Last Thursday the NSW Government released a discussion paper outlining a proposed restructure of the NSW Hospital System - arising out of the recent COAG negotiations.
Under the plan, 17 new Local Health Networks would be established across NSW, replacing the eight Area Health Services currently in place.
The Nsw Government says the reforms will deliver an extra $1.2 billion in funding to the NSW Health System over four years, and lead to 488 beds being opened in NSW in 2010/11.
The paper outlines proposed responsibilities and governance arrangements for the new Local Health Networks, including the geographical boundaries in which they would operate and the increased role of doctors and clinicians in the management of hospitals.
The networks would be administered by a Chief Executive and a Governing Council that includes local clinicians, and people with health and health care management expertise, as well as community representatives.
Premier Kristina Keneally said "We will work with the community and health care experts to deliver a health system that is more responsive to local needs.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Health, Carmel Tebbutt, said the discussion paper has been informed by extensive consultation across NSW based on the feedback received from local health experts and communities, criteria were developed to guide the proposed network boundaries.
"We'll also continue discussions with other States and Territories about areas we could collaborate more closely, particularly in cross border areas," Ms Tebbutt said.
"While there has already been significant feedback from across the State, I now urge everyone to closely examine the issues outlined in this discussion paper. We want a wide range of feedback from both communities and experts in the medical field, to ensure the new networks deliver better health services."
Member for Monaro Steve Whan has encouraged the community to provide their feedback on a proposal for 17 new Local Health Networks (LHNs) across the State. "As the local Member, I am thrilled that the expertise and experience of our local clinicians will be harnessed to provide even better health services for our local community."
"I know that the quality of health services in Monaro is of vital importance to local residents so I encourage the community to get involved in this discussion around health networks.
The NSW Opposition accused the government of stealing the NSW Coalition Health District Policy.
After years of deriding the NSW Liberals & Nationals' plan to abolish Labor's failed Area Health Services, the Keneally Government has turned around and done just that, NSW Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell said last week.
"We welcome the Keneally Labor Government's very belated realisation that their Area Health Services were a failure" Mr O'Farrell said.
"We've consistently argued for the establishment of smaller health districts oversighted by boards, comprising of local health professionals and members of the community, with the power and authority needed to help improve local health services."
"The Keneally Labor Government should adopt the rest of our health policy, such as the timely publication of performance data, including information on medical errors and infection rates," Mr O'Farrell said.
The Australian Medical Association (NSW) President Michael Steiner said the policy was good news for doctors, nurses and patients as it ensured major decisions would be made with a view to the delivery of frontline care.
Dr Steiner said the policy put NSW ahead of other states in respecting the value of doctors and nurses in the management of the health system.
Submissions on the proposed Local Health Networks will be received until September 1 2010. A copy of the public discussion paper can be accessed via: http://www.health.nsw.gov.au and submissions can be emailed to feedback@doh.health.nsw.gov.au or posted to: Locked Mail Bag 961 North Sydney 2059.
Federal Member Mike Kelly will host several forums this week to seek input on the draft structure of the Federal Government's Local Hospitals Network in NSW.
The forums will take place in the following locations:
* Thursday 12 August, Batemans Bay Soldiers Club 5pm to 6:30pm, Friday 13 August, Bega Bowling Club 4pm to 5:30pm, Saturday 14 August, Merimbula-Imlay Bowling Club 9am to 10:00am, Sunday 15 August Cooma Ex-services club 4pm to 5:30pm.
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