Health scandals prompt Liberal Party election pledge for Health Excellence Commission

THE Opposition has pledged a Health Excellence Commission in the wake of repeated scandals in the health system, including Oakden and the chemotherapy dosing bungle. VOTE NOW

Chemotherapy underdosing scandal victim Andrew Knox.

THE State Opposition has pledged to establish a Commission on Excellence and Innovation in Health if elected in the wake of multiple scandals.

It would focus on ensuring the health system delivers quality and safety and be governed by a board representing consumers and clinicians.

It would provide advice for reforms to improve safety, monitor performances and support consumer rights.

Opposition health spokesman Stephen Wade cited scandals including the Oakden aged care debacle and the chemotherapy underdosing bungle as reasons why a commission is needed.

“There is a crisis in clinical governance in SA Health,” Mr Wade said.

“Our plan for a Commission is a key step to restore safety, quality and clinical innovation.”

Mr Wade claimed the government’s Transforming Health changes were driven by the bureaucracy and Treasury while clinicians delivering treatment were ignored.

A victim of the chemotherapy bungle, Andrew Knox, welcomed the initiative.

“Since the discovery of the chemotherapy underdosing bungle there has been an absence on the part of the current government for structural change, assuming training alone will create the necessary awareness to prevent further tragic outcomes,” he said.

“A complete change of attitude is sorely needed.

“We would welcome the establishment of a vigilant state based quality and safety commission.

“Quality and safety, and efficiency of service delivery will not occur without radical structural and attitudinal change.”