The Member for Northern Tablelands said in June the NSW budget included funding for the upgrade from July 1, but groundbreaking might not start until 2021.

"You measure twice and cut once with these sorts of things because we only get one shot at this and we've got to make sure it's done right," he said on Friday.

The local MP and cabinet minister visited the Glen Innes hospital auxiliary AGM on Friday, taking the time to meet the new Health Services Manager Lisa Ramsland.

He said the scope of works were still to be worked out, except for the demolition of the old nurses' quarters and construction of new staff accomodation.

"Then they've got to work out - and it's not for me to dictate - but they've got to work out what they're going to do with the remaining funds within the existing hospital to bring every aspect of the hospital up to scratch."

He confirmed the planning process has started.

Glen Innes Hospital Auxiliary member Jan Sharman helped gather some 3000 signatures for a petition calling for the $20 million upgrade, which could include a new ambulance headquarters or a helipad.