Berrigan’s health service will have reduced operating hours until the end of January.
It is one of five facilities in the Murrumbidgee Local Health District subjected to the reductions, as a result of staffing issues over the festive period.
MLHD said the changes are being implemented “to ensure patients receive safe care during the summer holiday period”.
“Despite extensive recruitment efforts, the Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) has vacancies for nurses with ED skills in some rural hospitals,“ the MLHD statement said.
“Healthcare services in rural and regional areas, across Australia, are currently facing ongoing challenges in key health worker recruitment.”
The Berrigan Multipurpose Service’s emergency department will be open between 8am and 6pm.
Patients requiring ED treatment between the hours of 6pm and 8am should present to Finley Hospital or call 000 for an ambulance.
Other multipurpose facilities impacted are Batlow-Adelong, Coolamon-Ganmain, Murrumburrah-Harden and Urana.
The five impacted health service EDs are all within 35 minutes or less of a hospital with a 24-hour emergency department.
“The modified hours will support our dedicated staff to take leave during the holiday period and ensure the continuation of safe, high-quality healthcare services for all patients,” MLHD said.
“MLHD recognises and is deeply thankful for the outstanding commitment and tireless efforts of our nurses and midwives.
“We understand that change can bring uncertainty, and we are committed to keeping the community informed and involved throughout this process.
“MLHD will continue active recruitment efforts including offering the increased incentive package of up to $20,000 for health workers relocating and commencing work at rural and remote locations.
“There will be no change to the operational hours of the aged care services in these MPS facilities.”
MLHD said it is working closely with NSW Ambulance to maintain 24/7 access to emergency care and facilitate rapid transfers to the closest specialist care centre when required.
“If an illness or injury is not life-threatening, we encourage people to visit their GP or call Healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222, which is a 24-hour telephone health advice line staffed by registered nurses to provide fast, expert advice on any health issue and what to do next.”
Berrigan Shire residents also have access to the Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network’s Telehealth After-Hours Service.
Delivered by HealthAccess, it offers out of hours GP care and advice between 6pm and 10pm weeknights, and noon to 4pm on weekends and public holidays.
The service can be accessed by calling 1800 272 767.
MHPN says those impacted by the health service reductions, and other community members are urged to plan ahead to ensure they can protect their health and wellbeing this festive season.
MPHN senior manager integration Toni Preuss said it’s helpful to make health preparation part of holiday planning.
This includes checking your regular medications to ensure you have enough to last through the holidays, as pharmacies and GP clinics may also be closed or operating under reduced hours.
It’s also helpful to have basic first aid supplies and key health contacts on hand for you and your family.