Work to deliver a new contemporary operating theatre and enhanced virtual care technology at Forbes Hospital has taken a key step forward with the project’s lead design team appointed to progress planning.
The Minns Labor Government is investing $20.2 million to deliver a new operating theatre and support clinical spaces at Forbes Hospital, bringing modern surgical facilities to one of the fastest growing populations in Western NSW Local Health District.
When complete, the new operating theatre will enable more health services to be provided closer to home.
The new operating theatre will replace the existing theatre and support contemporary models of surgical care by expanding the range of treatments available at the hospital.
The design team includes architect Fulton Trotter and Partners Architects, and project manager Acorn Project Advisory and cost manager MBM, who were appointed following a competitive tender process.
In the coming months, the design team will work with staff, community and the District to inform the early planning and design.
The new operating theatre will complement services currently provided at Forbes Hospital including:
- 24-hour Emergency Department
- acute and subacute medical, surgical, rehabilitation and palliative care services
- ambulatory care clinic
- birthing rooms and maternity beds
- renal dialysis chairs
- medical imaging
- community and primary health services.
The full range of inpatient and outpatient health services provided at Forbes will continue to be available while the new operating theatre works are completed.
Staff, stakeholders, and the local community will be kept informed as the project progresses.
For more information visit the project website: https://www.nsw.gov.au/forbes-hospital-operating-theatre
Minister for Regional Health, Ryan Park:
“This is an exciting step forward that reaffirms the Minns Government’s commitment to rebuilding essential services by investing in the infrastructure regional communities need.
“The new, contemporary operating theatre will give patients improved access to surgical services in modern facilities and closer to home, while also helping to reduce waitlists.”
Member for Orange Phil Donato:
“Funding of a new operating theatre for Forbes’ Hospital was at the top of my budget request list last year.
“I sincerely thank Minister for Health Ryan Park MP for supporting my request to fund this vitally important health infrastructure project, last year announcing $20.2 million will go to building a modern operating theatre.
“I’m pleased to see the next steps being undertaken with the appointment of a design team to develop the theatre plans, ensuring the new health infrastructure meets the needs of the growing Forbes community.”
Labor Spokesperson for Orange Stephen Lawrence MLC:
“This $20 million investment in public health is what’s needed for a growing population, because it will enhance surgical care and deliver lasting benefits for Forbes and surrounding communities for years to come.”