Concept plans for the redevelopment of the Finley Health Service have been revealed, with further consultation on the designs to begin this month.
The NSW Government is investing $25 million to deliver the new and refurbished clinical spaces at the facility to support the health needs of local communities in Finley, Berrigan, Tocumwal and Jerilderie.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park as part of the $45.3 million Key Worker Accommodation program, local and visiting health workers will also benefit from six new accommodation units which will be built on the Finley Health Service site.
The project will include upgrades to the emergency department, an expanded inpatient unit, a larger reception, improved staff facilities and new main entry are among the enhancements to be delivered.
The existing range of health services will continue to be provided, including acute and sub-acute care, palliative care and a range of community care and allied health services, supported by telehealth and access to specialty services on referral.
The hospital design has been informed by extensive feedback and consultation with health professionals, staff, patients, Aboriginal community representatives and the Local Health Advisory Committee.
“We’re committed to investing in health infrastructure in our rural and regional communities, I’ve always said your postcode shouldn’t determine the level of care you can access,” Mr Park said.
“The Finley redevelopment will provide welcome upgrades to the emergency department, new and refurbished clinical spaces and really importantly a new ultrasound service.
“This redevelopment will also include staff accommodation units.
“These new units will support heath care workers looking to establish themselves in a new community, which we know is a key factor in attracting and retaining health workers at rural and regional hospitals.”
NSW Member for Murray Helen Dalton welcomed the investment in staffing accommodation in particular.
“The construction of the accommodation block which hopefully will attract much needed medical professionals to the area,” she said.
“I'm excited by the opportunity for the community’s input in the planning and design process.
“It's important that government understands and listens to locals to deliver services that meet their health care needs.”
Construction is expected to start later this year following planning approvals and the appointment of a building contractor.
The construction program will be staged to ensure minimal disruption to clinical services which will continue to operate throughout the redevelopment.
The project scope is continuing to be developed and will be finalised through the design process.
Artist impressions and project information can be viewed at Finley Health Service and Finley Hospital Opportunity Shop.
You can learn more about the project and the design at a drop-in information session with the project team on Tuesday, May 14.
It will be hosted from 11am to 1pm at Finley Health Service.
For more information, go to https://bit.ly/FinleyHospitalRedev or contact the project team at MLHD-Finley-Redevelopment@health.nsw.gov.au or phone (02) 9978 5412.