THE long-awaited Ripley Satellite Hospital is still a few weeks away from opening its doors with officials remaining tight-lipped on the exact day.
The only hint West Moreton Health has given is that it will be before the end of the month.
While they are keeping the opening day quiet staff are already inside the facility preparing for their first patients.
Clinical Director Dr Meech Freeman said the team was enthusiastic at being the first to work at the new facility.
“They are undergoing orientation and scenario-based process testing this month, which is almost like an extended dress rehearsal,” Dr Freeman said.
On Sunday 900 locals will be given the chance to inspect the facility and to learn first-hand about what type of cases will be serviced at the hospital.
West Moreton Health CEO Hannah Bloch said the open day was a great opportunity for everyone to get to know more about the hospital.
“People can learn all about the Minor Injury and Illness Clinic and other services, including Medical Imaging and the Specialist Outpatient Department, before the hospital opens,” she said.
Ripley Satellite Hospital is 12km south of Ipswich Hospital and will provide an alternative to the emergency department for minor injuries and illnesses, ranging from fractures to minor burns.
The Minor Injury and Illness Clinic will provide walk-in urgent care from 8am to 10pm, 365 days a year.
Consumers requiring emergency care will need to visit Ipswich Hospital or call Triple Zero (000).
The clinic is accessible to those aged three months and older and no appointment is required.
“The opening of the Ripley facility will reduce pressure on our emergency departments and ensure people can receive care in a convenient setting,” Ms Bloch said.
The open day will feature guided tours of the hospital, information on local health services, food trucks, a coffee van and face painting.
Brisbane Broncos coach, Kevin Walters and Queensland Women’s Rugby League Captain Ali Brigginshaw will also be there alongside local tennis champion Archie Graham.
Ipswich Hospital Emergency Department has been at crisis point for a number of years.
Many presenting to the ED had only minor issues which resulted in waiting times exploding out to in some cases to more than 12 hours.
Community Open Day details:
When: Sunday, August 13
Time: 3 one hour sessions between11am to 2pm
Where: Ripley Satellite Hospital, 150 Botany Drive, South Ripley
Tickets: Available via Eventbrite. Search Ripley Satellite Hospital.
