The significant redevelopment of Atherton Hospital has officially entered its final construction phase, marking a major milestone in the $42.4 million project that will substantially upgrade healthcare services for the Tablelands region.
Major Milestone for Tablelands Healthcare
The final stage of construction is now underway at Atherton Hospital, bringing the extensive redevelopment closer to completion. This transformative project represents a substantial investment in regional healthcare infrastructure, with the upgraded facility expected to become fully operational by mid-2024.
Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui, confirmed the project's progress, emphasizing that the redevelopment will deliver significant improvements to patient care and medical services throughout the Tablelands community. The upgraded hospital will feature enhanced emergency department capabilities and modernized treatment facilities.
Enhanced Services and Modern Facilities
The comprehensive redevelopment includes a complete overhaul of the emergency department with additional treatment spaces and improved patient flow. New consultation rooms will support expanded outpatient services, while upgraded staff facilities will create better working environments for healthcare professionals.
The project also incorporates refurbished procedure rooms and enhanced sterilization areas, ensuring the hospital meets contemporary healthcare standards. These improvements will enable medical staff to deliver higher quality care to patients across the region.
Economic Benefits and Community Impact
Beyond healthcare improvements, the redevelopment has provided substantial economic benefits to the local community. Approximately 70 construction jobs have been supported during the project, with local workers and businesses playing crucial roles in the hospital's transformation.
Health Minister Shannon Fentiman highlighted the importance of the investment, stating that the upgraded Atherton Hospital will serve as a vital healthcare hub for Far North Queensland. The modernized facility will reduce pressure on larger regional hospitals while providing comprehensive care closer to home for Tablelands residents.
Construction continues to progress on schedule, with the project team working to minimize disruption to existing hospital services throughout the final phase. The completed redevelopment will represent a significant advancement in regional healthcare delivery when it opens next year.
