Calvary has invested $700,000 in the project which combines functional therapeutic benefits, recreation space, and enhanced wellbeing for patients recovering from major surgery, joint replacements, stroke, and a range of other conditions.

Deputy Director of Clinical Services for Calvary Hobart, Annie Ramsay, said recovering patients can practice some of the basic tasks of daily living that will help them maintain independence once they return home.

“For many patients it can be a long road back to being physically able to do even the basics that many of us take for granted,” Ms Ramsay said.

“The terrace features a mobility circuit with steps, a ramp and a mix of flooring so patients can practice their walking and gain confidence in negotiating different surfaces.

“There is space for functional activities like hanging out washing on a clothesline, and food preparation in the adjoining patient kitchenette. We’ve added some raised vegetable or flower garden also so our patients can practice using garden tools and once again enjoy an activity that may have been meaningful and important to them.

“Our therapists will be running exercise classes along with groups and recreational activities such as outdoor chess, 10-pin bowling, lawn bowls, and games groups. Or patients might just want to enjoy some time just sitting in the fresh air or sunshine, interacting with others, or taking in the views of Kunanyi/ Mt Wellington.”

The therapy terrace complements an adjacent indoor rehabilitation gym, and a louvred roof and heaters means patients can still use and enjoy the space in Tassie’s varying weather conditions.

Dr Carla Francesconi, Visiting Medical Officer and Chair of the hospital’s Rehabilitation Sub-committee said the terrace will help/helps bridge the gap between hospital and home.

“This is an exciting and innovative development and will add positively to the rehab experience at Calvary St John’s,” Dr Francesconi said.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to offer novel and creative therapies in this new space to assist with recovery and rehabilitation progress for our patients.”

The rehabilitation team combines the expertise of medical specialists, nurses and allied health professionals and takes a multi-disciplinary approach to help patients achieve their goals, improve their physical condition and return to everyday activities.

The unit caters for up to 43 patients. Although the only private hospital rehabilitation unit in Hobart and Southern Tasmania, the ward also provides care for up to a dozen public patients.

“Calvary has been proudly delivering healthcare to our Tasmanian community for more than 80 years and we continue to innovate to meet the needs of our community and the demands of modern healthcare,” Ms Ramsay said.