The NSW Nationals is encouraging people to have their say on the planning and design of the State’s three new Palliative Care Units, that were announced under the former Coalition Government.
Shadow Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the Liberals and Nationals committed $93m to the project as part of a $743m package that was unveiled in June last year.
“The Labor Government is up to its old tricks, trying to take credit for an incredibly important project that we developed to ensure people have access to the greatest possible comfort when they are at the end of their life,” Mrs Taylor said.
“On top of the expansion at Wyong, Nepean and Westmead and the brand new facilities at Orange and Tamworth, our package also made way for an extra 600 medical staff and improved access to pain management services.
“As a former palliative care nurse, I know how significant this upgrade is and that is why I am encouraging the community to come forward to have input in the planning process.
“But it was the Liberals and Nationals that did the ground work to provide better palliative care in all parts of the State, and the fact that Labor is trying to convince people that this initiative is their own is disgraceful.”
The $743 million was allocated by the Liberals and Nationals in the 2022- 23 budget to provide funding over five years to:
· Redevelop and refurbish NSW palliative care facilities.
· Employ an extra 600 nurses, allied health professionals, doctors, and support staff.
· Boost hospital capacity and implement best-practice models for supportive and palliative care.
· Improve access to pain management services for patients with life-limiting illness, to help patients and their family and carers.
· Improve services for people with late stage chronic and degenerative conditions, and cancer.
· Further strengthen outpatient and community health services.
· Support consumer choice and excellence in end-of-life and palliative care.
· Strengthen virtual care, transport and equipment programs.
· Improve partnership with non-Government organisations, primary care and aged care services.