St George Hospital has assured patients that a new airconditioning system will be installed within the month.
A pregnant patient who contacted the Leader said the hospital’s outpatient department in the Prince William Wing was “unbearable” because there was no working airconditioner in the reception area.
The heavily pregnant woman who is also being treated for diabetes, says the recent warmer weather had made waiting time uncomfortable, despite the use of fans.
But general manager of the hospital, Leisa Rathborne, says a new airconditioning system will be completed within a fortnight, possibly soooner.
“Unfortunately replacing such a system is not a straightforward exercise and involves utilising a crane to access the building to ensure minimal disruption to patient services,” she said.
“Staff have constantly monitored the area to ensure patient comfort. Fans were brought in as an interim measure and doors kept open where appropriate to maximise airflow.
“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the outage in the Prince William Wing, and look forward to contractors completing the installation very soon.”