31

Jul 2025

NSW Elective Surgery Waitlists Surge as Patient Delays Soar

Published in General on July 31, 2025

New data released by the Bureau of Health Information (BHI) paints a worrying picture of escalating wait times for elective surgeries across New South Wales. Between January and March 2025, over 100,600 patients were waiting for planned procedures—an increase of 7.3% from the same period in 2024. Worryingly, more than 8,500 of those patients waited longer than clinically recommended, a sharp 151.3% increase from the prior year. The State of Play: Rising Waitlists and Growing Delays Despite performing nearly 53,000 elective surgeries during the quarter—a 3.6% increase—hospital capacity isn’t keeping pace with demand. The BHI’s Healthcare Quarterly Report shows the state’s waitlist has nearly reached its pandemic-era peak of just over 101,000 patients. Surgical urgency categories highlight stark inequalities in waiting times: Category 2 (semi‑urgent) patients—expected to be operated within 90 days—waited an average of 65 days, nine days longer than a year earlier. Category 3 (non‑urgent) individuals—who should be seen within a year—now wait an average of 322 days—over a month longer than in 2024. Category 1—requiring surgery within 30 days—generally met targets, though isolated cases of missed deadlines have drawn scrutiny. Regional Disparities and Hospital Strain Delays are unevenly distributed. South Eastern Sydney, Western Sydney, Hunter New England, and rural districts reported the sharpest spikes in overdue surgeries—some recording more than 1,300 delayed cases in recent quarters. Only Nepean Blue Mountains LHD reported a minor reduction. The Western NSW Local Health District has been accused of downgrading some urgent colorectal and cancer surgery cases from Category 1 to Category 4—meaning no date was scheduled—amid rising resource constraints. Hospital managers rejected the claim, but medical insiders say it has become common practice to avoid breaching waitlist targets. Behind the Crisis: Key Drivers and Workforce Challenges Healthcare experts and unions point to multiple factors fuelling the crisis: Inadequate staffing and burnout: Industrial action by NSW doctors and nurses has disrupted elective surgery capacity. Public sector doctors have even staged strikes citing unsafe workloads, with some calls warning up to 4,000 overdue surgeries due to staffing shortfalls. Chronic under-resourcing: Funding models based on rapid patient turnover clash with the needs of complex or long-stay surgical care. Hospitals like Westmead Children’s Hospital remain unable to staff even newly built operating theatres due to anaesthetist shortages. Patient reclassification: Reports suggest some institutions have downgraded the urgency of critical cases to manage KPIs rather than secure resources. Senior clinicians say this masks the true scale of delays. Government Responses: Funding and Reform NSW Health Minister Ryan Park has promised action and pledged $23 million in 2025–26 to fast-track overdue surgeries. This follows an earlier $186 million capital boost for hospital capacity announced in late 2024. He also established a Surgical Care Taskforce to streamline service delivery. Though these investments may reduce backlog over time, experts warn they may fall short unless systemic workforce and operational issues are addressed. Real People, Real Consequences Behind every statistic is a person facing prolonged pain, reduced mobility, or delayed diagnosis. Joint replacement patients, often suffering debilitating discomfort, may endure wait times up to three years, leading to significant physical and psychological deterioration. In regional areas, delays in cancer surgery or orthopedic procedures can have serious health consequences. Experts warn that even small delays in treatment may increase cancer mortality or fracture risks. Looking Forward: Solutions and Rebuilding Trust Policymakers and clinical leaders suggest a multi-pronged approach: Continue investment in new operating capacity, weekend theatre rostering, and integration with private providers to reduce backlogs. Improve recruitment and retention of medical professionals, including fairer compensation and workload reform. Rethink funding frameworks to prioritise complex, low-turnover surgical cases, better reflecting true community needs. Clearly, the current strategy of meeting KPI benchmarks without addressing underlying capacity gaps is unsustainable—and damaging trust in the public health system. Hospital Stay Accommodation: A Crucial but Overlooked Factor Amid the broader conversation on elective surgery delays, one often-overlooked element is the role of short-term accommodation for patients and their families, especially for those travelling from regional or remote areas. When hospital stays are extended or delayed, access to furnished apartments near medical facilities becomes essential for continuity of care, recovery support, and patient well-being. Providers like Corporate Keys offer fully self-contained apartments near major hospitals, helping bridge the gap between clinical care and patient needs—particularly during waiting periods or post-operative recovery. This kind of housing flexibility can ease stress on hospital systems and provide a more humane solution for those caught in prolonged medical limbo. Final Perspective NSW’s latest elective surgery data reveals a health system under pressure—balancing increased patient numbers against staff shortfalls, infrastructure limits, and surgical complexity. With over 100,000 Australians waiting for care, the backlog is not only a statistic—it’s a crisis affecting lives. If NSW is to improve wait times sustainably, it must move beyond short-term funding injections toward long-term workforce stability, equitable resourcing, and transparency in surgical categorisation. The challenge is clear: ensure that urgent procedures like heart surgery or cancer treatment are prioritised—and deliver the secure, patient-centred future residents deserve.

New data released by the Bureau of Health Information (BHI) paints a worrying picture of escalating wait times for elective surgeries across New South Wales. Between January and March 2025, over 100,600 patients were waiting for planned procedures—an increase of 7.3% from the same period in 2024. Worryingly, more than 8,500 of those patients waited longer than clinically recommended, a sharp 151.3% increase from the prior year.

The State of Play: Rising Waitlists and Growing Delays

Despite performing nearly 53,000 elective surgeries during the quarter—a 3.6% increase—hospital capacity isn’t keeping pace with demand. The BHI’s Healthcare Quarterly Report shows the state’s waitlist has nearly reached its pandemic-era peak of just over 101,000 patients.

Surgical urgency categories highlight stark inequalities in waiting times:

  • Category 2 (semi‑urgent) patients—expected to be operated within 90 days—waited an average of 65 days, nine days longer than a year earlier.
  • Category 3 (non‑urgent) individuals—who should be seen within a year—now wait an average of 322 days—over a month longer than in 2024.
    Category 1—requiring surgery within 30 days—generally met targets, though isolated cases of missed deadlines have drawn scrutiny.

