The Public Service Association (PSA) meets regularly with the Department of Health (DH) Chief Executive Dr Tony Sherbon.

On Thursday 18 September 2008 PSA Industrial Officers Dolly Costello and Ian Peak met with him and Etienne Scheepers Executive Director Workforce services.

The following key agenda items were discussed,

SHARED SERVICES

The PSA advised Dr Sherbon that members across payroll services continue to be angry and frustrated about the way Treasury is treating members by not addressing members concerns.

A PSA shared services meeting was held on Friday 19 September as separately reported.

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT WAGES PARITY (SALARIED) ENTERPRISE AGREEMENT 2006

The PSA requested that the Department of Health reminds Health Units of their obligations and responsibilities under the Agreement to ensure that they pay the salary increase of 3.5% effective from the first full pay period on or after 1 October 2008.

METROPOLITAN HOSPITALS REVIEW (PAXTON REPORT)

Dr Sherbon advised that the intention of the report and implementation process continues for the regions to explore options for efficiencies and that regional CEOs have been advised that they must continue to consult with the PSA on the implementation of any recommendations.

NATIONAL REGISTRATION OF HEALTH PROFESSIONALS

The Council of Australian Governments has agreed on an arrangement for a new national system for the registration of health professionals and the accreditation of their training and education programs for implementation during 2008.

The new system will initially cover nine health professions. One of the key features of the new arrangements includes a single consolidated scheme and a new national professional board for each of the nine professions.

CLASSIFICATION/RECLASSIFICATION

PSA raised a number of concerns in respect to members' applications for reclassification. Members are wanting a clear process as they have invested a large amount of time and energy in their applications. The PSA is looking to schedule a meeting with the Department of Health to discuss this issue in more detail shortly.

PSA WORKING FOR MEMBERS ACROSS HEALTH