THE Victorian Government’s announcement of a South West Local Health Service Network marks an exciting new chapter for healthcare in the region.
Rowena Clift, Dual Chief Executive of Casterton Memorial Hospital (CMH) and Western District Health Service (WDHS), welcomed the announcement and acknowledged the collaborative effort in developing a proposal that reflects the unique needs of the South West under the Government’s new Health Services Plan.
“CMH and WDHS are proud to be part of this network, which will strengthen local care and support the health and wellbeing of communities across the South West,” she said.
“By working together as a network, we can build on our strengths and develop services that are designed around local needs. Our shared focus is on delivering the best possible care, close to home.
The network brings together health services across the South West, including Casterton Memorial Hospital, Heywood Rural Health, Moyne Health Services, Portland District Health, South West Healthcare, Terang and Mortlake Health Service and Western District Health Service.
It is also backed by strong support from the local Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation sector, Bush Nursing Centres and the Western Victoria Primary Health Network – Great South Coast.
The new network is poised to improve clinical programs, enhance recruitment and retention, and support innovative healthcare solutions.
Ms Clift said WDHS and CMH remained committed to ensuring that communities across the region continue to receive exceptional care, delivered by passionate and skilled local teams.
“Collaboration has always been a hallmark of healthcare in the South West, and this network gives us the chance to work even closer with our partners to create services that truly meet the needs of our communities,” she said.
“It’s all about supporting local people to get the care they need, right here where they live.
“We’re looking forward to what’s ahead and to working side by side with all of the health services involved.
“Together, we’ll use our shared strengths and connections to keep improving health and wellbeing across the South West, ensuring our communities are at the centre of everything we do.”
