MORE nurses, doctors and treatment spaces have been promised for ACT’s public hospital emergency departments as part of tomorrow’s ACT Budget.

The $12.6 million investment will include the employment of 30 nurses and doctors into the ED, six treatment cubicles, four  nurse-led treatment spaces in the ED and  four cardiac assessment beds to target treatment to reduce pressure on ED beds.

“The number of presentations to ACT public hospital emergency departments has increased by approximately five percent per annum over recent years. This year’s Budget demonstrates our commitment to continue to enhance health services in the region,” Chief Minister and Minister for Health Katy Gallagher said.

“The extra funds will provide additional capacity and treatment options for our emergency departments to see, treat and transfer patients through the introduction of an additional six emergency department cubicles.

“New treatment options with four nurse-led treatment spaces will ensure faster access and treatment for patients with less serious health issues.”

As part of the National Health Reform Program, the ACT Government has agreed to ensure that 90 per cent of all emergency department presentations have a length of stay in the ED of less than four hours by the end of 2015, with interim targets of 64 per cent, 73 per cent and 81 per cent for 2012, 2013 and 2014 respectively.