Regional Disparities and Hospital Strain

Delays are unevenly distributed. South Eastern Sydney, Western Sydney, Hunter New England, and rural districts reported the sharpest spikes in overdue surgeries—some recording more than 1,300 delayed cases in recent quarters. Only Nepean Blue Mountains LHD reported a minor reduction.

The Western NSW Local Health District has been accused of downgrading some urgent colorectal and cancer surgery cases from Category 1 to Category 4—meaning no date was scheduled—amid rising resource constraints. Hospital managers rejected the claim, but medical insiders say it has become common practice to avoid breaching waitlist targets.

Behind the Crisis: Key Drivers and Workforce Challenges

Healthcare experts and unions point to multiple factors fuelling the crisis:

  • Inadequate staffing and burnout: Industrial action by NSW doctors and nurses has disrupted elective surgery capacity. Public sector doctors have even staged strikes citing unsafe workloads, with some calls warning up to 4,000 overdue surgeries due to staffing shortfalls.
  • Chronic under-resourcing: Funding models based on rapid patient turnover clash with the needs of complex or long-stay surgical care. Hospitals like Westmead Children’s Hospital remain unable to staff even newly built operating theatres due to anaesthetist shortages.
  • Patient reclassification: Reports suggest some institutions have downgraded the urgency of critical cases to manage KPIs rather than secure resources. Senior clinicians say this masks the true scale of delays.

Government Responses: Funding and Reform

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park has promised action and pledged $23 million in 2025–26 to fast-track overdue surgeries. This follows an earlier $186 million capital boost for hospital capacity announced in late 2024. He also established a Surgical Care Taskforce to streamline service delivery.

Though these investments may reduce backlog over time, experts warn they may fall short unless systemic workforce and operational issues are addressed.

Real People, Real Consequences

Behind every statistic is a person facing prolonged pain, reduced mobility, or delayed diagnosis. Joint replacement patients, often suffering debilitating discomfort, may endure wait times up to three years, leading to significant physical and psychological deterioration.

In regional areas, delays in cancer surgery or orthopedic procedures can have serious health consequences. Experts warn that even small delays in treatment may increase cancer mortality or fracture risks.

Looking Forward: Solutions and Rebuilding Trust

Policymakers and clinical leaders suggest a multi-pronged approach:

  • Continue investment in new operating capacity, weekend theatre rostering, and integration with private providers to reduce backlogs.
  • Improve recruitment and retention of medical professionals, including fairer compensation and workload reform.
  • Rethink funding frameworks to prioritise complex, low-turnover surgical cases, better reflecting true community needs.

Clearly, the current strategy of meeting KPI benchmarks without addressing underlying capacity gaps is unsustainable—and damaging trust in the public health system.

Hospital Stay Accommodation: A Crucial but Overlooked Factor

Amid the broader conversation on elective surgery delays, one often-overlooked element is the role of short-term accommodation for patients and their families, especially for those travelling from regional or remote areas. When hospital stays are extended or delayed, access to furnished apartments near medical facilities becomes essential for continuity of care, recovery support, and patient well-being. Providers like Corporate Keys offer fully self-contained apartments near major hospitals, helping bridge the gap between clinical care and patient needs—particularly during waiting periods or post-operative recovery. This kind of housing flexibility can ease stress on hospital systems and provide a more humane solution for those caught in prolonged medical limbo.

Final Perspective

NSW’s latest elective surgery data reveals a health system under pressure—balancing increased patient numbers against staff shortfalls, infrastructure limits, and surgical complexity. With over 100,000 Australians waiting for care, the backlog is not only a statistic—it’s a crisis affecting lives.

If NSW is to improve wait times sustainably, it must move beyond short-term funding injections toward long-term workforce stability, equitable resourcing, and transparency in surgical categorisation.

The challenge is clear: ensure that urgent procedures like heart surgery or cancer treatment are prioritised—and deliver the secure, patient-centred future residents deserve.

