Labor welcomes the Government’s acknowledgement that it needs to consult further when it comes to health reform.
Labor warned that Michael Ferguson’s initial round of forums did not constitute proper consultation.
Shadow Health Minister Rebecca White said people simply didn’t know what was being proposed.
“Michael Ferguson now has an opportunity to be upfront with Tasmanians about the sort of reform that’s coming down the line and what services are at risk,” Ms White said.
“There needs to be a much greater focus on what reform might mean for regional areas and what the Government is doing when it comes to preventative health.
“Michael Ferguson cannot neglect the importance of primary health care, health promotion and prevention in the context of health reform because ultimately the focus should be on keeping people healthy and not just responding when they’re sick.
“In addition, the release of the final report will inevitably have an impact on budgeting.
“Presumably savings measures stemming from the report won’t be implemented in time for this year’s budget.
“Labor’s very concerned that jobs and services are already being cut and patient care is being affected.
Rebecca White MP Shadow Health Minister
