By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
AN INTENSIVE care unit will be built at Casey Hospital as part of a $106.3 million expansion promised by Labor if they win the State Election.
Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews visited the site on Tuesday to make the major expansion pledge, which he said in addition to the Berwick hospital’s first ICU ward would cater for 12,000 more patients, 8000 more surgeries and 500 extra births.
“Our plan will transform Casey Hospital so people can get the intensive care they need, faster and closer to home,” Mr Andrews said.
“Labor’s plan will cater for 12,000 more patients, 8000 more surgeries and 500 more babies. It’s a real lifeline for the south east.
“The health, well-being and comfort of our loved ones matter more than anything. We can’t leave them on their own.”
Mr Andrews was joined by wife, Catherine, Narre Warren North MP Luke Donnellan, Narre Warren South MP Judith Graley and Labor candidate for Gembrook Collin Ross when he made the funding promise, which would also see the construction of an eight-storey inpatient unit, with four new operating theatres and a new surgery recovery centre.
Casey Hospital’s CT and MRI services and day surgery admissions would also be expanded as part of the upgrade, while 96 additional beds would be provided.
A spokesman for Health Minister David Davis wouldn’t comment on whether the Coalition planned to match Labor’s pledge, but said the party was looking forward to making “further announcements”.
“The Coalition is working with a number of health services across the state, particularly in growth areas such as Casey,” the spokesperson said.
