Federation Council has formally endorsed a submission to the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) regarding the draft Corowa Hospital Health Service Plan, strongly supporting a major redevelopment of the ageing facility while calling for greater community consultation and transparency.
The draft summary reveals that the healthcare needs of the local catchment will be best served through a full redevelopment of the Corowa Hospital. Key improvements recommended in the draft plan include:
- 24-hour emergency services, including a safe room
- Increased inpatient beds and a new close observation unit
- A fully integrated operating theatre
- Expanded radiology services, including a new CT service alongside X-ray and ultrasound
- Chair-based service areas for renal dialysis, infusions/transfusions and dental treatment
- Expanded community health, mental health, drug and alcohol clinics
- Dedicated staff accommodation and enhanced virtual health technology
Federation Council Mayor, Cr Cheryl Cook said Corowa Hospital is a vital community asset, but with parts of the facility dating back to pre-1900, a modern redevelopment is long overdue.
"Maintaing and updating local healthcare facilities is essential," Mayor Cook said.
"It ensures our residents can receive quality care close to home and reduces unnecessary pressure on major regional centres like Albury, Wangaratta and Wagga Wagga."
While Council firmly supports these proposed upgrades in principle, its submission highlights the need for the full, detailed Health Service Plan to be made public. Council has urged the MLHD to allow a standard 28-day public exhibition period for the completed document to build community trust and clarify critical details such as exact bed counts, parking solutions and whether the redevelopment will occur on a greenfield or brownfield site.
"Council, along with our local Health Advisory Committee, community action groups, business chamber and Member for Albury Justin Clancy MP, has fought passionately for this site," Mayor Cook said.
"Seeing a full redevelopment recommended in the draft plan is a fantastic step forward for our region."
