Gold Coast Health is recognised for quality patient care, nursing and midwifery excellence and innovations in professional nursing and midwifery practice under the Magnet® Recognition Program.
"Walking together in kindness" artwork produced for Gold Coast Health by Riki Salam, We are 27 Creative.
For many people, the most difficult part of a medical scan begins before they enter the room.
It is the uncertainty of what lies ahead – the unfamiliar sounds, enclosed spaces and waiting for answers.
These experiences were at the heart of community consultation throughout July for the new Southport Medical Imaging Centre.
Gold Coast Health heard from Kombumerri Traditional Custodians, consumers, carers, healthcare workers and community members about what could help people feel calmer, informed and supported when accessing medical imaging services.
Consultation included the Gold Coast Primary Health Network’s Consumer Advisory Council, an online survey and a community co-design workshop supported by the project and design teams.
These activities captured more than 50 community and consumer contributions. Participants included people with disability, neurodivergent people, people from culturally diverse backgrounds and those with recent experience of MRI or CT services.
Participants spoke about the importance of clear information, simple wayfinding and comfortable spaces. They also shared ideas about sensory choice, nature, local identity and meaningful Connection to Country.
Gold Coast Health Medical Imaging Technology Assistant Director Harley Watson said the conversations provided valuable insight into the complete patient journey.
“Medical imaging can involve uncertainty and anxiety, particularly for people experiencing claustrophobia, pain or sensory sensitivity, so it’s important to hear directly from those who use and support these services,” Harley said.
“Clear information, realistic expectations and calm, respectful communication can be just as important as the physical environment in helping people feel supported.”
Gold Coast Health Creative Health Hub Manager Laura Strange said the consultation reinforced how creative elements should be considered as part of the patient experience, rather than simply as decoration.
“People spoke about wanting to feel reassured throughout their visit – from knowing where to go and what will happen, to waiting and changing in spaces that feel calm, welcoming and connected to the local community,” Laura said.
“The opportunity is to consider creative approaches that support comfort while providing choice wherever possible.”
Kombumerri Traditional Custodian and Yugambeh Museum General Manager Shannon Best said the project presented an opportunity to reflect the enduring connections between people, place and wellbeing.
“For our people, this area has always been connected through pathways, waterways and places where communities gathered, travelled and cared for one another,” Shannon said.
“By creating spaces that reflect Country and connection to place, we can help people feel welcomed, supported and connected as they seek answers, treatment, healing and wellbeing.”
Artist and lived experience advocate Hayley Stanich said uncertainty can heighten the anxiety of an unfamiliar healthcare experience.
“When you do not know what a scan will sound or feel like, how long it may take or how to ask for help, even small uncertainties can become overwhelming,” Hayley said.
“Clear information, simple wayfinding and choices within the environment can help people feel more prepared and maintain a sense of control.”
The project and design teams are now considering the ideas shared through consultation as planning continues. While no individual suggestions or design elements have been finalised, the feedback will provide valuable guidance as the team works through the clinical, cultural, accessibility, technical and the operational considerations to deliver the new centre.
The Southport Medical Imaging Centre is part of a $276 million Queensland Government investment to increase medical imaging capacity across the state.
Six new MRI machines and nine CT scanners will be installed across 11 Queensland locations, including new MRI and CT technology for the Tweed Street centre at Southport. The program will help increase diagnostic imaging capacity, take pressure off existing services and support Queenslanders to access healthcare when they need it.
