- Published:
- Wednesday 27 July 2022
Coburg families will continue to receive the best possible treatment and care they deserve faster at Merri Health thanks to an investment from the Andrews Labor Government.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas visited Merri Health today to announce the community health service has received more than $236,000 from the Metropolitan Health Infrastructure Fund (MHIF) for state-of-the-art clinical equipment.
The Coburg not-for-profit clinic has received new audiology equipment and facilities to support speech and language skill growth for newborns which will help improve outcomes across all developmental areas – meaning locals will no longer have to travel long distances for this vital service and can get the care they need close to home.
Other clinical equipment funded from the MHIF includes the latest podiatry equipment including chairs and examinations lights and physiotherapy equipment including plinths, an x-ray machine, trolleys and scales.
This investment has also upgraded rehabilitation equipment at the Coburg campus including an upright exercise bike, treadmill, rehabilitation chairs and fixtures and fittings.
An extra $400,000 from the Labor Government’s MHIF will also upgrade a range of clinical equipment at Merri Health’s Brunswick, Glenroy and Fawkner sites.
Established by the Labor Government in 2020, the MHIF helps health services with new construction, remodeling and refurbishment projects, equipment, information and communication technology and other vital upgrades to deliver safe and efficient care for local communities.
This investment will improve patient services and meet local demand and also help infection and prevention and control measures meaning patients can return home and get back to work, school, family and community life quicker.
The funding will also enable health services and agencies to adopt new technologies and deliver contemporary models of care to improve the quality and safety of care for patients and staff.
The $225 million MHIF has funded 27 projects for health services and agencies across Melbourne to date.
Quote attributable to Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
“This investment is about ensuring our busy hospitals and health services have the vital infrastructure and equipment they need to continue to respond to the needs of their local community.”
Quote attributable to Member for Pascoe Vale Lizzie Blandthorn
“This new and upgraded clinical equipment will support the dedicated team at Merri Health expand their services and help more locals receive treatment sooner.”