Bligh Government committed to health program

An enhanced elective surgery initiative and a renewed commitment to the State Government’s massive health infrastructure program was announced as part of the Bligh Government’s Major Economic Statement released today.

Treasurer Andrew Fraser said even more Queenslanders will get their elective surgery sooner following a $50 million injection into the Surgery Connect program.

“These are tough economic times, but our commitment to health is as strong as ever,” Mr Fraser said.

“We have made tough decisions to keep the Queensland economy moving forward, but one area we wouldn’t compromise is health.

“Health expenditure remains a key priority for this Government, and an extra $50 million over the next two years highlight our dedication to the task.”

Surgery Connect, which targets category two and three ‘long wait’ patients by delivering operations in the private sector at no cost to the public patient has proved highly successful, treating over 6000 patients since its implementation in November 2007.

“We want Queenslanders to have the shortest public hospital waiting times in Australia by 2020 and we recognize Surgery Connect is an integral part of that commitment.”

Health Minister Stephen Robertson said the extra funds would be used to focus on patients waiting longer than clinically desirable for category two or three elective procedures at the Princess Alexandra Hospital and Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital.

“The funding will also be used to treat category two and three ‘long waits’ in the regional areas of Rockhampton, Bundaberg, Fraser Coast, Townsville and Cairns.

“This means around 1200 extra elective surgery procedures for regional Queenslanders in 2008/09.”

Mr Roberson said the announcement would also mean performing even more ‘long wait’ elective surgery procedures for children.

“Today’s funding injection will enable an extra 100 children’s ‘long wait’ elective procedures to be performed this financial year.

“This is over and above the extra $5 million from the Queensland Health restructure we committed to children’s ‘long wait’ elective surgery lists in August,” he said.

Mr Fraser said another feature was the renewed commitment to deliver on Queensland Health’s $1 billion infrastructure program in 2008-09.

“Delivering hospitals and health facilities means better health services and keeps Queenslanders in jobs.”

Ends.

MEDIA:

Minister Robertson’s office: 3234 1185

Treasurer’s Office – 3224 6361 or 3224 5982