Labor overlooks Ingham in health-funding windfall

VITAL upgrades to Ingham Hospital have been left out of a major funding announcement by the state Labor government after they announced $25 million for the Townsville Hospital.

Hinchinbrook MP Nick Dametto said he was “extremely disappointed” the government had overlooked Ingham in announcing $17m to build a “hybrid theatre” at Townsville University Hospital, $4m to upgrade the Persistent Pain Management Service and $4m to expand the outpatient department. “I’m not one to begrudge funding for health services elsewhere, but all we’re asking for in Ingham is what every regional hospital should have – a CT scanner and a renal unit,” he said.

“These should be essential services and would be lifechanging for residents in the Herbert River District. We’re not asking for much, just what should be considered modernday basic health services.”

Townsville Hospital and Health Service’s COVID-19

Recovery – Proposed Infrastructure Program estimates Ingham Hospital will need $5.2m for renal services, $3.6m for a CT scanner and $1.1m for an upgraded emergency department, plus an additional 15 per cent contingency funding for each project to account for market conditions.

Final costings and a detailed design process are now being undertaken for the proposed upgrades at Ingham.

“The funding we’re asking for is a drop in the ocean compared to any hospital outside the regions and this would vastly improve the quality of life for local residents and those wishing to stay in the local area without needing to move south to access standard health services,” Mr Dametto said.

“No one on dialysis should have to suffer a long and painful journey to Townsville Hospital and back to receive lifesaving treatment.

“Access to a CT scanner at Ingham Hospital would cut the time for a diagnosis for life-saving drugs.”