Western Australia’s Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson has announced a new $29 million COVID-19 intensive care ward will be in use from this Wednesday, as case numbers continue to increase.
She said the new unit, attached to the Royal Perth Hospital, “has been optimised for COVID-19 conditions” and will only be used for those infected with the virus.
Ms Sanderson said the ward was bigger than a typical ICU unit, utilising new technology to reduce the risk of infection and featuring “discreet clinical pods” with “glass that can be frosted and unfrosted at the flick of a switch” for patient privacy.
“The COVID pandemic has required all of us to be agile,” she said.
“This new unit was planned before the pandemic but when it struck we made the decision to provide additional funding so we had it when we needed it most.”
“It will be an essential part of our pandemic response.
“The opening of this new unit could not come at a better time.”
