St John of God Subiaco Hospital celebrates 120 years

19 Apr 2018

18 April 2018 

This special milestone will be marked with a number of activities that recognise the hospital’s heritage, community and significant contribution to medical and surgical advances.

St John of God Subiaco Hospital Chief Executive Officer Professor Shirley Bowen said the 120th anniversary was about celebrating the enduring contribution the hospital has made in caring for generations of Western Australians and recognising the many caregivers who have carried on the Sisters’ legacy.

“St John of God Subiaco Hospital is an iconic landmark in our city. Most people in Perth know someone who was born here, someone who has been cared for here or someone who has worked here," Professor Bowen said.

“The hospital has positively impacted the lives of hundreds of thousands of people over the last 120 years. In 2017 alone, we admitted more than 80,000 patients, supported more than 800 doctors and employed more than 2,500 caregivers across all areas of the hospital.

“Commemorating our 120th anniversary is a time to reflect on our heritage, on the many people who have a connection with the hospital, and on our contribution to medical research. It is also a time to feel inspired about our future.”

This week the hospital also commissioned its new Clinical Command Centre, which will further enhance the patient experience by centralising management of main theatres, improving patient flow through the hospital and increasing communication with doctors.

The Clinical Command Centre also offers a one-call service for late bookings, which makes it easier for doctors to get patients in who need to be operated on quickly.

“Our new Clinical Command Centre is a great example of integrating technology and innovation to support our mission of delivering excellence in patient care,” Professor Bowen said.

“The past leaders of our hospital, in particular the Sisters of St John of God, all drew on innovation to improve patient experience and create clinical excellence.”

“Clinical Excellence and an exceptional patient experience are our highest priorities and the coming years will see further innovation and development. It is a pivotal and exciting time for St John of God Subiaco Hospital."

St John of God Subiaco Hospital over the years

1912 - Exterior of hospital

1930s - New X-ray laboratory

1940s - Maternity ward

1940s - Hospital grounds

1950s - Nightingale ward

1950s - Hospital grounds

1960s - Anaesthetic apparatus

1965 - Sister with patient

1970 - School of Nursing

1981 - New X-ray department

2000s - Surgical team

2015 - Professor Christobel Saunders

(Image credit The West Australian)