The Department of Health has reached an in-principle, five year agreement for a new private provider to deliver low-cost surgical termination of pregnancy services in Tasmania.
This service will commence by October this year, contingent on finalisation of the terms of the agreement, and licensing and accreditation requirements.
The Patient Transport and Travel Assistance Scheme will be available for intrastate travel to the service, which will be based in Hobart.
The Department will also provide increased funding to Prescribed Health Services, and Pregnancy Counselling and Support Tasmania, to ensure longstanding arrangements to support women continue.
As per a motion of the House of Assembly, I have compiled a report on termination of pregnancy services in Tasmania.
This report will be tabled in State Parliament today in accordance with the motion.
Michael Pervan, Secretary of the Department of Health
