In a media statement on 11 November ACEM President Dr Simon Judkins said: “numerous reports in recent years show longstanding cultural issues affecting whole of hospital performance. Given the situation is now as desperate as it is, it is in the interests of all Tasmanians that the Government invests in cultural change and leadership programs to resolve these issues.”
Dr Judkins also said: "It may also be time to explore who is in those leadership positions and if they are, in fact, the right people to oversee these vital pieces of work and culture change."
This was acknowledgment that all leaders, whether in medical, nursing or managerial roles, need to be accountable for outcomes in their area of responsibility and that longstanding challenges, like those being experienced at the Hobart and Launceston hospitals, require different ways of thinking, and the courage to change how we do business.
ACEM reiterates the need for a state-wide strategy that supports an immediate reduction in the rate of patients staying 24 hours or more in access-blocked emergency departments.
This is the view ACEM will be presenting when our representatives meet with the Minister tomorrow, and we look forward to contributing to a solution to the current issues.
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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