Psychiatry Emergency Care Centre - Adults

Overview

What the service is

The Wollongong Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre is a short stay unit, primarily for crisis intervention for consumers with low to medium acuity mental health problems; and who are likely to require only a brief period (up to 48 hours) in hospital.

What we do

To help with a speedy recovery while in the Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre (PECC), other relevant services, such as the Drug and Alcohol Service, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, or Specialist Mental Health Services for Older People, will be included at the earliest opportunity.

The unit has 4 bedrooms, with each consumer having their own room; and staff are available 24 hours a day. Consumers also have available to them a communal lounge and dining area, and a courtyard.

What to expect

Consumers are admitted for different reasons. It is important to be aware of your treatment plan and legal status – discuss this with your doctor and nurse. Staff on the unit aim to assist in your recovery.

Who should access this service

The Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre is a short stay unit, primarily for crisis intervention for adults over 18.

How to access this service

Referrals to the Mental Health Service are by calling:

Mental Health Line 1800011511

Mental Health Line is a 24-hour telephone access service.

If it is an emergency call: 000

What to bring / what will be required

You will require a change of clothes and personal toiletries. Any money and valuables (including mobile phones) will be placed in the unit safe on admission.

Contact Information

Psychiatry Emergency Care Centre
Level 1, Block B
Wollongong Hospital
Loftus Street
Wollongong NSW 2500
1800 011 511
02 4253 4350
Monday 12:30pm to 1:30pm
4:00pm to 8:00pm
Tuesday 12:30pm to 1:30pm
4:00pm to 8:00pm
Wednesday 12:30pm to 1:30pm
4:00pm to 8:00pm
Thursday 12:30pm to 1:30pm
4:00pm to 8:00pm
Friday 12:30pm to 1:30pm
4:00pm to 8:00pm
Weekends and public holidays 10:00am to 8:00pm

How to get there

You can drive to Wollongong Hospital or use public transport. The hospital faces Crown Street, however the main street entrance is via Loftus Street. The nearest train station is Wollongong Railway Station; and buses service the area. There is a free bus, 55A and 55C, which operate between the hospital, town, and the train station.

Parking

Paid public parking is available at the Wollongong Hospital site.

Advice for disabled to get to the service

Wollongong Hospital can be accessed by persons with a disability