Hospital expansion gives back to Geelong

30/04/24

Epworth Geelong is expanding, with a new plan to add more hospital beds and operating theatres, alongside greater treatments for orthopaedics, cardiology and cancer.

The private hospital has also announced it will further develop the region’s only neurosurgical service, and significantly enhance clinical and consulting expertise in medical and surgical services overall, including gynaecology, ophthalmology, and urology.

Epworth HealthCare’s Group Chief Executive, Professor Andrew Stripp, commissioned a strategic review of Epworth Geelong in late 2023.

“We are absolutely committed to serving the community needs of the growing Geelong region and this investment will build on our world-class care,’’ he said.

Michael Mitchell, recruited from Gosford Private Hospital, will oversee the expansion in his new role as Epworth Geelong’s Executive General Manager.

The hospital will gain an extra 66 beds, on top of the existing 250, as well as two new operating theatres to cater for complex cardiology procedures and increase the capacity for orthopaedic surgery.

The extra beds will cater for Geelong’s rising population as well as serving patients from Melbourne’s west, Warrnambool, and Ballarat.

Prof Stripp said further developing the neurosurgical and neurology services would attract leading clinical experts, ensuring patients received the best treatment. 

“Our ambition over time is to establish a neuroscience centre that will focus on complex neurosurgery and world-leading treatment of acute neurological conditions, dementia, Alzheimer’s Disease, and spinal cord injuries,” he said.

“Our goal is for Geelong to develop an enviable reputation for world-class brain, spinal and nervous system research and care.’’

Prof Stripp, who started his role in July 2023 after seven years as CEO of Monash Health, said Epworth being a not-for-profit health organisation was “something we’re proud of”.

“It allows us to give back to our communities. Any surplus revenue is invested back into Victorian communities so that patients will have access to world-class care near where they live, as well as clinical research and educating the next generation of clinicians,” he said.