Mr Foley headed for Heywood Rural Health on the afternoon of March 30, to look at the newly refurbished community health hub.
The $680,000 project was funded through the state government’s regional health infrastructure fund, a valuable source for projects at HRH in the past.
Mr Foley met with HRH board chairman Phil Saunders, chief executive Leigh Parker and several staff while inspecting the newly constructed reception, waiting room and the multi-purpose room known as the Moorayt room.
Mr Parker said the Minister spent about 40 minutes at HRH hearing about the project and the benefits clients and the local community.
Mr Foley also thanked staff for their significant efforts in providing healthcare during one of the most difficult times in recent history.
“We welcomed the opportunity to showcase Heywood Rural Health to the Minister and highlight the great work we accomplish each and every day,” Mr Parker said.
“On behalf of the board and staff, I pay thanks to the Minister and the (Health) Department for their investment in our healthcare infrastructure that enables us to deliver the best care to our consumers, residents and members of the Heywood community.”
Mr Foley said regional health infrastructure fund was a boon for local health services.
“Through initiatives like the RHIF – the largest program of its kind in Victoria’s history – the (government) is making it easier for local families to access the healthcare services they need, closer to home.”
The community health hub was a “one stop healthcare shop” giving the local community greater control over their health outcomes.
Combining medical and primary health care services in the one facility would ensure patients and clients could receive care and treatment in a seamless fashion, whilst also supporting health service staff to work more efficiently and effectively.
In addition to modernising the existing facility, works delivered two new multipurpose rooms and a reception area, as well the refurbishment of the building’s main entry, corridor and consulting room.
By combining key medical and primary health care services under the one roof this allowed for better end-to-end medical care and treatment.
It would also allow for future expansion and growth of HRH as it responded to present and future healthcare needs of communities across the South-West.
