Acting Chief Executive, Jodie Miller, said unscheduled or emergency surgery will continue to be performed at Broken Hill Health Service across the holiday period, as will essential procedures such as renal dialysis.
“Emergency departments will continue to operate around the clock for people with a serious injury or illness and those in need of urgent medical attention,” said Ms Miller.
For non-emergency care the community is reminded to contact their local GP, medical centre, pharmacist or call Healthdirect Australia on 1800 022 222 for 24-hour health advice.
Across the Christmas and New Year period, the level of elective surgery taking place at Broken Hill Health Service traditionally reduces.
Ms Miller extended her thanks to all FWLHD staff for their incredible effort after another busy and challenging year.
“As we move towards 2023, I would like to thank the medical, hospital, community health and administration staff at our many facilities who continue to provide quality care in support of better health and quality of life for our community,” she said.
“Many of our clinical staff will take the opportunity to spend some well-deserved time with their families so it makes sense to have a reduced activity period for elective (planned) surgery and some outpatient services.
“The deferring of elective surgery at this time is accepted by the majority of our patients as many do not want to be in hospital over the festive season,” said Ms Miller.
Ms Miller also urged all community members to maintain their vigilance against COVID-19 and continue to test - even for the mildest of symptoms - such as a sore or scratchy throat, runny nose, cough and fever.
For the majority of people, rapid antigen tests (RATs) will be the most convenient and appropriate test for COVID-19.
NSW continues to provide access to rapid antigen tests for the community. This includes distribution of RATs to vulnerable populations through schools, health settings, non-government organisations, and Service NSW.
NSW Health recommends PCR tests for people who are at higher risk of severe illness as they are more accurate and help enable early access to treatments such as antiviral medicines.
To find a COVID-19 testing clinic and their operating hours please visit www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/testing-managing/clinics