Twin theatres in operation

Elective surgery numbers are ramping up at Grampians Health Stawell after a recent increase in staffing has made it possible to have both theatres operating simultaneously. 

Stawell’s second theatre opened a couple of months ago with much acclaim for its ‘world class’ facilities. Recently Grampians Health has been able to increase perioperative staff numbers at Stawell to ensure the concurrent running of both theatres. 

Stawell Theatre Nurse Unit Manager Sally Hamilton said the increase was a significant step forward for local surgical services. 

“The added capacity supports improved scheduling, reduced wait times and better access to care for our community,” Ms Hamilton said. 

“Staff across the surgical and perioperative teams have worked collaboratively to ensure a smooth transition into dual-theatre operations and it has been fantastic to see the energy and teamwork driving this progress.” 

Stawell Site Director Sue Campigli thanked everyone who had played a part in bringing both theatres online. 

“It’s another proud achievement for our campus,” Ms Campigli said. 

The increase in surgical activity at Stawell is part of a broader strategy by Grampians Health to improve elective surgery outcomes across the region. This includes innovations such as the roll-out of robotic surgery at Ballarat Base Hospital, which has already supported over 440 elective procedures and is now being trialled for emergency cases. 

The appointment of more senior specialised surgical staff has also helped improve the number of hip and knee replacement surgeries at Grampians Health Horsham over the past few months.