Recruitment remains a significant challenge for the local health facilities, with vacant positions such as Facility Manager and Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) for Hay Hospital continuing to be advertised but not attracting any applicants.

Mayor Carol Oataway and Hay Shire Council General Manager, David Webb attended a recent monthly meeting of the Local Health Advisory Committee (LHAC), where a number of important matters concerning health services in Hay were discussed.

A Hospital Open Day was held on Monday to provide an opportunity for the community to learn more about the services available locally.

“LHAC prepared a newspaper infomercial to raise awareness about how to access aged care services,” Cr Oataway said in a report to Council.

“One of the issues raised was the loss of podiatry services in Hay, which will impact many community members who rely on this care.

“LHAC will continue to pursue options for access to this vital service.” Cr Oataway said residential aged care remains at full capacity, with a waiting list of 12 residents, highlighting the growing demand in the community.