Three new state-of-the-art operating theatres have welcomed their first patients, following the completion of a suite of major works at Mildura Health Private Hospital (MHPH).

MHPH Chief Executive Officer Marcus Guthrie said the theatres were part of a $12 million capital project currently underway at the hospital, which will improve facilities for both patients and staff.

“Each new theatre is 56 square metres where previously the hospital’s largest theatre was 42 square metres, so they are a lot more spacious,” Mr Guthrie said. 

“They also improve surgical flow, with each theatre having dedicated anaesthetic bays where patients are prepped prior to going into the operating theatre for their surgical procedure.”

Mr Guthrie said one of the biggest changes would be an overhaul of the hospital’s Stage 1 to 3 patient recovery areas, with Stage 1 and 2 recovery areas soon to be converted into an open plan design for improved clinical oversight and patient flow. 

“The project increases bed capacity in Stage 1 recovery from five to eight beds, and Stage 2 increases from six to eight beds.”

Other recently completed works at the hospital include new staff change rooms and tearoom, along with an upgraded Central Sterilisation Store Department, used for sterilising operating equipment to new regulation standards.

A new IVF laboratory which Monash IVF utilises for a fertility clinic, has also been established after the previous laboratory was demolished to make way for the new theatres.

Staff have now moved into the new theatre complex, allowing works to begin on two dedicated endoscopy theatres.

“It’s through the invaluable contribution of Mildura Health Fund members that we’ve been able to realise this $12 million capital project for the region,” Mr Guthrie said. 

“The improved operating facility is housed with state-of-the-art technology and equipment, on par with any operating theatre in Australia.

“It will provide safe, quality care to patients, with the further aim of attracting future proceduralists and nursing workforce to the area.”

The redevelopment and expansion of MHPH is expected to be completed by September 2023.