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It is hoped more beds will reduce wait times for Sunshine Coast patients requiring important urology and gynaecology treatment.

This comes as a new 24-bed surgical ward at Sunshine Coast University Hospital (SCUH) welcomed its first patients during the week.

Nursing Director Ashleigh Coombs said the urology and gynaecology inpatient ward meant more patients could receive elective surgery sooner.

“We will also have increased capacity to accommodate emergency cases,” Ms Coombs said.

“Although urology and gynaecology are pre-existing services within our hospital, they will now have a designated home ward enabling us to expand our services within those specialities.”

Health Service Chief Executive Dr Peter Gillies said the additional 24 beds would relieve pressure on other departments where these patients were admitted previously.

“Overall, the new ward represents visible growth in the whole service group,” Dr Gillies said.

“We aim to open more theatre spaces, increase elective surgery bookings and improve the wait times for people in the Sunshine Coast and Gympie regions.”

Ms Coombs said a total of 31 full-time nurses would be recruited over three months to staff the new ward, with additional staff to expand the services in the operating theatre.

She said medical, nursing and allied health staff would offer multi-disciplinary, patient-focused treatment for adults requiring emergency and elective category 1, 2 and 3 surgery and critical care.

“This model of interprofessional care helps to empower and engage patients and family members.

“The entire care team, including the patient, can identify and address clinical issues quickly and work together towards a safe and timely return to home.

“Our focus is on early discharge to home with appropriate community support.”

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