Health System in Far West NSW Faces Crisis, Relies Heavily on Fly-in Locums
The health system in Far West New South Wales is in crisis and relies too heavily on fly-in locums, according to a parliamentary committee examining the region's health services.
The committee, chaired by Wagga Wagga MP Dr Joe McGirr, visited health facilities including Broken Hill Base Hospital, Maari Ma Aboriginal Health Cooperation in Wilcannia, and the Royal Flying Doctor Service. During their visit, they observed the ongoing overuse of locums, highlighting the need to attract more permanent health professionals to the region.
The committee's visit aimed to assess progress in implementing recommendations from a scathing 2022 report on NSW Health. The report outlined 44 recommendations to address historic failures by the commonwealth and state governments, which had led to workplace shortages and high travel costs. NSW Premier Chris Minns committed to all 44 recommendations upon his election.
Dr McGirr acknowledged the challenges involved in changing the system, emphasizing the need for collaboration and patience. He criticized the Commonwealth's lack of action and commended NSW Health's efforts to improve the situation.
Professor Emeritus John Cole from the University of Southern Queensland pointed out that NSW Health is not alone in its reliance on locums. He argued that this practice, while providing a short-term solution, hinders access to healthcare for regional communities. Locums often lack the time and opportunity to build essential patient-health professional relationships, leading to delayed care-seeking behavior among residents.
Maari Ma Health CEO Richard Weston emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of healthcare delivery in remote communities. He argued that solutions designed for metropolitan areas are not suitable for the unique needs of these regions. He proposed that remote health districts could better serve the population outside of regional centers.
Weston also stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach to attracting healthcare professionals to the Far West region. This includes providing good housing, social life, schooling, meaningful work, and attractive incentives for relocation.
Professor Cole emphasized the need to change the perception of regional and remote communities in Australia. He argued that these areas are often unfairly depicted as "second best," which discourages potential healthcare professionals from considering them as career destinations.
The committee is expected to deliver its first report in the middle of the year, outlining its findings and recommendations for improving the health system in Far West NSW.