New in-patient ward for central Sydney-based military personnel

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) Ward at St Luke’s Hospital, Potts Point, Sydney was officially opened by Defence, Medibank Health Solutions and St Luke’s personnel yesterday.

The dedicated in-patient facility, which includes 12 single-bed rooms, began providing in-patient services to ADF members last month.

Director General Garrison Health Services, Brigadier Georgeina Whelan said St Luke’s Hospital would provide clinical services at the new site, drawing on experienced St Luke’s staff who would be complemented by a Defence Health Liaison Cell to ensure military supervision of Defence patients.

“The new ward provides our central Sydney-based men and women with ready access to local in-patient services,” she said.

“It’s particularly important for our single personnel who live in service accommodation and who are away from their families and next of kin. The location enables them to be close to their friends, colleagues and chain of command.

“Further, it’s a fantastic opportunity for our health services professionals to draw on the clinical opportunities available at the St Luke’s campus.”

Military in-patient care in Sydney has evolved over the years, starting with a Naval Ward at St Vincent’s Hospital in 1875, migrating to the Balmoral Naval Hospital, and returning to St Vincent’s Hospital on 31 March 2008 as 'Navy Ward' when the Naval Hospital was closed for refurbishment.

With the transition of Garrison health service delivery from the single Services to Joint Health Command in January 2012, the Navy Ward became known as the ADF Ward. In the five years of operation, over 5500 ADF members were admitted for health care to the ADF Ward.

Following its closure in March this year Joint Health Command had been investigating options for a contract to support ADF personnel in a new location.

The services at St Luke’s were procured under the ADF Health Services Contract through an agreement with Medibank Health Solutions, and include access for ADF health staff to professional development opportunities at the St Luke’s campus.

Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999