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Effective 1 July 2025, Victoria has ushered in a new era of coordinated healthcare by launching the North Metro & Mitchell Local Health Service Network (LHSN), bringing together key health services—including Austin Health, Northern Health, Mercy Hospital for Women, and Seymour Health—under a unified collaborative framework. This strategic initiative aligns with the Victorian Government’s broader reforms to enhance access, efficiency, and quality in healthcare delivery. Why This Network Matters The LHSN model represents a significant shift toward patient-centred care. Unlike previous fragmented arrangements, these networks group hospitals and health services within comparable geographic regions, enabling more integrated and coordinated care, closer to where people live. Referrals and care transitions are now streamlined, reducing wait times and simplifying access. Shared governance promotes consistent quality standards and unified clinical management. Pooling administrative resources helps reduce duplication and increase value for public investment. Though each institution retains its identity and local leadership, this collaborative approach strives to offer more seamless, equitable healthcare from Metro Melbourne to regional Mitchell communities. What the Network Includes Based in North Metro Melbourne, the newly formed North Metro & Mitchell Network aligns Austin Health (as lead agency), Mercy Health’s maternity hub, Northern Health, and Seymour Health. Together, these services now form part of Victoria’s 12 officially recognised Local Health Service Networks. This grouping ensures that larger specialty centres, like Austin Health, can support smaller hospitals such as Seymour for surgical follow-ups or specialist diagnostics, while enabling patients to access routine care closer to home. Core Benefits of the Network Model Improved Access and Equity Centralised referral pathways streamline patient movement between local and tertiary services, addressing delays and breaking down barriers to specialty care. Enhanced Workforce Support Coordinated workforce planning allows recruitment, training, and retention strategies to be aligned across partner hospitals—especially vital during regional health recruitment challenges. Safety and Quality Consistency Unified governance ensures consistent clinical protocols, patient safety standards, and quality improvement frameworks across the network. Resource Efficiency Shared support systems—including IT, HR, and administrative functions—free up capacity and redirect focus toward patient care. Stakeholder Perspectives Patient advocacy groups and healthcare leaders have welcomed the network model as a significant step toward more equitable and responsive care. As preparation for the transition began, clinicians emphasised the importance of retaining local decision-making while benefiting from shared clinical expertise and scalability. Meanwhile, policymakers stressed that LHSNs form part of a broader reform agenda to solidify Victoria’s public health system, ensuring consistency, fairness, and adaptability. Real‑World Impact for Communities Residents across Northern and Mitchell regions can expect more seamless healthcare access: A patient needing sub-specialist input—such as cardiac diagnostics—might see a local provider (e.g., Seymour) and be referred efficiently to Austin Health without redundant paperwork. Patients can receive postoperative follow-ups closer to home while specialist procedures remain centralised. During emergencies or outbreaks, the network enables coordinated responses across multiple sites. Building Resilience in Regional Health In addition to easing access, the North Metro & Mitchell LHSN reinforces Victoria’s capacity to serve a diverse and growing population. Telehealth services and shared clinics become easier to coordinate across the network—boosting access in rural areas. Training and support programs deployed across member hospitals allow regional clinicians to leverage the latest best practices. Care navigation becomes simpler, particularly for older patients or those with chronic conditions needing multi-site care. Austin Health’s announcement confirms a strategic commitment to resource-sharing and continuous improvement as part of this network. How the New Model Compares to the Past Historically, health services functioned autonomously, leading to delays in patient transfers, duplicated systems, and slower policy rollout. The LHSN framework is explicitly designed to rectify these inefficiencies—while preserving local cultural strengths and identity. Looking Ahead As the North Metro & Mitchell Network settles into operation, observers will be watching for: Quantifiable reductions in wait times and referral delays Enhanced workforce stability, particularly in regional centres Consistent patient experience, regardless of location or facility Greater integration of Telehealth and community care services Implementation highlights include the upcoming Regional Outcome Review Initiative (RORI) and coordination with the North East Metro Health Service Partnership, which supports population health, mental health, and out-of-hospital care services. Summary The creation of the North Metro & Mitchell Local Health Service Network marks a turning point in Victoria’s public health system. By uniting Austin Health, Mercy Hospital for Women, Northern Health, and Seymour Health under one collaborative banner, the state is investing in a more accessible, equitable, and sustainable healthcare system. Key advantages include smoother patient pathways, stronger workforce planning, unified safety and quality standards, and smarter resource distribution. For patients, families, or healthcare professionals needing temporary accommodation near major hospitals, fully furnished serviced apartments—such as those offered by Corporate Keys—provide a comfortable and practical alternative to traditional hotel stays, with flexible, extended options tailored for longer visits. As this network evolves, it holds promise as a model for building community-centred healthcare across both metro and regional Victoria.
Victoria Launches North Metro & Mitchell Local Health Service Network to Strengthen Regional Healthcare
New data released by the Bureau of Health Information (BHI) paints a worrying picture of escalating wait times for elective surgeries across New South Wales. Between January and March 2025, over 100,600 patients were waiting for planned procedures—an increase of 7.3% from the same period in 2024. Worryingly, more than 8,500 of those patients waited longer than clinically recommended, a sharp 151.3% increase from the prior year. The State of Play: Rising Waitlists and Growing Delays Despite performing nearly 53,000 elective surgeries during the quarter—a 3.6% increase—hospital capacity isn’t keeping pace with demand. The BHI’s Healthcare Quarterly Report shows the state’s waitlist has nearly reached its pandemic-era peak of just over 101,000 patients. Surgical urgency categories highlight stark inequalities in waiting times: Category 2 (semi‑urgent) patients—expected to be operated within 90 days—waited an average of 65 days, nine days longer than a year earlier. Category 3 (non‑urgent) individuals—who should be seen within a year—now wait an average of 322 days—over a month longer than in 2024. Category 1—requiring surgery within 30 days—generally met targets, though isolated cases of missed deadlines have drawn scrutiny. Regional Disparities and Hospital Strain Delays are unevenly distributed. South Eastern Sydney, Western Sydney, Hunter New England, and rural districts reported the sharpest spikes in overdue surgeries—some recording more than 1,300 delayed cases in recent quarters. Only Nepean Blue Mountains LHD reported a minor reduction. The Western NSW Local Health District has been accused of downgrading some urgent colorectal and cancer surgery cases from Category 1 to Category 4—meaning no date was scheduled—amid