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Peace and quiet are not often words used in describing a hospital stay, but Victoria's newest private healthcare facility is hoping to achieve just that.
The $145 million Northern Private Hospital in the Melbourne suburb of Epping has pioneered the latest digital devices for patient safety and quality, including a new communication system making it the state's first 'quiet hospital'.
Northern Private Hospital CEO Shaune Gillespie said the technology meant fewer disruptions for patients, and faster communication between staff.
"Gone are the days when patients, and even staff, had to buzz a noisy call bell for assistance and hope it gets heard," he said.
"Now, the message goes directly to exactly who needs to hear it.
"Our smart comms devices link a patient's call button, monitors and other safety equipment directly to the nurses looking after them.
"They also allow our nurses to immediately, and silently, call for additional assistance."
A 2012 report from the Pritzker School of Medicine, at the University of Chicago, found elevated noise levels in hospitals led to "clinically significant sleep loss" among patients, causing a delay in their recovery time.
During a 155-day study period, researchers examined hospital sound levels and found the numbers far exceeded World Health Organization recommendations for average hospital-room noise levels, with the peak noise at an average of 80.3 decibels – nearly as loud as a chainsaw or electric sander, and well over the recommended maximum of 40 decibels.
Mr Gillespie said hospital operator Ramsay Health Care's multi-million-dollar investment in the new range of technology was focused on providing integrated, world-class patient care.
"Northern Private will also accept referrals direct from general practitioners, helping to take pressure off local emergency departments and reduce wait times for patients," he said.
The hospital features 70 patient beds, four operating theatres, a cardiac catheterisation lab, a sleep study unit, a day chemotherapy unit, on-site pharmacy, pathology, and medical imaging.
The wide range of specialties available include general medicine, cancer care, cardiac care, ENT, orthopaedics, IVF and fertility, vascular care, urology, nephrology, gastroenterology, general surgery, thoracic surgery, respiratory and sleep services and plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Ramsay Australia CEO Carmel Monaghan said the new facility was co-located with Northern Hospital Epping, the facilities joined by a link bridge.
"Ramsay saw the need for better access to quality private healthcare services in the fast-growing suburbs north of Melbourne," she said.
"We're really excited to be able to offer Victorians the very best healthcare, close to home, and it's fantastic to be opening Northern Private at the same time Ramsay is celebrating its 60th anniversary."
Northern Private Hospital also supports Ramsay's commitment to sustainability and has a 4 Star Green Star Rating.
The building was built using cooling beams and features solar panels, LED efficient lighting and double-glazed windows.
"We've worked hard to make sure this hospital benefits patients, the community and the planet for many years to come," Mr Gillespie said.
Read more: New Melbourne hospital part of $2b renewal
Read more: Ramsay celebrates 60-year legacy
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