STATE HEALTH BUDGET 2018
The Health Budget looks adequate on the face of it but only time will tell if this budget improves health care in Tasmania.
The AMA is pleased to see a commitment to an immediate increase in the front line and support staff in the health system.
Supporting the establishment of a private hospital co-located with the Launceston General is a positive initiative.
The AMA notes the increased commitment to health services in the North West. However, the government has missed the opportunity to improve patient flow and care at the Royal Hobart Hospital (Tasmania’s Tertiary Referral Hospital) by not funding proposed changes to the new K block.
These changes included:
• moving ICU to expanded new premises in K Block,
• the expansion of ED and
• allowing Psychiatry to remain in J block until new more appropriate facilities are built.
Had the government funded this proposal in the budget they would have strategically delivered many of their election promises. Failing to deliver on this proposal will impact patient care and cause untold damage to staff morale at the Royal Hobart Hospital.
It is unfortunate given the plight of heath in Tasmania that the government choose not to spend some of the surpluses on health.
ENDS
MEDIA CONTACT: John Davis 0488 142 033 – PRESIDENT AMA TASMANIA