New service for cardiac patients in Murrumbidgee Local Health District
Patients across the Murrumbidgee Local Health District and surrounding regions will have greater access to specialist heart care closer to home, with a new Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Service now available at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital.
The new service allows patients to have pacemakers and other heart monitoring devices inserted and managed locally, with the first cardiac implantation procedures successfully undertaken in August.
Patient Richard Gill travelled from Cootamundra to access the Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Service at Wagga Wagga.
“It was a huge relief not to have to go to Sydney for the procedure,” he said.
“I’m glad I avoided the stress and extra travel time of having to travel to Sydney and home again.
“The service will be good for everyone in the Riverina and beyond.”
The new service will provide assessment and device implantation, follow-up appointments and remote monitoring for patients, ensuring they are supported every step of the way.
MLHD, Chief Executive, Emma Field said the introduction of the service was a significant milestone for cardiac care in the region.
"Having access to cardiac device implantation and follow-up care locally means patients can receive timely treatment while remaining close to their support networks and communities," Ms Field said.
"Importantly, it also reduces the need for travel outside our region, making care more accessible and improving the overall patient experience."
Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, Acting General Manager, Kate Woodward, said the launch of the service reflects MLHD's ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality specialist healthcare closer to home and improving health outcomes for communities across the region.
“We are grateful to the many people who have collaborated to bring this new service to the local community,” Ms Woodward said.
“It’s a great example of what can be achieved when clinicians, support staff and health service teams work together with a shared focus on improving patient care.”
Wagga Wagga cardiologist, Professor Gerard Carroll, said the establishment of the service provided a substantial boost to the cardiac care available in the region.
“We've always worked to lead the way in the provision of services in the region. This is another significant step forward in providing cardiac care on site,” Professor Carroll said.
“We're delighted to have expert cardiac electrophysiologists available to provide care for patients through the new service.”
To support the new service, MLHD has appointed Dr Nicholas Kerr and Dr Bruce Walker as Visiting Medical Officers in cardiac electrophysiology.
For more information about heart and lung care services available at Murrumbidgee Local Health District visit: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/mlhd/our-services/heart-lung-care-services