Save Our Hospital Inc (SOHI) president, Mrs Tapscott, still has a concern over what services will continue to be available at the community hospital.

“I am especially concerned about the continuation of emergency department services which appear to once again be under threat,” Mrs Tapscott said.

Mrs Tapscott, also a member of the new Pambula Health Service Advisory Committee, says that the new committee adds an extra layer of bureaucracy to decision-making for the hospital.

“The new committee format is an extra layer of bureaucracy.

“We don’t have the (health) minister’s ear anymore.

“It’s very important that the community continues to push for what services they want at the hospital, especially the emergency department.

“My fear is that the Health Department look at Pambula Hospital as a boil on their buttocks.”

Mrs Tapscott said that the SOHI Annual General Meeting, being held on Thursday night, is an opportunity for the community to come and express their concerns.

“SOHI is the voice of the community.

“It only exists because of the community – it’s not there for any other reason.

“If the community is still concerned about the future of Pambula Hospital then they need to come along to the AGM and say that.

“It’s my observation that ministers and politicians and other community representatives look to the community for the agenda.

“If the community is not prepared to put their argument forward, then by default, they (politicians) will do what they just want to do.”

The SOHI AGM is on Thursday night (April 17) at 6pm in the Garden Room of the Pambula/Merimbula Golf Club.