The new multi-level hospital building, which boasts 832 beds, is situated only 800m from the old structure.

The hospital's chief executive, Dr Ernest Kenoshi, said his staff were excited about the move.

Construction on the building began before 1994 but the project was halted until 2001.

Kenoshi said that initial plans had involved building a 1200-bed hospital, but these were later amended.

"We are now moving into a hospital that we are happy with," he said.

The facility also boasts 22 operating theatres, 19 lifts, 80 consulting rooms, and the largest kitchen in the country.

A staggering 3600 staff members, which includes 420 doctors and specialists and 1230 nurses, will work in the hospital.

With six entrances, new medical equipment and improved security, Kenoshi described the hospital as "patient-friendly".

The move from the 74-year-old building, formerly known as the HF Verwoerd Hospital, began on January 16 and should be completed by March 10. The hospital's emergency unit will this week move into the new building and the management has advised the public to utilise alternative hospitals on February 16 and 17.

Kenoshi said the hospital would also accommodate clinical departments from the University of Pretoria, which had contributed 17% towards building costs.

The old hospital building will be converted into a 200-bed district hospital called Tshwane District Hospital.
 
Sunday Times
Publisher: I-Net Bridge
Source: I-Net Bridge