It is a question that continues to be put to the MLHD, but one that is yet to have a clear answer.

The Irrigator reported on August 5 that MLHD has taken down its advertisement for a career medical officer for the Leeton District Hospital - a position that if filled would have meant a permanent doctor would be available on site at the facility.

However, in a statement to The Irrigator, MLHD said "at no time did MLHD state that it was no longer looking for a permanent doctor for Leeton District Hospital".

But, the health service has now confirmed the CMO position is no longer being advertised.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"MLHD can confirm it is no longer accepting applications for the career medical officer position for Leeton District Hospital and the position is no longer advertised," the health service said.

What the MLHD has said is it is working on a new way forward, but whether or not that includes a path for a doctor to be permanently located at the hospital has not been made 100 per cent clear as yet.

"A new medical workforce model will allow Murrumbidgee Local Health District to offer a more attractive remuneration package and better working conditions in order to attract permanent appropriately trained doctors to work in Leeton hospital," a statement from MLHD read.

"While the model is being developed, locum doctors have been contracted to provide medical cover for the emergency department.

"Between the locum doctors and the existing Leeton GP visiting medical officers (VMOs), a doctor is now available at Leeton hospital at all times."

The community has been ramping up calls for a permanent doctor at the Leeton hospital following a public meeting to discuss the shire's health services late last month.

The idea from the community is to have a doctor based permanently at the hospital for at least 38 hours per week and then have an on-call roster filled by GP VMOs to cover nights and weekends.

This would theoretically help to relieve pressure on GPs who are currently attending the hospital while on call and running their own medical practices during the day.

If you would like to share your story regarding an experience at the hospital contact talia.pattison@irrigator.com.au or call 0475 803 356.

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