Some of Brisbane’s biggest hospitals are among those across the state that have been left with fewer beds in the middle of the Queensland Health Crisis.
Damning analysis of health statistics obtained via Queensland Health performance data and a Parliamentary Question on Notice revealed the shock findings.
The Princess Alexandra Hospital, Caboolture Hospital and Redlands Hospital were some of the hardest hospitals hit.
In the 15 months from 29 September 2021 to 31 December 2022, the number of beds at 29 hospitals were reduced by 343.
Health Minister Yvette D’Ath received two questions in two days during Question Time last week about how many beds were available across the public health system.
She couldn’t answer.
Leader of the Opposition David Crisafulli said Queensland has the best trained doctors, nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals in the world, but how can they do their job with fewer beds?
“Continually asking staff to do more with less will deepen the health crisis and seriously puts patients at risk,” Mr Crisafulli said.
“It’s time for the State Government to listen to solutions to fix bed block instead of becoming masters of blocking the public’s right to know the number of available beds at our public hospitals.
“Our frontline staff at many of our key hospitals are dealing with falling resources and the much-touted 50/50 funding deal the Premier spruiked before the Federal election is no longer a priority.
“We have put solutions on the table including more resources, improving triaging, real-time data monitoring and giving power back to local doctors and nurses.
“Queenslanders expect a world class health system and that includes investing in more beds, not removing them.”
Shadow Health Minister Ros Bates said if the Premier hadn’t checked out of her job, she would have sacked D’Ath ages ago.
“As a nurse and former hospital administrator, I know how devastating it is to have fewer beds in your ward,” Ms Bates said.
“It is extraordinary to believe in 2023 that the Palaszczuk Labor Government believes the health system will improve with fewer beds in 29 hospitals.
“This is a shambolic situation made worse because the Palaszczuk Labor Government refuses to accept the enormity of the Queensland Health Crisis and the impacts it’s having on Queenslanders.
“My message to doctors, nurses and allied health professionals is simple. We thank you, we respect you and we value the work you do.”
