Geraldton St John of God Hospital shows 15 per cent increase in patients over 2023-24 financial year

St John of God Hospital in Geraldton had a 15 per cent spike in patients over the 12 months to June this year, according to the organisation’s annual report.

The document states the private Geraldton hospital had a 15 per cent increase in surgical separations, as well as an 18 per cent rise in operating room activity.

The report indicated the results had been due to recent expansion.

“The growth is largely attributed to the expanded use of the minor procedure room for endoscopy, which began in February 2023,” it read.

“This expansion has also boosted the utilisation of main theatres, particularly for orthopaedic and general surgery.”

Maternity support looked to have been a strong focus for the hospital across the financial year.

SJOG Geraldton is the only private Mid West hospital with a maternity service, with the only other options for expecting mothers in the region to go through the public system or to Perth.

According to the report, 225 mothers were assisted, which was a 15 per cent increase on last financial year.

The rise was suggested to be a result of increasing the capacity of the gynaecology ward and female day surgery.

Enhanced collaboration with the WA Country Health Service was also a highlight for the organisation.

Going forward, the SJOG was looking to continue advancements in the surgical and procedural capabilities, strengthen the engagement of caregivers, and develop skills, particularly in the nursing, medical, and midwifery fields.

St John of God Health Care chief executive Bryan Pyne said across the board, the organisation was navigating through a tough period.

“We’ve been navigating a challenging landscape of regulatory shifts, rising costs and fluctuating patient demand for several years but we are resolute in our commitment to deliver outstanding care and clinical excellence,” he said.

“We are responding to pressures on health care funding by leaning into change and aligning resources to streamline service delivery across the organisation.”