Ripple Effect of Pandemic Still Hurting Regional Health – VAHPA Interviewed for WIN News

VAHPA Executive Officer Andrew Hewat was interviewed recently by WIN News regarding the significant and troubling vacancies in Regional Health Centres.

The news clip is featured below.

In regards to the vacancies caused by COVID-19, no proper breaks or annual leave considerations, Andrew comments in the clip that “we are seeing a healthcare workforce now that is getting severely burned out, and leaving the workforce because of this creating a cascade effect”. He added “The situation is deteriorating and not being addressed adequately and their ability to deliver the service they need to the public”.

There is an effort in place to recruit internationally, however VAHPA calls for a greater focus on retention of the existing workforce by improving pay and conditions and respecting Allied Health Professionals.