A plan to build a brand-new satellite hospital in Mackay has just been announced by the state government, when Premier Steven Miles visited Mackay on Monday.
Building on the success of similar facilities in South East Queensland, this hospital will provide free, walk-in treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries from 8am to 10pm, helping to reduce pressure on local emergency departments. It’s a major coup for Mackay, as it will become the first of its kind to be built outside of SEQ.
Premier Steven Miles and Health Minister Shannon Fentiman joined the candidate for
the seat of Mackay, Belinda Hassan to announce that, if elected in October, this health infrastructure investment will not only bring better healthcare closer to home but also create vital healthcare jobs for the Mackay community.
Queensland Premier Steven Miles, Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, and Mackay Labor candidate Belinda Hassan announced the plan for a new Satellite Hospital in Mackay, promising better healthcare access. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Premier of Queensland Steven Miles said, “Our hospitals are under pressure – exacerbated by the rapid growth of our state and the decline of primary health care.
“My government has proven that publicly owned, free Satellite Hospitals work in reducing
pressure on our Emergency Departments and giving families greater access to care when
and where they need it.
“This will help reduce pressure at the Mackay Hospital and create good local jobs for
healthcare workers,” Premier Miles said.
The Mackay Satellite Hospital will include a Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, which will open from 8am to 10pm and provide free treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries like fevers, ear aches, cuts, burns and broken bones, and is run by doctors and senior nurses.
It will also offer specialist outpatient services, specifically targeting the needs of the local
community. That could include renal dialysis, chemotherapy, oral healthcare and mental
health support.
The announcement follows the success of seven Satellite Hospitals delivered across South
East Queensland – which have already provided critical care to more than 160,000 patients
since their staged opening.
Labor Candidate for Mackay Belinda Hassan commented on the success of the initiative and said she’s proud to be part of delivering on the government’s commitment for better healthcare closer to home.
“Having seen how successful the satellite hospital program has been, I have been
personally advocating for one in our community here in Mackay.
“The free Minor Injury and Illness Clinic, which will be part of the satellite hospital, will provide families with free healthcare for a range of things like fevers, coughs and colds and even broken bones,” Ms Hassan said.
“Locals have told me how challenging it is to access primary care in our community, and this new facility will deliver urgent care for local families without the need to visit the emergency department.”
Minister for Health, Mental Health and Ambulance Services Shannon Fentiman also commented on the success of the initiative, stating that, “We’ve heard so many stories from people who love their local satellite hospital, and how they’re providing savings for households and families who need urgent access to minor healthcare.
“Not only do they look after people with minor injuries, but they also provide access to vital
services such as dialysis and mental health support closer to home,” Minister Fentiman said.
The satellite hospital program has been proven to alleviate pressure on local hospitals –
with up to a 26 per cent drop in less serious, non-emergency presentations to hospitals
located close to a Satellite Hospital.
The Mackay Satellite Hospital will be delivered through a $78.3 million investment, funded by borrowings.
“We know that all Queenslanders deserve world class healthcare – no matter where they live,” Minister Fentiman added.
A satellite hospital in Mackay will offer free walk-in treatment for non-life-threatening conditions and specialist outpatient services, following the successful model of similar hospitals in South East Queensland. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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