New health network for Southern Downs
THE region's major public health care provider and GP network have been successful in their bid to deliver the new Primary Health Network for the Darling Downs and West Moreton regions from July.
The Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service and GP Connections welcomed the Commonwealth Minister for Health Ms Sussan Ley's announcement that their joint tender had been selected as the preferred applicant to operate the network.
Darling Downs Hospital and Health acting board chair Dr Dennis Campbell said the two organisations were well placed to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of health services for patients and communities in the region.
"The PHN's main objective is to improve co-ordination of care to ensure patients receive the right care in the right place at the right time," Dr Campbell said.
"We think the established services and networks of the peak general practitioner body and the local hospital and health service will be able to avoid duplication of services and improve integration of health care systems.
"The Darling Downs Hospital and Health Service delivers care from 20 hospitals and six residential care facilities, and manages an annual budget of more than $620 million so has considerable local experience in the health care sector."
