New members of teaching hospital boards announced

Perth's teaching hospital boards have been expanded as part of the State Government's reform of health services in the metropolitan area.

Health Minister Keith Wilson announced the new board members today, saying they would improve the balance and regional representation of the boards.

"The aim is to co-ordinate Perth's health services better, and make them more flexible and cost-effective," Mr Wilson said.

"The new teaching hospital boards have a key role in helping to improve the integration of health services in their region and achieving a better balance of health care and resources.

"The board members will also be responsible for ensuring the hospital services in their area are integrated with the region's other health services and that all services are fully accountable and responsive to community needs."

Mr Wilson said the reform of health services stemmed from recommendations of the Deloitte's report, and were part of the Government's efforts to enhance WA's public hospital system and achieve maximum efficiency and value for money.

The teaching hospital boards now comprise 12 members, two more than previously.

The new board members are:

Royal Perth Hospital:  Dr D R Bott, GP and chair, Bentley Hospital Medical Advisory Committee (MAC); Mr T Sharp, solicitor; Mrs P P Parkin, Mayor, City of Belmont; Dr E Stewart-Wynn, neurologist; Mrs A Fletcher, nurse, Silver Chain Nursing Association.

Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital:  Dr G Hodgkinson, chair, Osborne Park MAC; Ms M Quirk, solicitor; Mr W Marwick, Councillor, City of Wanneroo; Ms P Baskin, nurse and health care consultant.

King Edward Memorial Hospital:  Ms C E Blewitt, self-employed, Karratha; Ms J Brockman, Aboriginal health worker; Ms J Cameron, assistant director, Department of Community Services.

Princess Margaret Hospital:  Ms D F Spowart, secretary, Geraldton; Ms M G Wills, environmental officer, Mandurah.

Fremantle Hospital:  Dr T H Lord, GP and chair, Rockingham Hospital MAC; Mr R Stubbs, Mayor, Armadale City Council; Mr P E Ryan, former general manager, Challenge Bank; Ms J Thair, health worker, Rockingham; Dr P Shannon, psychiatrist.