rising resource constraints. Hospital managers rejected the claim, but medical insiders say it has become common practice to avoid breaching waitlist targets. Behind the Crisis: Key Drivers and Workforce Challenges Healthcare experts and unions point to multiple factors fuelling the crisis: Inadequate staffing and burnout: Industrial action by NSW doctors and nurses has disrupted elective surgery capacity. Public sector doctors have even staged strikes citing unsafe workloads, with some calls warning up to 4,000 overdue surgeries due to staffing shortfalls. Chronic under-resourcing: Funding models based on rapid patient turnover clash with the needs of complex or long-stay surgical care. Hospitals like Westmead Children’s Hospital remain unable to staff even newly built operating theatres due to anaesthetist shortages. Patient reclassification: Reports suggest some institutions have downgraded the urgency of critical cases to manage KPIs rather than secure resources. Senior clinicians say this masks the true scale of delays. Government Responses: Funding and Reform NSW Health Minister Ryan Park has promised action and pledged $23 million in 2025–26 to fast-track overdue surgeries. This follows an earlier $186 million capital boost for hospital capacity announced in late 2024. He also established a Surgical Care Taskforce to streamline service delivery. Though these investments may reduce backlog over time, experts warn they may fall short unless systemic workforce and operational issues are addressed. Real People, Real Consequences Behind every statistic is a person facing prolonged pain, reduced mobility, or delayed diagnosis. Joint replacement patients, often suffering debilitating discomfort, may endure wait times up to three years, leading to significant physical and psychological deterioration. In regional areas, delays in cancer surgery or orthopedic procedures can have serious health consequences. Experts warn that even small delays in treatment may increase cancer mortality or fracture risks. Looking Forward: Solutions and Rebuilding Trust Policymakers and clinical leaders suggest a multi-pronged approach: Continue investment in new operating capacity, weekend theatre rostering, and integration with private providers to reduce backlogs. Improve recruitment and retention of medical professionals, including fairer compensation and workload reform. Rethink funding frameworks to prioritise complex, low-turnover surgical cases, better reflecting true community needs. Clearly, the current strategy of meeting KPI benchmarks without addressing underlying capacity gaps is unsustainable—and damaging trust in the public health system. Hospital Stay Accommodation: A Crucial but Overlooked Factor Amid the broader conversation on elective surgery delays, one often-overlooked element is the role of short-term accommodation for patients and their families, especially for those travelling from regional or remote areas. When hospital stays are extended or delayed, access to furnished apartments near medical facilities becomes essential for continuity of care, recovery support, and patient well-being. Providers like Corporate Keys offer fully self-contained apartments near major hospitals, helping bridge the gap between clinical care and patient needs—particularly during waiting periods or post-operative recovery. This kind of housing flexibility can ease stress on hospital systems and provide a more humane solution for those caught in prolonged medical limbo. Final Perspective NSW’s latest elective surgery data reveals a health system under pressure—balancing increased patient numbers against staff shortfalls, infrastructure limits, and surgical complexity. With over 100,000 Australians waiting for care, the backlog is not only a statistic—it’s a crisis affecting lives. If NSW is to improve wait times sustainably, it must move beyond short-term funding injections toward long-term workforce stability, equitable resourcing, and transparency in surgical categorisation. The challenge is clear: ensure that urgent procedures like heart surgery or cancer treatment are prioritised—and deliver the secure, patient-centred future residents deserve.
NSW Elective Surgery Waitlists Surge as Patient Delays Soar
Residents in Australia’s regional and remote communities often face long waits—or dangerous transfers—to reach hospitals equipped with CT scanners. But a new initiative led by Monash University’s Design Health Collab, together with Micro‑X and Johns Hopkins University, promises to bring full-body imaging directly to remote towns and clinics. Why This Matters Access to CT scans can mean the difference between life and death—especially for head trauma, stroke, cancer follow-up, or internal injuries. Yet most rural health centres lack this capability, forcing patients to endure lengthy, risky trips to major hospitals. As Sue Carroll, the nurse manager at Swifts Creek Bush Nursing Centre (nearly 400 km from Melbourne), puts it: “Time is critical… you need them moved immediately.” This new lightweight CT scanner is specifically designed to tackle that delay and disruption. The Innovation: Compact, Vehicle-Compatible CT Weighing just 225 kg, the scanner uses Micro‑X’s Nano Electronic X-ray (NEX) technology. That’s a drastic reduction compared to traditional CT scanners—typically over 2 tonnes. By contrast, existing mobile CT trailers weigh hundreds of kilograms and require large vehicles and infrastructure. This compact design enables CT hardware to fit inside standard-sized vans or ambulances. The lightweight design doesn’t sacrifice quality, using carbon nanotube emitter technology to deliver high-resolution, hospital-grade scans, even at lower radiation doses. How It Works in Practice This model can operate in two ways: On-demand mobile units, akin to ambulance callouts. Scheduled regional rotations, like breast-screening vans, visit remote communities to provide regular diagnostic scans. Clinics in towns like Omeo and Swifts Creek could then access CT imaging without long-distance transfers. Patients and community leaders enthusiastically support this innovation—and see its broad potential. Global & Policy Support The project is funded by a US$16.4 million (≈ A$25 million) contract from the ARPA‑H PARADIGM program, aimed at scaling rural healthcare delivery through mobile platforms. Monash University is one of twelve international teams selected. While the current design is targeted at U.S. clinical trials (beginning as early as 2029), Monash researchers express strong interest in adapting the technology for Australian deployment. Why It Matters for Outback Healthcare Australia’s "postcode health inequality" is stark: fewer than 20% of radiologists and 17% of imaging technologists practice outside major cities. Rural residents can wait three to six hours longer for imaging, especially after strokes—delays that significantly impact recovery outcomes. If implemented locally, the lightweight CT scanner could: Reduce out-of-town transfers and delays Provide early detection for diseases like cancer or head injuries Enable non-specialist clinicians to operate imaging—with minimal training Bring consistency and equity to healthcare access across Australia Challenges & Next Steps While the potential is huge, a few factors remain to be addressed: Clinical validation of image quality and diagnostic reliability compared to hospital CT units Radiation safety protocols and licencing for operating in field settings Power and connectivity infrastructure in rural areas Training of generalist operators, given scarce specialist staffing in remote towns Dr Nyein Chan Aung from Monash’s Design Health Collab emphasises that the scanner is being rebuilt from the ground up—with design tailored for clinical use by generalists in austere environments. Looking Ahead By 2029, ARPA-H trials in the U.S. will begin. With strong interest from Australian public health systems, the technology may arrive Down Under within the next few years—if partnered with funding and regulatory support. If it achieves clinical rollout in regional Australia, the scanner could be integrated into: Mobile clinics and screening vans Helimed units and ambulances equipped for stroke care Pop-up diagnostic services in remote communities This innovation holds the promise of ending the days when living in a rural postcode equals compromised healthcare access. The development of this ultra-light mobile CT scanner is a breakthrough for healthcare access—and a model for bridging the gap between hospital services and remote communities. With continued partnerships and funding, Australia may soon witness hospital-level diagnostic care delivered directly into the bush. To fully realise this vision, collaboration will be essential—not only between technology developers and healthcare providers, but also across state and federal health departments. Partnerships that include logistical support and investment in hospital stay accommodation near regional hubs will also be key. These accommodations allow families of rural patients to stay close during treatment, bridging another critical gap in the care journey.
