February 25, 2021
Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington has quizzed the State Government over staffing levels at three South Burnett hospitals.
Mrs Frecklington submitted a Question On Notice to Health Minister Yvette D’Ath on Tuesday seeking information about the staff numbers at the Kingaroy, Nanango and Murgon hospitals.
The question follows community complaints – heard also by southburnett.com.au – that staff at the three hospitals are stretched because of gaps.
Mrs Frecklington’s question covers all types of staff: full-time, part-time, casual and contractors.
“Will the Minister advise:
(a) Current staffing levels across these hospitals
(b) Has there been a reduction in staffing levels across these hospitals since November 1, 2020
(c) How many shifts have been short-staffed since November 1, 2020, for each of these hospitals; and
(d) What is the main reason for shifts being short-staffed.”
The Question On Notice must be answered by the Minister by March 26.
Mrs Frecklington said the Minister still had not answered her letter from January 27 in relation to the continued closure of wards due to water damage.
Politicians from opposition legitimately criticise the current government’s performance in many areas. However, in regard to health when in government, the opposition reduced funding and did not address the obvious need for more staff and proper administration of resources. As a recent patient in Day Surgery and the General Ward, I have observed the demands placed on nurses. Along with transiting from the old to the new hospital and unsustainable rosters, these dedicated nurses carry out their tasks with diligence and humanity. The current government needs to revamp the hospital’s administration. It starts at the top.
Mrs Frecklington instead of criticism, will you tell me how you would remedy the situation if you were in government?
Our region, along with the State, was culled in terms of Health Staff by the LNP including the dual Assistant Minister to both Premier and Treasurer, our region’s LNP MP.