New chief could restore faith in public health system

October 23, 2008

The AMA (WA)  says the appointment of a new Director General could help restore confidence in WA's public health system.

"Health suffered in recent years from too much spin and not enough substance and because the Labor Government refused to listen until the 11th hour," said association President Prof Gary Geelhoed.

"The result has been an overloaded and demoralised health system which is struggling to maintain standards and attract and retain staff.

 "Hopefully, under the leadership of Dr Peter Flett, the major problems will be addressed and we can restore the stability and enthusiasm required to make our public hospital system equal to the best in the world."

Prof Geelhoed said that since being appointed Acting Director General last February, Dr Flett had shown he was prepared to address AMA concerns and listen to those doctors working at the coalface who were dealing with crises day after day.

"He acknowledged that our overcrowded hospitals were buckling under the strain and agreed to go out and find more doctors and more nurses," said Prof Geelhoed.

"But a lot more needs to be done in the short term and this includes at least 400 more hospital beds and initiatives to attract more GPs to rural areas."

Prof Geelhoed said Dr Flett's biggest challenge would be dealing with escalating demand and fast tracking the restructure of the public hospital system.

 "The AMA looks forward to working closely with Dr Flett as he sets about implementing plans for new women's and children's hospitals, the Fiona Stanley Hospital and the many other challenges that lie ahead," said Prof Geelhoed.

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