According to Mr Peacocke, Dubbo Base Hospital has spent decades battling for money, constantly playing second fiddle to Orange.

“During my years in local and State politics inequitable health funding was a major concern,’’ Mr Peacocke said.

“Orange has always received preferential treatment from the health department and despite years of argument I’ve never been able to understand why.

“Dubbo doesn’t get a fair go and it never has. It’s outrageous that Dubbo people are now being sent to Orange for treatment.

“Our hospital has excellent staff but it clearly doesn’t have enough money, people or equipment.’’

Mr Peacocke is angered to see Orange surging ahead as a centre of medical excellence while the health department allows Dubbo Base to fall behind.

“It makes no sense at all because Dubbo is well recognised as a major regional centre,’’ Mr Peacocke said.

“We have a larger population than Orange and serve the vast western region. To put it bluntly, Orange does not have the same status as Dubbo so it should not be allocated more health funding.’’

Mr Peacocke said the 2009 White Pages telephone directory contained a map of health services in Dubbo and the western region.

“Phone numbers for a total of 28 hospitals and health services are listed but Orange is not included because it is not in our area,’’ Mr Peacocke said.

“That simple fact speaks volumes. Greater Western Area Health Service is involved in a number of ongoing investigations into patient treatment and transfers.

“The problems are going to get worse if Dubbo Base Hospital is not upgraded.’’

Dubbo Health Council chairman John Roberts has also expressed discontent over funding allocations for Dubbo Base Hospital.

He has called on locals to “get behind” State MP Dawn Fardell who continues to campaign against the concentration of health services in Orange.

Mr Roberts is angered by criticism directed at Ms Fardell by Member for Barwon Kevin Humphries.

“I am a long-time financial member of the National Party and no great Dawn Fardell fan but I can’t fault her work for the Dubbo community,’’ Mr Roberts said.

“Ms Fardell has given 150 per cent in the fight for health services.

“The same can’t be said about Mr Humphries. Our health council hasn’t heard a word from him or his office since November 7 2007. There have been no offers of assistance or support.

“Mr Humphries’ attitude towards Dubbo health services and our local member is insulting. He has stepped out of line and should apologise to Ms Fardell and the people of Dubbo.’’

heather.crosby@ruralpr ess.com