Issue 121 July 18, 2017
Your independent community newspaper - Ph: 4325 7369
People power has a win over Wyong Hospital privatisation public-private partnership to redevelop and manage Wyong Hospital will not go ahead.
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On Thursday, July 6, NSW Minister for Health, Mr Brad Hazzard, said the $200 million Wyong Hospital redevelopment would have a “Government-led approach”. “After careful assessment of expressions of interest from operators, the NSW Government has decided on a Governmentled approach for this significant upgrade,” Mr Hazzard said. Mr Hazzard said upgraded facilities to cater for the growing Central Coast region would include: a new emergency department; maternity care; paediatric services; new inpatient surgical beds; rehabilitation; ambulatory services; mental health services; and additional car parking. He said the significant upgrade would go a long way in boosting clinical care for patients and relieving pressure on the emergency department.
Federal Member for Dobell, Ms Emma McBride, Member for Gosford, Ms Liesl Tesch and Member for Wyong, Mr David Harris with campaigners and Wyong Hospital staff following the NSW Government announcement “The announcement we are moving full steam with the Government’s Central Coast, Mr David follows extensive ahead to deliver for the commitment. Harris, declared the NSW consultation with staff at community,” he said. decision “I know first-hand from Government Wyong Hospital, as well “I’m also delighted to the conversations I’ve a victory for the Wyong as the local community, report that on-site activity had with people in Wyong community. to determine the best way will start this year, with that they are excited “After nine long and to deliver the upgrade,” the first stage to include to see a redeveloped uncertain months of a Mr Hazzard said. extra car parking. hospital become a reality, hard fought community “Work to prepare for “This will ensure so we will get on with the campaign, the Liberal the redevelopment has construction Government has finally will job.” continued while options commence as planned Member for Wyong and conceded to the will for models of delivery in 2018, and in line Shadow Minister for the of the people and were considered, and
abandoned their unfair and unjustified plan to privatise our Wyong Hospital,” Mr Harris said. “Wyong Hospital is held in high regard in our community and there is a deep sense of local ownership, given the historical fundraising to secure the original hospital by the community,” he said. “In my entire life, I have never seen an issue which has galvanised our community so strongly. “This is a win by our community, for our community. “It was a fight we all knew we needed to have and it has been fantastic to work with the passionate community members, the Health Services Union, the Nurses and Midwives Federation, and Unions NSW to reach this result. “This win will mean certainty for staff and our community. “It has shown that when we work together and get behind an issue, we can beat the power of a Government that thought they could get away with holding us in such contempt,” Mr Harris said.
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