Mayor left disappointed by latest update on pathology services

Published on 18 June 2024

Narrabri Shire Mayor Darrell Tiemens has called upon Hunter New England Health and the NSW Health Minister to directly address community concerns regarding the future of pathology services at Narrabri Hospital.

Despite intense pressure and public outcry from the community, the only update regarding pathology services has come this morning from Local Member Roy Butler.

“The contract for St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney Limited (SydPath) has been extended for three months from July 1 to September 30,” said Butler in a media release on Tuesday morning.

Following conversations with community health leaders, Mayor Tiemens has said there continues to be disappointment with the update and lack of direct communication.

“When an announcement (either positive or negative) regarding our health systems is coming via the media, it does not engender a spirit of transparency, trust and collaboration with civic authorities and the community,” said Mayor Darrell Tiemens.

“A pause on the transition to undertake consultation is not new news to us. The time for consultation should have been before contracts were signed. Despite the clear and unanimous concern from the community, we have heard nothing from the health authorities.”

Mayor Tiemens is continuing to call for an independent inquiry into Hunter New England Health’s support of remote and rural hospitals.

“Their lack of transparency and communication has caused significant unrest and angst amongst the community, but it has also cost Hunter New England Health. They have lost the trust of the community, and we cannot put faith in any process other than an independent inquiry,” said Mayor Tiemens.

"Our community needs certainty, and understandably they're growing increasingly frustrated with the lack of response and transparency. Council stands in solidarity with our residents, and I urge the NSW Health Minister to initiate an independent review of Hunter New England Health".