Health Minister announces $2.8 million funding for EGHS

Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas announced more than $2.8 million in funding for two important projects at East Grampians Health Service recently.

Ms Thomas, accompanied by Member for Ripon Martha Haylett, visited EGHS to announce $900,000 funding for a new CT scanner for the Medical Imaging Department and $1,907,900 to expand the Practical Laboratory, which will be used by medical students undertaking study through the Doctor of Medicine Rural Training Stream at EGHS.

As a teaching hospital for university students, a new practical laboratory will deliver a larger simulation and skills development space and will help improve access and opportunities for medical and nursing students at the health service.

The new Computed Tomography (CT) equipment will be safer and more efficient for staff and patients and will reduce the chance of scans being cancelled or the need for maintenance and repairs due to the equipment being outdated.

With rising demand for healthcare services in Ararat and the wider region, fewer cancelled procedures means more locals can get the treatment they need closer to home.

CT scans are crucial diagnostic tools used in a range of urgent, potentially fatal conditions, such as stroke, cancer, preparation for abdominal surgeries, fractures, and more.

“The new state-of-the-art CT machine will help get more locals the important care they need, while the upgraded practice laboratory will help our medical students improve their skills – all locally here in Ararat,” Ms Thomas said.

EGHS Board Chair Ken Weldin said it was very pleasing to receive funding through the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund for these two important projects.

“On behalf of the Board and staff at EGHS, I would like to thank the State Government for providing funding for these projects,” he said.

“Our current CT scanner was at the end of its life and the funding will enable us to continue to provide this important service to our community, while the practical laboratory expansion will provide excellent training facilities for medical and nursing students undertaking training here at EGHS.”

Member for Ripon Martha Haylett said the new equipment and upgrades will help ensure the Ararat community and surrounding areas do not have to venture far from home and loved ones to access the world class healthcare they need and deserve.”