Residents in Mansfield and surrounding districts will have even better access to the best health services thanks to a $191,582 Brumby Labor Government funding boost.
Visiting Mansfield District Hospital today, Health Minister Daniel Andrews said a $66,000 grant would support local midwifery services for mums-to-be.
“The Brumby Labor Government is investing in country hospitals so mothers and their babies can have the best possible start in life,” Mr Andrews said.
"This money from the Rural Maternity Initiative will reassure mums-to-be that they can give birth in their local community with access to seamless care from pregnancy through to post-birth care.
“We’re committed to ensuring the future of rural maternity services through innovative new cooperative models of care, best-practice projects and midwifery education and support programs.”
Mr Andrews said Mansfield District Hospital would also receive $77,000 to replace boilers, and $48,582 in extra acute funding.
The extra money is in addition to the hospital’s annual State Budget allocation.
Mr Andrews said the $77,000 grant was part of the Statewide Infrastructure Renewal Program.
“The renewal program supports the replacement and upgrade of critical engineering infrastructure such as boilers, chillers, electrical systems, lifts, lighting, water tanks and air conditioning,” he said.
“The program aims to extend the life of vital hospital infrastructure and enable hospitals to continue delivering safe and high quality care to patients.”
Mr Andrews said Mansfield District Hospital received nearly $4.8 million for acute hospital care this financial year, a 78 per cent increase since 1999.