Monash University Education and Research Precinct at new Children’s Hospital

A Monash University Paediatrics Education and Research Precinct will be part of the new Monash Children’s Hospital at Clayton thanks to a recent funding commitment by the University.

The Monash University Council has committed $6 million to fund the precinct to support teaching, clinical research and administration of paediatric programs at one of Australia’s largest children’s hospitals.

“A prominent Monash University presence in the Monash Children’s Hospital (MCH) is vital for connecting clinical care, research and education,” said Head of Paediatrics Professor Nick Freezer.

The funding will enable construction of multidisciplinary clinical education and research facilities featuring the latest in information technology, telecommunications and video conferencing capability for student education and clinical meetings.

“Our medical students and clinical staff will have access to live webcasts from the MCH operating theatres to view surgical procedures in real time,” said Professor Freezer.

Data relating to patient monitoring, anaesthesia and diagnostic imaging will also be viewed, fostering interdisciplinary discussion and learning.

In addition to the education and research space, a state-of-the-art Patient Safety Simulation and Clinical Skills Centre will be built at the new MCH, providing a unique opportunity for medical and staff and students to practice their clinical skills. 

“The Centre will replicate a hospital emergency department resuscitation bay and will be equipped with computerised infant and child manikins.”

Operated by Monash Health and Monash University staff, the Centre will provide essential education for clinical staff and postgraduate students.

“By collocating clinical education and research space with the academic headquarters of the new hospital, the new Education and Research Precinct will facilitate the expansion of current educational and research programs,” added Professor Freezer.

It is anticipated that each year 600 students will participate in clinical education and more than 200 clinicians will move through the new precinct for education, training and research purposes.

Professor Freezer plans to strengthen academic paediatrics at MCH over the next few years and has started recruiting additional key academic appointments to support research growth.