Labor health plan to build ‘medihotels’

Mr McGowan said medihotels would be purpose-built hotels located near tertiary hospitals that are also designed to support patients who are still recovering, being monitored or receiving outpatient tests.

He said if he was elected to govern next year, the plan provide a better experience for recuperating patients with the medical treatment they need in a comfortable environment, freeing up hospital beds for other patients.

He said the hotels would free up at least 54 tertiary beds if they were available now, allowing 5262 more patients to be treated a year.

“If elected Premier, I will introduce medihotels in Perth to modernise the way we care and treat patients,” he said.

“Some patients are well enough to be out of hospital, but not well enough to be at home – Medihotels will fill that gap and provide greater comfort, privacy and dignity to patients.

“The concept of Medihotels has been implemented successfully in other States as a cost effective element of a modern health care system.

“Medihotels will be a key component of WA Labor’s commitment to Putting Patients First.”

Labor did not release any costings in relation to building the hotels next to hospitals.

Health minister John Day questioned the plan.

“Where is the money coming from – does the Opposition expect the private sector to build these 'hotels'?” he said.

“At present, we invest $32.4 million each year supporting travel and accommodation expenses for regional patients coming to Perth.

“The quickest and most cost-effective way to free up hospital space is by targeting the 150 beds currently occupied by elderly patients who should be in community aged care – and that is exactly what we're doing.

“While the opposition keeps on talking, the Liberal National Government is focussed on delivering.”