More Queenslanders desperate to receive cochlear implants are in for another frustrating holiday season, as new state government health figures reveal a growing waitlist.
In response to a parliamentary Question on Notice, Shadow Health Minister Ros Bates said the number of Queenslanders on the waitlist for cochlear implants has more than doubled since 2016.
“81 Queenslanders are waiting for this life changing procedure,” Ms Bates said.
“I feel for these patients and their families heading into Christmas.
“The gift of hearing is something so important to these Queenslanders and their loved ones.
“It’s just another example of a tired third-term government losing control of Queensland health.
“When the LNP was last in office, we cleared a major backlog of 119 patients.
“Since 2016, the number of patients on the waitlist was 38, but now it’s 81.
“For nearly eight years, the Palaszczuk Government has destroyed the health system.
“The embattled Health Minister doesn’t have a plan to clear these backlogs, whether it’s for cochlear implants, elective surgery or public dental care.
“As a nurse and former hospital administrator, I know how frustrating it is for patients who are forced to endure long delays and growing waitlists.
“The Opposition won’t stop fighting for these Queenslanders waiting to hear for the first time or waiting to have their hearing restored.
“All Queenslanders deserve a world class health system no matter where they live.”
-ENDS-
Source: https://documents.parliament.qld.gov.au/tableoffice/questionsanswers/2022/1283-2022.pdf