07 December 2006

Boost to renal services in Tamworth

A new kidney specialist has started at Tamworth Hospital providing a significant boost to the medical team responsible for kidney patients in the region NSW Minister for Health John Hatzistergos said today.

Mr Hatzistergos welcomed nephrologist Dr Mani Panat who has joined the Tamworth Hospital Renal Unit from India where he has held a number of high-level nephrology and medical positions over 20 years.

"Dr Panat's appointment is a big achievement for Tamworth," he said.

"Dr Panat's appointment will complement Tamworth Hospital's current Consultant Physician Nephrologist Dr Steve May."

General Manager of Tamworth and Armidale hospitals Fergus Fitzsimons said having another kidney specialist will make a big difference to providing services to renal patients in the region.

"Dr May will continue his ongoing dedication to patient care working alongside Dr Panat to provide renal services to the Northern region.

"We welcome Dr Panat and his family, who will permanently relocate to the region in January 2007."

Dr Panat said he had been warmly welcomed by staff at Tamworth Hospital.

"I am enjoying the change in Tamworth and very much look forward to becoming part of the local community," Dr Panat said.

Most recently Dr Panat established and was appointed the Head of the Nephrology and Toxicology Department at Lourdes Hospital, Kochi Kerala in India. Prior to this he was the Head of Nephrology at Lisie Hospital, Kerala and lectured in Nephrology at the CMC Hospital in Vellore.

Dr Panat's appointment is in addition to the recent recruitment of emergency department staff including a Fast Track nurse, two nurse practitioners, a non-clinical nurse unit manager and a communication clerk to assist medical staff.

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