Strong community support continues for the Burns Unit at The Alfred

When he first arrived at The Alfred, people suffering from burns were admitted to whichever surgical unit was on call at the time. This meant that burns patients were spread across the hospital and surgery was often delayed.

At the time, infection control was a major problem and the biggest threat to a burns patient’s survival. It became increasingly clear that patients required specialised care and this led Prof Masterton to establish The Alfred’s first standalone unit in 1967, 50 years ago.

Once formed, the new unit had many early successes, and new treatment approaches significantly improved patient survival rates. This included early surgery, better wound management, and a greater focus on infection control.

Over the following decades, the unit’s momentum continued in each of these areas – to the point where it became a national leader in burns care and research.

A service built through community support

The Victorian Adult Burns Service has always had tremendous support from the public, especially from our rural and regional communities.

Last week we welcomed visitors from Stockinsure and Corcoran Parker who both made donations to the Burns Unit in memory of their good mate and colleague Trevor Parker.

Trevor passed away after sustaining burns to almost 70 per cent of his body when fuel ignited as he refilled a generator on his property in Chiltern. His family, friends, colleagues and local community were so grateful for the care he received at The Alfred that they have become great supporters of the hospital, as well as strong advocates; helping to promote safety messages throughout the region and raise awareness of the potential for burns injuries which could be sustained in their unique working environment and home life.

Whether caring for those who are injured in a terrible accident at home or work, like Trevor, treating victims of the Bali bombings or playing a major role in the care of those caught up in the Ash Wednesday or Black Saturday bushfires, The Alfred stands ready, each and every day.

For the last 50 years through to the next 50, we will continue to provide the community with the best care possible