The Nationals Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe has raised her concerns with the Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas regarding health service cuts in the Shepparton District, given the minister stated that there will be a decrease in the funding in relation to future health service budgets.
“I have asked the minister in Parliament what health services will be cut following the budget cuts,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“Our health system is already at a breaking point due to funding cuts. GV Health is already impacted by budget constraints and will face additional pressures if required to absorb costs associated with hospital amalgamations.
“We must protect our local hospitals, jobs and the impact on communities from these misguided policies. The people best placed to understand and meet the needs of their communities are those who live and work in them.
“Hospital amalgamations will have a significant impact on the communities who want to be able to access healthcare where they live.
Loss of local control often leads to centralised decision-making that does not account for the unique needs of regional communities.
“These smaller hospitals play a crucial role in providing accessible healthcare to regional communities. Forcing them to merge with larger hospitals will lead to reduced services and longer travel times for patients needing basic medical care,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
“The Allan Labor Government must stop these mergers and restore proper funding to ensure that all Victorians, regardless of where they live, have access to high-quality healthcare.”
“Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage our health system, and Victorians are paying the price.”
A petition has been launched calling for hospital amalgamations to be cancelled and for local jobs and services to be protected.
To sign the petition visit: www.handsoffourhospitals.com.au