What is a community hospital?
Community hospitals are small public hospitals. With extended hours to provide day and after-hours services, community hospitals will provide a range of everyday health services, which may include:
- urgent care service for common minor injuries and illnesses
- day medical services such as chemotherapy and renal dialysis
- day surgery for procedures such as cataract removal, major dental work, gynaecological procedures, colonoscopies and other minor surgical procedures that do not require an overnight stay
- treatment and support for chronic health issues including mental health, alcohol and other drugs, pain management, diabetes and respiratory problems
- family services including child and maternal health, family safety and women’s health
- pathology, pharmacy and diagnostic imaging such as blood tests and x‑rays
- public dental services.
Community hospitals will be located in major growth areas across Victoria and will provide people with better access to many important everyday health services closer to home.
Where will the Pakenham Community Hospital be located?
The Pakenham Community Hospital will be a new development, built on a new site. The services provided will expand those currently provided by Monash Health at the Pakenham Health Centre.
A preferred site for the Pakenham Community Hospital has been identified at 67-69 Main Street, Pakenham. Land for this important facility, which is currently commercially-owned, is in the process of being secured.
What services will the Pakenham Community Hospital provide?
The Pakenham Community Hospital will be an expansion of services currently offered at Pakenham Community Health Centre. It will offer a range of public services including:
- specialist appointments
- allied health and rehabilitation services
- pharmacy services
- women’s health
- social support services
- paediatric care
- diagnostic services, including pathology and imaging
- public dental services
- chronic disease management
- mental health services
- alcohol and drug services
- renal dialysis
- day chemotherapy
- family safety and crisis support services.
Strong links to specialists, community health providers and social support services will ensure more seamless follow-up treatment and support for those who require complex care.
What are the construction timelines for the Pakenham Community Hospital?
Construction is expected to begin in 2022 and be completed in 2024.
Which health service provider will manage the Pakenham Community Hospital?
Monash Health will be manage the Pakenham Community Hospital. Monash Health is a major provider of acute, maternity, sub-acute and specialist services in south-eastern Melbourne. More information on Monash Health can be found on their website.
How can I have my say on the Pakenham Community Hospital?
We have established a community consultative committee to provide a forum for members of the community to have their say on the planning and development of the Pakenham Community Hospital.
What is a community consultative committee?
Community consultative committees are a forum for discussion between government, locals and other stakeholders on a particular project. They provide a space where people can share their ideas, feedback and concerns on a project, and where they can be kept up-to-date with how the project is going.