Residents fear Pakenham’s hospital could mirror Cranbourne, which failed to deliver urgent care services, a promise they say was made during planning.
Concerns intensified after the State Government toured the Pakenham site last week, confirming construction is on track for completion next year and highlighting the services that will be offered.
Following the Gazette’s report on the tour, locals took to social media to criticise the project, arguing it has been oversold.
“It’s not a hospital without an emergency department… just a medical centre equipped to perform day surgeries,” Chris wrote in our comment section.
“This in no way resembles a hospital. No wards, no ED, no urgent care. Those are the things we really need and will assist in taking some of the pressure off Casey,” Emily added.
Others questioned staffing levels, operating hours, and the decision to label it a “hospital”.
They also said Monash Health’s recent warning highlights the need for Pakenham’s hospital to avoid Cranbourne’s ‘failure’ and relieve pressure on major hospitals.
“Please be aware that our emergency departments at Casey Hospital, Dandenong Hospital and Monash Medical Centre are currently experiencing extreme demand,” Monash Health shared on social media.
“Non-life-threatening presentations will likely experience longer wait times as a result.”
The Victorian Government has since clarified its position, stressing its commitment stands.
“The Pakenham Community Hospital is part of the Allan Labor Government’s $800 million community hospitals program – delivering more health services, closer to home in Victoria’s fastest growing areas,” the spokesperson said.
“Operated by Monash Health and once fully operational, Pakenham Community Hospital will have capacity for a range of day hospital services such as dialysis and chemotherapy, specialist clinics and an Urgent Care Centre.
“As with all major health infrastructure projects, services at Pakenham Community Hospital will open in stages to ensure a smooth rollout for patients and staff.”
The Government told the Gazette that, for now, the nearest non-life-threatening urgent care remains the Narre Warren Medicare Urgent Care Clinic.
Cardinia Shire Council General Manager Community and Planning Services Debbie Tyson said “the Pakenham Community Hospital is a vital addition to our region”.
“Our understanding is that the new hospital has been designed to deliver a range of everyday health services such as urgent care, chemotherapy and allied health,” he said.
Mayor Jack Kowarzik added that Cardinia Shire is one of Victoria’s fastest-growing municipalities, welcoming an average of three new households each day.
