Taupo Hospital should stay where it is, a review of the town's health services recommends.
Retaining the hospital at its Kotare St site, which has space for expansion, is the best option, says independent consultant Neil Woodhams, in a draft report to the Lakes District Health Board.
The board commissioned thereview in March to determine the most effective, efficient and safe way for health services to be provided to the Taupo district over the next 20 years.
Mr Woodhams identifies seven key issues: fragmentation of health services, poor co-ordination and co-operation between health providers, poor information and advocacy, transport and accommodation issues, Maori health issues, Taupo's population and the hospital's facilities and location.
Mr Woodhams told the board Taupo Hospital needed to have inpatient beds, an emergency department and a range of outpatient services.
The hospital site was easy to access and had room for expansion but its layout was inefficient and needed upgrading, he said.
Submissions on his draft report close on October 15.
