The Andrews Labor Government today released a new plan to ensure heart disease patients across Victoria can access the world class cardiac care and treatment they need, when they need it.
The new plan, released as part of Heart Week, comes as the Labor Government delivered $135 million in the Victorian Budget 2016/17 to build Australia’s first stand-alone Heart Hospital at Monash University in Clayton.
The $135 million investment, in addition to the $15 million already provided for planning works, delivers on the Labor Government’s promise of $150 million towards the new hospital.
The Design, Service and Infrastructure Plan for Victoria’s Cardiac System sets out the role of the new Heart Hospital in the public cardiac care system and a vision for better care and outcomes for Victorians with, or at risk, of heart disease.
It identifies three top priorities including better patient access, experience and outcomes, a coordinated system, and effective and innovative cardiac services.
The plan outlines how we will build a strong and sustainable cardiac care system into the future to deliver better, person-centred care, regardless of where patients live, through improved collaboration and partnerships.
Heart disease is the single leading cause of death in Australia, accounting for 13 per cent of all deaths.
The Victorian Heart Hospital, which is central to the vision of the plan, will bring together the world’s best in cardiovascular care, ground breaking medical research and training.
It will treat cardiac diseases from early childhood to advanced adult life, and will include an emergency department, cardiac cath labs, specialist surgical and imaging facilities, and telehealth services for patients across Victoria, interstate and around the world.
With significant planning works already completed, the Government will continue work with project partners, including Monash Health and Monash University, and philanthropists to secure the remaining funds to build the new Hospital.
Heart Week is running from May 1-7, with the theme this year being You can save a life with just one conversation.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Jill Hennessy
“We’re building a first class, connected cardiac care system that will significantly improve health outcomes for all Victorians with, or at risk, of heart disease.”
“It means that more cardiac patients will receive the care, treatment and surgery they need and deserve, no matter where they live.”
“We promised to build Australia’s first Heart Hospital at Monash University Clayton to revolutionise cardiovascular care in Victoria, and we’re keeping our word.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020