Problems emerge at new Maitland Hospital as patients wait hours in the ED but Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison says she is working on issues with NSW Health Minister Brad Hazzard

Long waits, a "packed" emergency department (ED) with insufficient seating and triage queues "10-to-12 people deep" have left some Hunter residents frustrated and questioning whether the new $470 million hospital is the "efficient" purpose-built facility that was promised.

Patients have described the hospital as being "overloaded" and "clearly short-staffed". One woman, who presented with heart health concerns, said she left the hospital after nine hours because she had still not seen a doctor by 1am. She heard other patients being directed to present at another hospital. Another patient said she felt sorry for the professional but "harried" staff in the ED.

Maitland MP Jenny Aitchison confirmed there had been teething problems - particularly around resourcing - that she was already working to resolve with the Health Minister.

"We need to make sure it has the staffing to support it operating as it should," she said. "New people are also coming to the hospital now. And why would you drive to John Hunter if there is a brand new hospital down the road that is 10-20 minutes away? We don't want to get into a blame game, but into a space where we can fix these issues as we go."

A Hunter New England Health spokesperson said patients who presented to the ED were prioritised to ensure those with the most urgent conditions were treated first. It meant some patients waited longer than others.

"Processes are in place to minimise ED waiting times and ensure patients are safe and comfortable while they wait," she said. "These include an additional nurse rostered in the waiting room during busy periods to manage patients and a patient experience officer who provides useful information, including updates to waiting times... "The hospital's staffing model is appropriate for its service needs and there has been no reduction in clinical services or clinical staffing."

Tell us about your experience at the new Maitland Hospital by emailing news@newcastleherald.com.au.

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