“I am looking forward to meeting Mr Della Bosca and to seeking his views on the management of the public hospital system and public health care networks,” said AMA (NSW) President Dr Brian Morton. 

“While there are pressures to cut costs and trim the budget, the management of the health system must ensure that patients are not at risk, and that we continue to invest for the future.

“Public hospital occupancy rates in metropolitan and regional areas are currently too high, affecting the transfer of patients from emergency departments, posing a risk for spread of infection and shortcuts in care protocols.

“Redressing the shortage of doctors will be at risk if there are not enough training places for the increased numbers of medical students who will be graduating in the next few years.

“AMA (NSW) urges the government to continue with its health infrastructure program and to consult with doctors during the planning process so that new hospitals will deliver services effectively and efficiently.

“In health, the emphasis should be on front line services to ensure the best care for patients,” Dr Morton said.