Health Minister Jillian Skinner today said the NSW Government is on track to make 1,390 additional beds available by March 2015 as per its pre-election commitment.

As at December 2013, 865 additional beds have been made available and this number continues to grow.

“Labor’s spin and community scaremongering knows no bounds,” Mrs Skinner said.

“This government has invested more than ever before into the NSW health system and we are seeing real benefits for patients as a result.

“Contrary to reports today fuelled by Labor, this government is continuing to invest in growing our bed capacity while also keeping up with modern health care trends by looking at new ways to treat patients both in the hospital and the community.

“We are also opening new beds through our $4.7 billion hospital redevelopment program in our first term of government.

“There is no cut of any shape or size to the NSW Health budget. The NSW Government has invested a record $17.9 billion in 2013/14 to enhance patient care and bolster our workforce.

“Unlike Labor, the NSW Liberals & Nationals deliver on their commitments to the community.

“Since becoming Health Minister, I have been determined to ensure the community has transparent access to the number and type of beds available in the NSW Health system.

“As a result, the NSW Health annual report now demonstrates four categories of beds, which better reflects the way patients are cared for in our hospitals or community.

“Our record in health is clear:

·         We’re treating more patients than ever before and these patients are receiving their care in better timeframes;

·         We’re bolstering our health workforce to meet  patient demand;

·         We’re rebuilding our hospitals after 16 years of Labor’s neglect.

“These achievements are things Labor failed to deliver and the community has not forgotten their mismanagement of the NSW health system.”

  MEET HOSPITAL BEDS COMMITMENT, NSW GOVERNMENT, ON TARGET