Sunshine Coast patients who are waiting for ophthalmology treatment will be seen faster, thanks to a state government blitz to clear wait lists by 30 June 2015.
Local Member for Kawana, Mr Jarrod Bleijie, welcomed the announcement by the Premier this week, saying it would greatly improve the quality of life for patients in his electorate currently waiting for ophthalmology surgery or first appointments.
“This is great news for people on the Sunshine Coast considering there are over 2900 people waiting for an initial ophthalmology outpatient appointment,” Mr Bleijie said.
“This is an LNP Government initiative that is putting the cash where it is needed and by teaming up with private providers, public waiting lists will be cleared.
“It is clear that this initiative is vital, particularly for the 45 patients classed as Category 1 who are awaiting an initial consultation or surgery.
“I have the confidence in the local hospital and health board to champion this funding blitz and to clear the ophthalmology waiting list by mid next year.
“When the LNP came into government, health was an absolute mess, but with local control and better management, we are seeing big improvements,” he said.
The State Government is now seeking proposals from suitably-qualified ophthalmology service providers, preferably based locally.
The successful providers will be contracted to undertake initial ophthalmic outpatient consultations, complete all required surgical procedures and commence non-surgical treatment.
Fast fact:
- At 1 July, SCHHS had 2,919 people waiting for an initial ophthalmology outpatient appointment.
- In addition, there were 201 patients waiting for ophthalmology elective surgery procedures