The Department of Health publishes average waiting times for non-critical cases in Tasmania’s four public emergency departments on its website. Photo: Ambulance Active.
Amid Tasmania’s ambulance ramping crisis, Health Minister Guy Barnett has announced a new emergency department (ED) waiting times dashboard on the government’s website.
The online tool will enable members of the public to view current waiting times for non-urgent patients in all four EDs throughout Tasmania.
During a parliamentary inquiry hearing into the crisis last week, Ambulance Tasmania’s Chief Executive Jordan Emery said 25 per cent of emergency cases were not attended to in time.
According to Health department data, over the past year, all category 1 patients (immediately life-threatening) at Royal Hobart Hospital’s emergency department were seen immediately.
But the data for ED patients seen in time between categories 2 and 5 was not as positive.
“Imminently life-threatening, important time-critical treatment or very severe pain” cases (category 2) are seen within 10 minutes only 38-48 per cent of the time.
Mr Barnett said the new webpage would help Tasmanians decide whether they, or their loved ones, needed to go to an ED for a less serious illness or injury.
“That’s why it is also important the community is aware of the different treatment options available in Tasmania when deciding what the most suitable option is, depending on the nature and urgency of their health concern.
“I want to stress that the new dashboard is not relevant for those people who are critically unwell.
“Anyone who requires emergency medical care for a serious injury or illness should always call triple zero (000) or go to their nearest ED immediately – our dedicated and skilled hospital staff will always be there for you. Those individuals needing critical, lifesaving care will always be seen first.”
The Minister said ED teams treated more than 480 people a day across the state, and there was often a surge in demand on weekends and during holiday periods, so it was important to keep the departments open for emergencies.
He urged those with non-life-threatening or less serious issues to call the 24/7 helpline service, Healthdirect (1800 022 222) to speak with a registered nurse.
