A new state-of-the-art hospital with capacity to care for 600 patients a month has opened its doors in Penrith.

The Somerset Private Hospital, owned by the Cura Day Hospitals Group, services the fast-growing Nepean Blue Mountains region, with a population predicted to rise from 323,797 to over 364,000 by 2026/27.

The new facility, based in the Nepean health precinct, brings four additional operating theatres and 12 overnight beds, while creating 100 new jobs for the region including doctors, nurses, and support staff.

Specialities include Ophthalmology, Plastics and Reconstructive Surgery, Orthopaedics, Gastroenterology, Gynaecology, Ear, Nose and Throat, as well as Oral and Maxillofacial.

Cura Day Hospitals Group CEO Andrew Currie said this is a pivotal moment for the region, bringing the latest technology and treatments to meet modern demand.

“We’re excited to bring first-class specialist short stay hospital care to Penrith,” 

Mr Currie said.

“Our talented nurses, and visiting medical specialists, are passionate about their patients and feel proud to provide a very high standard of care.

As more families choose to live, work and grow here, it’s important they have a choice in where they receive their care and can access treatment fast.

Our new hospital will ensure sustainable growth for the community by reducing pressure on public resources.”

Gastroenterologist, Dr Viraj Kariyawasam will be among the first doctors to walk down the wards. He said the new hospital would fill a major gap for local patients who had been travelling up to 40kms for day surgery.

“The Penrith area has been crying out for a facility like this for years,” Dr Kariyawasam.

“I have heard of patients driving to Pennant Hill to get the service they need. Somerset Private will ensure locals can get the care they need – close to home, friends and family – without the stress of travel.

“I’m excited to be here for a new beginning, with lots of fantastic new tools and equipment to help treat the growing Penrith population. Helping patients from the start of their care journey is something I find really rewarding.”

Somerset Hospital will help meet patient needs with cutting-edge specialist equipment, including a state-of-the-art endoscopy system, to help clinicians detect, diagnose, and treat diseases in their earliest stages.

Surgeons will be equipped with the latest camera technology, providing ultra-high definition, magnified visualisation to work with precision.

Importantly, direct access referrals will be available to ensure eligible endoscopy patients can access treatment fast without requiring prior appointments.