28 April 2021
Today, the ANMF (SA Branch) has joined forces with other mental health heavyweights to raise with Health Minister Stephen Wade the dire issues facing mental health services in South Australia.
For three years the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (SA Branch) has warned the Marshall Government of impending disaster should it continue to sit on its hands and not address the issue of mental health care in this state.
“The ANMF (SA Branch) will be advocating for the Government to urgently invest in suitable mental health facilities to provide appropriate care and support for people with mental health care needs and to alleviate the crushing over-reliance on our emergency departments which has a domino effect on the entire health system,’’ ANMF (SA Branch) CEO/Secretary Adj Associate Professor Elizabeth Dabars AM said.
“It is critical that today’s proceedings generate urgent actions and establish a clear direction for the future and are not simply another excuse for the Marshall Government to shift blame and talk their way out of action.
“If nothing is done then we as a community all suffer. There will be increased hospital wait times, missed and delayed care, and a very real threat to people’s lives. The lack of appropriate care for people in need of mental health services also poses serious social problems as vulnerable people who need support are instead returned far too soon back into the community without the necessary follow-up,” Ms Dabars said.