A healthcare leader whose vision, determination and innovation are transforming the way healthcare is delivered across the Clarence Valley has been recognised with a NSW Government Community Service Award.
Haley Hodgson, the driving force behind Maclean’s new health centre, was presented with the prestigious honour by State Nationals MP for Clarence Richie Williamson during the centre’s official opening and community open day.
Mr Williamson said Haley’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare had made a profound difference to thousands of local families.
“Haley has dedicated her career to caring for others, but what she has achieved in recent years has been nothing short of extraordinary,” Mr Williamson said.
“When the future of Maclean Medical was uncertain, Haley stepped forward to ensure the community would not lose an essential healthcare service. Rather than accepting the status quo, she embraced the challenge and has transformed healthcare delivery in the Lower Clarence.
“What started as Haley’s vision for a nurse-led Access Health Clinic has grown into three interconnected, independently owned and operated healthcare businesses – AveNüPlus, Maclean Medical and Maclean Radiology – all working together under one roof with a shared goal of making quality healthcare more accessible for the people of the Clarence Valley.”
Mr Williamson said through the Access Health Clinic alone, Haley has pioneered an innovative model of care that has delivered more than 10,000 consultations in less than 12 months, easing pressure on local GPs and emergency departments while ensuring patients can access timely, affordable healthcare.
“The opening of the purpose-built Maclean Health Centre is remarkable milestone. It demonstrates what can be achieved through local vision, local investment and a commitment to improving healthcare outcomes. Haley isn’t simply responding to today’s healthcare challenges. She is helping shape the future of healthcare in regional New South Wales.
“It was an absolute privilege to nominate and present Haley with this Community Service Award. She is an exceptional leader whose vision, passion and tireless commitment will benefit our community for generations to come.”
Accepting the award, Ms Hodgson said she was honoured to receive the recognition but stressed it belonged to many people.
“I am incredibly honoured and humbled to receive this recognition, but this award is not mine alone. It reflects the commitment of an extraordinary team of healthcare professionals, business partners, local tradies, suppliers, family and friends who believed in a shared vision of improving healthcare for the Clarence Valley,” Ms Hodgson said.
“Saturday’s opening wasn’t about a building. It was about what that building represents. It represents a community that deserves access to high-quality healthcare close to home and the power of local people coming together to invest in the future of regional healthcare.
“As a registered nurse, my passion has always been making healthcare more accessible, particularly for people living in rural communities. Every decision we’ve made has been guided by one simple question: ‘How can we make it easier for people to receive the care they need, when they need it?’
“To stand at the opening and see thousands of people walk through the doors was incredibly emotional. After years of planning, countless challenges and many hours of hard work, seeing our community embrace the centre reminded me exactly why we started this journey.”
