By Tate Papworth
A state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit has opened at the Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s Hospital.
The unit is the first of its kind in the western suburbs and the fifth such unit in Victoria.
It features four cots, which will increase to 10 in the future.
Premier Daniel Andrews said it will give parents in the west peace of mind in times of need.
“As a parent, I know the precious first few days, weeks and months can be scary – especially when something’s not right,” he said.
“Now, new mums and dads in Melbourne’s west will have the world-class care they need closer to home.”
The NICU is where critically sick newborns are cared for. Specialist doctors and nurses provide life-saving support for premature and sick babies.
Previously, families with sick or premature babies in the western suburbs were transferred to either the Royal Women’s Hospital or the Royal Children’s Hospital for urgent care.
The Joan Kirner Women’s and Children’s opened its doors in May.
The $200 million hospital includes 20 maternity delivery rooms, 237 beds, 39 special care nursery cots, four theatres and additional clinics. The government estimates about 7000 babies will be delivered annually at the hospital by 2026.
Sunshine Hospital is also set to undergo a major redevelopment with a $29 million upgrade to the emergency department.
The upgrades will add an extra 31 treatment spaces and include a separate area for children.
About 19,700 children are expected to be seen each year in the children-only area.
