ALP promise to boost rural and remote healthcare

Townsville will become home to Queensland’s first Office of Rural and Remote Health, if ALP is re-elected.

TOWNSVILLE will become home to Queensland’s first Office of Rural and Remote Health, if Labor is re-elected.

Small units with clinicians working in rural and remote healthcare delivery are already in operation across the state, however a dedicated department would see a significant boost in staff.

With its headquarters to be based in Townsville, the election promise would solidify the city’s position as the epicentre of healthcare in North Queensland.

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A new Ambulance Deputy Commissioner for regional Queensland would be based in Townsville to deliver better collaboration between hospitals and ambulance services.

Thuringowa MP Aaron Harper said it would play a central role in improving the delivery of health services in rural Queensland.

“This announcement will improve the health of those living in the bush by providing clear whole-of-system governance and strategy for rural and remote health services,” he said. “It will be guided by an Advisory Group that will have membership from within Queensland Health and external agencies.”

Originally published as ALP promise to boost rural and remote healthcare