1,036 EXTRA DOCTORS SWELL PUBLIC HOSPITAL RANKS

The ranks of Queensland public hospitals have been swelled by 1,036 extra doctors since the Beattie Government began its major reform of the health system.

Health Minister Stephen Robertson said today there are currently 5,588 fulltime doctors providing care for patients in Queensland public hospitals.

“Queensland Health had 4,552 doctors on the payroll in June 2005 when we began the health reform process.

“It means we’ve achieved a net increase of 1,036 extra doctors in just under two years.

“That’s a significant recruitment achievement in the middle of an on-going national shortage of doctors in Australia.

“But we still need more doctors to ensure our public hospitals continue to meet the challenges imposed by a growing and ageing population.

“That’s why Queensland Health will continue to recruit for skilled and experienced doctors throughout Australia and overseas.”

Mr Robertson said the latest doctor numbers come from Queensland Health’s payroll database for the pay period ending 6 May 2007.

“So they’re real doctors, working in real jobs right now, at public hospitals throughout Queensland.

“The figures also take into account doctors who have left Queensland Health; including young doctors who have completed their clinical training, resignations, retirement, death, end of contract, dismissal or transfer out of Queensland Health.”

“The 1,036 extra doctors are across all categories including additional staff specialists, senior medical officers, registrars, resident medical officers, visiting specialists and interns. “

Mr Robertson said Queensland Health had become a more attractive employer for doctors in the post-Patel reform era.

“The Beattie Government has already stimulated workforce growth by providing public sector doctors at all levels with significant pay increases.

“We’re also providing them better conditions and allowances, plus enhanced professional development opportunities.

“That’s why doctors are voting with their feet to be part of our $10 billion health reform revolution to build and improve Queensland’s health system.”

Mr Robertson said Queensland Health had also achieved significant increases in other areas of its clinical workforce since June 2005.

“The latest statistics show Queensland Health currently employs 25,068 nurses in our hospitals and other public health facilities.

“That’s 3,157 more than the 21,911 nurses employed by Queensland Health at 30 June 2005.

“We also now have 6,932 allied health professionals and scientists on the payroll today.

“That’s 1,126 more than the 5,806 employed by Queensland Health at 30 June 2005.

“Like doctors, we still need more nurses and more allied health staff to provide care for patients in our hospitals and other public health facilities.

“Queensland Health will continue to recruit for more skilled and experience nurses and allied health staff such as medical radiation professionals,” he said.

MEDIA: PAUL LYNCH 3234 1190