Posted on: 25 November 2024
The future of the Western Hospital has been secured following today’s announcement that it has been purchased by Amplar Health, owned by Medibank Group and a consortium of doctors known as Seabreeze Healthcare – ensuring that services at the vital facility will continue.
The positive news follows a strong community campaign to secure the future of the hospital, after it was placed into administration earlier this year.
Throughout the campaign more than 23,000 signatures were collected, a parliamentary committee was established and people from right across South Australia, not just the western suburbs got involved, underscoring just how many South Australians rely on the services provided by the hospital.
Colleen Billows, whose late husband Gordon was the original Chairman of the Hospital and Angelo Piovesan, Chair of the Friends of Western Hospital both played instrumental roles in the campaign.
While concerns remain about the future of oncology services on the site and clarification is required from the State Government and administrators regarding whether the closure of oncology services is permanent or if another buyer will be considered - today marks a significant victory for the western suburbs.
Member for Colton, Matt Cowdrey, welcomed the news and said his community is delighted that the campaign to support the sale process was ultimately successful.
“The Western Hospital is here to stay, which is fantastic news for my community,” Mr Cowdrey said.
“We’ve always maintained that the hospital is too vital to fail, given its crucial role in alleviating pressure on the public health system, which is currently grappling with unprecedented ramping and wait times.
“This news today that the hospital has been purchased provides the certainty that so many have been seeking and I extend my heartfelt thanks to the more than 23,000 individuals who signed our petition.
“It’s clear that the administrators, the State Government, and the new owner recognise the hospital’s importance to our local area and the community’s commitment to its future.
“Many people devoted hours to gathering signatures at the hospital, in supermarkets, cafes, and throughout the community. Local businesses also played a part by displaying the petition. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who contributed.”