New health services a win for rural patients

ACCESS to health services is a massive issue for rural patients across the Darling Downs, so it’s great to see our hospitals expanding their services.

ACCESS to health services is a massive issue for rural patients across the Darling Downs, so it's great to see our hospitals expanding their services.  

Over the years I have heard many stories of the struggles people needing specialist medical care face, and the great distances they have to travel to receive it.  

Everyone deserves access to these services wherever they live, and I've heard firsthand the strain it has on families.  

There is the Patient Travel Subsidy Scheme to help with the finances, but that isn't the only consideration that needs to be made.

What also needs to be considered is the time these patients must spend away from their homes.  

This is why I'm really pleased to see St Andrew's Hospital introducing a new cardiology procedure.  

I'm sure it is welcome news to many patients not just in Toowoomba, but in the wider region.  

If it means patients have a shorter distance to travel for their healthcare needs, that is an excellent result.  

And with Dr Shameer Ahmed predicting up to 200 patients would be able to receive treatment locally, it is sure to benefit quite a few families in our patch.  

Originally published as New health services a win for rural patients