He indicated the decision is subject to review, but can't make any promises on what might happen. 

The decision was slammed by Griffith Base Hospital’s medical staff council, who in a letter to Murrumbidgee Local Health District (MLHD) argued the cost of outsourcing would be higher. They also said it would be impractical, given most major surgery is done at the public hospital. 

According to the letter, MLHD Chief Executive Jill Ludford said the outsourcing decision – made without consultation – was “good” for the base hospital. 

Save Griffith Base Hospital committee president Jenna Woodland is encouraged by the Minister’s intervention. 

“With the promised of a new hospital, it makes no sense to outsource sterilisation services. What does outsourcing gain? St Vincent’s is arguably too small to serve both our hospitals.”

Ms Woodland said the NSW government should invest in upgrading the public hospital’s “run down” sterilising supplies department instead of outsourcing it. 

Adrian Piccoli, member for Murray, said he had been told by Ms Ludford there “would be no additional cost to the public hospital” as a result of the outsourcing.

“There is nothing new or sinister about outsoucing,” he said, noting many businesses outsource functions, “including The Area News” – which outsources its paper printing process.  

Mr Piccoli added the development of a new hospital would address connectivity between the two hospitals, making access to sterilising supplies easier. 

If you would like to express your view on whether the outsourcing decision should be reversed, you can contact Minister Hazzard through his website or call MLHD on (02) 69339100 or email them on mlhd-feedback@health.nsw.gov.au