A state-of-the-art mental health unit, underpinned by a comprehensive approach to recovery, has been officially unveiled at Joondalup Health Campus, situated in the northern region of Perth. This multi-million-dollar establishment marks a significant stride forward in addressing mental health needs within the community.
Encompassing a total of 102 private patient rooms, the new facility boasts double the capacity of its predecessor. Distinctive ward sections have been meticulously designed to cater separately to diverse age groups: young adults aged 16 to 24, older individuals, and patients aged 65 and above.
The launch of this new establishment will occur in phases, with the initial focus being the seamless transition of both existing patients and staff from the previous 47-bed unit to this advanced edifice.
Emphasizing the paramount importance of ensuring quality, safety, and familiarity, Health Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson affirmed, “Ensuring that we maintain high standards of quality and safety and that staff are well-acquainted with the new space is of paramount importance.”
Minister Sanderson, who also holds the portfolio for mental health, articulated that the new facility represents a departure from traditional psychiatry-centered approaches. Instead, it is poised to embrace a more progressive model grounded in holistic recovery.
While acknowledging the value of psychiatry, Minister Sanderson stressed the need for a broader range of therapeutic interventions and support. She commented, “Access to psychiatry is essential, but it must be complemented with access to occupational therapists, social workers, and the enhanced role of mental health nursing. This facility has been designed to facilitate this shift.”
The modern facility encompasses dedicated treatment spaces, a fully-equipped gymnasium, and an educational center. Furthermore, it incorporates several interior courtyards, extending patients the opportunity to engage with outdoor spaces. The inclusion of a self-contained kitchen, serving patients in communal dining areas, enhances the facility’s holistic approach.
Minister Sanderson elucidated that the new establishment marks a departure from the traditional “inpatient medicate, discharge” model towards an all-encompassing person-centered recovery approach. She emphasized, “We are transitioning towards a comprehensive recovery model that places the individual at the center of their own journey.”
Premier Roger Cook emphasized the longevity of this vision within the Labor framework, as he stated, “This facility has been a part of our vision for mental health services in the northern suburbs for several years.” He underlined the alignment of this achievement with the ongoing expansion of Joondalup Hospital, demonstrating the government’s commitment to enhancing care and wellbeing.
With a vision extending back to their 2013 election commitments, Premier Cook celebrated the realization of this purposefully designed and contemporary establishment. He highlighted the facility’s capacity to provide a secure environment for mental health care, ensuring both the safety and well-being of patients.
The inauguration of this facility is part of a broader endeavor, encompassing a $269.4 million expansion initiative for Joondalup Health Campus. This initiative, jointly funded by the state and federal governments, embodies a concerted effort to bolster healthcare resources within the community.
Through this new facility, the overall tally of mental health beds in Western Australia’s public hospitals reaches an impressive 700, affirming the government’s commitment to enhancing mental health care accessibility and quality.
