HEALTH Minister Stephen Wade has foreshadowed the introduction of regional health boards will deliver accountability at the grassroots level.
Speaking at the Mount Gambier forum, the minister said accountability at the community level was a key commitment by the Marshall Liberal Government.
“This means local decision-making is being placed in the hands of local people,” Mr Wade said.
He said the members of the boards were currently being recruited ahead of the July 1 deadline.
“More than 500 expressions of interest have been received right across the state and I am confident of appointing outstanding individuals with a diverse range of skills,” Mr Wade said.
He said the restructure would provide the vehicle for a “significant” re-engagement with clinicians and the community.
“This will mean the decisions that impact you will not be made five hours away in Adelaide, they will be made here and your health service will be accountable to a board of local health professionals who understand the needs of your community,” Mr Wade said.
He said the regional board would have control over regionally-based services and the health budget.
A key responsibility of the board is community consultation.
