An enormous body of work has been undertaken by the new board and leadership at Portland District Health that will set the health service up for a strong future, but there is more to be done.
Minister for Health Martin Foley today visited Portland District Health to meet with Board Chair Peter Matthews and Acting CEO Karena Prevett to discuss the finding of the Hillis Review and actions taken to implement its recommendations.
The report provided a number of recommendations to improve the quality, accessibly and sustainability of the health service, most notably better integration with other health services across the region and the adoption of the rural generalist model.
The Hillis Review clearly points out the commitment or dedication of hospital staff is not the problem. The issues are structural and systemic.
All recommendations have been accepted by the health service and implementation is well underway with the establishment of regional partnerships to support collaboration and skill sharing with neighbouring services.
Portland District Health and South West Victoria has seen high levels of enrolment in the state-wide rural generalist program which was established in 2021 and is aligned with recommendations in the Hillis Review.
Portland District Health is now getting on with developing partnerships to support safer, more effective services in Portland and across the region.
Minister Foley also used the visit to see the latest equipment funded as part of the Andrews Labor Government's Medical Equipment Replacement Program and Regional Health Infrastructure Fund - which is ensuring all Victorians gets the world-class care they deserve.
The more than $1.5 million investment has delivered a new computed tomography (CT) scanner, new equipment for laparoscopic and endoscopic surgery and upgrades in the Central Sterile Services Department. The funding will also replace two ultrasound machines which are on track for replacement mid-year.
As stated by Minister for Health Martin Foley
"While there is a lot of work to do, what is clear there is a strong commitment from the board and leadership at Portland to implement the Hillis report and ensure the community has a strong, local hospital to be proud of."
"We will continue to support the board as they deliver on the report's recommendations and fix the failings of the past."
As stated by Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney
"We're upgrading health services and delivering new equipment right across regional Victoria - including here in Portland - so every Victorian gets the high-quality care they deserve."
