Tuesday 8 April 2008
QUESTIONS TO THE GOVERNMENT
BEACONSFIELD DISTRICT HEALTH CENTRE

MrFINCH (Question) - With continuing uncertainty in my community over the future of the Beaconsfield District Health Centre, is the Leader in a position to make a statement reassuring residents of the West Tamar about the future role of the health centre?

Mr PARKINSON - The Beaconsfield District Health Service is a multipurpose service, jointly funded under a three-year service agreement with the Australian Department of Health and Ageing.  The service agreement has recently been extended to the end of 2009.  It is anticipated that continuing funding will be provided by the Australian Government to supplement the significant funding provided by the State Government.

The future role of the Beaconsfield District Health Service is outlined in the Primary Health Services Plan.  It has a role in the provision of community health services, subacute inpatient care and residential aged care.  Preparations are under way to commence limited subacute admissions to the inpatient beds from 21 April 2008.  The centre will also continue to have a role in the provision of respite care.