The Nationals’ Member for Northern Victoria Gaelle Broad said the Government had closed all Supercare nursing services based in pharmacies on September 30.
“This decision leaves communities without an important health care option and increases the load on our already over-burdened hospital services,” Ms Broad said.
Ms Broad was contacted by locals upset about the closure.
“I know many people are keen to see this service reinstated as it was very effective in looking after minor medical issues and relieved the pressure on the casualty department at the hospital,” Ms Broad told Parliament.
Ms Broad said health services in Bendigo were already under extreme pressure.
“I am concerned about massive budget cuts to the Bendigo Health Care Group, which recently led their management to write to all staff notifying them of redeployments and redundancies.
“I have seen up to 10 ambulances ramped outside Bendigo Hospital and earlier this year they called code yellow emergency days as their services were overwhelmed.”
Ms Broad said the health system was already buckling under budget restraints and the closure of the nursing service would further increase pressure on the hospital.
“I have asked the Minister for Health to advise what action is being taken to continue this service and ensure that residents of central and northern Victoria are able to access healthcare services when they need them,” Ms Broad said.
“Labor can’t manage money and can’t manage our health system.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
