A new state-of-the-art birthing unit at St George Hospital was officially opened today.
The purpose-built birthing unit is twice the size of the old unit and includes eight extra-large birthing rooms for delivery, all with large bathtubs, two acute assessment rooms and the latest neonatal monitoring technology.
The multi-million dollar unit will be used by an estimated 2300 women who give birth at the hospital each year.
The birthing unit was rebuilt at a cost of $11.5 million as part of the ongoing redevelopment of St George Hospital and replaces a unit built in 1972 and upgraded in 1991.
Each of the eight birthing rooms measure about 40sqm and feature curved walls, huge artworks and soothing colours, while resuscitation areas are hidden behind wall panelling but are easily accessible.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard joined state MPs Mark Coure (Oatley), Melanie Gibbons (Holsworthy) and Eleni Petinos (Miranda) at the official opening and met some of the newborn babies and their families.
"This modern, state-of-the-art unit has been carefully designed with thoughtful consideration of the needs of women during childbirth, featuring the very latest technology and equipment for maternity care," Mr Hazzard said.
"The NSW Government's $11.5 million upgrade doubles the size of St George Hospital's previous birth facilities so that more women in the local community can access world-class birth facilities and care close to home."
Mr Coure said the new unit was located close to operating theatres, two of which were refurbished as part of the upgrade.
"The NSW Government is delivering on its commitment to provide world-class healthcare to the people of NSW and this new birth unit is great news for families of the St George region and beyond," Mr Coure said.
