Hunter New England Health's (HNEH) executive director for rural and regional health services Susan Heyman has put to rest concerns over future staffing for Inverell's $60 million hospital redevelopment.
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Ms Heyman said the purpose built facility would create more functional spaces for patients and staff allowing for a better work flow.
"Within the new facility we'll have a new emergency department, including particular areas for children and for mental health patients which improves the functioning of the whole department," she said.
Highlighting certain design aspects, including two operating theatres being located near inpatient wards, the executive said would essentially assist staff to work in a more efficient way.
Ms Heyman also said staff have given feedback through consultation during the design and planning phase of the new hospital.
"We've been consulting with staff around the areas they work in to make sure all issues have been considered and addressed.
"If you're working in emergency currently, you'd be involved in consultation of what the new emergency department will look like and any needs going into the future," she said.
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All feedback from nurses, doctors and allied health professionals have been considered and plans have been adjusted to accommodate.
In terms of staffing levels, Ms Heyman said all current staff will be transferred over to the new facility once complete.
"We are in the process of reviewing the current management structure to make sure it's appropriate to provide leadership to the hospital going forward. We will continue to review staffing levels to make sure we have an appropriate level."
Any new services added, or changes made to services, will prompt a review of staffing level by HNEH to ensure they not only have an appropriate number but also an appropriate mix of staff.
A radiographer, already based in Inverell, will provide CT services for the new scanner which will be situated at the hospital. The staff member, and a few others, will undergo additional training prior to its arrival.
Ms Heyman admitted, like all rural facilities, there were at times vacancies for staffing positions.
"We are recruiting at the moment in fact but we fill vacancies with casual staff, part-time staff looking for extra hours or agency staff."
From experience, the executive said new facilities act as a draw card for medical professionals to relocate.
"I think we should all be really excited for the new development. It is a big thing, and a positive thing, for Inverell. I have no doubt Inverell hospital will attract new staff," she said.
