State of Health on Sky News Australia examining regional health – Sky News has commissioned a series of special reports to examine the state of regional health services across the country, the impact of infrastructure and access challenges and what must be done to improve health outcomes for the almost 10 million people who now reside in regional locations nationwide.
Hosted by Sky News Regional Correspondent Jaynie Seal the first State of Health half-hour report will air on Saturday 14 March at 3.30pm AEDT with a focus on the rural town of Chinchilla, three hours west of Brisbane.
Chinchilla has experienced significant growth driven by an energy boom in renewables and traditional sources of gas and oil with the town’s population doubling in the past 20 years.
While creating thousands of jobs and economic opportunities, locals say the population surge has also intensified housing shortages and cost-of-living pressures as the town’s health services struggle to keep up with demand.
Chinchilla Hospital has been under increasing pressure due to health workforce shortages. In 2019 the maternity unity was placed on bypass, meaning expectant mothers are forced to travel hundreds of kilometres to give birth. Demand for mental health services is also on the rise as farming families face continued financial strain and uncertainty.
In this special report Jaynie speaks with community leaders and local representatives on what can be done to address the issues including former Nationals Leader and Chinchilla local David Littleproud, LNP Member for Callide Bryson Head, and Western Downs Regional Mayor Andrew Smith.
Jaynie Seal said:
“With approximately one in three people living away from our major capital cities, I am hearing from locals and government that it is crucial that the health service issues facing these communities are addressed and solutions are found that bridge the gaps to improve the health outcomes for those living in regional and rural Australia.”
State of Health – Premieres Saturday 14 March at 3.30pm AEDT
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State of Health on Sky News Australia examining regional health
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