Rosalie Woodruff MP | Greens Health spokesperson
In the fight against COVID-19, the reliable supply of personal protective equipment to hospitals is critical.
It is deeply concerning that hospital staff continue to raise the lack of availability of personal protective equipment needed to do their job safely - and reduce the risk of coronavirus transmission.
The concern over the availability of PPE for healthcare workers have been regularly voiced by hospital staff for months now.
While the Health Minister today stated she is advised that levels of PPE are sufficient in Tasmania, she also acknowledged there is a shortage of stocks globally.
Given the ongoing reports from inside hospitals about a lack of PPE, it’s clear there is a disconnect between the Minister, hospital staff and the public.
We understand there are advanced manufacturing companies in Tasmania capable of making masks and other PPE. We hope all options for on-island production are being investigated.
We urge Minister Courtney to be more transparent with hospital staff, and to be clear about the steps being taken to ensure the availability of supply. In a time of crisis, clear communication is critical.