TOWNSVILLE HEALTH SERVICE PLAN STILL A WORK IN PROGRESS

Health Minister Stephen Robertson today reiterated the draft Townsville Clinical Services document was a work in progress.

Mr Robertson said the there was nothing secret about the draft which would eventually form part of a broader health service plan for the District.

“It is part of the normal Queensland Health planning and consultation process of engaging the community and staff on the ground about their health care needs, and anticipating the resources needed to deliver these services,” Mr Robertson said.

“Following this process there will be a formal review that will determine what is required to meet the future needs of the community.

“This draft is just the first step in a long-term plan that will address health services in Townsville over the next 15 years.

Mr Robertson today reconfirmed the Government’s commitment to a comprehensive planning process for the Townsville District.

“This planning process has been underway since February this year and is nearing completion.

“It has been an open and transparent process that is about this Government listening to the needs of the community and staff on the ground.

“It has always been our intention that when complete, the Clinical Services Plan and Master Plan would be distributed for wide public consultation.

Mr Robertson said the Bligh Government was looking at how best to deliver health services in the District well into the future to meet the demands of a rapidly growing and ageing population.

“Long-term planning is a staged process that allows for appropriate consultation, funding, capital works and staff recruitment.

“It is extremely premature to be talking about implementing what is only a draft, or to be discussing the cost of funding a plan that is not complete.

“Townsville is our major tertiary referral centre in the north and we know it is under a lot of pressure.

“That is why we are planning for the future, as well as delivering in the short term.

“We have already delivered 30 beds, and fast tracked an extra 30 beds for early 2009.

“In addition we are honouring our election commitment of a new wing that will deliver the additional 40 beds as well as two additional floors for extra capacity, and an expansion that will more than double the Emergency Department capacity.

“In the long term this planning process, will deliver a comprehensive plan for health services in Townsville that will provide the best possible health services for the future.

“When this process is complete, every consideration will be given to the plans and how best to implement them.

“We will continue to be committed to keeping the public informed about this process.

MEDIA: Kate Van Poelgeest 3234 1185