The Allan Labor Government is making sure some of the most vulnerable Victorians get the care they rely on.
Chris Altis was today announced as Board Monitor at cohealth for an initial 12-month term.
His appointment follows a recent independent review into the organisation's general practice service model, governance and finances.
The review was clear in its findings and recommendations that cohealth must rebuild confidence and restore community trust.
It recommended that this would require strengthening senior management and board governance.
Mr Altis has 30 years of experience in the health sector - working in policy and advisory roles in Victoria and nationally.
He is currently a non-executive director at the Eastern Melbourne Primary Health Network, Peter MacCullum Cancer Centre and William Angliss Institute.
Mr Altis will attend all Board and committee meetings as an independent observer.
His role includes decision-making oversight and supporting the Board's ongoing development and effectiveness.
He will report directly to the Victorian Government to ensure cohealth is improving and meeting the expected standards.
Since the independent review, both the Victorian and Federal Governments have continued to work with cohealth in good faith.
This work has focused on the shared goal of delivering safe, sustainable primary care for vulnerable Victorians.
Community health organisations play an important role in Victoria's health system.
That's why the Allan Labor Government continues to deliver significant funding to the sector.
This includes more than $68 million provided to cohealth for a range of services in the last year alone.
As stated by Minister for Health Harriet Shing
"The appointment of Chris Altis as Board Monitor is a turning point for cohealth, and an important opportunity for cohealth to demonstrate integrity, transparency, and accountability."
"cohealth provides care to some of Victoria's most vulnerable patients and clients, and it has a responsibility to address the issues identified in the review, and rebuild trust with the community."
As stated by Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt
"It's important cohealth has strong governance so it can continue to support some of the most vulnerable people in our community - delivering the care and support they deserve."
