Wellington’s first day-stay orthopaedic hospital opens
Wellington patients now have expanded access to orthopaedic care with the official opening today of the purpose-built Southern Cross Wellington Surgical Centre, the region’s first dedicated orthopaedic day-stay hospital.
The state-of-the-art Wellington Surgical Centre is a joint venture partnership between Southern Cross Healthcare, the largest independent healthcare network in New Zealand, and a group of Wellington orthopaedic specialists.
Located in a purpose-built facility next to Southern Cross Wellington Hospital in Newtown, the centre includes two operating theatres, a five-bed post-anaesthetic care unit and a five-chair day-stay lounge with services including knee, foot, ankle, shoulder, hand and arm surgeries.
General Manager Alison Hegarty says it means people in Wellington and beyond will have timely, more convenient access to orthopaedic care in a modern, comfortable setting without the need for an overnight hospital stay.
“The team have been working towards this day for a long time and are very excited to be welcoming our first patients,” she says.
Orthopaedic surgeon and partner in the venture, Mr Robert Rowan, says the day-stay facility represents a significant step forward for patients, providing “enhanced access to quality care delivered by some of the region’s most experienced orthopaedic specialists”.
“Opening Affinity Medical Imaging in the same location will provide patients with a seamless orthopaedic service,” he says.
Chris White, Chief Executive of Southern Cross Healthcare, says partnering with medical specialists is central to the organisation’s strategy and purpose to advance the provision of healthcare for more New Zealanders.
“With 22 hospitals and day stay facilities, Southern Cross Healthcare plays an important role in supporting the country’s healthcare capacity and access.
“The Southern Cross Wellington Surgical Centre is an important addition to our national network, ensuring people have access to the care they need, when they need it.”
Southern Cross Healthcare‘s Wellington campus redevelopment is a significant investment. It includes the upgrade of the established hospital with investment in new theatres and robotic capability, as well as the newly built facility housing the Wellington Surgical Centre, consulting rooms, and Affinity Medical Imaging.
