Legislative Council, Tuesday 25 October 2022

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

Mr President, with regard to after hours access to care at the Rosebery Community Health Centre:

(1) What after hours services are provided from the health centre?

(2) Is there a triage nurse available and if so, is the triage nurse onsite?

(3) If the triage nurse is onsite, can patients attend the health centre for minor ailments?

(4) If not, where are they to seek medical care?

ANSWER

Mr President, the minister for Health is advised that due to recruitment challenges, a temporary model has been implemented at the Rosebery Community Health Centre. Under this model, the centre operates from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., seven days a week. During these times, there is a triage nurse onsite and patients visit the nurse for any concerns, including minor ailments.

The minister is also advised that Ochre Medical Centre continues to provide services from the health centre. Should anyone present to the Rosebery Community Health Centre after hours, there are signs providing information on the available options, including a nurse on call. After hours, the telephone is diverted to a West Coast District Hospital registered triage nurse in charge who can review the person over the phone and direct them to attend West Coast District Hospital or North West Regional Hospital if appropriate.

For members of the community who require assistance outside of these hours, they are encouraged to call Health Direct on 1800 022 222 or in an emergency dial 000 immediately. The minister is also advised that requirements are continuing in earnest.

Ms FORREST - Does the mine know? It pays for half the service.