The Victorian Department of Health (DoH) outlined four key priorities for Gippsland in the year ahead during a recent meeting of the region's health leaders in Warragul.
Speaking to the Committee for Gippsland health leaders' forum, DoH executive director of statewide performance, including South East Health Services, Deb Sudano said implementation of the new health framework in Gippsland was underway.
The new Gippsland Local Health Service Network came into effect on July 1, connecting eight regional health services to foster collaboration and drive region-wide improvements.
Ms Sudano said the network had four key priorities in the next 12 months:
Enhancing access, equity and patient flow;
Supporting the regional health workforce;
Improving safety and quality of care; and,
Strengthening shared services across the region.
Expansion of mental health services also was discussed as a priority, with the leaders group acknowledging the need for increased services and collaboration to ensure communities receive the support they need.
Committee for Gippsland board chair Sean Dignum said the roundtable was a valuable opportunity to connect regional voices with senior leadership in the state's health system.
"As Gippsland's peak industry body, we're focused on ensuring that Gippsland's health sector continues to receive the attention and investment it needs," Mr Dignum said.
"Healthcare is not only essential to community wellbeing, it's also Gippsland's largest employer. This roundtable allowed us to highlight the challenges and opportunities facing our region and reinforce the importance of strategic, locally informed decision-making, particularly around issues such as workforce challenges," he said.
Ms Sudano shared some interesting data on health workforce support being delivered in Gippsland:
510 nursing scholarships (2024–26)
129 enrolled nurses upskilling to become registered nurses;
30 doctors supported via the Rural Generalist Program;
92 nursing and 16 midwifery placements funded;
23 allied health scholarships; and,
13 paramedics supported to complete advanced training.
"Constructive, ongoing dialogue and shared commitments are essential to ensure Gippsland remains a priority in statewide health planning," Mr Dignum said.
"Our health services are deeply embedded in the communities they serve. This roundtable was an opportunity to share insights, raise concerns, and bring healthcare leaders together to ensure our voices are heard and we're working collectively to achieve the best outcomes for our communities."
Mr Dignum said the Committee for Gippsland planned to host more health forums, such as this one held at Monash Rural Health's Warragul campus, to bring together and support healthcare leaders and stakeholders from across the region.