A suite of modular solutions for eleven regional healthcare facilities

The Building Rural and Remote Health Program, established by the Queensland Government’s Department of Health, aims to improve critical health service infrastructure across more than 30 sites in rural and remote communities throughout the state. The program seeks to ensure the delivery of high-quality, contemporary health services through durable and technologically-advanced facilities, with a focus on replacing ageing facilities.

The program encompasses a range of facility types including outpatient clinics that complement existing hospitals, replacement of primary health care centres, and substantial redevelopments of rural hospitals. The design process considers various factors such as location-specific weather and climatic challenges, continuity of service during construction, cost-effective construction in remote areas, and the need for self-sufficiency in rural and remote locations where major hospitals are absent or inaccessible.

One of the key features of the program involves the development of modular solutions to augment or replace ageing facilities. These sites will provide a range of clinical and general support services including acute and non-acute spaces, rehabilitation facilities, and a 12-bed inpatient unit at one site.

ThomsonAdsett, in partnership with AECOM, has been leading the architectural design for the program since early 2022. This includes conducting site inspections, engaging in stakeholder consultation, and creating tender packages for Design & Construct contractors.

The intention is to provide modern, sustainable, and technologically-advanced healthcare facilities that meet the unique needs of rural and remote communities in Queensland. By utilising modular solutions and considering various challenges, the program aims to ensure that these facilities can deliver high-quality healthcare services while being cost effective and resilient to local conditions.