16 June 2008

More Investment at Gosford Hospital

NSW Minister for Health Reba Meagher said the $1.26 billion allocated to Northern Sydney Central Coast Area Health Service in the 2008-09 Health Budget would deliver better access to a range of health services for the Gosford community.

Ms Meagher today joined Member for Gosford Marie Andrews to visit Gosford Hospital and said the investment is part of a $13.15 billion State Health Budget aimed at better managing chronic illnesses in the community so that hospitals can continue to provide access for people who need acute care.

"For people living in on the Central Coast that means funding for more beds, more doctors and nurses and expanded community health services," Ms Meagher said.

"The Central Coast is one of the fastest growing regions in the state and the influx of young families and retirees puts increasing demand on the health system.

"A key aspect of this year's health spending in the region is directed towards improving mental health services and facilities including $8.3 million as part of a $13 million investment to redevelop the Mandala Mental Health Unit.

"The Budget is also providing 6 new acute care beds for Gosford which will expand capacity at the hospital, particularly the new Medical Assessment Unit.

"Medical Assessment Units are part of a wider strategy to address the challenges of providing health care to a population which is ageing and requiring improved access to essential health services."

Ms Andrews said an additional $4.56 million has also been allocated for the final stages of the Gosford Hospital redevelopment.

"The redevelopment is part of the $220 million Central Coast Access Plan which has transformed Gosford and Wyong hospitals into state-of-the-art health facilities which have the capacity to treat the region's rapidly growing population," Ms Andrews said.

"Residents across the region will also benefit from a $32 million statewide investment in new hospital equipment, including $3.9 million locally for important hospital ward equipment such as blood pressure machines, ECG machines and lifting equipment.

"The Iemma Government is boosting health funding right across the Central Coast area to ensure local communities have access to high quality health services closer to home."

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au