News

Southport Private Hospital invests in the future of mental wellbeing

Aug 13, 2020

In its bid to meet increased demand from Gold Coasters and surrounding communities, Southport Private Hospital has announced an investment of AUD$8 million to expand its mental health services.

Construction is currently underway at the hospital to double the number of beds from 24 to 48 in the mental health care unit.

In addition to the extra beds, the expansion allows Southport Private Hospital to add a range of new speciality care services for patients seeking treatment for addiction, post-natal depression, eating and anxiety disorders.

The redevelopment will also include space for group therapy, art and music therapy, a gym and a sensory modulation area; an environmentally controlled space to reduce levels of distress.

Southport Private Hospital Executive Officer Athol Webb said that since opening its doors in 2007, the demand for mental health and rehabilitation services has continued to grow.

“We are very excited about this extra capacity which will allow us to continue to provide care for those who need specialist intervention and assistance,” Mr Webb said.

“The additional beds and therapy areas will enhance our current services to meet increasing demand to deliver contemporary, evidence-based practice. What we’re offering is more choice and a great standard of care for our patients.

“The sensory modulation area within the new mental health facility will have low level lighting, and strategic sight, sounds, smells, movement and items such as weighted blankets and massage chairs to complement existing therapies and further reduce stress and anxiety,” Mr Webb said.

Further to the extended therapy areas, additional psychiatrists will join the team at Southport Private Hospital to cater to the specific needs of patients and to help with the roll-out of new targeted treatments.

Director of Community Psychiatric Services and the Day Programs Dr Philip Muller said the expansion demonstrates Ramsay’s commitment to deliver key services to the Gold Coast community.

“This expansion marks a significant milestone for private mental health services on the Gold Coast and will serve as the counterpart to Ramsay Health Care’s growing commitment to community psychiatry,” Dr Muller said.