Cootamundra Pathology Laboratory Saved

Cootamundra Hospital’s Pathology Laboratory will remain open following a successful campaign to save the facility from its impending closure.

Minister for Health and Regional Health, Ryan Park has confirmed that a previous decision to shut down the NSW Pathology service in Cootamundra and reallocate resources and staff to the Young Health Service has been axed.

The announcement coincides with Steph Cooke MP’s Rural Health Service petition meeting the requirement of 10,000 signatures for the matter to be debated in the NSW Parliament.

“This is truly a fantastic outcome for this growing community who need and deserve access to life-saving health services,” Ms Cooke said.

“After six months of advocacy, I want to thank the Minister for coming to the table and for reversing a decision which placed the health and wellbeing of Cootamundra’s residents at risk.”

The initiative, led by Ms Cooke, was strongly supported by members of the community and local organisations such as Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council.

The Rural Health Services petition will be tabled in the NSW Parliament next week, as it also calls for the return of essential drugs and equipment to non-category A and B ambulance station and vehicles.

“While I’m thrilled that Cootamundra’s pathology lab has been saved, the fight to keep other important resources in our rural communities doesn’t stop,” Ms Cooke said.

“Thank you to everyone that made the tabling of this petition possible and proved just how powerful the voices of rural communities are.”

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• Health & Wellness