The NSW Government will invest $200 million in a major redevelopment of Bathurst Hospital as part of the 2022-23 NSW Budget.
Deputy Premier, Minister for Regional NSW, and Member for Bathurst Paul Toole said this significant upgrade would ensure the local community and wider Central West region will have access to high quality care now and well into the future.
“This funding will deliver more acute inpatient beds, a larger emergency department, increased rehabilitation services, expanded ambulatory and outpatient services, and an enhanced pre and post-operative care,” Mr Toole said.
“The Bathurst region is growing quickly and the demand for healthcare services is increasing. This $200 million investment in health infrastructure is essential to delivering excellent health outcomes for locals for years to come, and the needs of the community and staff will be front and centre of the planning process.
“This upgrade will ensure our community can access first-class care as close to home as possible and will cement the town as a major health hub for the Central West, while servicing surrounding communities as well.”
Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the announcement was another example of the NSW Nationals in Government commitment to improving healthcare in rural and regional areas of NSW.
“This redevelopment is in addition to the Government’s support for the purchase and construction of a new MRI suite, at a cost of over $4 million, which is currently underway at Bathurst Hospital,” Mrs Taylor said.
“One of my key priorities is improving patient access to care in our regions and that is exactly what this major redevelopment will deliver.”
Treasurer Matt Kean said the investment in Bathurst Hospital follows record health funding to the regions in the 2021-22 financial year, with more than $900 million for health capital works in rural and regional communities throughout the state.
“Of the 46 NSW hospital redevelopments or upgrades underway or commencing in 2021-22 statewide, nearly two-thirds are in rural and regional NSW,” Mr Kean said.