Lightweight Mobile CT Scanner Could Transform Rural Healthcare Access
Leaked internal communications from Ambulance Victoria reveal a growing crisis across the Geelong region, including areas stretching from Werribee to Warrnambool. The service has been repeatedly unable to staff its Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) units—a core emergency resource—raising serious safety concerns. Staff Shortages Now at Critical Levels According to local paramedics, "dropped shifts" are routine: there were at least eight instances in May where no MICA specialist was available in the region, leaving only a single vehicle to cover an area of nearly 200 kilometres. MICA paramedics are among the most highly trained in Victoria, requiring years of experience and postgraduate training. When those shifts go unfilled, lower-qualified staff are deployed instead, prompting “difficult workflow” changes—such as converting a MICA vehicle into a basic Ambulance Response Unit (ARU), with some specialist equipment removed to match the staff level. Union Raises Alarm Over Patient Safety The Victorian Ambulance Union, led by Secretary Danny Hill, has declared the situation a true emergency. Hill warns that when MICA support isn’t available, standard Advanced Life Support paramedics face heightened pressure and potentially life-threatening delays. Hill explains that ALS paramedics often request MICA backup during high-risk patient calls, only to be told there’s none available or that coverage would come from as far as Ballarat or Melbourne. The union blames staffing exhaustion, burnout, and unsustainable rostering practices for the crisis. Text Alerts Reveal Shift Coverage Strain Internal documents obtained by the ABC show 46 shift-fill messages were sent over a 57-day period between late April and mid-June. These alerts were often issued with minimal notice—sometimes just one hour before a shift was due to begin—making it difficult for paramedics to fill gaps. MICA Capacity Hits 10-Year Low According to Ambulance Victoria’s latest annual report, full-time equivalent MICA staffing levels dropped to 503.4 in 2023–24—the lowest level in a decade. In comparison, the peak staffing was 569.1 in 2018–19. While the agency notes that an influx of newly-trained MICA paramedics may help reverse this trend, it has not addressed how or why such a steep decline occurred. Broader Systemic Challenges: Burnout, Dispatch Failures, and Overtime Paramedics across Geelong have raised concerns about an aging dispatch system that frequently prioritises low-acuity calls over serious emergencies. A local paramedic described carrying out missions unrelated to paramedic-level care—such as dental pain complaints—as stretching resources improperly. ALS and MICA staff report excessive overtime, sick leave, and prolonged fatigue. Many paramedics work so much overtime that they regularly exceed standard hours—leading to deep burnout. Union officials say one in five staff plan to leave the profession within a year due to these conditions. What Ambulance Victoria Says In response, Ambulance Victoria released a statement citing a “dynamic operating model” involving flexible crewing, cross-regional support, and shift texts to manage resources. However, the organisation declined to confirm the number of dropped shifts or express concern over the staffing low. Why This Matters Lives at Risk: Without MICA specialists available, paramedics face challenges treating the most critically ill, increasing the potential for adverse outcomes. Coverage Gaps: The Geelong-region MICA team now operates with fewer staff, even as population and call volumes rise. Workforce Fragility: Staff models relying on frequent overtime and quick shift fills demonstrate unsustainable attrition rates and low morale. Adding to the Strain: Hospital Stays and Accommodation Pressure Beyond the emergency response itself, the lack of consistent MICA coverage can create downstream effects on hospital systems—particularly in regional areas like Geelong. Critically ill patients transferred to major city hospitals often require extended stays, which places pressure not only on bed capacity but also on families who must travel to be near loved ones during treatment. This is where hospital stay accommodation options become increasingly vital. Services offering fully furnished, short- to medium-term apartments near hospitals are playing an important role in easing the emotional and financial stress on patients’ families. In times of medical crisis, especially when specialist care is centralised in metropolitan hubs, having access to convenient, home-like accommodation can make a tangible difference in recovery and support. Final Thoughts The crisis gripping the Geelong region isn’t isolated—it’s symptomatic of wider workforce and policy gaps within Victoria’s ambulance service. Filling MICA shifts isn’t just a staffing issue; it’s about ensuring critically ill patients receive intensive support when and where they need it. Urgent and systemic reform is required to avoid preventable risks and burnout across the emergency care workforce.
Ambulance Victoria’s Geelong Region in Crisis: Mobile ICU Shifts Left Unfilled
Australians living with epilepsy are now seeing life-changing results thanks to artificial intelligence (AI), which is helping doctors detect subtle brain abnormalities and recommend surgical treatments in record time. The Australian Epilepsy Project (AEP) has introduced a revolutionary approach by integrating AI into the diagnostic process, combining MRI scans, cognitive tests, and genetic data to identify lesions that traditional methods may overlook. This cutting-edge technology is not only fast-tracking treatment decisions but also providing new hope for patients who have lived with epilepsy for years without answers. From Misdiagnosis to Clarity One of the biggest challenges in epilepsy treatment has been the inability to detect abnormalities in standard scans. Professor Graeme Jackson, Clinical Director of the AEP, said AI is now uncovering subtle brain abnormalities in up to 10% of patients previously told their scans were clear. “These patients were left in limbo, with seizures that impacted every part of their lives,” he said. “Now, with AI, we’re getting clarity.” The platform works by analysing more than 600,000 data points per patient, using cloud computing provided by Amazon Web Services (AWS). The results—up to 10 million individual data insights—are processed within just 20 hours and delivered in a clear, digestible format for doctors. Changing Lives in Years, Not Decades Amanda Anderson, a mother from Melbourne, is one of the many success stories. After suffering seizures for nearly two decades, she underwent surgery based on AI-assisted diagnosis. Today, Amanda is seizure-free and back to living a full, vibrant life. “I only wish it had come sooner,” she said. “This