The development of a prototype inpatient room gives key hospital staff and the WNSWLHD the opportunity to provide feedback to the project team on the room layout before completion of the remaining rooms.

The new inpatient rooms have been designed to enhance patient experience with larger windows to allow more natural light, better access to outside spaces and ensuite bathrooms for improved accessibility and privacy.

Construction at Parkes Hospital is currently focussed on roofing and facade works and internal fit out which includes the installation of services and partitions.

In order to deliver the Lachlan Health Service project, the NSW Government has provided $40.9 million to the Forbes Hospital redevelopment and $72.5 million to construct the Parkes Hospital on its new site.

The new Parkes Hospital includes:

• An emergency department;

• Inpatient ward;

• Birthing suites for maternity services;

• Ambulatory care treatment area, including chemotherapy and dental facilities;

• Operating suite and day-only surgical services; and

• Clinical support services, including medical imaging.

The Forbes Hospital redevelopment includes:

• An emergency department;

• Inpatient ward;

• Birthing suites for maternity services;

• Upgrade of ambulatory care treatment area, including expanded renal and dental facilities;

• Clinical support services, including medical imaging; and

• Refurbishment of the heritage building for office spaces, which was completed in September 2014.

The hospital designs were the result of extensive consultation with hospital staff, health providers and community groups to ensure the Lachlan Health Service is able to provide the level of care that the Parkes community deserves now, and into the future.

Construction of the Lachlan Health Service project is scheduled to be complete in early 2016.

For all the latest information about the redevelopment visit the project website www.lachlanhealthserviceproject.health.nsw.gov.au/