Hunter New England Local Health District has confirmed a restructure of their internal operations that are hoped will improve operational performance, particularly in the smaller communities of the New England.
Inverell Shire Council Mayor, Cr Paul Harmon, and Inverell Shire Council General Manager, Mr Brett McInnes met Luke Sloan, Deputy Secretary for Regional Health, on Monday who outlined the restructure in Hunter New England Health Local Health District (HNELHD) and the greater emphasis this will place on regional areas including the Northern Tablelands Region.
Mr Sloane acknowledged the concerns that were raised regarding the level of service experienced at the Inverell Hospital and committed to ensuring HNELHD actively and genuinely engage with Inverell Shire Council to develop a partnership approach to delivering the best possible outcomes for the community. Mayor Harmon reinforced Council’s eagerness to positively engage with local health management and agreed this is essential to providing improved services in the future.
Susan Heyman, Acting Chief Executive for the HNELHD confirmed to the New England Times that there were changes being made.
“Hunter New England Local Health District is committed to delivering the best possible healthcare for
our local communities,” she said.
“To improve service delivery, we are making some changes to the operational structure of the District’s
clinical and community health services based on staff feedback.”
“These changes will not impact access to our health facilities.
“Enhancing collaboration across our health services, will improve operational performance, help us to
further address workforce challenges and drive greater innovation in care delivery.”
“The District regularly engages with a range of stakeholders, including local councils, to discuss
concerns and changes to ensure we continue to meet the healthcare needs of the community.”
Ms Heyman thanked staff for their vital feedback and contributions throughout the process.
Mr Sloan is expected to visit Inverell for further discussions on improving services in the area soon.
The news comes barely a month after the mayors of Gunnedah, Narrabri, and Moree called for an independent inquiry into the HNELHD, and after years of former member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall calling for the district to be broken up.
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