Lower emergency department (ED) wait times have coincided with the ongoing implementation of safe staffing ratios as well as widespread uptake of urgent and virtual care health services. 

But Health Minister Ryan Park reiterates that while significant improvements have been made, hospitals continue to be confronted with high demand, and more is being done to relieve pressure on EDs. 

Hospitals in the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District have achieved lower emergency department wait times with 35.1 per cent more T2 emergency patients being treated on time since June 2022.

The Minns Labor Government is rolling out safe staffing ratios at hospitals across the state, including right here at Nepean Hospital.

In addition, we have rolled out a $500 million ED relief package which has seen:

• Virtual urgent care services are now available across the entire state;
• 222,000 patients treated through non-ED pathways to care including urgent and virtual care services; and
• Initiatives designed to improve patient flow within the hospital and emergency departments.

Member for Penrith Karen McKeown OAM said:

“I especially thank our local staff for delivering these significant improvements for our Penrith community. While these improvements are promising, there is still more to be done. 

“Residents with less urgent conditions can experience longer wait times, and I would always encourage calling Healthdirect first on 1800 022 222 in the event of non-life threatening conditions.”