Forums shine light on local health shortfalls

ADELAIDE HILLS

Reopening the Gumeracha and Mount Pleasant Emergency Departments, the Federal Government’s health boundaries known as the Modified Monash Model and health workforce challenges – these issues were all front and centre at my local health forum at the Gumeracha Town Hall in mid-2022.

Throughout the meeting, we heard from frontline health workers, passionate advocates and interested locals who shared not only their views and experiences, but also ideas to improve the local health experience.

Some beneficial progress has already been made and I am heartened that the Local Health Network has established a working group which includes local medical and community representatives.

This is a step in the right direction and was established on the back of significant pressure from the local community and media attention. I look forward to seeing tangible outcomes from this working group.

BAROSSA
Later in the year, in September, the local health forum at Nuriootpa Soldiers Memorial Hall identified mental health services, workforce challenges and local hospitals as the major concerns for the Barossa. 

A panel of local clinicians provided excellent insight and perspectives which gave people an understanding of the day-to-day challenges in the health space, as well as opportunities for improvement into the future.

I’ve taken all the feedback from both of these forums to the State Parliament and State Government, and will continue to push for positive outcomes for all of our communities across the Schubert electorate.