The Andrews Labor Government has unveiled a new 20-year vision for Victoria’s health system to build modern and world-class new facilities that will meet growing demand into the future, where it’s needed most.
Minister for Health Jill Hennessy today released the Statewide Design, Service and Infrastructure Plan for Victoria’s Health System 2017-2037.
The plan – the first of its kind – delivers on the final recommendation of the Travis Review, which was the most comprehensive audit ever undertaken into the capacity of Victoria’s hospitals.
It delivers a blueprint to guide investment in our health system over the next 20 years, so we know where and when to invest in infrastructure, services and resources in Melbourne and across regional Victoria.
Significant infrastructure investments already underway are paying dividends, with ambulances arriving faster, and more Victorians getting the surgeries and emergency care and treatment they need sooner.
The Labor Government accepted all recommendations from former AMA Victoria President Dr Doug Travis including the establishment of Better Care Victoria to find new and more efficient ways to improve patient care.
We have invested $20 million in the Better Care Victoria statewide innovation fund to support projects that boost efficiency and productivity, while also improving treatment and patient outcomes and reducing wait times.
The Victorian Budget 2017/18 delivered $1.67 billion to support hospitals to meet demand and provide the high quality care patients need, sooner and closer to home.
That means our hospitals will be able to admit 1.9 million patients, and treat 1.8 million patients in emergency this year, so more Victorians can get the care they need, when they need it.
It also includes $428.5 million for new hospital upgrades and equipment to give our hard working doctors and nurses the world-class facilities they deserve and need to do their job saving lives.
Key projects include $162.7 million to expand the Northern Hospital, $50 million to plan a new Footscray Hospital and $63.2 million to expand the Monash Medical Centre emergency department with an exclusive area for children.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“Our long term blueprint lays the foundations for building a health system meets future demand, while delivering the safest and highest quality care for all – no matter where they live.”
“We are funding state-of-the-art hospital upgrades and redevelopments, where they are needed most. Every Victorian deserves first class care – and we’re getting it done.”
“We are building the health system of the future – now. Our strategy will keep pace with a growing and ageing population with bigger and better facilities, designed for Victorians across the state and their different needs.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020