A recent Productivity Commission report has revealed that West Australians facing emergencies at hospitals are experiencing the longest wait times in the nation, with fewer than half of emergency patients being seen promptly. Michael Page, the WA President of the Australian Medical Association, emphasised that the state’s health system is in critical condition, although he acknowledged the report’s findings were not surprising.
Western Australia’s shortage of general practitioners is the worst in nearly a decade, but Premier Roger Cook claims this is a federal issue, arguing that he does not control GP availability. In contrast, Liberal leader Libby Mettam holds him accountable, stating the premier has been in key health roles for the past eight years.
The report indicates that only 48% of emergency department patients in WA received timely care, alongside the longest wait times nationwide. Mettam remarked that the health system should not feel like it’s “on life support.” While ramping of ambulances has decreased, it remains a significant concern.
Cook attributes hospital challenges to the GP shortage and calls for collaborative approaches to alleviate system pressures. The Australian Medical Association advocates for training local health professionals, urging for self-sufficiency in workforce development. Mettam supports this by proposing a $20,000 incentive for nursing students to attract more healthcare workers to the state. The report further highlights that many West Australians are skipping necessary medical treatments due to rising healthcare costs.