Regional health services
Tim BULL (Gippsland East) (13:04): Last sitting week I raised concerns over the medical imaging delays at Bairnsdale Regional Health Service but also some other country hospitals. I have since been advised I-Med, which provides this service, has flagged a further reduction in what it is going to offer, which will result in longer delays. As the minister would be aware, this impacts health outcomes significantly, particularly for oncology patients who need to start their treatment plans. I acknowledge discussions with the minister last week around country hospital medical imaging being linked into metro health services to improve outcomes for rural patients. Regional Victorians should not have to endure these wait times, and I seek the minister’s urgent attention to expedite this outcome.