Tenders will be called tomorrow (Saturday 2 June 2012) for the redevelopment of levels 4 and 5 at the Launceston General Hospital.

 

These works will include a new intensive care unit and four new operating theatres.

 

The Minister for Health, Michelle O'Byrne, said the works, expected to cost around $16 million, would continue the $110 million redevelopment of health services in the North.

 

The Australian Government has committed more than $70 million to the redevelopment and the Tasmanian Government is providing $35 million.

 

Ms O'Byrne said the new theatre suite and ICU would be built on two levels above the new LGH Emergency Department.

 

"The floor area on each of these levels has been expanded as part of previous works by 1,200 square metres, giving a total increase in space of 2,400 square metres.

 

"This will allow a significant expansion in capacity in both the intensive care unit and the operating theatre suite.

 

"The bed capacity of the ICU will be almost doubled.  At present there are 11 beds, including two coronary care beds.

 

"The new ICU will have 20 beds, including two isolation rooms and 18 single treatment bays.

 

"The operating suite at present has four full size theatres and two smaller theatres.  The new suite will include eight full sized theatres, with provision for a ninth in the future."

 

Tenders for the ICU/theatre project will close on 27 June 2012.

 

Ms O'Byrne said the works reflected a continuing commitment by the State and Federal governments to the development of first class health facilities for the Northern Tasmanian community.

 

"While we have short term budget pressures caused by the massive reduction in GST revenue since the GFC, we have not lost sight of the long term needs of the community.

 

"We have an ageing population with increasing rates of chronic disease and demand for health services will continue to grow.

 

"It is imperative that we continue to develop our facilities and services to ensure we can meet those increasing needs into the future."