The two community hospitals planned for Cranbourne and Pakenham have each progressed in their early planning stages.
Monash Health will operate the two new facilities, which will ease demands across the entire Monash Health network while providing care closer to home for residents. Construction on each new hospital is scheduled to commence in 2022, with completion of both expected in 2024.
A preferred location has been chosen for the Pakenham Community Hospital. A parcel of land at 67-69 Main Street, Pakenham has been identified and the acquisition process will begin shortly.
The location has been chosen as it is located centrally for the Pakenham community and well serviced by public transport. It is also located close to nearby services including specialist clinics, community health providers, and social support services.
Similarly, the location for the planned Cranbourne Community Hospital has been finalised, with the sale process commencing for the hospital to be built on currently-vacant land adjacent to the Balla Balla Community Centre located at 65 Berwick-Cranbourne Rd, Cranbourne East.
Julia Oxley, General Manager of Monash Health Community, said that the hospitals would be tailored to their local communities and provide services such as an extended hours urgent care centre, dialysis, mental health services, community rehabilitation, dental, specialist consulting, day surgery, chronic disease management, and family health services.
Pathology, diagnostic imaging and pharmacy will also be available. Community consultation with local healthcare providers and community members has helped shape the planning process.
“The demographics in Cranbourne and Pakenham show significant population growth and a high rate of chronic illness,” Julia said. “Choosing the correct locations is an important step as we work to meet the healthcare needs of these specific communities.”
Community consultation with local healthcare providers and community members has helped shape the planning process. Monash Health also has representatives sitting on the Community Consultative Committee for each hospital, which provides a forum for community input on the hospitals.
Authorised by Julia Oxley, General Manager, Monash Health Community