Rural Primary Health Services program providers have been offered a funding extension of up to three months, following significant community backlash around closures.
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The current Rural Primary Health Services program, funded through Primary Health Tasmania by the federal government, was due to end on December 31.
A new rural health program, with an increased focus on chronic disease, will begin on January 1.
But Primary Health Tasmania chief executive Phil Edmondson said due to a longer than expected tender process, RPHS providers had been offered extensions. The extension applies to transitioning clients of clinical services, including physiotherapy and mental health services.
He said it was “expected” some new services would be ready to commence on January 1, but others would take longer, particularly if recruitment was involved.
The Meander Valley Council raised serious concerns after it was learnt Westbury Community Health Centre programs would end.
The Kentish Council has voiced shock that some Kentish Health Centre services would have to end.
Kentish mayor Don Thwaites said community communication from PHT throughout the process had been poor. Cr Thwaites said the “case-by-case” nature of the extension created uncertainty.
Mr Edmondson said it was vital clients were transitioned to new services properly.
He said the providers under the new rural health program would be announced soon. He said there had been comprehensive community consultation.
