A $250,000 funding boost for Deniliquin Hospital has been welcomed, but is still well short of the mark according to NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton.
The NSW Government is providing Deniliquin Hospital $250,000 to purchase two surgical suite pendants which allow for easier access to medical gases and general surgical equipment.
“Hospital staff say they need this high-tech equipment, so it’s good to see the New South Wales Government is chipping in to help buy it,” Mrs Dalton said.
“This $250,000 investment in Deniliquin Hospital helps to ensure our regional and rural communities receive the best possible healthcare closer to home.
“This new equipment at Deniliquin Hospital will help to ensure clinical staff continue to offer high quality and timely care to patients.
“This small boost is helpful, but it is nowhere near enough to bridge the gap between healthcare in the cities and healthcare in rural New South Wales.
“Every New South Wales life is equal and our health system should reflect this.
“So while I welcome this funding, it’s important to point out it is not enough and more needs to be done to provide the people of rural New South Wales the level health of care they deserve.”
The funding announcement for Deniliquin Hospital is one of 61 announced this week by NSW minister for Health Ryan Park, totalling almost $12 million.
“The New South Wales Government is committed to investing in upgrading health facilities to support better health outcomes for rural and regional communities,” Mr Park said.
“The Rural Minor Works Program will allow Murrumbidgee Local Health District to upgrade surgical equipment at Deniliquin Hospital to enhance the working environment for health staff and improve patient experiences.
“The program is one of a number of investments the Minns Labor Government is making to strengthen rural and regional health services, so people have access to the best possible care close to home.”