The Dubbo community is a step closer to a new, expanded NSW Health Pathology laboratory, with construction work now underway on the facility at Dubbo Health Service.

Minister for Health Ryan Park said pathology is a crucial tool in detecting, treating and monitoring disease, with many clinical decisions and most cancer diagnosis starting with a pathology investigation.

“The start of construction on this new pathology laboratory is an exciting milestone, bringing us closer to new and enhanced healthcare services and facilities for the Dubbo community,” Mr Park said.

“The construction will make room for a larger, more modern pathology department to meet the growing health needs of the Dubbo community.

“It will also provide pathology staff with fit-for-purpose facilities, including modern, automated testing platforms that will keep pace with the clinical growth of the region, in particular the recent development of a Regional Cancer Centre.”

Labor spokesperson for Dubbo, Stephen Lawrence, said the new pathology laboratory will play a vital role in supporting the healthcare needs of the growing community.

“Pathology is an incredibly important aspect of all healthcare delivery and this expanded laboratory is a very welcome addition to Dubbo,” Mr Lawrence said.

“As former Mayor of Dubbo, I know how much this expanded laboratory means to the community and the impact it will have on ensuring timely care delivery.”

As part of NSW Health Pathology’s commitment to environmental sustainability, the new laboratory has also been selected for a pilot project to install sensor taps to conserve water and support energy efficiency.

Laboratory Manager Monique Mintern said the sustainability pilot project will be a welcome addition to the new laboratory.

“The sustainability of sensor taps is significant,” Ms Mintern said.

“They create a hygienic and safe environment, reducing the chances of cross-contamination in the laboratory while also conserving water.

“Our local community here in Dubbo has lived through many years of drought and we appreciate how precious our local water supply is.”

The $6 million contract has been awarded to North Construction & Building following a competitive tender process.

North Managing Director Matthew Cook said North will work alongside NSW Public Works to refurbish the former ambulatory care section of the hospital which will house the new pathology laboratory.

“North has a long history of not only delivering essential medical facilities for NSW Health but also working collaboratively with NSW Public Works to bring these, and other, projects to fruition throughout regional NSW,” Mr Cook said.

“Our local team of experts is looking forward to completing these much-needed upgrades for the staff, patients and broader community.”

Construction work is due to be completed in late 2024. The existing pathology laboratory will continue to operate while the new laboratory is built.

Artist impression of expanded Dubbo Pathology Laboratory can be accessed via Google Drive​​​.