The new private provider to deliver low-cost surgical abortions in Tasmania is on schedule to commence in October.
The provider and Department of Health have reached an agreement and formal documentation will soon be ready for signature.
The provider is currently working to finalise licensing and accreditation requirements and arrangements with a local surgical facility.
The provider is also working with local clinical specialists to ensure that there is agreement on appropriate referral pathways and clinical governance arrangements. In addition, the provider has stated an intention to give other service providers and GPs and the prescribed health services detailed information on the new service well before commencement. The provider has also commenced discussions with Primary Health Tasmania around establishing health pathways which will assist GPs across the state to refer women wishing to access a surgical termination to the service.
The Patient Transport and Travel Assistance Scheme will be available for intrastate travel to the service and the Department will also provide increased funding to Prescribed Health Services, and Pregnancy Counselling and Support Tasmania, to ensure longstanding arrangements to support women continue.