NEW WARD WORK IS APPROVED

Taupo Times, Volume 23, Issue 60, 30 July 1974, Page 1

NEW WARD WORK IS APPROVED

Approval of a new ward block and extensions to the present ward at the Taupo General Hospital has been given by the Minister of Health, Mr Tizard. Making the announcement on Thursday, the member for the Taupo county and borough on the Waikato Hospital Board, Mr J. W. Birnie, said he was "delighted." Approval has been given for the construction of the proposed additional 30-bed ward and the extension- of the present ward from 25 to 30 beds. . * Tenders are being prepared and will be advertised to close at the end of l&ugust, for consideration „ at the board meeting on September 9.

The additional beds will bring the hospital up to a total of 60 beds, the original number sought by the board three years ago, but reduced by the Health Department to 25 beds. Mr Birnie said that since the hospital began operating with a full-time surgeon, the shortage of beds had been most acute and the additions will greatly improve the position. As soon as the additions are under way, the board will put forward. further development plans in line with those approved and recommended by the Taupo committee, and outlined by Mr Birnie in Taupo Times last month. Mr Birnie said that as the new construction and extensions progress, it will be necessary for the hospital to engage additional staff and extra. ancilliary services are. anticipated.