NCN Health theatre services will not return to Cobram

By Cobram Courier

Jun 20, 2024

Theatre services at NCN Health’s Cobram campus have been permanently transferred to Numurkah. Photo by Contributed

Theatre services at Cobram Campus are have been permanently transferred to Numurkah to ensure NCN Health continues to meet rigorous safety standards.

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NCN Health board chair Tricia Quibell said the permanent transfer of the theatre to the Numurkah Campus would ensure the delivery of high-quality services both now and in the future, while still remaining accessible to the Cobram community.

“We understand the importance of ensuring the community have safe and convenient access to health care when they need it,” Ms Quibell said.

“The permanent transfer of theatre services to Numurkah will enhance safety, while also ensuring Cobram residents receive quality health care close to home.”

Ms Quibell said the same level of high-quality care would continue, and transport to Numurkah Campus was available for Cobram residents.

“GPs will continue to refer patients for surgical procedures as normal, patients will be able to attend the pre-anaesthetic clinic at Cobram Campus and patients will still access the same surgeons at Numurkah Campus,” she said.

“NCN Health in partnership with the Royal Flying Doctor Service community transport in Cobram can provide support to patients who find it challenging to travel to Numurkah for surgery.”

NCN Health interim chief executive Justin Sullivan said it was not possible to continue to run a safe and efficient theatre service in Cobram.

“Cobram theatre is no longer compliant with infection-control guidelines and NCN Health was unable to secure the significant funding required to meet these evolving and necessary safety standards,” he said.

He said the permanent transfer of theatre services to the Numurkah Campus would not result in any job losses and that the health service would like to repurpose the Cobram theatre space with alternative services that could add value to the community.

“Based on the region’s health service plan, the changing health needs of the local community and the existing theatre building, NCN Health is exploring other services for Cobram, such as same-day cancer services or dialysis,” he said.

“Investigating alternative services for Cobram is a significant project that may take some time.

“However, we are working with the Department of Health, GV Health and the Hume Health Service Partnership to investigate what is most feasible and beneficial for the local community.”