Clinical staff use virtual reality as part of Hornsby Hospital $200m upgrade

Virtual reality technology is educating clinicians about the layout of new soon-to-be-built wards and buildings at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital.

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Virtual reality technology is educating clinicians about the layout of new soon-to-be-built wards and buildings at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital.

The $200 million stage two redevelopment of the hospital commenced in August last year, and will feature a refurbished and expanded emergency department.

Artist impressions of the $200m stage two redevelopment of Hornsby Hospital.

Hospital general manager Lee Gregory said the technology was being used as a tool for staff and the wider community to experience the facility before construction is complete.

“From next month, pop-up stands will be held at the hospital to give staff and members of the

public the ability to view 3D images of various areas of the new facility, including the main

entry, ambulatory care reception, lobby, rehabilitation, paediatrics and the Intensive Care

Unit,” Mr Gregory said.

Picture shows (L-R) Occupational Therapist Melinda Hunt; Intensive Care Nursing Manager Jay Halkhoree; and physiotherapist Katie Lee trying out a virtual reality device at Hornsby Hospital. Picture: Julian Andrews

“The Virtual Reality headset displaying the 360 degree images is a useful communications

tool to present a realistic impression of the new hospital to staff and the community.

“A separate, and more interactive Virtual Reality building model, will enable staff and

clinicians to conceptualise the space, allowing for accurate change management and

planning for models of care in the new building, well before the new facility is complete.”

Artist impressions of the lobby inside the stage two redevelopment of Hornsby Hospital.

The stage two redevelopment will also include a new multi-storey Clinical Services Building featuring a Medical Assessment Unit, combined Intensive Care and High Dependency Unit, Coronary Care and Cardiac Investigations Unit, Ambulatory Care Centre, Transit Lounge, Inpatient Units and combined education space with the University of Sydney as part of the development.

Hornsby state Liberal MP Matt Kean said the hospital was leading the way in technology and design.

“This is a chance for everyone to see what is planned for Hornsby and the fantastic new facility which will transform our hospital,” he said.