June 11, 2018
Opposition Leader and Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington says she is cautiously optimistic following the announcement by the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service about services in the Kilkivan and Goomeri communities.
On Thursday, the health service released a statement saying it had banded together with the Central Queensland, Wide Bay and Sunshine Coast Primary Health Network to deliver services to the Kilkivan and Goomeri communities.
The statement said the action was in response to community concerns about community nursing support in theses areas.
Spokesman Cang Dang said the health service would partner with a primary health GP who currently visited the area twice a fortnight.
As well, staff were planning a number of visits to the area to further evaluate community needs.
“We are committed to ensuring healthcare is accessible to all our communities, and this partnership with the PHN is a wonderful opportunity for us to ensure the community is provided with the care and support it requires,” he said.
Mrs Frecklington said the announcement came after the community approached her to highlight the need for the services of a Community Health Nurse, and a petition was started to demonstrate the need to Health Minister Dr Steven Miles.
“This week in State Parliament I will be tabling the petition, calling on the State Government to provide a Community Health Nurse for Kilkivan and Goomeri. There are 354 signatures, which is a significant achievement,” Mrs Frecklington said.
Mrs Frecklington said that while the announcement by the health service was welcome, it was yet to be seen if the services would be delivered on the ground.
“The announcement by the Sunshine Coast Hospital and Health Service District that they will listen and consult with the community on the issue is welcome, especially in light of the Minister for Health’s initial rejection of my request,” she said.
“I applaud the Kilkivan and Goomeri communities for their determination and assistance in pushing for better community health services in their townships.
“Congratulations must go to Mavis O’Neill, Jan Kirby and Joyce Koy who first raised this issue with me and then worked very hard to co-ordinate the petition in Kilkivan and Goomeri.
“It goes to show that perseverance and determination does pay off, and if you believe in something strongly enough, you can create change.”
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The health service has invited residents to attend a free public forum on Thursday, June 21, at 10:30am in Kilkivan Hall to learn more about health care services in the region.
The forum will have information stalls by health care providers, talks by advanced health care workers, and an opportunity to provide feedback.
“I would encourage the community to attend the Forum on the June 21 and directly voice their feedback for the services needed in the district. This is a good start and I will keep the pressure up to ensure a Community Health Nurse returns to the district,” Mrs Frecklington said.
- Related article: Communities Petition For Health Nurse
