Complementary healthcare practices within a finite area, creating a one-stop-shop for medical needs. This improves patient experience and efficiencies for healthcare professionals who often work across both private and public practices. It also provides an environment to pioneer new ways of working and creates connections between different institutions across disciplines, be they academic or private enterprise.
Co-location with public healthcare infrastructure, such as The Tweed Valley Hospital, creates cost-effective and sustainable models of care. Private patients presenting to the Emergency Department would have the option to easily transfer to the private facility and, in doing so, will reduce wait times for public patients requiring acute services. There is also scope for the private hospital to facilitate procedures for public patients on an outsourcing model that will further relieve pressure on the public health system.
Retaining qualified professionals within regional areas is vital, which is why partnering top facilities with tertiary educators helps create retention. Purpose-built, modern healthcare infrastructure also attracts top talent, providing superior services to the local community in addition to fiscal and economic benefits. Hospitals adjacent to each other also enable clinical training and attract education providers who need access to fully operational hospitals.
Clinical trials are made possible by having laboratory space adjacent to hospitals, providing fast, quality-controlled systems and processes resulting in better patient outcomes. Having equitable access to essential medical products and technologies is a fundamental building block of a well-functioning health system.
The COVID-19 pandemic induced border closures highlighted the need for local healthcare infrastructure rather than relying on interstate providers. It is also vital to provide accommodation services so talent can sustainably live and work in Cudgen and maximise their capabilities.
Healthcare real estate tailored for modern practises as well as future-proofed for the next generation is essential. This means theatres specifically designed for particular procedures as well as ensuring they can be adapted for potential future robotics.
Easy access via main road arterials and public transport infrastructure. This is particularly important for essential healthcare workers.