State MP Louise Staley has launched a survey for Stawell residents to give feedback as Stawell Regional Health announced opening a three-month community consultation program.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The member for Ripon is asking for residents' views on the health services plans after she says SRH revealed it was currently considering Ballarat Health Service's approaches to join its plan to merge with Wimmera Health Service.
Ms Staley said it had been confirmed that Stawell Regional Health had received funding from the State Government to explore options such as merging with another nearby health service.
Ms Staley said she wanted to obtain the community's views to assist in being an advocate for the future of health in Stawell.
"Plans to merge Stawell Regional Health are significant for Stawell, so I am engaging the community in real, genuine consultation," Ms Staley said.
OTHER NEWS:
"Stawell Regional Health is such an important part of the local community. It provides an essential service and is a major employer in the town. Local voices must be heard about the future of the health service."
Hospital chair Rhian Jones said she understood a survey had been distributed in the local area by an external party about the health service, which contained some information she thought may confuse the community.
"I want to address this. The information that has been circulated is not part of the consultation program currently underway for the future planning of Stawell Regional Health," she said.
"It is important to note that Stawell Regional Health has not made a commitment of any kind to any outcome - partnership, merger or other. We are not in discussions with East Grampians Health Service regarding a merger.
"Right now, we are working through a community consultation process to support informed decision making for the future of the service.
"It is important that the community stays informed about this process and all the information is on the Stawell Regional Health website."
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Stawell Times-News. To make sure you're up-to-date with all the news from across the region, sign up here.