Mike Horan
October 24, 2018
The annual report for Darling Downs Health – the organisation responsible for all public hospitals in the South Burnett – was tabled in State Parliament on Wednesday.
Highlights of the year included:
- 158,982 Emergency Department presentations
- 222,496 specialist outpatient attendances
- 2994 births
- 11,170 surgeries
Darling Downs Hospital and Health Board chairman Mike Horan said improving infrastructure had been a priority during the year, with several key projects in progress or completed.
“We completed the Matron Farr Building at Kingaroy Hospital to provide a first-class oral health training, a dental clinic, and a community health facility for the South Burnett community,” Mr Horan said.
“Other key infrastructure projects were also delivered including Toowoomba Hospital’s new seventh theatre, central sterilising department and new kitchen.
“Planning and preliminary works have also progressed at the Kingaroy Hospital.
“Work also started on Warwick Hospital’s new emergency department, which will make a significant difference in providing patient care.”
Mr Horan said closing the health gap for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities was also a key focus.
“At the end of the year, 84 per cent of our staff had completed the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural Practice Program as part of their mandatory training.
“We also improved access to telehealth services to increase the number of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients attending appointments at Toowoomba Hospital.”
Mr Horan said the health service had moved to become more proactive in meeting the healthcare needs of communities.
“As a health service region, we have some of the highest rates of obesity, diabetes and kidney disease,” he said.
“As our population continues to grow, we can expect a significant increase in the health needs of our residents, which is why we have been working to improve awareness of the importance of exercise and a balanced diet.
“We are focussed on reducing the need for emergency treatment by empowering the community to take ownership of their healthcare and focus on their lifestyle and wellbeing.”
