Calvary Health Care’s proposed private hospital co-located with the Launceston General Hospital is a step closer, with a site selected by the Government.
The Office of the Coordinator General has now formally advised Calvary that the Government’s preferred private hospital site is the existing Health Department land currently housing the ageing Mental Health Services buildings, at 52 Frankland Street.
The site is located directly across from the LGH and offers the best opportunity for all stakeholders, including the Government, to achieve the benefits of a co-located private hospital for Northern Tasmanians.
Importantly, this includes the ability to collaborate in the provision of services to the community and provide assistance to the LGH during periods of peak demand.
Calvary has previously publicly indicated that the proposal includes a range of services, including palliative care, which is important for so many individuals and families in the North.
The selection of this site will also complement the development of the LGH masterplan, which will lay down the blueprint for health infrastructure in Launceston and Northern Tasmania for the next century.
It is appropriate that the Howick Street corner be protected for future development of our public hospital, and the Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to ensuring the community’s best interests are at the centre of any future plans.
The community would expect decisions of this magnitude to be thoroughly assessed, with a full proposal for Stage Two expected to be delivered by Calvary later this year.
We’ll also be opening the first stage of the Ward 4K Children’s Ward at the LGH later this year, with more beds and a better environment for our young patients.
Over the Budget and Forward Estimates, another $61.2 million is allocated towards the LGH redevelopment, including a new 32-bed ward and more car parking.
Health has always been, and remains, a top priority for the Hodgman Liberal Government, which is why we are investing a record $8.1 million over four years.
We will not be distracted while we continue to work hard to meet increasing demand and deliver better health care to all Tasmanians.