The Nationals Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland has again raised the need to secure the long-term future of Euroa Health through recurrent funding from the Victorian Government.
Speaking from Parliament Ms Cleeland outlined the difficulties facing similar regional health services.
“Our state was once home to more than 40 community hospitals, with now just a handful left,” Ms Cleeland said.
“With the decline of private health insurance, veterans care and an ageing population, Euroa Health is operating at a significant deficit every financial year.”
Ms Cleeland outlined the critical role Euroa Health played in the region and supporting Goulburn Valley healthcare.
“Strathbogie remains the only local government area in Victoria that has no publicly funded hospital,” Ms Cleeland said.
“This crucial local health service does so much to take the strain off GV Health while serving the community with high standard aged and acute care services.
“With our health system in such a dire state through bloated waitlists and a 000 system in crisis, it is crucial regional Victorians have local, accessible and high-quality health care – exactly what Euroa Health provides.”
Ms Cleeland thanked previous Euroa Health CEO, Cherree Hunter, for her advocacy on behalf of the hospital.
“Last year a petition was tabled bearing more than 1500 signatures collected in a little over a week calling for the government to financially support Euroa Health. It is clear the community is right behind their hospital.” Ms Cleeland said.
“This petition was driven by outgoing CEO Cherree Hunter, who in her time in the role contributed so much to the community. The region thanks you for your service, and we wish you well for the future.”
The Department of Health has begun discussions with Euroa Health after years of requests from representatives and the community.
“My predecessor Steph Ryan raised the need for recurrent public funding with multiple ministers,” Ms Cleeland said.
“I am glad to hear the Department of Health is now engaging constructively with Euroa Health, and I look forward to the positive news in the future.”