technology has given me a second chance.” According to researchers, patients are now moving from diagnosis to surgery in as little as two years—a stark contrast to the 20-year average previously experienced by many Australians with epilepsy. The Technology Behind the Transformation The AEP’s AI system is designed to augment medical expertise, not replace it. It helps identify candidates for surgery by finding abnormalities that trained professionals might miss. In partnership with the UK’s University College London, the MELD (Multi-centre Epilepsy Lesion Detection) Project has also created an AI tool that successfully locates previously undetected brain lesions in two-thirds of patients. These findings can dramatically change treatment pathways. The data is not just being used for diagnosis; it’s also enabling predictive analytics. Clinicians can assess the likelihood of successful surgery before the procedure takes place—giving patients a clearer understanding of potential outcomes. A National and Global Effort While the Australian Epilepsy Project is leading the charge locally, the implications of this innovation are global. By centralising and analysing patient data across regions, researchers hope to extend the benefits of AI-driven treatment to more people, especially those in rural and remote areas. Currently, only 1% of eligible epilepsy patients in Australia receive surgical intervention. Experts believe that with AI, this figure could dramatically increase, saving lives and reducing the long-term health and financial burden on the healthcare system. As these advanced treatments become more accessible, the need for practical support services—such as hospital stay accommodation near major medical facilities—is also growing. Programs offering fully furnished short-term apartments for patients and their families help ease the stress of travel and recovery, ensuring that distance is no longer a barrier to care. Looking Ahead As technology continues to evolve, so does the potential to revolutionise neurological care. The integration of AI into epilepsy treatment marks a pivotal moment for both patients and practitioners. It offers faster answers, safer procedures, and—most importantly—renewed hope. For Amanda and thousands like her, the message is clear: The future of epilepsy care has arrived, and it’s powered by intelligence.
AI Breakthrough Offers Hope for Epilepsy Patients Through Faster, More Accurate Surgery
As artificial intelligence advances, deepfake media—video, audio, images—are now so realistic they can mimic real individuals with alarming accuracy. While often discussed in politics or entertainment, the rise of AI-generated falsified content is increasingly targeting the healthcare sector, putting patient safety, diagnosis integrity, and public trust at serious risk. What Are Deepfakes—and Why Is Healthcare Especially Vulnerable? Deepfakes are AI-generated synthetic media, created using machine learning tools like generative adversarial networks (GANs) and variational autoencoders (VAEs). They blur the boundary between reality and fabrication, enabling realistic cloning of someone's face or voice. Healthcare is uniquely exposed for several reasons: Trust-based interactions: Patients and staff often rely on verbal and visual cues that we assume are genuine. Telemedicine’s rise: Virtual consultations are now standard, but deepfakes can mimic both doctors and patients in these environments. High-value data: Patient records, scans, and personal data are premium targets for fraud or identity theft. 1. Impersonating Medical Professionals and Patients One of the most concerning weaponisations of deepfake tech involves credible audio or video impersonations of healthcare workers. Attackers could create a doctor’s voice directing staff to share patient histories, alter medical records, or divulge credentials. They could also impersonate patients to gain unauthorized access to systems or request controlled substances. Researchers describe this use—social engineering via deepfake—as an emerging and highly dangerous threat in healthcare environments. 2. Tampering with Medical Imaging & Diagnostics Deepfake technology can manipulate medical test results. A notable study simulated fake CT scans by adding or removing tumours. Radiologists misdiagnosed merged models in nearly 60–99% of cases—even when told to expect manipulated images. The implications are dire: inaccurate imaging can mislead therapeutic decision-making, prompting unnecessary surgeries or treatments, or cause insurers to be defrauded. 3. Facilitating Disinformation & Health Misinformation Deepfakes have proliferated in spreading harmful or misleading medical advice. Australian organisations like Diabetes Victoria and the Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute were impersonated in fake video endorsements for unproven supplements. The Australian Medical Association is now calling on the federal government for tougher regulation to curb such fraudulent campaigns. Globally, respected doctors—including figures like Michael Mosley—have had their likeness and voice used in deepfake ads promoting scams for diabetes, weight loss, and hypertension cures. 4. Disrupting Telemedicine & Facilitating Fraud As telehealth continues to expand, deepfakes pose a risk to both sides of the consultation. A fake patient could obtain prescriptions or sick notes; a fake doctor could misdiagnose or advise dangerous regimens. This endangers patient safety, invites insurance fraud, and undermines telehealth credibility. 5. Eroding Trust and Damaging Reputations Once people see a fake video of a trusted health official endorsing harmful advice or products, scepticism toward real communications and institutions intensifies. Trust—notoriously hard to build—can unravel quickly. What Can Healthcare Organisations Do? Human & System-Based Defences Educate staff about the risks of deepfake attacks and phishing tactics, including scrutinising unexpected calls or video messages—even if they seem to come from senior personnel. Limit public exposure of staff identities or personal videos, which can be used to train deepfake models. Introduce identity checks in telehealth consultations, such as asking patients to show physical ID or perform confirmation gestures in real time. Technological Safeguards Deploy AI-based detection tools that spot subtle anomalies in facial movements, lighting, or voice cadence indicative of deepfakes. Use digital watermarking and blockchain-based provenance systems to verify media authenticity and trace its source. Implement voice authentication systems, such as biometric voice signature tools, that add strong verification before sensitive transactions. Enforce robust cybersecurity practices: multifactor authentication, encryption of stored and transmitted data, and updated systems on medical devices to prevent manipulation. Encourage Critical Engagement Promote media literacy campaigns so both staff and patients can question content—even from trusted sources—and spot potential fakes. Broader Context: Regulation and Awareness Australia has already faced deepfake-related scandals—like non-consensual creation of explicit images targeting public servants—prompting calls for unified legal frameworks across states. Meta Platforms has begun rolling out deepfake mitigation—such as algorithmically downgrading content and labelling AI‑generated media—especially around sensitive areas like elections. Similar measures may be needed for health-related content. Final Thoughts: A New Cyber‑Health Frontier The rise of deepfakes presents a complex challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Mere trust in voices or images is no longer enough. Deepfakes can be weaponised—from fraud and misinformation to medical misdiagnosis and reputational harm.  But there are proactive steps institutions can take: combining human awareness, technological defences, legal safeguards, and ongoing training. With multi-layered protections, healthcare providers can shield patient safety, protect data integrity, and preserve public trust in a digital era.
