Princess Alexandra Hospital staff have had a breakthrough; not in revolutionary research or a clinical discovery, but rather in a building.
Contractors have officially cut into the current structure to connect it to the new space, as the campus undergoes major upgrades to expand services.
The breakthrough was significant in more ways than one with the core drilling creating several concrete cylinders which were handed out as keepsakes to stakeholders.
The rather heavy, yet special souvenirs were embraced by teams including 3E’s Cardiology who aptly named theirs ‘Breakthrough Barry’.
Nurse Unit Manager Megan said the cylinder is a small symbol of being part of something much bigger.
“Knowing the physical connection has been made between the current and the new is exciting,” she said.
“It’s great to have a new team member in Breakthrough Barry; he doesn’t say much, and he definitely doesn’t move, but he’s a solid addition to 3E.”
“He’s a fun little reminder that despite some minor disruption and construction noise, real progress is being made towards the expansion which will benefit our community for years to come.”
The expansion at PAH includes four new floors on top of the existing emergency department, 249 new overnight beds, including inpatient and ICU, and 13 new cancer treatment bays.
There will also be refurbished admission and recovery area to support the cardiac catheter lab service and expansion of safety and response, medical imaging, pharmacy and kitchen.
PA Hospital is one of the busiest hospitals providing specialist health services for patients across Queensland, with the upgrades helping to meet the needs of the community now, and into the future.
To read more about the PA Hospital expansion visit: Princess Alexandra Hospital expansion | Metro South Health