McLaren Vale and Districts War Memorial Hospital is merging with South Australian Not For Profit aged care provider Kalyra, and though the hospital will close, an aged care home will open on the site.
The hospital is closing due to declining GP numbers, difficulty recruiting and retaining staff, and ageing infrastructure, among other issues.
Kalyra operates five retirement villages and three aged care homes, as well as offering home care services.
Sara Blunt, CEO, Kalyra Communities
A statement from the Kalyra CEO Sara Blunt, said, “Kalyra is committed to providing a facility that will support the McLaren Vale and Districts communities into the future.
“This will include moving forward in consultation with SA Ambulance Services, the Wellbeing GP Clinic and Clinpath pathology.
“The hospital kitchen will continue with food preparation for Meals on Wheels.
“Kalyra will also seek to co-design improved services in conjunction with the local community,” she said.
Sara added, "We would like to recognise the dedication and commitment of the doctors, nursing staff, volunteers and team members who have been providing services to the community since 1951. Your efforts for over 70 years are greatly appreciated.”
