Election pledges yet to remedy 'gaps' in health care

Samantha Jade knows the challenges of Victoria's health system all too well. Growing up in regional Hamilton, she witnessed firsthand the obstacles faced by her family, from poor roads for emergency vehicles to underfunded care facilities. It wasn't until her mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer that she fully understood the severity of the issues.

When Jade's mother had to see an oncologist regularly, they faced the disappointment of that doctor leaving unexpectedly, forcing the family to rely on video consultations during her mother's last days. With no other options, the family had to turn to telemedicine for critical, last-minute care. Jade's mother passed away a month later.

As Australia faces a looming shortage of non-GP specialists, Victoria is expected to suffer a shortage of over 2500 medical specialists by 2033, and potentially more than 4750 by 2048, according to a federal report. The state's overall practitioner numbers are growing, but the sub-specialist workforce is facing significant challenges.

Both major parties have unveiled measures ahead of the upcoming state election, with Labor promising to spend $1.5 billion to slash emergency department wait times and expand hospital emergency departments. The Opposition has pledged $1.27 billion to halve the elective surgery waitlist and provide patient transit lounges. The Royal Australasian College of Physicians has called on all political parties to commit to practical reforms to strengthen Victoria's medical workforce, citing growing demand for care, long waiting times, and the need for greater investment in specialist training pathways and support for physicians.