When it comes to healthcare facilities in Brisbane, one name stands out as the largest and most comprehensive: the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH). Recognized as Queensland’s biggest hospital, RBWH plays a pivotal role in delivering a wide array of clinical services to the community.
Why Is RBWH the Biggest Hospital in Brisbane?
RBWH boasts approximately 1,000 beds, making it not only the largest hospital in Brisbane but also one of the biggest in Australia. This extensive capacity allows the hospital to provide tertiary and quaternary care across numerous specialties, including emergency medicine, surgery, oncology, maternity, mental health, and more.
Location and Role
Situated in the Herston health precinct, RBWH serves as a major referral centre for patients from Brisbane, regional Queensland, northern New South Wales, and even neighboring countries. It is a key teaching hospital affiliated with multiple universities and TAFE campuses, fostering research and education alongside clinical care.
Services and Specialties
RBWH offers a comprehensive range of services, including:
- Emergency and trauma care
- Medical and surgical specialties
- Women’s and newborn health
- Cancer treatment and research
- Mental health services
- Rehabilitation and allied health
Its large scale enables it to manage complex cases and provide cutting-edge treatments.
Comparison with Other Brisbane Hospitals
While other hospitals like the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Hospital (QEII) on Brisbane’s southside are expanding rapidly—with significant investments increasing bed capacity and clinical services—RBWH remains the largest in terms of bed numbers and service breadth.
The QEII Hospital is undergoing a major expansion, adding over 100 beds and new clinical facilities by 2027, but it still does not match RBWH’s overall size.
Recognition and Rankings
RBWH is consistently ranked among Australia’s top hospitals, known for its research excellence and quality care. It is also listed in global hospital rankings, reflecting its status as a world-class institution.
Summary
The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH) stands as Brisbane’s largest hospital, with around 1,000 beds and a vast range of clinical services. Its role as a tertiary and quaternary referral centre, combined with its teaching and research functions, makes it a cornerstone of healthcare in Queensland.