SA HEALTH UNION CONSULTATIVE FORUM

On Friday 29 February 2008 the SA Health Unions Consultative Forum met. The Health Unions Forum is a strategic Forum where issues are discussed that impact across the Health Portfolio. PSA Industrial Officer Dolly Costello attended the Forum. The following key agenda items were discussed.

Health Care Bill

The Bill passed the Legislative Council on the 28 February 2008 with the four following amendments supported by government.

• Health Performance Council - provision for Minister to establish arrangements for meeting with the council on a regular basis.

• Health Advisory Councils – ensure Minister cannot make majority of appointments to the Health Advisory Councils.

• License to provide non emergency ambulance services – technical correction regarding Minister having powers to set conditions and grant licenses.

• Review of governance arrangements in country regions – Health Performance Council to review three years after the abolition of the boards, the effectiveness of new arrangements for Country Health SA.

Metropolitan Hospitals Efficiency Review

The Metropolitan Hospitals Efficiency Review's report undertaken by Paxton Partners is currently under consideration by the Minister. The PSA has requested a copy of the Report.

National Registration of Health Care Professionals

The National Registration of Health Care Professionals remains on the national agenda. The Department of Health is currently waiting for a Council of Australian Governments (COAG) decision.

Mental Health Reform

Current Mental Health Reform progress is being driven by the Stepping Report 2007, the Glenside Hospital Master Plan and finalising Models of Care.

• There is a Government proposal to relocate James Nash House to Mobilong and discussions are occurring with staff. James Nash House will be relocating to Mobilong and discussions are occurring with staff. (PSA has expressed concerns about this proposal.)

• Community Mental Health Services will establish focus groups to develop new Models of Care.

• Aged Care Services - a joint venture with Aged Care Services and Mental Health, to assess all patients.

• Mental Health Bill - the draft Bill is currently out for consultation. A statewide Mental Health Joint Union Forum is to be established commencing mid March 2008.

Marjorie Jackson Nelson Hospital Clinical Services Plan

A presentation on the Marjorie Jackson Nelson Hospital Clinical Services Plan was provided. A consultation process was discussed including consultation with the SA Health Unions collectively and individually. A communication plan including staff presentations, newsletter, Intranet and consultation with staff was outlined in the plan.

For enquiries contact Industrial Officer Dolly Costello on 8205 3244 or email: dlc@cpsu.asn.au

19 March 2008