Ministerial Statement

SA Pathology

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING (Playford—Minister for Health, Minister for the Arts, Minister for Health Industries) (14:03): I seek leave to make a ministerial statement.

Leave granted.

The Hon. J.J. SNELLING: The latest round of consultation about the SA Pathology Efficiency Improvement Program ended on 21 July. There have been numerous staff forums, several periods of consultation and over 400 pieces of feedback received from the most recent consultation paper. We have listened to the feedback received, and the proposed reconfiguration of SA Pathology has been suspended until mid next year. The state government's decision has been made following extensive consultation and advice from the SA Pathology director, staff, industry bodies and unions.

Everyone involved in this process agrees that, due to improvements in technology, modern laboratory automation and ICT systems, it is possible for pathology services to be provided much more quickly, effectively and efficiently, while maintaining the same high level of patient care.

With the move to the new RAH and the introduction of new state-of-the-art technology, such as the Enterprise Pathology Laboratory Information System, now is not the right moment to be making changes. Today's announcement gives us more time for the new technology to be integrated into the health system and for staff to get settled at the new RAH.

A working group made up of clinicians, other staff and union delegates will be set up. It will help transition pathology services in South Australia to complement our modern and innovative health system. SA Pathology will work closely with staff, clinicians and consumers to develop a fresh vision for the future of SA Pathology. This vision will recognise SA Pathology's unique history, its commitment to excellence in diagnostics, clinical care, research and teaching, and enable them to develop a plan for a positive and exciting future.

SA Pathology will convene on-site staff forums in the coming months to provide staff with more information. SA Pathology has a long history of providing superior pathology services for all South Australians, and this will never change.

Mr Pisoni interjecting:

The SPEAKER: The member for Unley, I call him to order.