18 October 2007

Last Tuesday, Hunter New England Health’s Acting Chief Executive Dr Nigel Lyons dropped in to catch up with staff from Bingara and Warialda Health Service and inspect the progress being made at the new Multi Purpose Services (MPS) in each of the towns.

The visit was also an opportunity to catch up with the Bingara and Warialda Local Health Advisory Committees.

"I’d like to pay tribute to the Warialda and Bingara Local Health Advisory Committees, who developed the health service plan for these communities. These plans help to ensure the mix of services provided here are appropriate for the health needs of local people.

"The staff and community members spoke of their enthusiasm for the new facilities which will incorporate residential aged care, ambulance, primary and community health services all under the one roof.

"I’m also pleased to hear that the builders (Hanken Yuncken Pty Ltd) have been working with the staff at both facilities to ensure there is minimal impact to services," said Dr Lyons.

The Warialda and Bingara MPS facilities are due to be completed by the middle of 2008. Work is also progressing well at the Tingha and Merriwa MPS sites.

Contact: Kay Cope

Phone: 6776 9817