When thinking of Queensland's bustling emergency departments, it's easy to get lost in the statistics—but to put it in perspective, there's more roaming numbers than in a good game of rugby league.
In August alone, just a month out from footy finals, the equivalent of 14,179 rugby league teams—that's right, 184,331 players—have burst over the advantage line and into our Emergency Departments (EDs).
Thankfully waiting for them are a front row of thousands of nurses, doctors and support staff with skills, set moves and all the training needed to offer world-class healthcare.
To be clear, those ED numbers are enough to fill 3.5 Suncorp Stadiums, or the new North Queensland Stadium in Townsville more than 7 times over— taking into account the first seat installed by Johnathan Thurston himself.
Acting Deputy Director General of Clinical Excellence Queensland Prof Keith McNeil said staff were ahead of the game and kicking goals in providing prompt and expert care.
"Within two minutes of presenting to hospital, 99 per cent of those suffering life threatening emergencies such as a stroke, a heart attack or sustaining serious trauma are seen faster than Billy Slater in his prime at full-flight," Prof McNeil said.
"And we haven't dropped the ball against the backdrop of increasing demand either, despite less urgent category 2 and 3 presentations increasing by an average of 10 per cent compared to the month prior.
"None of this is possible without all our staff both in the game and on the sidelines, including thousands of orderlies and administration personnel who give us our strength in depth and provide the critical support needed for front line clinical staff."
"Our experienced clinicians are truly in a league of their own. They band together to ensure patients move quickly, providing expert care for every Queenslander, each and every time, including a record 60,698 flu cases."
Prof McNeil said it's only right Queenslanders cheer loudly and proudly in appreciation for those who care so diligently for them and their loved ones in their time of utmost need.
"Whether it's a heartfelt 'thank you' said before discharge, or a wonderful compliment received on the department's social media channels, the public's gratitude is felt strongly by those hanging up the boots after a long day on the 'field'," he said.
"You can understand why it's hard to pick a player of the match with so many winners."
