Hospital redevelopment to begin in May

The $41 million redevelopment of the Riverland Regional Hospital at Berri is a step closer, with approval of the concept plans.

Health Minister John Hill said the redevelopment highlights the Rann Government’s commitment to expanding services and upgrading facilities in rural and regional South Australia.

"The redeveloped hospital and health service will cut the amount of travel people living in the Riverland have to do to get treatment and services like chemotherapy, renal dialysis, acute mental health and rehabilitation."

"In real terms, that’s another 300 people who will not have to travel to Adelaide for surgery each year and another 40 who will be able to stay at home for their post-operative rehabilitation."

The redeveloped Riverland Regional Hospital will feature two new, fully equipped theatres, six mental health beds, four oncology chairs and on-site clinical pharmacy services.

The hospital’s Emergency Department will double in size, with two trauma rooms and four treatment rooms planned as part of the redevelopment.

In-patients will also benefit, with the introduction of 100 percent single-occupancy rooms.

"When complete, in-patient facilities will consist entirely of single rooms with ensuite bathrooms, providing greater privacy and best practice care and infection control," Minister Hill said.

"We want to make sure patients receive the highest quality care and access to outstanding medical services at Berri whilst making the best use of the space available."

The concept plans are available for the public to view on the Country Health SA website and at sites across the Riverland.