08 November 2006

New cardiac service for Coffs Harbour Health Campus

NSW Minister for Health John Hatzistergos today officially opened the new $3.5 million Coronary Angiography Unit at Coffs Harbour Health Campus - allowing up to 800 people a year to access lifesaving diagnostic procedures locally.

"The new unit is a big boost to health services on the North Coast. It demonstrates the Iemma Government's ongoing commitment to delivering high quality health services, as close as possible to where people live," he said.

"It will greatly benefit patients with serious conditions such as heart disease, angina and other acute coronary syndromes, who previously had to travel to the Gold Coast or Sydney.

"This is the 'gold standard' diagnostic test for coronary artery disease, allowing a cardiologist to get a definitive answer on the most appropriate treatment option for the patient: bypass, stents, or medical management."

Mr Hatzistergos said Cardiovascular disease accounted for nearly 40 per cent of all deaths in NSW, with coronary heart disease causing over half of these. Cardiovascular risk factors include smoking, obesity, stress, alcohol and diabetes.

Specialist staff operating the new cardiac catheter laboratory unit include; a Cardiologist: a Nurse Unit Manager who has managed previous cardiac catheter laboratories; four specialist registered nurses; an experienced Radiographer; ancillary support staff

The construction work was done by Coffs Harbour-based building firm, F.M. Glenn Pty Ltd, which brought in the project on time and within budget.

Mr Hatzistertgos said the new service is part of the Iemma Government's Rural Health Plan which has seen Cardiac Catheter Labs established at Tamworth and Orange Base Hospitals, with arrangements made to treat public patients at a private service in Wagga Wagga.

"This year the NSW Government will spend $27 million a day on infrastructure, including $633 million to redevelop, upgrade and build hospital projects," he explained.

"We're making real progress by reducing waiting lists and waiting times for surgery, but there's still more work to do."

Mr Hatzistergos also made special note of the wall-hanging from the Glenreagh Creative Arts Group, saying its display helped create a more pleasant environment for patients.

For a range of health information, go online to www.health.nsw.gov.au