THE Queensland Health Crisis crippling the Gold Coast has reached dangerous new levels.
New figures reveal almost double the number of patients are waiting longer for treatment in emergency departments than a year ago.
Latest figures show 42% of patients at Gold Coast University Hospital weren’t seen within the recommended timeframe during the June 2022 quarter.
That is 19% higher than the previous March quarter, the biggest rise at any hospital in the state.
Meanwhile, Robina Hospital experienced a rise of 13% quarter to quarter, meaning 29% of ED patients aren’t seen within the clinically recommended time.
Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli said it was another blow for the people of the Gold Coast.
“Nearly one in two patients are now waiting longer than the recommended time in the emergency department at the Gold Coast University Hospital,” he said.
“We’ve put solutions on the table, including more beds, extra resources, releasing data in real time and giving the power back to local decision makers who know their local communities.
“The numbers on the Gold Coast are heading in the wrong direction and the State Government must start listening to heal the Queensland Health Crisis.”
Shadow Health Minister Ros Bates said all Queenslanders deserved a world-class health system no matter where they live.
“The Gold Coast already has the busiest emergency department in the country, and it’s only getting worse,” she said.
“These just aren’t numbers on a spreadsheet.
“This is your grandad with a broken hip, or a child having an asthma attack.
| Hospital | % Patients not seen on time | % Increase from March 2022 quarter |
| GCUH | 42% | +19% |
| Robina | 29% | +13% |
“For seven years, the Labor Government has ruined the health system and they don’t have any solutions.
“As a registered nurse and former hospital administrator, I know how stressful it is for my colleagues on the frontline.
“These dedicated men and women are working double shifts week-in-week-out.
“They deserve more respect and resources from the State Government.
“Queenslanders deserve better.”