Bathurst performing new bronchoscopy procedure
Bathurst Health Service has introduced a new service with its first elective bronchoscopy procedure recently performed at the hospital.
Bathurst Health Service has introduced a new service with its first elective bronchoscopy procedure recently performed at the hospital.
A bronchoscopy is a day-only procedure that enables clinicians to look directly into the airways of the lungs and take samples of lung tissue (also known as ‘biopsies’).
It involves a thin, lighted, flexible tube being inserted through the nose or mouth of the patient which looks into the airways for infections, tumours or other abnormalities.
This procedure is suitable for patients with suspected cancer or infections such as Tuberculosis.
Director of Medical Services, Bathurst Health Service, Dr Marco Metelo said the service was established at Bathurst Hospital by our new respiratory physician Dr Ali Waqar to cater for increased demand in the community.
“I’m delighted that we can now offer this procedure closer to home for communities the in the wider Bathurst region,” Dr Metelo said
Dr Waqar said ““This is just the beginning of advancing our respiratory procedures at Bathurst. For instance, we are looking to also successfully undertake endobronchial ultrasound with fine needle aspiration, a more complex form of bronchoscopy.”
“We are working towards offering more advanced respiratory procedures at the health service over the next 12 months”.
General Manager of Bathurst Health Service, Ms Jo Holden said, “This is a landmark moment for Bathurst Health Service, that reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional care for our community. It means more people can access advanced diagnostic and treatment options closer to home, supported by the skill and dedication of our clinical teams.”
“As identified in the Bathurst Clinical Services Plan 2022-2031, we said we would aim to enhance respiratory services at Bathurst Hospital by expanding specialist outpatient care through new clinics and services, alongside improvements to cardiology, ophthalmology, and other specialties.
“This expansion is part of the larger Bathurst Hospital Redevelopment, a $200 million project by the NSW Government to modernize facilities and services for the community, including expanded emergency, maternity, mental health, and paediatrics zones, with a focus on improving patient experience and local access to care”. Ms Holden said.
WNSWLHD