Patients, families and carers will benefit from a modernisation and enhancement of palliative care facilities at Wauchope District Memorial Hospital with the completion of a $400,000 project.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the new amenities in the palliative care unit will help bring comfort to people at the end of their life.
“This upgrade will enhance in-patient care to support families unable to provide care at home for their loved ones, bringing greater dignity and comfort for all,” Mr Park said.
“The existing palliative care accommodation at the hospital has been expanded to provide a single overnight room with ensuite bathroom for carers and families.
“It’s great to be able to deliver this project to support families that travel long distances from their home to be with their loved ones during this precious time.
“The project also includes a storage area for patient belongings which will help create a more home-like environment at the facility.”
Labor Spokesperson for Oxley Anthony D’Adam said the enhanced facilities will mean a great deal to patients and their families.
“These upgrades delivered by the NSW Government are certainly welcome news for the Wauchope community and surrounding areas,” Mr D’Adam said.
“Anyone in need of end-of-life care deserves to do so in a comfortable environment and I’m pleased to see this enhancement will do just that.”
The Wauchope facilities are among more than 60 palliative care refurbishment projects across NSW as part of a $10 million investment over four years from 2019 to 2023.
Mid North Coast Local Health District Chief Executive Stewart Dowrick said the expanded facility would help support patients and their families, inclusive of cultural considerations.
“Our Palliative Care Unit is a highly regarded local service that provides comfort and care to people at the end of their life,” Mr Dowrick said.
“This is reflected in the significant donations that the Wauchope community has provided to palliative care patients throughout the Hastings region that have helped to provide equipment and patient comfort items for the unit since it opened in mid-2014.”
