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2011 Media Releases

Southern Cross welcomes media inquiries about any health related topics. Please contact:

Aimee Bourke, Communications Manager

Southern Cross Healthcare Group
Phone 09 925 6412; Mobile 021 410 411

aimee.bourke@southerncross.co.nz

Mar7

Southern Cross Hospital Christchurch back up and running

3/7/2011 9:47:00 AM by Aimee Bourke

Southern Cross Hospital on Bealey Avenue is once again fully operational. Mains water supply has been restored and the hospital began admitting patients scheduled for elective surgery this morning, with the help of those staff who were willing and able to return to work.

Fortunately, the hospital received only minor damage in the earthquake. It has been formally assessed and given a “green-sticker” indicating that it is safe for public use.

Southern Cross Hospitals Chief Executive Officer Terry Moore said, “There are patients in Canterbury requiring elective surgery and we are pleased to help resume this service again for the region.”

In the immediate hours and days following the earthquake, the hospital facilities were utilised by the Canterbury District Health Board (CDHB) as an acute triage centre. Available Southern Cross staff were tasked with performing surgical assessments and, in some cases, emergency surgery for those injured in the quake, while also tending to existing patients in the hospital.

The hospital continued to be available to surgeons and GPs until this service was no longer required.

Mr Moore said the Southern Cross staff were in the fortunate position to be able to help in the recovery effort.

“Though many did not know the whereabouts of family and friends they, like so many other Cantabrians on that day, focused on helping other people. I am extremely proud of our team.

“We will continue to offer assistance where we can with any health services required in the coming months and years while the city gets back on its feet.”

Ends