SouthWest Victoria Alliancehas called on the Victorian government to ensurethat access to the best possible health care close to home is the number one priority when considering the future of regional health services.

SouthWest Victoria Alliance Chair Cr Ben Blain said:

“Access to high quality health services is critical to improving outcomes and life expectancy in regional areas.”

Cr Blain, who is also the Mayor of Warrnambool City Council, was speaking in the wake of discussions around possible mergers of health services in Victoria.

“Far too many people in regional Victoria already battle the tyranny of distance to access vital services,” Cr Blain said.

“Fundamentally, we need great health services delivered in local communities and the region.

“There should be community consultation to ensure that no community goes backwards in terms of health care,” he said

“Communities understand best what their health needs are, and community members have the lived experience and insights into how to effectively structure and deliver services.

“The SouthWest Victoria Alliance understands that health service mergers are being considered by the state government.

“We want government to ensure that SouthWest Victora Alliance member councils and their communities get the opportunity to provide input before any decisions are taken.

“The SouthWest Victoria Alliance wants to ensure that no community is worse off under any changes, however we would prefer to see health services improve across the region. Communities must be included in any decision making.”