Hospital surgery will be back

In a statement provided, MLHD said it is “committed to providing safe, high-quality and timely care to patients in the Corowa community”.

“Surgery at Corowa Health Service has been paused temporarily to allow for required maintenance.

“MLHD is working with individual patients who require planned surgery to ensure they receive care within appropriate time frames.

“We apologise for any inconvenience caused by this temporary pause.”

Member for Albury, Justin Clancy, has since received a response from the NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Health & Regional Health, Dr Michael Holland, further allaying concerns about surgical services provided at Corowa Hospital.

“Taking concerns of the Corowa community up directly to the NSW Health Minister, the response confirms that the current surgical theatre closure is only paused temporarily, as work continues installing new air filters,” Mr Clancy confirmed.

In the letter Mr Clancy received, Ms Jill Ludford, Chief Executive for Murrumbidgee Local Health District, apologised for any inconvenience caused by this temporary pause, with the District committed to providing safe, high-quality, and timely care to patients in the Corowa community.

“This is a vitally important service for the Corowa community and surrounding areas, and for our local hospital staff who work alongside visiting surgeons. I’m pleased representation has brought this to the attention of the NSW Health Minister,” Mr Clancy said.

Dr Holland acknowledged Mr Clancy’s concerns, confirming the Corowa Health Service has been paused temporarily to allow for required maintenance. Work started in June on the installation of new air filters.

Dr Holland’s letter also stated that travel support through the Isolated Patient's Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme will be offered where required.

“The District is committed to providing safe, high-quality, and timely care to patients in the Corowa community,” he said.