The Western NSW Local Health District (WNSWLHD) has announced temporary changes to sub-acute mental health services provided at Panorama Clinic during the Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment. These services will be relocated to the Wattlegrove Unit at Orange’s Bloomfield Hospital campus to facilitate the $200 million redevelopment project.
Mark Spittal, the Chief Executive of WNSWLHD, emphasized that the decision to relocate services was made after careful consideration of various options. This decision was reached in consultation with key stakeholders, including the Ministers for Health and Mental Health, to ensure a seamless transition and continued provision of mental health services.
Spittal acknowledged the potential disruption caused by the relocation but highlighted the district’s commitment to maintaining the full suite of mental health services throughout the temporary move. The goal is to expedite the redevelopment process for the benefit of the Bathurst community and surrounding areas.
In response to community feedback, WNSWLHD is enhancing community mental health and support services to support the temporary relocation effectively. These enhancements include providing transportation for staff and consumers, establishing an enhanced liaison service, and addressing practical issues to ensure a smooth transition.
The Wattlegrove Unit in Orange was identified as the most viable location for the temporary relocation, meeting the necessary requirements and enabling service levels to be upheld. Spittal emphasized that despite the relocation, mental health emergency and urgent care services will continue through the emergency department as usual.
The redevelopment project aims to deliver high-quality care not only for Bathurst residents but also for the broader Central West region. Spittal highlighted the importance of progressing the project to meet the evolving healthcare needs of the community and ensure sustainable healthcare delivery in the future.
While the temporary relocation is scheduled for the second quarter of 2025, WNSWLHD continues to engage with stakeholders and the community to address concerns and optimize outcomes for all parties involved.
In related news, the construction of the Canowindra HealthOne facility has commenced, bringing integrated healthcare services closer to the Canowindra community. Additionally, the Western NSW Local Health District maintained its performance in planned surgery and emergency department services despite significant demand, as reported in the latest Healthcare Quarterly Report.
As plans are finalized for the temporary relocation of sub-acute mental health services during the Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment, WNSWLHD remains committed to ensuring uninterrupted access to essential mental health services and addressing the evolving needs of the community.
As healthcare facilities undergo redevelopment and temporary changes, stakeholders and healthcare providers collaborate to minimize disruptions and maintain the quality of care for patients across the region. The ongoing commitment to enhancing mental health services underscores the importance of prioritizing community well-being during periods of transition and growth in healthcare infrastructure.
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