The Tamworth community has been given its first look at the expanded Nioka Palliative Care unit at Tamworth Hospital, which will double the number of dedicated palliative care beds.
Minister for Regional Health Ryan Park said the unit expansion at Tamworth Hospital is being delivered as part of the NSW Government's $93 million World Class End of Life Care program to redevelop and enhance palliative care units across the state.
Artist's impressions released today show the existing footprint of the Nioka facility will be extended to the north-eastern corner of the main hospital building, increasing the total number of palliative care beds from six to 12.
The unit will feature six new palliative care bedrooms with ensuites, as well as shared spaces including staff areas and flexible outdoor spaces.
The expansion of the building follows wide-ranging investigations across the Tamworth Hospital campus and valuable community feedback. The expanded unit will provide enhanced operational efficiency and facilitate better collaboration with shared services.
Extensive consultation throughout the design process with staff and the community has helped shape the facility's design.
The facility will include space for patients to move outdoors to enjoy the garden and oversized bedrooms with warm interior finishes to create a home-like environment with large windows overlooking private courtyards.
Three courtyards will provide green spaces for relaxation, including a private outdoor area, and an overnight room to allow additional family members to stay close to their family.
Further consultation will be carried out as planning and design for the unit progresses. Construction timeframes will be confirmed once the detailed design phase is complete, and a builder is appointed.
For more project information, including the latest design, visit: Health Infrastructure - World Class End of Life Care Program.
Quotes attributable to Minister of Regional Health Ryan Park:
"The Minns Labor Government is committed to ensuring people with life-limiting illnesses receive the highest quality end-of-life care at the right time, and in the right place.
"The expanded Tamworth Hospital palliative care facility will improve care and support for patients and families during what can be an extremely difficult time for all involved."
Quotes attributable to Labor Spokesperson for Tamworth, Anthony D'Adam MLC:
"This is an important milestone, and I acknowledge the hard work of the community in advocating for this project.
"The new facility will be a valuable addition to Tamworth Hospital's existing palliative care services."
Quotes attributable to Executive Director Infrastructure, Planning and Sustainability, Dr Ramsey Awad:
"The expanded palliative care unit at Tamworth Hospital will provide a comfortable and home-like setting to deliver the very best clinical care and emotional support."
