Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington says she has received written confirmation from the Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service that the Murgon Palliative Care Unit continues to be used as a COVID ward.
Mrs Frecklington said the information came in response to questions she asked on behalf of the community after concerns were raised about whether this would be a temporary or permanent change.
“The DDHHS have confirmed this is a temporary change, however, how long this change remains in place is unknown,” Mrs Frecklington said.
“While I understand the need for our local hospitals to be able to care for people with COVID in an isolated area, it is very disappointing to learn that people who need palliative care in Murgon will not be able to use the special palliative care room.
“The room’s intended purpose was for patients at the end of life, and their families, to have a private, well-equipped room in their final days.
“Now we see a return to these patients being cared for a in a normal single hospital room.
“It is very disappointing for the community, who worked so hard to make the Palliative Care suite a reality.”
