Although Seymour Health has received an upgrade, Liberal candidate for Euroa, Brad Hearn says that more is required to match the diversification of needs created by population growth in the region.
Shadow Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Georgie Crozier met Mr Hearn at Seymour Health on Wednesday, October 26 to discuss staff shortages and mental health challenges facing regional Victorians.
Mr. Hearn believes that mental health care should be a priority in the seat of Euroa. He hopes that with more funding, individuals facing mental ill health do not have to travel outside of their town for the treatment they need.
“Our mental health triage for young people that are suffering mental ill health crisis is in Box Hill, so the north-east is all being funnelled into the beds in Box Hill which are not enough; and outside of their hometowns, Mr Hearn said.
“As a therapist I’m really passionate that people can seek mental health support here in the country and that they don’t have to travel or pay exorbitant fees to seek professional health when they need it.”
The Covid-19 pandemic has heightened strain on Victoria’s healthcare system.
During the pandemic front line health care workers have faced overtime and staff shortages. Now, many nurses are reporting burnout or seeking alternative work.
Shadow Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Georgie Crozier says that support can be given through training to better equip senior nurses with management skills and tools which will in turn better support junior nurses entering the system.
“It is about retaining those staff, it’s about recognising what they need and giving them the support to progress their career so that they feel supported when they are coming through the system.” Ms. Crozier said.
