Ripley Satellite Hospital opened its doors this morning to patients with minor injuries and illnesses, saving them a trip to the busy Ipswich Hospital Emergency Department.

Patients like Christian, from Ripley, who was the first to receive care at the new facility this morning.
“It’s good to know this is here in Ripley whenever I need it,” he said.

In addition to the Minor Injuries and Illness Clinic the new facility will open more services for patients who are receiving specialist care with West Moreton Health. Specialist paediatric, antenatal, diabetes, rheumatology, palliative care and allied health clinics will be the first to see patients at the Ripley facility. Over the following months, geriatric, gynaecology, obstetrics and respiratory clinics will be added.

About 800 people a week are expected to benefit from these outpatient services closer to home once the satellite hospital is fully operational.

West Moreton Health Chief Executive Hannah Bloch said the Minor Injury and Illness Clinic would reduce pressure on the Ipswich Hospital Emergency Department.

“This is where the community can seek treatment for unexpected injuries like broken bones, minor cuts and burns, strains and sprains,” Ms Bloch said.

“We will also treat anyone over 3 months of age for minor illnesses such as infections, rashes and fevers.”

The Minor Injury and Illness Clinic provides urgent care to people without an appointment between 8am and 10pm, seven days a week. The service is free to Medicare cardholders.

The Satellite Hospitals Program is a Queensland Government commitment to deliver seven new facilities to support public healthcare delivery in rapidly growing communities across South East Queensland.

For more information, visit www.westmoreton.health.qld.gov.au/ripley