Proserpine Hospital’s Emergency Department has experienced its busiest month ever with a record 1228 presentations for August.
This compares to 934 for August last year and the monthly average of 968 presentations in the 2016-17 year.
Medical Superintendent Dr Shaun Grimes said the Emergency Department was among many in Queensland experiencing growth in demand.
Mackay Base Hospital also recorded its busiest month ever in August.
“I have to congratulate Proserpine Hospital staff for their tireless work to provide around-the-clock care for the community,” Dr Grimes said.
“We work hard to provide care and we appreciate the public’s support and understanding in these busy times.
“It is always good to see the multi-disciplinary teamwork that occurs to accommodate the needs of the local community.”
There were 11620 presentations to Proserpine Hospital’s Emergency Department in 2016-17, 638 more than the previous year.
Dr Grimes said the high demand in August was likely seasonal, with August to October traditionally busier times of the year.
“Interestingly it was also in August 2015 that we had our next busiest month on record with 1119 presentations, so this suggests seasonal illnesses play a role in the demand,” he said.
Dr Grimes said while it was always challenging when the community lost a GP service, the community of GPs and the hospital had been able to meet the challenge.
Proserpine Hospital plays a vital role in training GP registrars and this helps meet the demand for GPs in the community.
“This means that we can meet not only the current needs for medical care, but also hopefully support long-term needs by ensuring we have a well-trained GP workforce that is committed to our community.”
Dr Grimes encouraged Whitsunday residents to share in valuing their healthcare by having a GP.
“Forming a relationship with a GP practice means you have a lifelong partner in your healthcare,” he said.
If you are unsure whether your health condition is an emergency call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) and qualified staff are available 24 hours a day to advise if you need to go to a GP, pharmacy or hospital.
