Ryde residents are the big winners following the completion of a two-year upgrade, which includes two new wards and state-of-the-art facilities at Ryde Hospital.

Member for Ryde Victor Dominello and Health Minister Brad Hazzard toured the new Critical Care Unit – for intensive care and cardiac patients – as well as the general medical Ward 2 today.

Mr Dominello welcomed the upgrade, which provides more floor space, better room configuration and increased levels of comfort for local patients and their visitors.

“I have a special affinity with Ryde Hospital as my sisters and I were all born here,” Mr Dominello said.

“I am pleased that the NSW Government has delivered on its commitment, investing $9 million in upgrading and improving the hospital’s facilities.”

Minister Hazzard said the new Critical Care Unit is a major development for the treatment of seriously ill or injured patients at Ryde Hospital.

“This major upgrade brings Ryde Hospital well and truly into the 21st century,” Mr Hazzard said.

“I’m particularly pleased that the new Critical Care Unit also features a room specifically designed for palliative care patients, giving patients in the final stages of life more comfort and privacy to be with their loved ones,” Mr Hazzard said.

New air conditioning, equipment, furniture and art works ensure the wards are as comfortable and pleasant as possible for patients and visitors.

Mr Dominello and Mr Hazzard also met with Mums@Ryde to discuss upgrades to the birthing unit, which include expansion of the birth unit area, co-location of antenatal clinics into the birth unit, painting, improved mobile phone coverage and creation of a new large waiting/family room.

It is pleasing to see that having advocated alongside the Mums@Ryde the birthing unit is currently receiving an upgrade,” Mr Dominello said.