The information from the survey will be used by the Hospital to support its request to the Federal Government for funding as part of its regional health services program. Over half of those surveyed currently require community health services such as podiatry, physiotherapy and health screening services. Furthermore, over 50 per cent of the respondents who required an allied health service such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy or podiatry had to travel to Leongatha and Melbourne to receive these services. Of particular concern was that many of those people who were required to travel outside of their community were also less likely to be able to afford the associated costs of travelling. The results also revealed that some people were simply not able to receive the health care services they need.
Community health is about building and maintaining a strong and resilient community.
South Gippsland Hospital CEO Dr Neil Cowen congratulates survey competition winner Mrs Margery Ruddell. Mrs Ruddell won a weekend at a South Gippsland bed and breakfst establishment. Local student off to Italy South South Gippsland Secondary College student Rebecca Zapelli will be packing her bags and heading off to Italy in December. Rebecca has been selected by Southern Cross Cultural Exchange. While there Rebecca will experience Italian culture by living as a member of an Italian family for two months.