The State Government must consult with border communities and fast track development of the long-awaited Albury Wodonga hospital, which is now at breaking point.
The Nationals Member for Northern Victoria Galle Broad said residents were frustrated and tired of waiting for some real action on the planned health service.
In October last year, Ms Broad raised concerns over the release of the master plan. The plan did not include important details such as the number of hospital beds.
Ms Broad was also disturbed to find that no State Government representatives attended last month’s Albury-Wodonga regional health summit.
Senior figures from the health sector, tertiary education, the Rural Doctors Association, local government and state and federal parliament all attended, but no one was present from the Labor State Government.
“It would have been beneficial if the minister or a representative from the Department of Health had been there to hear from stakeholders who were keen to discuss priorities to improve health outcomes for the Albury–Wodonga region.” Ms Broad said.
“Locals see the region as one location, socially and economically, but the Murray River means that health services rely on funding from two different states.
“The catchment area covers a population of 300,000 people and it is growing. Current health services are not keeping pace.
“Locals are disappointed that the Labor government announced funding for the single site in Albury without any community consultation and failed to inform the community of the future for the Wodonga hospital and the emergency department.
“Albury Wodonga Health is at breaking point.
“Every day, sick patients are transferred between the two sites, with doctors rushing between. Health infrastructure is out of date, and there are not enough rooms to meet demand, risking patient safety. The long, drawn-out process has been difficult for Victorian staff who are unsure of their future.
“I have asked the Minister to provide a written response to the 10 key points identified at the Albury- Wodonga health summit. I urge the Government to consult with the community and get on with the development of this much-needed facility to provide a premier health service for the region.”
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.au
