That this House:

(1) Expresses deep concern with the approach of the Hunter New England Health CEO of cannibalising various services and staff from outlying health facilities in the district to support larger centres, especially the district's hub at Newcastle.

(2) Calls on the CEO to fully staff and resource all hospitals and health facilities outside Newcastle, particularly within the Northern Tablelands, to allow the full functioning once again of intensive care units, operating theatres and other critical acute services to ensure patients are treated as close to home as possible.

(3) Requires the CEO’s resignation or termination of employment should the terms of point (2) not be satisfied.

(4) Supports calls for a comprehensive investigation into the feasibility and benefits of dismantling the Hunter New England Health District and reconstituting the former New England Area Health District.

(5) Supports the establishment of a dedicated NSW Department of Regional Health.