Waiting lists approach 100,000 as Liberals cut $700 million from health

More than 97,000 Tasmanians are waiting for care across outpatient, elective surgery and oral health waiting lists in Tasmania – up by about 10 per cent in a year.

That means roughly one in every six Tasmanians are stuck in a queue for medical treatment.

With Eric Abetz making $700 million worth of cuts to health, it’s hard to imagine the list won’t reach 100,000 by the end of the year.

Since Eric Abetz’ cuts were announced, the Health Department has lowered the bar on its elective surgery targets.

The new aim for not more than 30 per cent to be seen outside clinically recommended timeframes has been slammed by healthcare professionals.

In August, just 56 per cent were seen within time.

Despite the best efforts of our hardworking health professionals, Tasmania’s health system is already at breaking point. 

Being able to access timely health care in Tasmania shouldn’t be too much to ask for. 

Minister Bridget Archer needs to explain how allowing Eric Abetz to cut $700 million from the department to pay for 13 years of Liberal waste will make anything better for those left languishing.