THE Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) will conduct a health services needs analysis of the Leeton District Hospital.
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MLHD representatives met with Leeton Shire Council last week and said they would be undertaking the analysis in a bid to address concerns regarding several ongoing issues at the hospital, such as a lack of on-call doctors and an almost new operating theatre that isn't being used.
The organisation said it will commence work the analysis for Leeton as part of the government's commitment for refurbishment funding, which was allocated earlier this year.
It comes as the Ministry of Health completes a review into the administration of the hospital.
"The NSW Ministry of Health is currently reviewing the various claims raised by a member of the public about the MLHD," a NSW Health spokesman said.
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"It is anticipated that it will be finalised in the coming weeks and it would not be appropriate to provide further comment at this time."
Leeton Shire Council mayor Paul Maytom said the meeting with MLHD last week was positive, but admitted the process had been frustrating.
"These are issues that have been ongoing," he said.
"We know the community is frustrated, but we are hopeful of making progress."
A lack of doctors on the on-call roster continues to be a worry for the community and councillor Maytom was hopeful a way forward would soon be found.
Leeton hospital is sourcing locum support to provide medical cover in the emergency department during this time.
- Leeton cluster manager Craig McColm
He said more doctors were needed not just to service the shire, but to join the roster.
Leeton cluster manager Craig McColm said there were no doctors available to cover the hospital from September 6 to 9, as well as September 20.
"Leeton hospital is sourcing locum support to provide medical cover in the emergency department during this time," he said.
"MLHD is currently recruiting a career medical officer for Leeton hospital, who will be part of the Griffith emergency department team."
The organisation also said efforts remain ongoing to recruit and attract more doctors to Leeton.
Residents have been encouraged by Cr Maytom to share their experiences of the hospital, whether they are good or bad.
He said stories provided by residents can help build a case for bigger change and improvements,
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