Health Minister Lawrence Springborg will discuss Queensland’s health system reforms with the Kawana community this month.

Local MP Jarrod Bleijie will host the Kawana Community Health Forum so residents can learn more about the positive changes already underway, as well as learn about further improvements and ask the Minister questions.

“In just two years the Government has slashed ambulance ramping, fixed the payroll debacle left by Labor, drastically slashed dental waiting lists, delivered new ambulances here in Kawana and reduced hospital overnight length of stay times,” Mr Bleijie said.

“The opening of the Cardiac Cath. Lab and Endoscopy Suites at Nambour General Hospital in August 2012 drove the single largest increase in inpatient activity in Sunshine Coast history, delivering timely treatment for patients who were previously transferred to Brisbane.

“The Government is also funding access to the equivalent of 110 beds within the new private hospital, located next door to the site of the Coast’s $1.8billion public hospital, where construction continues to power ahead, fast-tracked by the Government,” Mr Bleijie said.

“Our health system has undergone major change, but there is still more good work to be done.”

Mr Bleijie said Sunshine Coast University Public Hospital was Australia’s first newlyconstructed major public hospital in more than 20 years, and its construction would not only deliver world-class free healthcare for residents, but provide a significant economic boost for the region.

“I’m pleased the Minister has accepted my invitation to address the local community and I encourage everyone with an interest in our health system to attend and hear about the exciting changes ahead.”

The Kawana Community Health Forum is open to the public. It will be held at 9.30am, Wednesday, 28 May at Lake Kawana Community Centre, 114 Sportsmans Parade, Bokarina.

Those who wish to attend are asked to RSVP on (07) 5478 1189 or by email to kawana@parliament.qld.gov.au.