Murray Bridge hospital's new emergency department opens at last

Take a look through the $7 million wing opened by Health Minister Stephen Wade on Wednesday.

Peri Strathearn

Oct 21, 2020 — 3 min read

This story was originally published behind Murray Bridge News’ paywall. Paywalled stories are unlocked four weeks after publication. Can’t wait that long? Subscribe here.

Patients will receive better care than ever at the Murray Bridge hospital’s new emergency department which it opens for business next week.

The flash new wing, officially opened by state Health Minister Stephen Wade on Wednesday, includes two rescuscitation bays and seven treatment bays, both increases on what was previously available.

It also includes new waiting rooms, bathrooms, nurses’ and administration areas, more modern operating theatres and procedure rooms, and improved access for ambulances.

A socially distanced crowd of about 40 people was present for Wednesday’s ceremony, held in the shadow of the $7 million development and within sight of the memorial gates.

“This project represents the state government’s commitment to better supporting the health and wellbeing of country South Australians, and I’m delighted to see it come to fruition,” Mr Wade said.

“Through this new ED, locals and people throughout the region can receive the best possible emergency care when they need it.”

Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network chair Peter Joyner said the upgrade was an example of health authorities’ commitment to providing “high-quality, safe and appropriate” services as the Murraylands’ population continued to grow.

The number of emergency presentations at the hospital is expected to double to about 14,500 within six years.

“The population and workforce in Murray Bridge has been growing year on year, which has put increasing demand on this hospital’s emergency department,” Dr Joyner said.

“It’s fair to say that the previous emergency department was well past its use-by date, but people endured working there knowing that something better was around the corner.

“This redevelopment will ensure that we can meet increasing demand both now and in the future.”

LHN chief executive officer Wayne Champion said doctors from Bridge Clinic had approached him about the need for the upgrade during his first week in the job in 2012.

Dr Joyner thanked state MP Adrian Pederick, Mayor Brenton Lewis and the LHN's health advisory committee for their “tireless” advocacy since then, as well as Country Health SA, the SA Ambulance Service, GPs, infection control specialists and staff for their input.