Funds to revive hospital

With the medical service close to closing down, the Shire of Kojonup is relieved to have been awarded funding as part of the $108.8 million Small Hospital and Nursing Post Refurbishment Program.

After long-term GP Dr Anthony King retired late last month, Kojonup feared that sufficient medical help and services would not be immediately available in town.

The first stage of the capital works program will distribute $16.3 million between Kojonup, Gnowangerup, Wagin and Lake Grace hospitals and the Tambellup Health Centre so upgrades can be conducted to emergency care, primary health services, and telehealth technology.

Shire president Ronnie Fleay said these upgrades were imperative for Kojonup to remain a viable and sustainable rural community.

"There was a concern we would not have sufficient services once Dr King retired, because it is essential our hospital remains functional and open, especially considering our location on the highway," she said.

"Long-term needs can be serviced in larger facilities, but immediate care is needed here."

Health Minister Kim Hames said the prime target of the project was to support rural doctors.

"We still don't have enough, but it is a step forward," he said.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said health investment was fundamental in sustaining and promoting rural development.

"These aspects are important, such as health services and education, because they make the decision for people to remain within a rural community," he said.

"These improved services and facilities will also assist in attracting and retaining hospital staff, narrowing the divide between regional and metropolitan health services."

New telehealth technology will also be available, allowing rural patients to deal with the professional services via video conferencing.

Ms Fleay said she had experienced first-hand the benefits of the service and it was the direction all rural communities needed to take.