GHW may continue with in-patient services

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 609, 24 October 1995, Page 1

GHW may continue with in-patient services

Good Health Wanganui may continue to provide in-patient services at the Waimarino Rural Health Centre. This was revealed at the opening of the centre Monday last week, by Dennis Woods, chairman of Good Health Wanganui. In his opening address Mr Woods acknowledged the mayor Garrick Workman; district councillors; chairperson of the Waimarino Community Health Watch committee Jenny Decker; manager of the Health Centre Rowena Kui and her staff; Good Health Wanganui staff; Sue Hine community officer for the Central Regional Heath Authority and members of the public. Mr Woods was keen to point out that neither Good Health Wanganui nor the Waimarino community entered lightly into the decision to close the hospital on the hill. However, he was pleased that the outcome was an attractive, modern, low maintenance building with sufficient space for associated out-patient facilities. He said it was a buildings which will accommodate maternity patients and provide a hub for a variety of other services. Mr Woods gave assurances that all current outpatient services would continue including visiting specialist clinics in surgery, ear nose and throat, paediatrics, medicine, orthopaedics and gynaecology. The maternity service will continue as will public health, district nursing, x-ray,physiotherapy,

and home support services. Mr Woods said that according to recent comments from the Central RHA, GHW may also continue with in-patient services. He said there is continued consultation with CRHA to look at health care services for the Waimarino and that GHW have a commitment and desire to continue to be a provider of health services for the W aimarino. "We will continue to seek the support of the community and contract from the RHA to ensurethat there is a viable service structure which reflects the needs of Waimarino people." Mr Workman acknowiedging the past and present support from GHW. He said he was hopeful that these services would continue. Mr Workman said that he was hopeful that the area behind the current building would be used for other health services vital to the community. He once again thanked the taskforce committee who worked so tirelessly over the years, for their input and contribution towards recommendations of the health services needed for the Waimarino community. Peter Goldup, chief executive officer for GHW also addressed those gathered, endorsing the comments of Mr Woods. There was a short service from the various church leaders and a blessing by Bob Peck. Mrs Kui cut the ribbon, opening the building offlcially and in doing so thanked all her staff for their continued support.