Standing up for central coast’s maternity care
Women seeking maternity care on the Central Coast have been ignored and neglected by the Albanese Labor Government, as it has never been more difficult to access the care the local families need.
Liberal candidate for Robertson, Lucy Wicks, said she has been hearing serious concerns from locals up and down the Robertson electorate, who don’t feel like the Government has been listening to them.
“People must have timely access to the health advice they need, but with the imminent closure of the Gosford Private Maternity Hospital next month local women could be forced to leave their community in order to get health services and support,” said Ms Wicks.
“The closure of the Gosford Private Maternity Hospital is part of a general trend under Labor of deteriorating healthcare accessibility.”
“The Central Coast has had three years of neglect from the Albanese Labor Government, and the local member Dr. Gordon Reid’s lacklustre approach has seen him wait until the eleventh hour to call a community meeting on such an important issue.”
“Liberal Governments increased Medicare funding every single year and delivered record bulk billing rates. Under Labor it has never been harder or more expensive to access critical primary care, with GP bulk billing rate collapsing since they came to power from 88% to 77%, and patients paying record high out-of-pocket costs to see a doctor," Ms Wicks said.
"According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, the Central Coast LGA bulk billing rates for 16-64-year-olds have plummeted from 83% to 69% under Labor. This is unacceptable.”
“Women’s health has always been a priority for Liberal governments,” said Ms Wicks. “We have already committed to guaranteeing cheaper medicines and targeted healthcare for women through a specific review to ensure they are able to get the best quality care when they need it most.”
“Under the former Liberal Government, $5.5 billion was invested through two Women’s Budget Statements, including $330.6 million specifically allocated to maternal, sexual, and reproductive health initiatives. We also introduced Australia’s first endometriosis-specific clinics in every state and territory, delivering crucial support for women with chronic pain conditions.”
“If elected, we will deliver quality health care for the local community as part of our plan to get Australia back on track, including delivering investment in women’s health,” Ms Wicks concluded.
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