Bourke Multipurpose Service (MPS) will undergo a major redevelopment, with a re-elected NSW Nationals Government set to invest $40 million to deliver new and improved health services in the region.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said the Bourke MPS redevelopment builds on the investment being made to deliver the health infrastructure and services communities in western NSW need now and for the future.
"It's critical that more remote communities like Bourke have the health services they need close to home," Mr Toole said.
"It's why The Nationals are investing $883 million to build a pipeline of health workers for regional communities and deliver new incentives that encourage them to put down roots - and why if re-elected, we'll invest a further $40 million in a redevelopment of the Bourke MPS.
"It continues our investment in the hospitals and health services that provide care to communities across western NSW – from the Cobar MPS delivered in 2020 to a new emergency department at Broken Hill.
"This critical investment in health infrastructure is only possible because of The Nationals' strong economic plan to keep our state moving forward."
Nationals' Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the $40 million investment will enhance key services as well as see the Emergency Department relocated to improve patient care, security and efficiency.
"The NSW Nationals have listened to local health workers and the community about what they need to see in this redevelopment and that is what we will deliver," Mrs Taylor said.
"This $40 million redevelopment will see the layout of the Bourke MPS improved, with the relocation of the Emergency Department a key element. The new ED will also be equipped to enhanced services including chair-based ambulatory services.
"Virtual care will also be a focus with the redevelopment set to deliver enhanced infrastructure to ensure patients can get the care they need, close to home.
"This is about ensuring the health needs of this region are met now and into the future."
Bourke MPS is a 35-bed facility. Services include emergency, acute and subacute medical inpatient services, mental health, drug and alcohol, palliative care, a limited range of low-risk surgical and obstetric services, and a range of primary/extended care and outpatient services.
Since 2011, the government has delivered more than 180 hospitals and health facilities across NSW, with more than 130 projects currently underway. Of those, more than 90 are in rural and regional communities.
