The PD2025_036 Planned Surgery Access policy is an update from PD2022_001 Elective Surgery Access. It provides procedures to NSW public hospital teams managing planned surgery services, ensuring clinically appropriate, consistent and equitable management of access for patients across the state.
In New South Wales (NSW), on time elective surgery performance remains strong and is one of the best in the country. The surgery team in the NSW Ministry of Health works in partnership with local health districts and specialty health networks to maintain and improve access to planned surgery.
We aim to:
Before deciding to have surgery, it’s important to understand the risks of surgery and what non-surgical and surgical options are available to you. Safer Care Victoria have developed some resources to help guide you in discussions with your healthcare team in this first stage in your journey.
Once you and your healthcare team have agreed that surgery is the best option, the following resources answer many of the frequently asked questions received by NSW Health.
The Australian and New Zealand Perioperative Patient Pathway provides extra support for the people who are older or living with complex health conditions to help them prepare for surgery and recover afterwards. The pathway focuses on ensuring patients are well as possible before their operation and receive coordinated care after surgery, giving them the best opportunity for a safe procedure, a smoother recovery, and improved health outcomes.
If you need access to surgery or need information about your current surgery waitlist, please contact your referred hospital Planned Surgery Contacts.
NSW Health policy documents guide the management of planned surgery in the NSW public health system.
Resources are available for NSW Health staff for information and support on
