Teamwork gets clinics back on track

22/05/2008 | Hospital Pipe Blockage

Thanks to the dedication and superb organisation of MidCentral Health’s management, staff, contractors and subcontractors Reception A waiting area and Dental Services will be fully operational again next Monday.

A sewage overflow into the first floor of Palmerston North Hospital brought about the closure of the entire Ambulatory Care outpatients area two weeks ago.

Acute Surgical Services Group Manager Brett Sheehan says “MidCentral Health management are thrilled with the response from everyone involved. We are very pleased with staff and contractors for assisting in the extremely rapid recovery from this disastrous event.”

MidCentral staff minimised repercussions from the overflow into the clinic area, evacuated patients and coordinated a comprehensive initial clean-up of the contaminated areas. Builders contained the damage behind temporary walls and 60 percent of clinics were running again in unaffected areas within a week. Some clinics were relocated to other venues. Meanwhile contractors are working night and day to replace contaminated ceilings and flooring.

Group Manager Commercial Support Services Jeff Small says: “The clean-up and remedial work to the building is progressing extremely well with a magnificent effort by the Spotless cleaning, orderlies and facilities maintenance teams, plus Buildrite Construction and Superior Flooring teams.”

Contractors will handover all but the Respiratory and Neurology Clinic areas for cleaning on Friday. Staff will begin moving back in, ready to receive patients next Monday 26 May.

Some concrete areas are sealed but not covered with vinyl yet. Completion of flooring will continue at night and clinic numbers will gradually increase as flooring is completed and noise abates.

Respiratory and Neurology Clinics are expected to reopen by mid-June when carpeting is totally finished. Limited specialised clinics will be held in other parts of the hospital until then.

Any person unsure about their appointment should ring 0800 800 745.

CONTACT: Communications Unit: (06) 350-8945