The 60-year-old False Bay Hospital will be undergoing renovations and upgrades during the next 18 months.
Image: Supplied
After 60 years of service, False Bay Hospital is getting a major makeover - an 18-month renovation project aimed at transforming the aging facility into a safer, more comfortable, and efficient space for patients and staff.
The provincial Department of Health and Wellness announced the project on Monday, February 9, with spokesperson Jihaan Opperman assuring the public that patient care would remain the top priority throughout the works.
"The provincial health department would like to reassure the public that patient care remains our highest priority," said Ms Opperman.
The key upgrades include a redesigned Emergency Care Unit with a dedicated ambulance entrance to improve patient flow, a new front-of-house area, and a covered, secure public waiting area. The project will also create a dedicated, safe, and secure space for mental health care users and upgrade the Care Green Clinic.
Public waiting areas will be expanded and improved with separate entry and exit points, increased internal space, and access to new ablution facilities. Administrative efficiency will be enhanced through the relocation of the Records Room, while Finance and Administration offices will be repositioned alongside upgrades to fire protection systems.
Senior family physician at False Bay Hospital, Dr Kaashiefah Adamson, said the outpatients department will remain unchanged as part of this upgrade project.
“Patient care will continue uninterrupted during the multi-phased renovation period, which is expected to span 18 months,” she said.
Dr Adamson said that this investment signals a real commitment to public healthcare in the South Peninsula.
“It's a step toward equity and improved health outcomes for all residents, regardless of income,” she said.
Ms Opperman said that upgrading the hospital is essential to meet evolving healthcare needs.
“It includes the growing mental health burden, lessons learned from managing patient flow during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the need to accommodate increased patient volumes more effectively,” she said, adding that the project will also incorporate modern health technologies to support improved care delivery.
CEO of False Bay Hospital, Dr Stanley Makondele Rambiyana, said this hospital, which serves a wide catchment area from Simon’s Town to Masiphumelele, has struggled for years under the strain of high patient volumes and limited resources.
“These improvements will allow us to respond better to growing healthcare needs, improve patient flow and safety, and create a more supportive environment for both patients and staff."
“We thank our community for their patience and understanding as we work to build a hospital that is better equipped to serve them for many years to come," he said.
The renovation will be carried out in phases to minimize disruption to existing hospital services. Any updates or changes to the information above will be officially communicated by the provincial department of health and wellness.
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