Legislative Council Wednesday 20 November, 2019

Ms FORREST question to LEADER of the GOVERNMENT in the LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL, Mrs HISCUTT

Following up on questions I asked in March and August this year with regard to access to televisions for patients in Tasmanian public hospitals:

Given that the Merlin Technology’s contract was due to expire on 31st August, 2019 and THS was to consider the terms of the already expired Hills Health Solutions agreement along with the Merlin Technology arrangements, can you provide an update on likely solutions for the provision of televisions for patients;

1. Are patients still required to pay to access a bedside television, and if so;

a) Which public hospitals require payment; and 

b) What are costs per day by hospital;

2. Does the Government accept this cost impost is significant for many Tasmanians who wish to watch television whilst in hospital, especially for extended stays; and

3. Is the THS considering any alternative options for service provision?

Answers:

Patients are required to pay and continue to pay to access a bedside television.  Contractors charge a maximum of $10 per day for non-concession card holders and $9 per day for concession card holders.  This rate reduces to $49.90 per week or a concessional rate of $42.90 per week.

Existing arrangements remain in place at each hospital while the Tasmanian Health Service (THS) continues to consider options for future service provision.