Opposition Leader David Crisafulli says health funding should be split 50:50 with the federal government

A retiree has spoken of the “third world” conditions she confronted at a South East Queensland emergency department, saying she had to step over patients sitting on the floor.

Opposition Leader David Crisafulli says a 50:50 funding split on health with the federal government would be ideal, as he spoke with Ipswich locals about ambulance ramping in a town-hall meeting.

Among those who shared their story was a retiree, who spoke about the “unbelievable” scene she confronted when her husband went to the emergency department at Ipswich Hospital.

Mr Crisafulli used the meeting to again call for the release of real time data, as he offered his support for a 50:50 funding split on health with the Commonwealth – describing it as “ideal”.

The LNP leader acknowledged the overall health budget from the federal government had increased in the past ten years, but said it would be wrong to suggest that Queensland shouldn’t ask for more funds.

LNP leader David Crisafulli during the Health Crisis Town Hall at Brothers Leagues Club in Raceview. Pics Tara Croser.

“But we also have to show why we are going to use that in a better way,” Mr Crisafulli said.

“And that will be my style whether or not the Prime Minister is Mr Morrison or Mr Albanese. I’m not sure you’ll get that from the government.”

Mr Crisafulli also attacked the state government’s handling of the health system, accusing them of overseeing “half a decade of decline” – suggesting they should have planned better.

His comments follow calls from the Palaszczuk government for the current federal government to commit to a 50:50 funding split.

Maxine Zammit, 69, was among those who attended the meeting organised by the LNP, where she spoke about her experience when her husband went to the emergency department at Ipswich Hospital a few months ago.

She said she saw patients in ambulance beds, as well as others who were on the floor.

“(I) literally had to step over people to get to where I had to be,” she said.

“Unbelievable. Had to see it to believe it.”

Health Minister Yvette D’Ath said she welcomed people speaking out about their experiences.

“What I don’t welcome is the LNP running around this state criticising the delivering of healthcare in Queensland and failing to acknowledge that this is a national problem,” she said.

“All of our hospitals are seeing increased demand. Ipswich is no different to that. Ipswich is one of those very fast growing areas.”