Mildura locals and health professionals will have two more months to have their say over the future of Mildura Base Hospital.
Earlier this year, the Andrews Labor Government started community consultation to find out what matters to doctors, nurses and patients – and address the key question: should the Mildura Base Hospital be returned to public hands.
The Liberal Nationals privatised the Mildura Base Hospital in 1998, as they embarked on a savage round of cuts to healthcare that saw beds close, waiting lists spiral out of control, hospitals shut down or privatised, and hard-working health staff out of jobs.
Mildura Base Hospital is the only publicly-owned, privately-operated hospital in Victoria. It is currently operated by Ramsay Health as part of a contract reached with the Liberal Nationals in 1998, and then extended by the former Liberal Government.
The Engage Victoria survey is giving the community a say over the future of its healthcare and hospital. So far, more than 600 locals have answered an online survey or made a submission. More than 100 locals and healthcare staff have attended face-to-face sessions.
The 165-bed Mildura Base Hospital delivers high-quality public health services such as emergency, maternity, intensive care, general medicine and surgery, as well as oncology, medical imaging, pathology, dialysis and mental health.
The Labor Government is giving regional Victorians the healthcare they can count on when they get sick, no matter where they live. The Government is funding 500,000 more specialist appointments in regional Victoria, and giving a $100 million boost to the Regional Health Infrastructure Fund.
The community can have its say at
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jenny Mikakos
“We’ve been really encouraged by the community’s passion and dedication when it comes to local healthcare. We want everyone to have their say – that’s why we’re extending the consultation period until the end of February.”
“There’s still time to share your views, so get online and tell us what matters to you when it comes to healthcare and the future of Mildura Base Hospital.”
“We’re making sure Mildura families can access healthcare they can count on when they get sick.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020