Ballina residents are being asked to help shape the future of health services across the region as planning begins to address the needs of a growing and ageing population.
Northern NSW Local Health District (NNSWLHD) has launched consultation on the Ballina Region Health Services Plan, which will identify current and future health needs and guide how services are delivered in the coming years.
NNSWLHD Chief Executive Tracey Maisey said feedback from residents, health workers, clinicians and other stakeholders would be central to developing the plan.
“We’re undertaking this planning now to ensure our health services remain responsive to the Ballina region’s growing and ageing population. As ways of delivering healthcare continue to evolve, it is important that we plan ahead so that we can continue to provide high-quality care,” Maisey said.
“Feedback from our community, staff, clinicians, Aboriginal communities, health partners and other stakeholders will help us understand what is working well, where the challenges are, and what opportunities exist to strengthen health services into the future.”
A steering committee will oversee development of the plan, with representatives from NNSWLHD joined by Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader and Ballina District Hospital Community Advisory Group chair Marion Andrew.
Residents can provide feedback through a short online survey, which is open until Sunday, October 25.
Feedback gathered during the first stage will help inform further community and stakeholder consultation later this year.
Maisey said the plan would look beyond services provided at Ballina District Hospital and consider the broader health needs of the region.
“This plan has a medium to long-term outlook that will consider the full range of public health services required to meet community needs, including hospital, community-based and outpatient services, and how these support and connect with other health services across Northern NSW,” Maisey said.
“The plan will explore current and future healthcare needs and identify opportunities to improve access to quality care closer to home.
“While it will lay the groundwork in defining what services are needed and how these are best delivered within our networked model, the development of this plan will not cover details such as any potential future hospital location or funding commitment.”
Maisey encouraged people from across the community to take part.
“We want to hear from as many people as possible. By sharing your experiences, ideas and priorities, you can help us plan health services that meet the needs of the Ballina community now and into the future.”
A draft report will be released for public comment following consultation, giving residents another opportunity to contribute.
The Ballina Region Health Services Plan is expected to be completed by early 2027.
More information and the community survey are available through the NNSWLHD website.
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