Patients in the Riverland will now be able to access lifesaving scans for cancer, stroke, heart and other medical conditions, with the Tony Pasin announcing a new MRI licence for the Riverland General Hospital in Berri.
“In September last year our Government announced the first ten locations to receive this new Medicare support and opened a competitive public application process for more locations across the country to receive Medicare eligible MRIs,” Mr Pasin said.
“I went about campaigning for one of these further licences to be placed here in the Riverland. I wanted to demonstrate to the Minister the need for an MRI for the Riverland and I asked the community to get behind my campaign and help me by showing their support. Well over 4,000 people signed my petition both online and in hard copy over a five week period, which I then presented to the Minister in Canberra.
“Over 490 applications were received from around the country, so I’m really thrilled that our lobbying efforts paid off and the Riverland application has been successful. This means Riverland residents have access to lifesaving scans without needing to travel to Adelaide or across the border, saving time and money,” Mr Pasin said.
Minister for Health Greg Hunt said the Morrison Government is helping Australians stay healthy and keeping down the cost of healthcare for families.
“Our plan for a strong economy means we continue to deliver record funding for essential services such as Medicare, public hospitals and life-saving medicines,” Minister Hunt said.
“Not only will our new Medicare support ensure patients get better treatment and save money, it will also cut down the amount of time patients travel to get a scan.”
“Our investment in MRI licenses of over $375 million over the forward estimates for 50 new locations around the country delivers on the Government’s commitment to improve access and outcomes for patients.”
“Unlike Labor we have also committed to reduce the cost for patients by indexing targeted diagnostic imaging services including mammography, fluoroscopy, CT scans and interventional procedures.”
“Under the Morrison Government, Medicare spending is guaranteed and increasing every year from $24 billion in 2017–18 to $28.8 billion in 2021–22 to support health care for every Australian.”
“The Government is committed to delivering improved health services which includes increased hospital funding with an extra $8 billion for hospitals taking it to $29.5 billion over five years,” Minister Hunt said.
The Morrison Government’s strong economic management ensures the continued record investment of funding into vital health initiatives including mental health, life-saving medicines, Medicare and hospitals.
With the Medicare eligible MRI licence now secured, The State Government will move to obtain a machine to be located at the Riverland General Hospital.
Media Contact: Charlotte Edmunds 8531 2466
