48 Hospital Beds in Perth Remain Unused for Six Months Due to Fire Safety Concerns
Perth’s healthcare sector is currently facing a significant challenge due to the underutilization of 48 hospital beds. These beds have remained unused for six months, primarily due to fire safety concerns. This situation unfolds against a backdrop of increasing pressures on the healthcare system, exacerbated by high ramping levels in public hospitals.
Impact of Ramping in Western Australia
The issue of ramping in public hospitals reached a peak in September 2023, totaling 7,274 hours. Fortunately, figures dropped to 4,429 hours in October, marking the second-lowest level this year. The Australian Medical Association of Western Australia emphasizes that the solution to these rampant delays is the addition of new hospital beds.
Call for Action from Shadow Health Minister
Libby Mettam, the Shadow Health Minister, has recently urged the government to reconsider the licensing of the Mount Private Hospital. In her correspondence, she highlighted the necessity for more clear communication and responsiveness from the Licensing and Accreditation Regulatory Unit (LARU). She noted that the current situation significantly affects patient outcomes and hospital operations, thereby raising concerns about governance and accountability.
Healthscope’s Redevelopment Plans
Healthscope had initially announced a $35 million redevelopment project for Mount Private Hospital in August 2023. The project was expected to be completed in the first half of 2024. However, like many developments, it faced delays and commenced construction in April 2024, with a partial unveiling on May 7 of the same year.
Ongoing Challenges for Mount Hospital
- Donna Speedie, the hospital’s director of nursing, confirmed that the facility continued to operate during the two-year redevelopment.
- She noted the challenges posed by noise pollution and reduced bed availability during this period.
- Healthscope faced financial difficulties, filing for bankruptcy in May 2024, owing approximately $1.6 billion.
The delayed opening of the new ward at Mount Hospital adds to the strain on healthcare resources. A representative from Healthscope indicated that the new ward is now in the final stages of commissioning, with expectations to open in 2026. Meanwhile, Mount Hospital continues to provide essential care services to the community despite the challenges it faces.
Conclusion
The ongoing fire safety concerns regarding 48 unused hospital beds at Mount Private Hospital highlight significant issues within Perth’s healthcare framework. As authorities work towards resolving these challenges, community access to critical health services remains a priority.
