Robina Hospital's Palliative Care Nurse Unit Manager Maureen Tapfield is playing an integral role in developing the new Coomera Hospital, projected to open in late 2027. As a Project User Group (PUG) member, Maureen shares clinical insights with the project’s architects, landscapers, and builders.
Tell us about your career journey...
My nursing career has been focused on palliative care and oncology. Early on, I gained experience in oncology, HIV, and palliative care at St Vincent Hospital and Sacred Heart Hospice in Sydney. While there, I was seconded to the Royal Women’s Hospital at Randwick to develop their Gynaecological Palliative Support Services. My journey continued through various roles, including managing an Acute Medical and Palliative Care Service at Mona Vale Hospital and later establishing the Rehabilitation Services at John Flynn Hospital. In 2010, I took on the role of Nurse Unit Manager for Specialist Palliative Care Services at Gold Coast Health, Robina, where I continue to work today.
What does your role as a PUG member entail?
In the PUG, the focus has been to integrate the needs of palliative care into the hospital's design. It’s about ensuring that the environment offers the sensory experiences to our patients, creating spaces that are not only functional but also comforting and holistic. The team has advocated for considerations that support physical and emotional wellbeing, enhancing the quality of life for our patients and families.
Can you describe your involvement in the design process of the new hospital?
In our discussions with the project team, there has been significant insight on various design elements of the hospital build, from the patient room layouts to the inclusion of sensory gardens. I have helped share insights into the proposed designs, reflecting the needs and preferences of those who use the space. It’s about creating an environment that supports quality of life and wellbeing in the end-of-life journey, incorporating the smallest details like colour schemes and access to natural elements. The project team's incredible sense of purpose and vision brings experience to the table, ensuring that every aspect of the hospital design reflects a commitment to continuous care for patients and families.
Why is it important for clinicians to have input into facility design?
Having clinicians involved in the design process is crucial as we understand the practical and holistic needs of health care delivery. We can identify potential issues and offer solutions that may be overlooked by designers. Our input ensures the hospital functions efficiently for both patients and staff, making it a framework of clinical excellence and incorporating an all-inclusive journey; it’s more than just a building – a framework and enhancement of the continuous care of our patients/families and staff.
What impact do you hope the new hospital will have on the community?
I envisage the new Coomera Hospital will become a cornerstone of comprehensive care, where medical excellence meets emotional and spiritual support. My understanding from our team’s discussions is that the hospital will be a place that not only offers holistic care, framed within the values of our organisation, but serves the community encompassing all aspects of health and wellbeing.
What do you do to prioritise your health?
Outside of work, I take care of my wellbeing through yoga, gardening, walking and cooking.
