New Regional Health Plan afoot; community’s say vital for development

People living in rural, regional and remote communities across NSW are being encouraged to have their say on a new plan for the future of regional health.

Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the community’s feedback will be absolutely critical in developing the Regional Health Plan 2022-2032.

“We know our regional communities care deeply about their healthcare services and this is their opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to shaping the future of their healthcare system,” Taylor said.

“I want to ensure the community is at the heart of everything the NSW Government is doing when it comes to health in the regions, so I strongly encourage everyone who has an interest in regional health to have their say on the new plan.

“Your insights will help inform the development of a strong plan that enables us to deliver on our goal to improve healthcare experiences and outcomes for everyone living in rural, regional and remote NSW.”

Regional Health Division Coordinator General Luke Sloane said the survey would build upon the valuable consultation conducted to date.

“We have had the benefit of input from local communities, local government representatives and health stakeholders. I look forward to hearing from many more people through this survey, as it will guide us in developing a strategy that meets the health needs of communities now and into the future,” Sloane said.

So far there have been 68 consultation sessions with 1,600 people across NSW as well as more than 2,000 surveys completed.

Experiences and insight from stakeholders from across the health sector have also been drawn upon to develop key priorities. This includes local health staff, councils, Primary Health Networks (PHNs), professional associations, training organisations, non-government organisations, ACCHO, community organisations, charities, affiliated organisations and healthcare providers, volunteers, community members, carers, and consumers.

To have your say, visit https://www.haveyoursay.nsw.gov.au/nsw-regional-health-plan. The survey closes at 11.59 pm Sunday 23 October.

Ritchelle Drilon

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Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.

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