The Miles Government is investing $88.6 million to address mounting pressure on Queensland hospitals caused by a surge in respiratory illnesses, including flu, COVID-19, and RSV. With the flu season at its peak and hospitals experiencing their highest admissions for influenza in over five years, the investment aims to increase hospital capacity and manage patient flow.
Queensland Health reports 53,319 emergency department presentations for respiratory conditions in the June quarter, a 4,000 increase from the previous year. Over half of these resulted in hospital admissions, contributing to a 16.1% rise. As of now, 346 people are hospitalized with influenza A, with over 4,000 flu-related admissions this year.
The funding will help introduce 99 new beds in southeast Queensland, bolster emergency department resources, and extend the hours of Minor Injury and Illness Clinics. Additionally, the Hospital in the Home program will expand to support patient care.
Premier Steven Miles emphasized that these measures will ease pressure on hospitals and ensure care for critical patients. Health Minister Shannon Fentiman highlighted the urgency of the investment as respiratory illness cases continue to rise, urging Queenslanders to get their free flu vaccination.
