The Tenterfield Health Service officially opened its doors on Wednesday afternoon, although the premises and some of the faces will look familiar.
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Dr Sunil Sunil had worked for Tenterfield Medical Centre since the end of 2019 at the same Rouse Street location. Since the centre's shock closure several months ago Dr Sunil continued doing some shifts at Tenterfield Hospital, but is now back in town on a permanent basis as the sole doctor in the new GP practice.
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He comes from five years in Bonalbo as a GP and hospital doctor, but considers the move up the range a long-term prospect, purchasing a property with wife Jeanette on the north of town.
"The last year was like a trial and I like the place and the people," he said.
He's now operating the practice on his own, although will consider taking on more doctors in 6-12 months depending on demand.
He will, however, be inviting allied health providers like podiatrists, exercise physiologists and dietitians to offer their services in the centre's rooms, on a weekly or fortnightly basis.
Dr Sunil himself enjoys the paediatrics aspect of the business, after having previously worked with a paediatrician in New Zealand.
He's also looking at offering a fortnightly clinic at Vegetable Creek Hospital in Emmaville on Dr Peter Annetts' retirement, particularly to serve its aged care residents.
He remains credentialed to work at Tenterfield Hospital and has offered his help there as required.
Madhu returns as practice receptionist, although Dr Sunil does not have access to Tenterfield Medical Centre records. He said patients would have to formally request that Nimos Health Care transfer their records to the new Tenterfield Health Service.
"But I prefer to start from scratch anyway."
Registered nurse Deb Byrt will be working at the practice two days a week, providing immunisations, assistance with chronic disease management and similar medical services.
Dr Sunil said there's been a lot of interest in the practice getting underway, but it's open for business from Thursday, December 17. Appointments can be made by calling (02) 6736 3350, and the practice bulk bills.