Independent Oversight Committee guiding the Sustainable Health Review has convened with new membership
The Cabinet appointed Committee provides advice and support to progress long-term, transformative recommendations of the Review
The Independent Oversight Committee responsible for progressing the recommendations of the Sustainable Health Review (SHR), the blueprint for our future WA health system, has met for the first time under the Chairmanship of former Mental Health Commissioner, Tim Marney.
The nine-member Committee of health experts and advocates has also welcomed new members Director General, Department of the Premier and Cabinet, Emily Roper, WA Under Treasurer, Michael Barnes, and employee advocate Janine Freeman.
The Sustainable Health Review made 30 recommendations to achieve ambitious long-term reform, placing prevention, equity and care closer to home at the centre of a sustainable modern health care system.
Under the guidance of the inaugural Chair Professor Hugo Mascie-Taylor, significant progress against initial programs of work have been achieved including:
the Future Health Research and Innovation Fund is now fully operational, aiming to improve, through research and innovation, the health and prosperity of Western Australians, sustainability of the health system and to advance the State's standing as a leader in research and innovation;
$4.4 million has been allocated to provide the State's first Medical Respite Centre setting a new benchmark for providing medical care and support services for the homeless;
Safe Haven Cafes at Royal Perth and Kununurra Hospitals have opened offering support for those who may otherwise attend emergency departments, but do not need intensive clinical and medical support;
the Mental Health Emergency Telehealth Service has expanded to 85 hospitals and nursing posts in country WA, of the patients being referred to the Mental Health Emergency Telehealth Service 87 per cent have been able to receive care closer to home and potentially avoided a transfer out of their home region.
A range of other initiatives have been funded to promote healthy lifestyles and enhance delivery of care and culturally appropriate services.
More information is available on the Department of Health website.
Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook:
"I would like to thank the outgoing Committee Chair Professor Hugo Mascie-Taylor and Committee member Meredith Hammat for their contributions and welcome the new Committee members.
"The McGowan Government is determined to achieve long term improvements outlined in the Sustainable Health Review, which are critical to address the demand for health services which has grown over the past 20 years.
"The McGowan Government is committed to ensuring all Western Australians benefit from a health system that is among the best in the world."
Minister's office - 6552 6500
