Question about colonoscopy and endoscopy services

Mrs Armitage (Launceston) to the Honourable Leader of Government in the Legislative Council, Dr Vanessa Goodwin -

Can the Leader please advise the current waiting list for colonoscopy and endoscopy at the

1 North West Regional Hospital

2 The Royal Hobart Hospital

3 The Launceston General Hospital

Answer from Dr Goodwin -

In July Dr David AIcorn advised that there would an investment $500,000 this financial year with recruitment about to start for an additional gastroenterologist at the Royal Hobart Hospital. Recruitment has commenced and there are several applicants for this position.

In addition, recruitment is underway for a new gastroenterologist to replace a longstanding staff member who will shortly retire.

Please see tables provided below. Data provided is as at 5 October 2016.

The current waiting list for colonoscopy and endoscopy procedures is follows for each region:

1 North West Regional Hospital - 86

2 The Royal Hobart Hospital - 2230

3 The Launceston General Hospital - 1207

**Endoscopy and Colonoscopy procedures are separate to the Elective SurgeryWaitlist**