Works have begun on building a new Emergency Department at Canowindra which will improve the Ambulance entrance and disabled entries, making the facility more accessible for patients and visitors.

The new Emergency Department is being built in a different location to the current department.

Internal and external works include new paint, updated and clearer signage and the replacement of internal cabinets and other equipment.

Security at the facility is also part of the works with upgraded cameras being installed and door access being improved.

An energy saving upgrade has also been rolled out with the addition of solar PV and solar hot water panels, lighting upgrades, new air conditioning units and bathroom and kitchen appliances installed to help the facility become more environmentally friendly and save energy.

Canowindra Health Service Manager Janice Rumph said she was pleased to see works underway at Canowindra Hospital.

“Works to improve access and security at the facility will ensure our patients and staff are safer so we have the best facility possible to deliver great patient care.

The works will make a real difference to the local community,” Janice said.

“Improvements to the Ambulance entrance will ensure that patients can be transported from Ambulance to the Hospital more quickly.”

“This year is going to be a big one for Canowindra Hospital, and I’m looking forward to seeing the results of these works currently underway.”

Canowindra Soldiers Memorial Hospital would like to assure the community that there will be minimal disruption to the facility during these works.

However hospital staff kindly ask the community to bear with them while they work to make these improvements.

The Emergency Department works will be complete by the end of 2017 and are being completed by Renascent, with local contractors working on other parts of the works.