31 Oct 2018 McIvor Times, Heathcote VIC (General News) by Michael Mattingly Heathcote Health to refurbish facilities for palliative patients HEATHCOTE Health will be able to refurbish rooms for palliative patients after it received funding from the state government. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes was in Heathcote last week to announce the $134,000 plan to improve patient and family experience when undergoing acute palliative care. The funding is available through the third round of the flagship Regional Health Infrastructure Fund. Visiting Heathcote Health alongside candidate for Euroa Fionna DeppelerMorton, Ms Symes said the money was about ensuring Heathcote Health can deliver one of its priority projects. The acute palliative care upgrade involves the refurbishment of rooms for palliative patients, with painting, new floor coverings, furniture and lighting as well as the addition of two new sunrooms. This investment will mean greater comfort and amenity for palliative patients and their loved ones, during what is often a very emotional and challenging time, as well as providing a better work environment for the staff providing the care. Were putting patients first and revamping our country hospitals and health services like Heathcote Health so more patients can be treated sooner, closer to home, Ms Symes said. This funding boost will enable Heathcote Health to ensure their facilities are modernised and appropriate for caring for palliative patients in their care. Ms Deppeler-Morton said todays announcement was further evidence of Labors commitment to country hospitals and respect for the important work they do caring for the ill and keeping the community healthy. The staffs at Heathcote Health do an amazing job of caring for patients and Im pleased the Labor government continues to make important investments in this facility for the benefit of everyone who works and volunteers here and for those they care for. In previous funding rounds Heathcote Health received $260,934 for fire safety and occupation health and safety upgrades, which have been completed, as well as $108,920 to refurbish the nurses station to provide greater room flexibility and safety for our hard-working nurses, which will be completed at the same time as the palliative care upgrades.