Patients, staff and the community are set to benefit from a series of upgrade works at Deniliquin Hospital, as part of a $4.6 million joint investment by the NSW Government and the Australian Government.
NSW Regional Health Minister Ryan Park toured Deniliquin Hospital today and said the upgrades have created modern, fit for purpose clinical spaces for the community and staff at the hospital.
"The upgrades have provided an enhanced experience for patients, visitors and staff, and ensure the local community will continue to receive vital health care close to home," Mr Park said.
"Works completed as part of the $4.6 million project include an upgraded emergency department, an upgraded day surgery unit and operating theatre, a relocation of the oncology unit to a purpose-built space, an enhanced paediatric care area and a new computed tomography (CT) scanner."
"We are committed to ensuring every patient receives the highest level of care available and these upgrades demonstrate the NSW Government's ongoing commitment to providing high quality healthcare in rural and regional areas."
Mr Park also recognised the challenge of maintaining essential health services during the works.
"To complete a project of this scope with minimal disruption to services is a credit to the staff and contractors," Mr Park said.
Helen Dalton, the independent Member for Murray, praised the roll out of the CT scanner.
"This new technology is a game changer for rural and remote communities," Ms Dalton said.
"I am determined to work closely and constructively with the newly elected government on ensuring rural and remote communities have access to the most modern hospital infrastructure and health care."
The Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, said the upgrades will help people who live in the Deniliquin region to access health care where they live.
"All Australians deserve to have access to high-quality health care close to home when they need it," Mr Butler said.
"The Australian Government is working hard to tackle this, so that people who live in rural and regional areas like Deniliquin don't have to travel far from home just to get health care.
"The Deniliquin hospital upgrade of its facilities and equipment will be of great benefit to patients and the hospital's hard-working health professionals."
