MEDIA RELEASE FROM CRAIG INGRAM MP - MEMBER FOR GIPPSLAND EAST Issued: Wednesday 8 November 2006

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Ingram vows to fight for quality health system

The Independent Member for Gippsland East, Craig Ingram, has stated that ensuring a quality public health service will continue to be a major focus of his representation for the seat of Gippsland East, if re-elected.

“Over the past term I have strongly fought for quality public health services and specialist services in the region,” Mr Ingram said.

“Our region has seen new services and much needed infrastructure like construction of a new accident and emergency facility at Bairnsdale; additional aged care facilities; the provision of ambulance services for Paynesville; paramedics at Mallacoota and Omeo; and significant funding for the reconstruction of the Omeo hospital.

“During the past seven years, I have worked to keep access to specialist services in our region, fought for paediatrics at CGHS; and sought solutions on the impact of the long waiting lists for public dental services in our region.

“Health has consistently been the main issue of importance that has come through my community surveys.

“Among priorities for the next term is to work towards the funding and development of a one stop shop for health services in Bairnsdale for the further development of health services in Lakes Entrance.

“It is also essential that state and federal governments address the causes of the problem, and that is attracting health professionals to regional areas. I have previously suggested a number of solutions to the state and federal health ministers.

“The State Government must also address the disadvantages in funding of regional health services, like the excessive ambulance transport costs,” Mr Ingram concluded.