Hospitals get ready for chaos
THE five-day Easter break could spell chaos at Sunshine Coast emergency medical departments.
A large number of general practitioners will close their doors on Good Friday and not open again until Wednesday.
Australian Medical Association Queensland spokesman Dr Mason Stevenson said many practice owners could not afford to pay double time and a half to reception staff and nurses.
“Medicare rebates don’t increase by 150%,” Dr Stevenson said.
“Public holidays only bring in an extra $10 per patient.”
Dr Stevenson said there would be limited options if people found themselves sick or injured.
“The seven-day medical centres at Noosaville, Coolum Beach, Nambour, Maroochydore, Kawana and Currumundi will be open limited hours,” he said.
“So too will the Noosa After Hours GP Service.
“I urge patients to delay routine appointments so that the urgent and semi-urgent cases can be treated.
“We expect to see between 40 and 80 patients a day on public holidays.”
This weekend will be the final time the Noosa After Hours GP Service opens its doors. The clinic, which is co-located in the Noosa Private Hospital, lost a much needed Federal Government tender for funding last year.
Family Care Medical Services will also be available for after hours callouts on 13 SICK.
Sunshine Coast Health Service District CEO Kevin Hegarty said additional staff had been rostered on at Nambour and Caloundra public hospitals.
“Should people require urgent medical attention during the Easter break they should call 000,” Mr Hegarty said.
WHO TO CALL IF YOU NEED MEDICAL HELP
Need urgent medical help during Easter break? Call 000.
Less urgent attention? Call a GP. Seven-day medical centres at Noosaville, Coolum Beach, Nambour, Maroochydore, Kawana and Currumundi will be open limited times.
Maroochydore will be closed Good Friday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesday. Open Saturday 8am - 1pm.
Contact others for hours.
Noosa After Hours GP Service Fri, Sun, Mon and Tues 8am-6pm. Sat – Noon until 6pm.
Not sure? Call 13 Health or alternatively go to nearest emergency department.
