The establishment of the Central Coast’s own palliative care unit is just weeks away, with construction scheduled for completion in late March.
Parliamentary Secretary for the Central Coast and Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch said the NSW Government was transforming Gosford Hospital’s former maternity ward into a 10-bed dedicated palliative care unit.
“Once the unit becomes operational, Central Coast residents will for the first time ever have a choice between receiving palliative care at home or in a hospital setting,” Mr Crouch said.
“Construction began in December and I’m pleased to report the majority of internal work has already been completed.
“The next steps involve enhancing the large outdoor terrace with new decking, glass balustrading and an auto-operated louvred pergola.
“Once construction wraps up, the brand new space will be furnished, clinical equipment will be installed and medical gases and air conditioning will be tested and commissioned.
“When the unit becomes operational, palliative patients will benefit from a welcoming, home-like environment for those requiring acute symptom management, as well as those who cannot be cared for at home in the last days of life.”
Mr Crouch said the palliative care unit’s design and construction was a labour of love for the Central Coast community.
“Representatives from the orange army of Elsie’s Retreat are members of the ‘Project Design Group’ and have been involved throughout the life of this project by providing input to the design, finishings and colour scheme,” Mr Crouch said.
“A local company based at Tuggerah, Collaborative Construction Solutions, has been undertaking the design and construction which means local workers are directly benefitting from this project.”
