A PARLIAMENTARY inquiry into the NSW health system has extended its deadline for submissions following an "overwhelming" response from people living in rural and regional communities, Kate Washington says.
The opposition spokesperson for Regional Health said people now had until January 15 to share their experiences and address the disparities between healthcare in the city versus the country.
"This inquiry is so important to get to the bottom of our failing health system in rural and regional NSW," Ms Washington said.
"The submission deadline has been extended to ensure regional communities have the time they need to have their say and share their stories.
"The feedback so far has been unbelievable.
"There are hundreds of people who want to make a submission, and now they'll have an additional month to contribute to this important inquiry."
Ms Washington urged people living in rural and regional NSW to share their experiences with their local health system to highlight any problems that need to be addressed.
She said making a submission to the inquiry was an opportunity for people in these communities to push for change and better health outcomes.
Already, data showed avoidable deaths were twice as likely in rural and regional communities compared to cities.
Ms Washington hoped recommendations from the healthcare inquiry would provide a "road map" for improvement.
Ryan Park, the opposition spokesperson for Health, said the inquiry process needed to hear from patients, doctors, nurses, healthcare workers, parents, friends, and communities.
"It's vital that everyone who has a story to share is given that opportunity," he said.
"I encourage everyone who wants to see improved local healthcare services to make a submission. Have your voice heard."
You can make a submission at parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries.
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