· A role for both fixed-wing and helicopter medical retrieval needed
· Government must talk to all operators and base decisions on health needs and fact
Tasmanian has been well-served by the Royal Flying Doctor Service for many years.
This not only includes medical retrieval, but the RFDS has invested in remote health services in Tasmania, such as improving dental services on Flinders Island, through its own fundraising efforts.
RFDS provides a vital lifeline, particularly for those living in the remote Bass Strait islands and isolated areas of the State.
The 2007 Sharley report re-opened the decade-long debate of fixed wing vs. rotor wing aircraft (helicopter) for medical retrieval. It recommended increased use of the existing Police helicopter as a “cheaper” option than buying a second fixed-wing plane to be based in Hobart, or a second helicopter to be based in Launceston.
The Liberals have always supported the use of both fixed wing and helicopter services. Both aircraft have their benefits and limitations, but together all bases can be covered.
The Liberals believe the Government must not throw the baby out with the bathwater.
We understand the RFDS would welcome discussions with the Government on best utilisation of whole of State resources, and their role in helping deliver medical retrieval particularly for the Bass Strait islands (where helicopter retrieval is prohibitive), but unfortunately this Government tends to base its decision on funding alone, not the health interests of patients.
Brett Whiteley MP Shadow Minister for Health and Human Services. Sue Napier MP Liberal Member for Bass
