The Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District has been dogged in its assurance services for mental health patients will still be available over the Christmas period.
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The health district's comments follow criticism of its decision to close the 20 bed sub-acute mental health unit at Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital for three weeks around Christmas.
Director of Mental Health Services for the ISLHD Julie Carter said the closure would not have any effect on mental health patients presenting at the emergency department.
"The sub-acute program is a 28 day program and is for consumers that require a lower level of support," Ms Carter said.
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"It's about helping people to develop the independent living skills to live well in the community and manage their mental illness.
"The program doesn't operate on weekends or public holidays, so given all those reasons, that's why we have decided to consolidate and close those beds over the Christmas period."
Over the last financial year, 251 individuals went into the 28 day sub-acute program although not all patients stayed for the full length of the program.
Instead, the ISLHD said for patients with sub-acute needs community and rehab programs would be still available over Christmas.
Ms Carter said it was unlikely the closure of the sub-acute unit would put pressure on other mental health services.
"No, it wouldn't have any direct impact on our admissions to our acute unit," she said.
An acute mental health inpatient service is being planned as part of the redevelopment of Shoalhaven Hospital.
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Stuart Thomson
Journalist at the South Coast Register.
Journalist at the South Coast Register.
