Hospital funds

Loddon Times, Loddon VIC (General News) BOTH hospitals in the Loddon Shire have received modest funding increases for the next 12 months. The State Government announced the 2017-18 budget allocations for Victorian hospitals last month. Inglewood and District Health Service will receive $3.102 million, up by $68,000 or 2.2 per cent, while Boort District Health has been allocated $2.689 million, up by $51,000 or 1.9 per cent. Member for Western Victoria Jaala Pulford said the funding formed part of a $18.12 billion spent on health across the state over the next year. We know our dedicated doctors and nurses do a remarkable job at Inglewood and Districts Health Service. This record boost gives them the support they need to keep saving lives and keep people healthy, she said. The budget breakdown shows how the State Governments spending on health is split among hospitals, ambulance services, mental health and drug services, aged care, community health and public health services. Victorian hospitals will receive $10.6 billion, which is $665.84 million- or 6.7 per cent more than was provided in the previous financial year. Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes said country people deserved a high standard of health care. This record boost means better hospitals and efficient care that is first class and accessible, no matter where you live in northern Victoria, she said.