MEDIA RELEASE - Today's announcement that $110 million has been prioritised for the replacement of the Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit at Ōtara and the General Rehabilitation Service at Middlemore Hospital has been welcomed by Counties Manukau Health.
The Minister of Health, Andrew Little, on behalf of the Ministers of Health and Finance, announced the funding decision at the Ōtara Spinal Unit, a 20-bed facility which was built in 1977 and is one of only two centres that provide specialist spinal rehab services for spinal cord impairment in New Zealand.
Chair of Counties Manukau Health, Vui Mark Gosche, acknowledged the Government’s contribution to the new purpose built facility to be housed at the Manukau Health Park.
“CM Health has been seeking capital funding for these services for many years and the Government’s announcement means a lot, not only to the patients but the specialised staff who work with them.
“It will be great for our patients and staff to have access to fit for purpose, modern equipment and facilities.”
CM Health Chief Executive Officer, Fepulea’i Margie Apa said the new development would make a significant difference to health outcomes for both patients and whaanau.
“Patients at the spinal and adult rehabilitation units are experiencing a life-changing event and it is crucial the facilities available to them are welcoming and functional.
“Development of a business case will now be a priority for the DHB in order to secure the funding and ensure CM Health can provide the best care possible for our patients.”
This announcement is one of a number of recently approved investments at Manukau Health Park with the Government approving $216.4 million of funding in December last year for redevelopment which will see the establishment of around four new theatres, over 30 new clinical outpatient spaces, a new radiology hub, an integrated breast care service and an expanded renal dialysis service.
Speaking at the time of the announcement, Vui Mark Gosche said the project would deliver substantial benefits to the wider Counties Manukau community.
“I look forward to seeing the completion of this project which will make an enormous difference to the level and quality of service provided.
“It will facilitate improved health outcomes as well as patient, whaanau, and staff experience, and ensure more cost-effective and sustainable services.”
ENDS
Issued by: CM Health Communications
Media Line: 09 250 9857
Email:Communications@middlemore.co.nz
About the Auckland Spinal Rehabilitation Unit
The 20 bed spinal unit was built in 1977 and is one of only two centres that provide specialist spinal rehab services for spinal cord impairment in New Zealand.
It serves a population of three million people across the eight North Island DHBs, with 80 per cent of inpatients coming from the three Auckland DHBs, Bay of Plenty, and Waikato.
On average, the Ōtara spinal unit deals with 120 new injuries each year. The average age of patients is 53 years and average length of stay is around 50 days.