COUNTRY HEALTH

In reply to the Hon. R.I. LUCAS (21 February 2013).

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (Minister for Sustainability, Environment and Conservation, Minister for Water and the River Murray, Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Reconciliation): The Minister for Health and Ageing has received the following information:

1. The government is not considering an X-ray machine for Penola War Memorial Hospital. Penola is located 30 minutes from Mount Gambier where a full range of radiological investigations are available.

2. The treating doctor makes a decision whether or not to admit a patient to hospital. This is done with consideration of the patient's condition and the type of care required. Patients who need to be under the care of a specialist, or who need surgical procedures, will be admitted to a hospital that has the relevant services.

3. The cost for a full time locum to cover the Penola Medical Clinic, accident and emergency service, and hospital inpatient is around $10,000 a week. These costs are reduced by charges to Medicare for patient appointments in the GP Clinic.

4. The Minister for Health and Ageing has visited Penola War Memorial Hospital. He has been briefed by Country Health SA Local Health Network and receives regular updates. The minister has responded directly to concerns raised by the Penola community. The minister supports the planned call for Expressions of Interest from other medical practices to move the Penola Medical Clinic into the private sector.'