Time for new direction at Queensland Health

The departure of the Director-General of Queensland Health leaves a critical role that requires exceptional leadership skills and a people-first focus. Queensland Health workforce issues underpin all the enormous challenges faced daily in our health system.

“The issues at Queensland Health are bigger than one person, however, it is time to refresh the department and embrace change,” AMA Queensland President Dr Maria Boulton said.

“AMA Queensland has been advocating for an end to the negative cultures that are highlighted every year in our Resident Hospital Health Check survey of junior doctors.

“Queensland Health must be accountable for system errors or our communities will never enjoy the high-quality, safe healthcare they deserve.

“Our hardworking doctors, nurses and other healthcare workers must be supported to do their jobs. A workforce culture that puts its people first will lead to greater retention.

“We are seeing some positive steps but the challenges ahead require a new mindset from the leadership. It is an enormous challenge, and one that requires exceptional skills.

“We look forward to working with the new Director-General on a new way ahead for Queensland Health.”