Construction set to begin on Westmead Palliative Care Unit

By Our Reporter
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Construction of the Westmead Supportive and Palliative Care Unit will begin soon, providing patients and families with dedicated end-of-life support in a purpose-built setting

Construction on a new Supportive and Palliative Care Unit at Westmead Hospital is about to commence, following the appointment of Interior Construction Group (ICG) as the main contractor.

The announcement marks a step forward for the NSW Government’s $93 million World Class End of Life Care funding program, which aims to expand access to purpose-built palliative care spaces across the state.

Once completed, the unit will offer 15 bedrooms with private ensuites, housed in a rooftop extension on level 5 of Westmead’s Central Acute Services Building. The location is intended to provide privacy while maintaining close proximity to other key services within the hospital.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said the investment reflects the need to ensure high-quality end-of-life care is available in the right settings.

“The NSW Government is committed to ensuring people with life-limiting illnesses receive the highest quality end-of-life care at the right time, and in the right place,” he said.

“Across the state, more in-hospital supportive and palliative care services are needed. It’s why we’re allocating $93 million as part of the World Class End of Life Care funding to deliver five new or refurbished purpose-designed palliative care units for staff to deliver care and support to patients and families during what can be an extremely difficult time.

“The location of the new Supportive and Palliative Care Unit at Westmead Hospital means patients and their families will have privacy and comfort within a purpose-built space, as well as access to complementary care services and facilities within Westmead Hospital.”

The unit has been developed through consultation with staff and patients to ensure it meets the varied needs of Western Sydney’s communities. It will include a multi-faith room, indoor and outdoor communal areas, and private spaces, with outdoor access from every room.

Member for Parramatta Donna Davis welcomed the project and its focus on compassion and dignity in care.

“The new unit at Westmead Hospital will provide quality end-of-life care in a calm and home-like environment, where patients and their families can be well supported during a difficult time,” she said. “I look forward to seeing construction get underway.”

The Westmead development is part of a wider program that includes new or upgraded palliative care facilities at Wyong, Nepean, Tamworth and Orange hospitals. The aim is to provide care that is not only clinically sound but also responsive to the emotional and cultural needs of patients and their loved ones.

More information on the World Class End of Life Care program is available at nsw.gov.au/palliative-care-program.


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