Ahead of the opening of the new H Block at Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH), staff had an early look inside the purpose-built facility through guided engagement tours.
They seized the chance to walk through light-filled wards and support areas, ask questions and see first-hand how the co-location of specialist services for older adults and people living with cognitive or behavioural challenges under one roof will transform the way care is delivered.
The engagement day drew strong interest and positive feedback, with many staff eager to familiarise themselves with the new environment before welcoming patients and families.
For those who were unable to attend the tours, a walkthrough video is now available.
H Block has been carefully designed to support older adults and people living with cognitive or behavioural challenges, with services scheduled to commence in stages from late September.
The new building will bring together three specialist services – two Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) Units and an Acute Cognitive Unit (ACU) for people living with the Behavioural and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) – alongside a Complex Management Unit (CMU) on the top floor, dedicated to patients with complex psychosocial and medical needs.
Gold Coast Health Clinical Director of Rehabilitation Aged Care and Community Services Dr Benjamin Chen said H Block marks a major milestone for patient care.
“The new H Block at Gold Coast University Hospital marks a new era for older adult care,” Ben said.
“It brings together compassionate teams, a modern, light-filled environment and person-centred care – all under one roof.
“Whether you’re a patient, carer, family member or staff member – we hope you feel the difference this space makes.”
Gold Coast Health Nursing Director of Rehabilitation Aged Care and Community Services Catherine King said the building had been designed with patients and families front of mind.
“Every feature – from colour palettes to accessibility – supports the needs of older adults and their families, with care focused on what matters most to them,” Catherine said.
Located next to C Block and the Transfer Unit at Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH), and connected via a linkway, H Block will boost bed capacity across the health service, easing pressure on acute wards at GCUH and Robina Hospital, improving patient flow and enabling more appropriate use of existing acute beds.
Services will commence in stages from late September, beginning with the GEM and ACU units on the Ground floor.
The relocation of the CMU from Robina Hospital will follow, before the final phase opens with the standalone 24-bed GEM Unit on the Lower Ground level, completing the 36-bed GEM service across H Block.
