The Tasmanian Government is investing $1.5 million of new funding over the next six months into an Emergency Department support package for the Launceston General Hospital and Royal Hobart Hospital.
This package will immediately relieve pressure on these hospitals’ Emergency Departments by delivering more support for frontline staff and improving patient flow.
Specifically, the six-month package will feature:
Importantly, these measures are in addition to initiatives that have already been announced, and will include more nurses, improved bed management and admission processes.
This package has been developed by the Secretary of the Department of Health, Michael Pervan, and he will work closely with hospital staff to implement these initiatives, which are specifically timed to meet the additional demand that comes with the onset of the winter flu season.
Our 2018 winter preparedness and teamwork have already been second to none. We have more beds open than ever, more people have been vaccinated and resources such as transit lounges and practical discharge supports are improved.
The Government knows there is still more work to be done, which is why we are implementing a $757 million long-term plan to build a better health system.
This includes more than $90 million for capital improvements at the LGH, including a dedicated women’s and children’s precinct and a whole new hospital ward.
We will always support our hardworking and dedicated staff to deliver the best possible care, and we are committed to engaging constructively with unions and key health stakeholders.