The recently opened Gawler Health Service emergency department has 15 beds - more than triple the capacity of the old ED.

Of these, 12 are adult acute treatment bays - up from four previously - and there are two new paediatric treatment bays.

The new $15 million ED includes a negative pressure room, with a dedicated anteroom and ensuite, along with a patient resuscitation bay, new hybrid procedure patient bay and patient admission and consulting spaces.

Barossa Hills Fleurieu Local Health Network interim Chief Executive Officer Bronwyn Masters was delighted to open the new emergency department.

“As Gawler continues to grow, we expect to see increasing presentations at our hospital,” Ms Masters said.

“That’s why a larger, contemporary emergency department is essential for the healthcare needs of our community."

The opening of the ED marks the completion of the first part of a three-stage development at Gawler Health Service, with the remaining stages set to be completed mid-year.

The Short Stay Unit will be refurbished as part of the development's second stage, while the previous ED space will be transformed into new meeting and training rooms, quiet spaces and workstations for staff as part of the final stage.

It will also feature a new undercover arrivals area, dedicated entry and exit driveway for ambulances, and a 35-space car park.

For more information about Gawler Health Service, visit SA Health’s website.