have started at the city hospital, with work to progress over the coming months.
