More than 1600 local signatures have been collected on a petition demanding change and support at the Inverell Hospital emergency department.
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The petition was presented to Hunter New England Health on Friday, December 16, by Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall.
As demands continues for better health services in rural areas like Inverell, local residents shared their experience with the Inverell Times this week.
In their words
“As a patient, as a mother, as a daughter, as a friend, as a nurse, as a senior manager. Sadly it's not just about a shortage of Doctors. It's all about the health industry as a whole,” Jo McKinnon wrote.
“My mother was poorly treated by not only Doctors but also nursing staff. She died three months after her initial admission to hospital and a poor diagnosis of cancer that must have riddled her body longer then the one month of diagnosis to death.
“My son fell from the town bridge this time last year and broke his back in five places. The ongoing care pre-transfer to Tamworth and post discharge was appalling. My middle son suffered a psychotic breakdown and, rather then medically treat him, he was dragged through the corridors by four police officers.
“Now when either of them sees a local GP they are judged prior to even being consulted. The support systems instigated by government programs and funding for post-discharge become just another red tape nightmare.
“After working at Royal Children's Hospital for 18 months in charge of the referrals room for 135 speciality outpatients and private practice clinics. There was no lack of GPS registrars specialists etc.. However, patients suffered just as they do in rural areas... It's not about just Doctors; it's about all spheres involved in the patient's life.
“Transport, social (concerns for family at home, be it dogs and cats), financial, political, religious and cultural beliefs. Overall the health industry fails us all. The health system needs an overhaul and redirection to ensure patients needs are met. Inverell has done well to provide what services it has over the years.
“The amazing qualifications of local nurses is an inspiration. Let's fix the health system not just the local problem. Knowledge is the best place to start. Funding and qualified support services for our area is what is needed.
