15 February 2005

Community Celebrates Hospital Redevelopment

Hundreds of people turned out to help celebrate the official completion of the Waitakere Hospital redevelopment on Saturday, February 12.

Minister of Health Annette King opened the hospital which started admitting patients on February 1.

She told the more than 500-strong crowd that she admired the commitment of those involved in the redevelopment and agreed with the decision of hospital management to stage up to a full opening over several months.

During the speeches Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey presented the hospital with a piece of art commissioned from local Waitakere artist Dean Buchanan.

Around 30 health promotion stalls as well as performances from local cultural groups ensured the open day was a true community event, says hospital General Manager Rachel Haggerty.

“This day was the realisation of years of hard work and commitment by literally hundreds of people, from the community, to the construction workers, to the facilities and commissioning teams.”

Local agencies such as Safekids, Plunket and ACC Injury Prevention had stalls and displays alongside such groups as HealthWEST, WaiHealth, Waipereira Pasifika and Pasifika Healthcare PHOs (Primary Health Organisations).

Waitemata DHB’s Auckland Regional Dental Services, CADS (Community Alcohol and Drug Services), Asian Health Support Services and community child health services were also represented.

Ms King also met staff in the emergency department, which is currently accepting GP referrals and ambulance presentations only. It will open to the public during the day in April, and will then operate 24 hours, 7 days a week from July when the Paediatric Assessment Unit and a Special Care Baby Unit also open.

ENDS

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