Victorians struggling to get an emergency ambulance response are waiting even longer following a series of botched upgrades to Ambulance Victoria’s systems by the Andrews Labor Government.
The Victorian Liberal Nationals can reveal that three separate information and communications technology (ICT) projects aimed at simplifying processes and providing critical information to paramedics sooner have been hampered by blowouts, delays and mismanagement issues.
A Victorian Government website confirms that these projects which began before the pandemic are facing major setbacks due to ongoing internal issues. At least one project has been indefinitely postponed.
Over recent weeks, Melbourne has faced two ‘Code Red’ warnings meaning Victorians in need were left waiting hours for an ambulance response.
In an emergency, every second counts. Despite the State Government having had two years to prepare our health system, Victorians are regularly waiting over 15 minutes to speak with a triple-zero operator and hours for an ambulance to arrive.
These projects promised a better emergency health system for Victorians but the Andrews Government has once again bungled their rollout.
Comments attributable to Shadow Minister for Health, Georgie Crozier:
“Victorians in need have been let down by the State Government’s botched upgrades to Ambulance Victoria, which have done nothing but wasted money, time and placed Victorians health at risk.
“The Andrews Government’s mismanagement means Victorian lives are being lost waiting for help that takes too long to come.
“The Victorian Liberal Nationals will build a new infectious diseases centre to take the load off our hospitals and ensure Victorians can access the healthcare they deserve.”