Monday 13 January 2025
Letter to the editor
Dear Editor,
The Allan Labor Government’s reckless hospital merger plans are a serious threat to regional Victorians.
Mergers by stealth across Victoria have moved a step closer with the announcement late last week of so-called “local health service networks”.
We should all be on red alert because it is another sign of Labor’s plans to take away local decision making and reduce local services.
In centralising decision-making and merging regional health services with metropolitan or major regional hospitals, Labor is stripping away local jobs and the ability to prioritise the unique needs of regional communities.
This heavy-handed approach will see regional voices sidelined and critical resources funnelled back into the city.
Our regional communities deserve more than being treated like second-class citizens and their local health services stripped of their autonomy.
Strong, locally managed health services are vital for ensuring timely care and meeting the unique demands of regional Victorians.
It’s time for a government that listens to all Victorians and values equitable healthcare outcomes, no matter where you live.
Labor can’t manage health and Victorians are paying the price.
Danny O’Brien
Leader of The Nationals