Long-term solutions needed for West Coast Health

The Tasmanian Greens today welcomed the announcement of a temporary solution to general practitioner services on the west coast, but stressed the need for more fundamental measures to address problems in healthcare delivery.

Greens Health spokesperson Paul O’Halloran MP said the Greens had been pushing for a number of months to get some clarity for west coast residents, following the announcement that Independent Practitioners Network was pulling out.

“This temporary solution will give the community some reassurance, but what’s really needed are more permanent solutions a whole host of problems around health service delivery on the west coast,” Mr O’Halloran said.

“One of the most serious concerns is the cancellation of after-hours nursing services, which locals believe is putting more strain on already-overstretched services.”

“Locals are unhappy at the high medical staff tumover rate, which is making it impossible to maintain continuity of patient care.”

“The Greens believe that part of the solution is the introduction of physician assistants to the local workforce.”

“Physician assistants will help to address the staffing shortages that the west coast faces while improving access to care and reducing the cost of employing locums.”

“Local industry leaders say health service downgrades are a big disincentive for people to live in the region, and are one of the major factors inhibiting the growth of the region.”

“It’s clear that inadequate of healthcare services only putting lives at risk, but it is seriously hampering economic growth on the west coast.”
Paul O’Halloran MP Greens Energy Spokesperson