Both parties say this should help to address transition requirements, and alleviate concerns locals have about the transfer of their medical files to a new operator.
The joint agreement has been developed based on community feedback through council’s feedback channels, letters to the Pastoral Times and on social media.
Ochre Health has also said it would consider an extension of the transition period, should it be required.
The future management of the Deniliquin Medical Centre has become one of the most discussed local issues, following Edward River Council’s decision to terminate Ochre Health’s lease early and seek a new operator for the facility.
Ochre Health has managed the centre since it was established in 2012, with its lease due to run until October 2027.
However, council announced on July 3 that, after discussions about the long-term delivery of healthcare services, there would be an early termination of the arrangement.
Council said Ochre would continue providing medical services during the transition period while alternative operators are explored.
Council had already received initial interest from five medical providers before the official expressions of interest period opened last week.
It included a bid from former Deniliquin-based doctor Nishan Silva who, with colleagues, established Quantum Clinical Care PTY LTD and is already operating the Barham Medical Centre.
In a joint statement issued yesterday, Ochre Health and Edward River Council said while council works to find a new operator, “representatives from council and Ochre Health are maintaining regular communication and working collaboratively on practical transition planning”.
“Ochre Health and Edward River Council wish to reassure the Deniliquin community that both organisations are continuing to work together professionally and constructively as planning progresses for the transition of operator of the Deniliquin Medical Centre,” the statement said.
“Both parties remain committed to ensuring patients, staff and the broader community receive clear information and support throughout the transition process.
“Our shared and overriding priority is continuity of healthcare services for the people of Deniliquin and the surrounding district.
“Importantly, both organisations recognise the need for flexibility to support an orderly handover of services.
“Affirming their initial commitment to council to assist patient continuity, Ochre Health has confirmed they will continue operations at the Deniliquin Medical Centre for approximately six weeks beyond October 2, 2026, with further flexibility should it be required.
“This will provide sufficient time for a future operator to complete a smooth onboarding period including the transfer of patient records, pending legal and confidentiality requirements.”
Both organisations also acknowledged the “understandable interest and concern” community members have expressed regarding future healthcare arrangements.
“We encourage community members to rely on information published directly by council and Ochre Health, rather than commentary from third parties,” the joint statement said.
“If people have questions, we welcome those conversations and will continue to provide information wherever we can, recognising that some contractual, commercial and privacy obligations limit what can be discussed publicly.
“In the meantime, patients should continue to attend appointments as normal and access services in the usual manner.”
Information on council’s decision and what happens next is available at www.haveyoursay.edwardriver.nsw.gov.au/deniliquin-medical-centre-lease.
If you have questions, they can be sent through to the dedicated email address - medical.centre@edwardriver.nsw.gov.au.
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