The Tasmanian Greens have unveiled a plan to hire 30 extra community nurses across the state, aiming to boost access to healthcare and ease pressure on hospitals.
Greens Lyons candidate Tabatha Badger said more community nurses would help patients get home from hospital sooner and avoid readmissions that put further strain on the health system.
“Community nurses are often an undervalued part of our health system,” she said. “They play a crucial role in caring for Tasmanians.”
The additional nurses would provide services such as medication management, wound care, chronic disease support and post-hospital recovery across cities, suburbs and regional towns.
Each position would be permanent and full-time, funded through a $3.5 million yearly commitment.
Badger said she has heard widespread frustration from people in her electorate about the state of Tasmania’s health services.
“Everywhere I have visited in Lyons, in the past year as the sitting member and during this election campaign, every other person I speak to has a story of Tasmania’s health system failing them,” she said.
“The community in Lyons are clearly calling out for improved health services.”
The Greens are hoping to hold the balance of power after the July 19 state election, which could open the door for a deal with Labor to form government.
“Much needs to be done to fix our health crisis and serious investment in to community nursing is an essential step that will make a big difference for many Tasmanians,” Badger said.