Health at Risk: Deepfakes Are Targeting the Medical World
As colder months roll in, so does the heightened risk of illness. Whether it's COVID-19, the flu, or common cold viruses, our homes can easily become hotspots for transmission, especially when family members live closely together and spend more time indoors. Fortunately, there are practical and evidence-based steps you can take to reduce the spread of these illnesses at home. 1. Wear Masks Indoors if Someone is Sick One of the simplest yet most effective ways to limit transmission is wearing a mask, especially when someone in the household is showing symptoms. According to Professor Catherine Bennett, an epidemiologist at Deakin University, wearing a well-fitted mask indoors can significantly reduce the chances of the virus being passed on through respiratory droplets. While mask-wearing may not be second nature to everyone anymore, it’s a small act that can make a big difference—particularly if you live in an apartment, have limited space, or share common areas like the kitchen and bathroom. 2. Increase Ventilation and Fresh Air Circulation In the colder seasons, homes are often tightly sealed to keep the warmth in. However, this creates a perfect environment for viruses to linger in the air. Improving airflow can reduce the concentration of virus particles indoors. Open windows and doors regularly—if only for a few minutes—to let fresh air in and stale, potentially contaminated air out. Using fans to direct air toward open windows or turning on exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom can also enhance ventilation. Air purifiers with HEPA filters are another helpful tool, especially in households with vulnerable individuals. 3. Clean Shared Surfaces Frequently Viruses like the flu and COVID-19 can survive on surfaces for hours or even days. Shared areas—such as the bathroom, kitchen, or remote controls—should be cleaned regularly, particularly if someone in the home is unwell. Focus on disinfecting high-touch areas like doorknobs, light switches, handles, and faucets. Don’t forget to wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Encourage others at home to do the same, especially before eating or touching their face. 4. Avoid Sharing Personal Items Another easy step to prevent transmission is avoiding the sharing of cups, utensils, towels, or bedding. Even if symptoms are mild, infected individuals can still shed virus particles and unknowingly pass them on. Assign separate items for the sick person whenever possible. If space allows, designate a specific bathroom for the sick individual. If that’s not possible, be extra diligent in cleaning shared facilities after each use. 5. Stay on Top of Vaccinations Being up-to-date with vaccines—especially for influenza and COVID-19—provides crucial protection against severe illness and hospitalisation. It also helps reduce the viral load, meaning if someone does get infected, they’re less likely to pass it on to others in the household. Dr. Bruce Foggo, a GP and medical adviser to the Australian government, reminds everyone that vaccinations remain one of the strongest tools in our public health arsenal. It's especially important for those with underlying health conditions, older adults, and those who care for vulnerable people. 6. Isolate and Rest if You're Sick If you develop symptoms of any respiratory illness, staying home and isolating is still highly recommended—even if it’s “just a cold.” Avoiding contact with others until your symptoms improve (especially fever, coughing, or sneezing) is key to preventing transmission. Where possible, the sick person should stay in a separate room and use a different bathroom. Meals should be delivered to their room, and interaction kept to a minimum. It's a kindness not only to those you live with but to the broader community. 7. Use Antivirals If Eligible In some cases, especially for those who are at higher risk of complications, antivirals may be prescribed to help shorten the duration or reduce the severity of illness. Early consultation with a healthcare provider is essential, as most antivirals work best when taken within a day or two of symptom onset. This can be particularly helpful in protecting elderly household members, people with compromised immune systems, or those with chronic medical conditions. 8. Have a Household Health Plan Finally, preparation goes a long way. Stock your home with essentials like masks, hand sanitiser, cleaning supplies, pain relievers, tissues, and a thermometer. Know your local testing locations or telehealth services, and stay informed on current health advice through reliable sources like your state health department or trusted news outlets. Final Thoughts Preventing the spread of viruses like COVID-19, influenza, and the common cold doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Simple steps—like mask-wearing, improved airflow, regular cleaning, and up-to-date vaccinations—can make a significant difference in protecting your household. As we spend more time indoors this winter, these small efforts are essential acts of care for ourselves and our loved ones.
How to Reduce Viral Transmission at Home
The Need for Modernisation Constructed in 1978, Westmead’s existing labs process roughly 10,000 pathology tests daily, ranging from routine blood screenings to complex molecular diagnostics. However, decades without substantial updates have left the facility outdated and strained. According to NSW Health Pathology CEO Vanessa Janissen, the current setup is “no longer fit for purpose,” necessitating a complete overhaul. What the New Hub Will Deliver New Statewide Hub & ICPMR Expansion The funding will support both the creation of a centralised pathology hub and the extension of the Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research (ICPMR) on-site. Enhanced Biocontainment Capability The upgrade includes expansion of the PC4 biocontainment laboratory—the only one in NSW capable of safely handling high-risk pathogens, including Ebola, measles, influenza, and SARS‑CoV‑2. Automation for Faster Results Incorporating automation and robotic systems will streamline workflows, ensuring clinicians receive 10,000 daily results quickly and with higher accuracy. According to Professor David Brown, this will guarantee that patients receive the “right test, at the right time, with the right result” Cutting-Edge Genomics and Precision Medicine The hub will support advanced genomic sequencing and precision diagnostics, fostering personalised treatment strategies and bolstering clinical trial support alongside research partnerships with universities and Local Health Districts. Impact on Clinical Care and Public Health This centralised hub won't just serve Westmead—but will function as the core of NSW’s networked pathology service, offering: Rapid diagnostic support for Western Sydney’s growing population. Improved statewide pandemic readiness with modern containment infrastructure and rapid pathogen detection. Strengthened public health surveillance, crucial for monitoring disease outbreaks and emerging health threats. Strategic Benefits and Future Outlook Premier Chris Minns and Health Minister Ryan Park view this as the single-largest infrastructure investment ever for pathology in NSW. It marks a decisive shift toward modern, centralised diagnostic services that leverage emerging technologies. Janissen emphasises this is a "turning point" for pathology service delivery, promising a future-ready foundation for evolving medical needs and technological advances. Regional Growth & Job Creation This hub complements the Westmead precinct’s expansion, which already includes a new Integrated Health Care Complex (A$540 million). Together, these projects reinforce the area’s position as a major health, research, and innovation precinct within Western Sydney. Wrapping Up Westmead Hospital’s new pathology hub is more than a facility upgrade—it’s a strategic leap into the future of diagnostics, research, and outbreak response. By integrating advanced automation, biocontainment, and precision medicine under one roof, it aims to deliver faster, more reliable results and strengthen public health infrastructure statewide. The transformation underscores NSW’s commitment to supporting one of Australia’s largest population catchments—and building a resilient, tech-driven health system prepared for tomorrow’s challenges.
