The Australasian College for Emergency Medicine (ACEM) says yesterday’s Access Solutions Meeting marked the beginning of change to bring about better outcomes for patients, for all Tasmanians.
ACEM President Dr Simon Judkins said: “The meeting was a line in the sand.
“Positive commitments were given from people in key positions to take responsibility for addressing issues highlighted by the Tasmanian Audit Office’s recent audit of Tasmania’s emergency departments – culture change, leadership and accountability for performance.
“All participants were encouraged to go back to their teams and discuss barriers, new ideas and continue to feed those back. Supporting innovation and local leadership is an important part of the culture change required.”
Dr Judkins said he was disappointed with some of the comments made after the meeting – especially from those who attended the meeting.
“Negative comments in the media undermine what we are trying to achieve,” Dr Judkins said. “That is, tackle problems that have been around for a long period, and this will take time. It is naïve to think that this will be addressed overnight.”
ACEM Tasmania Faculty Chair Dr Marielle Ruigrok said: “The Royal Hobart Hospital and its emergency department staff now need the support and commitment from the clinical leaders in inpatient areas and the hospital executive to implement actions identified to improve patient flow.
“The College is also committed to work with Ambulance Tasmania staff in Hobart to support their ability to provide services to the community.”
Dr Judkins added: “ACEM was heartened by the combined agreement on the issues and actions required to bring about sustained change, and will closely monitor and support progress. We acknowledge that the hard work starts following yesterday’s meeting.”
Background
ACEM is the peak body for emergency medicine in Australia and New Zealand, responsible for training emergency physicians and advancement of professional standards. www.acem.org.au
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