NSW Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Health Melinda Pavey was in Armidale yesterday where she met with hospital management, staff and clinicians and was briefed on developments at the hospital, staffing matters and the future hospital upgrade plans.

Mr Marshall is seeking funding to reinvigorate now outdated upgrade plans for the hospital so it’s in the best position to put its case once federal funding becomes available.

He has already met with state Health Minister Jillian Skinner to appeal for the necessary funds.

“It was good to have the Parliamentary Secretary at the hospital today to hear direct from clinicians and staff about the wonderful work being done in Armidale but also the restrictions 

existing infrastructure is having on the provision of healthcare,” Mr Marshall said.

“Following today, I’ve asked her to give the strongest possible message to the minister for the additional funds.

“This is essential to ensure that the Armidale hospital upgrade is the most advanced, shovel-ready project and the top priority in the state when (federal) funding becomes available.”

Ms Pavey assured the community she would be reporting back to Mrs Skinner about the importance of the Armidale hospital upgrade.