The Government today announced additional funding for the delivery of a new state-of-the-art hospital for Dunedin, reversing an earlier decision that would have seen the hospital built without the provision of an extra MRI scanner and a shared workspace for clinicians.
Minister of Health, Dr Ayesha Verrall says it’s now time to get on with the build of the facility.
“There will be no further substantial re-designs… It’s likely that further design changes would lead to increased cost and delay which no one wants,” the Minister said.
“I have allocated an extra $10 million for the hospital which will include an additional MRI machine, and a complete fit-out of collaborative workspace. This is a reversal of a previous decision to ‘shell’ these spaces.”
The Minister of Finance has also agreed to allocate an additional $97 million towards the data and digital infrastructure required to make the new hospital operational, said Dr Verrall.
The now $1.68 billion hospital is the largest ever health infrastructure project in New Zealand.
“Now set to be 25% bigger, the new hospital will include over 40 additional beds and nine additional theatres,” she said.
“Its design and use of the latest technologies will mean better patient flow and improved access to diagnostics and treatment spaces which will help reduce unnecessary delays.
“I have asked for further advice on the proposed pathology arrangements and am open to alternatives. I expect to receive the answers to those questions in the coming months.”
The Minister today also announced a review to determine the most appropriate range of services to meet the needs of older residents in Dunedin community and wider region.
“I would also like to thank the clinicians who contributed to the design and services that matter. Delivering exceptional clinical services has always been at the front and centre of the plan for the new Dunedin Hospital.”
“This Government’s commitment to building a state of the art health facility which will deliver the health services the people of Dunedin and the wider region deserve remains unchanged,” said Dr Verrall.
Dunedin Mayor, Jules Radich has welcomed today’s announcement.
Mr Radich said the news was step in the right direction for the region’s new health facility.
