First look at designs for new $30m Wentworth Health Service

Minister for Regional Health Bronnie Taylor said the concept design showcases the new, purpose-built facility which will overlook the Darling River.

'The Wentworth community will soon benefit from a new hospital which will provide enhanced health services within a contemporary facility, benefiting patients, staff and visitors for generations to come,' Mrs Taylor said.

'The redevelopment will feature a 19-bed Inpatient Unit, Outpatient Clinic and a new Urgent Care Centre, significantly boosting healthcare services in the region.

'Hospital staff will also be equipped with the latest, fit-for-purpose facilities, including dedicated staff areas so they can continue to provide high-quality care to the Wentworth community.'

Duty MLC for Murray Wes Fang said the new hospital will be built adjacent to the existing hospital and raised above the flood levy to maximise the views of the Darling River.

'All rooms in the inpatient wing will feature large windows with direct views of the picturesque Darling River, offering a therapeutic environment for patients and their families,” Mr Fang said.

The design for the new facility has been shaped by feedback from key stakeholders including Wentworth Health Service staff, Two Rivers Health Council, Wentworth Shire Council, the local Aboriginal community and the Wentworth community.

Interim Chief Executive Far West Local Health District Brad Astill said the hospital’s location would enhance the Connection to Country for those visiting the health service.

'Maximising the hospital's connection to the local landscape is a key feature of the design and will be reflected in the new outdoor areas and landscaping to support the wellbeing of patients, staff and visitors,' Mr Astill said.

'The feedback on the site and master plan has been very positive, and the Wentworth community is very excited about the redevelopment of their hospital, which will replace the existing facility.'

Construction of the new hospital is expected to start in mid-2023 and be completed at the end of 2024.

The Wentworth Health Service redevelopment is part of the NSW Government’s record $11.9 billion investment in health infrastructure over four years to 2025-26, with nearly a third of the capital allocation in this financial year going towards regional and rural health facilities.

Since 2011, the NSW Government has delivered more than 180 health capital works projects across NSW, with more than 130 projects currently underway – of those, more than 90 are in rural and regional areas.