That's why it's always challenging to share stories like those of 93-year-old Mrs Maloney. Not just because of the personal details that make it hard reading, but because of the wider implications it could have on a community already at risk of losing faith in their health system. No one should ever question going to an ED in the case of an emergency and the media has an ethical responsibly not to contribute to fearmongering, for the sake of a good headline.

That's why The Examiner treads with great caution when it comes to detailing bad personal experiences with the health system. When they are shared, it's generally because they are too serious to be ignored. They are also usually representative of the broader, systematic challenges facing our hospitals.

While there are undoubtedly countless positive experiences coming out of the LGH every day, as the saying goes - 'bad news travels fast'. But it is not just patients. We also hear from health professionals and those working on the frontline. Let's not forget that just last year, almost two dozen registrars at the LGH signed a scathing letter to the state government warning patients were dying unnecessarily. We also report on coroner's reports that too often detail failings that lead to preventable deaths.

We are now in the midst of a state election and health was always going to be a major talking point. We've already seen the usual spin of record funding, more resources and better infrastructure. But as both major parties continue to detail their priorities, plans, pledges, it's not surprising that many in the community have doubts around how this will actually translate to meaningful change.

The challenges facing our health system are not unique to Tasmania - increased demand is being felt nationally. But as we move forward and look to solutions, it's imperative we don't fall into the tired trap of blame gaming.

Health has been politicised in Tasmania for far too long and it hasn't gotten us very far.

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