August 24, 2011
Increasing demand for aged care services has the board at Heyfield Hospital looking towards the future with a focus on independent living.
Deputy Premier Peter Ryan, Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester and State Member for Gippsland East Tim Bull recently received a briefing on plans for the future of the hospital from Health Service Manager Anne Woollard.
A working group has been formed with the Heyfield Hospital board to look at independent living opportunities to meet the demand for aged care services in the town.
Mr Chester said the demand for health and aged care services in Heyfield was growing, particularly with many older residents aiming to remain independent in the community for longer.
“In an ideal situation, people like to remain in their own homes as they get older and that is often possible with some level of assistance,” Mr Chester said.
“But for people who want to move to a smaller home or leave a farm and move to town, there is an emerging need for independent living units.
“The Heyfield Hospital is currently exploring the viability of developing independent living units and I look forward to working with the board and my State Parliamentary colleagues to support any future proposals.”
Health Service Manager Anne Woollard said if the hospital was able to build independent living units they would be a valuable asset to the Heyfield community.
“Independent living units would be a great addition to the services already offered by the hospital,” Ms Woollard said.
“Providing opportunities for local people to stay in a community familiar to them is important later in life.
“We look forward to working with all levels of government to offer a wider range of services including independent living in the future.”
Mr Bull said it was essential that regional communities like Heyfield are equipped with adequate health and aged care services.
“The briefing was a good chance to discuss the hospital and increasing needs of the local community,” Mr Bull said.
“I will be supporting the hospital and working in conjunction with Darren and Peter Ryan to make sure that it can continue to serve the Heyfield community.”