STATE Member for Lismore has welcomed the official opening of a $171,150 refurbishment of Tenterfield Hospital’s dedicated palliative care place as a win for Tenterfield Shire residents.
Ms Saffin congratulated all involved in the NSW Ministry of Health-funded minor works project, which has delivered two palliative care bedrooms, both fitted with ensuites, and a remodelled shared lounge area.
“While this palliative care place sits within a hospital setting, it is homely, ensures more privacy for patients and offers a nice environment for families and carers to be with their loved ones,” Ms Saffin said.
“Remodelling several rooms and part of the hospital’s infrastructure occurred between July and October last year with the service seeing its first patients from November 30 last year.
“COVID-19 precautions meant that an opening ceremony had to be delayed until last week but now Hunter New England Local Health District can show the local community how hospital staff are helping provide patients with comfortable, modern palliative care.”
Ms Saffin paid special tribute to Chairperson of the Tenterfield Cancer Care Group Thea McKenzie and her members for helping to supply the lounge area with tea and coffee facilities, a microwave oven, comfortable seating and tables.
Joining Ms Saffin at last Tuesday’s opening were Hunter New England LHD Chief Executive Michael DiRienzo, HNELH Executive Director Susan Heyman, Chairperson of the Local Health Committee Rebekah Kelly, Tenterfield Shire Mayor Cr Peter Petty and Deputy Mayor and Local Health Committee member Cr Greg Sauer.
Monday, 1 March 2021.
