Stroke Service

In reply to the Hon. F. PANGALLO (9 May 2018).

The Hon. S.G. WADE (Minister for Health and Wellbeing): I have been advised:

The need for the locum arose as a result of upcoming prearranged leave and the need to provide 24/7 cover for this service.

Due to the highly specialised and immediate nature of the service, it is not practical for a locum to only 'fly in fly out' for specific procedures. An immediate responsiveness is required; therefore the locum will be based in Adelaide for the period of their contract.

The locum was engaged from interstate as there was no qualified specialist in South Australia with the capacity to provide full-time cover for the duration of the leave.

The total cost for the locum which is expected to be for about a fortnight, will be around $50,000.

This is an inclusive payment and no additional payment is made for episodes of care and covers accommodation and economy air fares.

The rate for this service is in line with standard rates provided to specialists performing this procedure.