THE LNP has held the 29th Queensland Health Crisis Town Hall in Beaudesert today to listen to the stories of residents who are at the coalface of a deteriorating health system under the Palaszcuzk Labor Government.
Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli joined Member for Scenic Rim Jon Krause and more than 40 residents from across the region to discuss local healthcare, ambulance ramping and surgery waitlists.
Mr Crisafulli said local doctors, nurses, allied health professionals and hospital staff were doing a remarkable job, despite being let down by the State Government.
“These men and women arrive at work each shift to make a difference and improve the lives of locals,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“In 2004, Beaudesert lost its identity when Labor shut the Birthing Unit.
“But nine years ago to the day, yesterday, it was reopened by the former LNP Government, because we believe local mums should choose when and where they give birth.
“It’s clear that residents want the return of more services like it.
“We heard from carers concerned for their elderly residents and locals forced to travel to Brisbane for urgent treatment.
“Large parts of the community rely on Logan Hospital, which has the worst ramping in the state at 61%.
“One local told us how he waited for 10 hours for a bed at Ipswich Hospital.
“Queensland Health is in crisis and it’s not the fault of medical staff but eight years of underinvestment and a lack of planning by the State Government.
“The LNP has put solutions on the table, including more beds, improving triaging, real time data monitoring and giving the power back to local doctors and nurses.”
Scenic Rim MP Jon Krause thanked locals for attending today’s Queensland Health Crisis Town Hall.
“Today’s stories were moving and deeply personal,” Mr Krause said.
“It takes brave people to stand up in front of a room full of strangers and share their experiences.
“The LNP Opposition will keep fighting to deliver a health system Queenslanders deserve.”