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Ultrasound availability

Posted By romeowc83

"Ultrasound availability"

About: Swan Hill District Hospital / Radiology

(as the patient),

Ultrasound appointments appear non-existent recently, just what we needed - harder access to health care in Swan Hill. I try radiology and am given a minimum 2 week waitlist, referred to the private clinic and they’re overwhelmed with the referrals from the hospital. Next stop Kerang- nope 3+ week wait. 

So now I have to drive to Bendigo at least once a week, sometimes multiple times a week for an ultrasound. I understand my appointment is not life threatening but it is necessary and now because of availability I have to take time off work to go to Bendigo costing me income on top of the travel expense. 

To hear that this apparently stems from new management is another kick in the teeth for me.

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Responses

Response from Chloe Keogh, Interim CEO, Executive Offices, Swan Hill District Health 3 weeks ago
Chloe Keogh
Interim CEO, Executive Offices,
Swan Hill District Health

Overall responsibility for the running of the health service, reports to the Board of Management. Interim for 7 months while they recruit permanently to the CEO role.

Submitted on 8/08/2025 at 11:26 AM
Published on Care Opinion Australia at 3:20 PM

picture of Chloe Keogh

Dear romeowc83,

Thank you for articulating your dilemma with getting regular ultrasound appointments. We have been experiencing significant fluctuations in availability of ultrasonographers for the last 10 months, with critical shortage particularly around Christmas and again now. It is very much a wider workforce issue, and not unique to us here in Swan Hill- and I appreciate that isn't really helpful for you getting a service as close to home as possible.

We are working on resolving the current situation and ensuring that there is a service for the community, and to avoid people having to travel out of town for this service. We have an additional staff member coming to start on Monday to support the service, and I hope we can make a difference to the availability of appointments.

Again, thank you for taking the time to explain how our ultrasound service is impacting on your health care journey and the amount of travel you are having to undertake.

Kind Regards

Chloe

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