A POWER outage at the Wonthaggi Hospital next Tuesday, August 2 will impact most aspects of service delivery including radiology, surgery and maternity, which will be closed or on bypass.

The Emergency Department will operate as usual.

But it’s short-term pain for an important gain as the hospital switches over to the mains power in the new hospital building.

A spokesperson for the hospital provided the following details:

“As part of the Wonthaggi Hospital expansion upgrade, we’re switching over the power supply on Tuesday, August 2,” said a spokesperson for Bass Coast Health.

As a result, the hospital and Kirrak House will be without mains electricity from 5am-7am, and 5pm-7pm.

“From 7am-5pm, we will be operating with generators.

“On the day, Radiology (apart from ultrasound) will be closed.

“Pathology will be open for outpatients as per usual.

“Emergency Department will operate as per usual. Chemotherapy services will operate as per usual. Haemodialysis will operate at slightly different hours.

“Visitation to Acute Ward will be permitted as per the rules on the day.

“Maternity services will be on bypass from the evening prior and throughout the day.

“Surgery will be cancelled. Most outpatient clinics will be transferred to Cowes (patients to be advised).

“There will be lighting operating in the main front carpark and Emergency Department carparks.

“We thank everyone for their understanding and patience, and apologise for any inconvenience caused.”

The hospital’s main reception will still be contactable by phoning 5671 3333.