Health Minister Yvette D’Ath has announced former health director-general Michael Walsh would step in as administrator of the North West Hospital and Health Service.
It reported an $8 million operating deficit in 2019-20,citing multi-year strategies being worked through with Queensland Health to address debt and the complex financial challenges of operating in the state’s remote north-west.
Ms D’Athissued a show cause notice to the board in mid-May asking why it should not be dismissed to ensure the delivery of “sustainable health services” for the region.
Late on Friday,she announced former Queensland Health director-general Michael Walsh would step in as administrator for a period of six months after the remaining board members either resigned or were dismissed following the notice.
Loading
Recent board vacancies,including the position of inaugural chair Paul Woodhouse – retiring after 10 years in the role – were unable to be filled during a recent recruitment process.
“I want to reassure communities in the North West that delivering sustainable health services to them is a priority,” Ms D’Ath said in a statement.
“Mr Walsh will work with staff,with the local mayors,other community representatives and health service stakeholders to ensure the hospital and health service continues delivering quality care.”