Westmead Hospital to Host NSW’s Largest Statewide Pathology Hub
As part of the $1.1 billion redevelopment of Frankston Hospital, commissioned works by four Australian artists—Richard Briggs, Dan Elborne, Jody Rallah, and Hannah Quinlivan—are being integrated into the design under the theme “Healing Country, Healing People.” Drawing from the natural ecosystems and Indigenous heritage of Frankston and the Mornington Peninsula, their creations aim to foster calm, cultural connection, and wellbeing in the new healthcare environment. Artists & Their Artistic Visions Richard Briggs will craft Flourishing Forest, a sweeping line drawing that captures the kelp forests of Port Phillip Bay—vital underwater ecosystems that support marine life. His work reflects both ecological restoration and community resilience. Dan Elborne is designing The Pillar, a 3.6‑metre sculpture positioned at the hospital entrance. Made with community‑shaped ceramic tiles and local materials—such as sand from Carrum—this piece symbolises connection to the Boonwurrung/Bunurong land and marks the threshold between community and care. Jody Rallah (Yuggera‑Yugggerabul/Biri‑Bindal) will create The Yarning Circle, a metallic inlay embedded in the paving of the Arrivals Garden. Inspired by the life cycle and migration of short‑finned eels in Kananook Creek, it expresses themes of resilience and transformation at a space designated for First Nations smoking ceremonies. Hannah Quinlivan’s Whispers of the Wetland combines a mural and sculptural elements reflecting the waterways of the Carrum Carrum wetlands. Located in the reception area, it aims to greet visitors with a visual invitation to consider the connection between Health and Country. Art Meets Architecture These pieces will be among the first elements experienced by visitors, arriving alongside Frankston’s new entrance and clinical tower, and are scheduled for unveiling as the redevelopment nears completion by the end of 2025. The expanded hospital will include a 12‑storey clinical tower, 130 new beds, fifteen operating theatres, upgraded emergency, maternity, oncology, and paediatric units. Community Participation & Cultural Significance Briggs and Elborne are hosting community clay‑shaping workshops, inviting local residents to contribute to The Pillar’s mosaic tiles and share stories reflecting on local landscapes, particularly kelp forest restoration efforts. These initiatives underscore the project’s ethos: healing Country, and by extension, healing the community. Integration & Purpose The artworks serve not only as visual enhancements but also as cultural anchors—bridging traditional ecological knowledge with spaces of clinical care. This approach helps foster a sense of place, belonging, and emotional comfort from the moment someone enters the hospital grounds. For patients and families who travel from regional areas, this welcoming environment—combined with access to appropriate hospital accommodation—can make a significant difference in how care is experienced and sustained across longer stays. Broader Context: A Transformative Redevelopment Backed by the Victorian Health Building Authority and delivered via a public–private partnership led by Exemplar Health, the hospital transformation spans design, construction, and 25-year operations. The project promises to treat up to 35,000 additional patients annually, help reduce waiting times, and generate new jobs and local economic activity. Importantly, investments in patient-centric amenities—including comfortable hospital stay facilities for long-distance and vulnerable patients—form part of a broader strategy to support not just clinical outcomes, but holistic wellbeing throughout the care journey.
Healing Country, Healing People: Artworks for Frankston Hospital’s Transformation
Health authorities in New South Wales are urging residents to steer clear of wild mushrooms following the discovery of the highly toxic Amanita phalloides, commonly known as the death cap, across several regions—including Sydney, the Southern Highlands, and southern NSW. Where Did They Appear? Over the past two years, NSW Health and local councils have conducted regular monitoring of wild fungi. Recent surveys indicate a notable uptick in the mushroom’s presence, likely fueled by a season of heavy rainfall and flourishing oak tree habitats—ideal conditions for these mushrooms. Why They’re Deadly Death cap mushrooms are responsible for over 90% of mushroom-related fatalities worldwide and are notoriously difficult to tell apart from edible varieties. Their amatoxin content attacks vital organs, particularly the liver and kidneys. Even well-cooked, they remain lethal. Alarming Case Numbers Last year, the NSW Poisons Information Centre recorded 363 calls related to wild mushroom exposure, resulting in 23 hospitalisations—including two children under five. So far this year (to May 31), there have been 190 exposures reported. This reflects a troubling 26% increase in inquiries compared to 2023. Expert Warnings Professor Brett Summerell, Chief Scientist at the Botanic Gardens of Sydney, has warned that distinguishing safe mushrooms from deadly ones is nearly impossible. He emphasised that foraging carries substantial risk and advised against consuming anything other than grocery-bought mushrooms. Genevieve Adamo, a senior specialist at the Poisons Information Centre, highlighted the often-delayed nature of poisoning symptoms. While initial signs like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea may appear within 24 hours, organ failure can follow swiftly. Early medical intervention is crucial to survival. Adults and Children at Risk Adamo warned that young children are especially vulnerable due to their propensity to put things in their mouths. She advised parents to remove any mushrooms growing in gardens or parks to protect toddlers who might inadvertently ingest them. What You Should Do NSW Health recommends: Avoid foraging for wild mushrooms. Only consume mushrooms bought from trusted suppliers. Remove mushrooms from outdoor play areas to reduce accidental ingestion by children. Seek medical help immediately if you suspect mushroom poisoning. Early treatment can be lifesaving—don’t wait for symptoms to emerge. The NSW Poisons Information Centre is available 24/7 at 13 11 26, and in emergencies call 000. If possible, bring a sample or photo of the ingested mushroom to help with diagnosis. Why It Matters The recent proliferation of death cap mushrooms and other toxic fungi—particularly after periods of wet weather—poses a serious public health risk in both suburban and urban environments. Just a small amount of a toxic mushroom can cause severe liver and kidney damage, or even be fatal. A recent rise in hospital admissions and calls to the Poisons Information Centre highlights how easily wild mushrooms can be misidentified and how rapidly poisoning symptoms can escalate. Children and those unfamiliar with native fungi are especially vulnerable. In severe cases, treatment may require extended hospital stays, including intensive care, organ support, or even emergency transplant procedures. For families travelling from rural or remote areas, access to nearby hospital accommodation can be critical in supporting both the patient and their loved ones through prolonged treatment and recovery. This month’s health alert is a crucial reminder: When it comes to wild mushrooms, don’t take the risk. If in doubt, throw it out.
NSW Health Sounds Alarm as Deadly ‘Death Cap’ Mushrooms Spread