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June 23, 2017AMA (NSW) President, Prof Brad Frankum, says the State Government is continuing to make good investments in hospital infrastructure but recurrent funding is still a problem.
“Over the past few years, the State Government has made big commitments to health infrastructure and followed through on those pledges.
“I am glad to see the need for improved services in places like Campbelltown, Prince of Wales, Nepean, Concord, and Tweed Heads being recognised in this Budget.
“South western Sydney is one of the fastest growing areas in the country and it’s good that hospitals there have been earmarked for upgrades,” Prof Frankum said.
“There’s also been a significant investment to redevelop Maitland Hospital. It’s good to see a commitment to the new hospital being built.
“Hunter New England Local Health District needs to work towards a definitive plan, because the uncertainty around Maitland has gone on too long,” Prof Frankum added.
“I’m also pleased that the State Government is continuing to build on its rural training positions pledge, but the important thing is that they are all filled.
“Another promising announcement is the investment in community palliative care and mental health,” Prof Frankum said.
“While it’s great to be able to welcome these infrastructure spends, we really need more of an investment in recurrent funding.
“Building, maintaining, and upgrading our hospitals is critical but recurrent funding to keep them staffed and running is equally important.
“Based on member feedback, some hospitals that have recently received significant upgrades or been new builds entirely are being understaffed and underutilised.
“The buildings may be bigger and the beds may be physically present but there just aren’t the staff numbers to open them to patients.
“Demand for hospital services is increasing rapidly with larger numbers of patients arriving in sicker or more gravely injured conditions and our hospitals’ performance is plateauing.
“Treating patients efficiently should always be the goal, but efficiency can’t save you if all your hospital’s beds are full and you have more people who need them in the ED.
“Sometimes, you just need more beds and the staff to manage more patients and we are at that point.
“The Federal share of the National Partnership Agreements in health will drop by more than 25% in 2019 before the current agreements end in 2020/21.
“The State Government has its part to play but this issue will not be solved until the Federal Government steps up and engages in real reform, instead of Band-aid solutions,” Prof Frankum said.
Media contact: Lachlan Jones 0419 402 955