NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park has announced $1.6 million in funding for two infrastructure projects at Maclean District Hospital, aimed at improving patient care and staff safety. The funding will support:
Upgrade of the nurse call system - $1 million: The hospital's current nurse system is outdated, with replacement parts no longer available. The new system will ensure timely communication between patients and nursing staff, enhancing patient safety and care.
Replacement of the hospital's lift - $600,000: The existing lift is more than 30 years old and has experienced intermittent breakdowns. The new lift will provide a reliable and safe means of transport for patients, staff, and equipment.
Fabrication and delivery of the new lift will be followed by a three-month period to decommission the old lift and complete installation, likely to occur in mid-2026.
Maclean District Hospital also recently received a $245,000 upgrade of mortuary facilities, including new walls, ceilings, flooring, refrigeration, and improved access.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park:
"The staff, patients, and local community rely on Maclean District Hospital every day, and these upgrades are essential to ensure it continues to operate safely and efficiently.
"These projects continue the improvement program and demonstrate our ongoing commitment to supporting regional health services and ensuring that hospitals like Maclean can continue to deliver high-quality care to their communities."
Quotes attributable to Labor spokesperson for Clarence Emily Suvaal MLC:
"These upgrades will make a real difference for both staff and patients at Maclean hospital.
"Reliable infrastructure, like a functioning lift and modern nurse call system, is critical to the day-to-day delivery of safe, high-quality care.
Quotes attributable to Tracey Maisey, Chief Executive, Northern NSW Local Health District:
"Investments like these ensure our teams have the tools and facilities they need to provide excellent care for the communities we serve."
