Member for Nanango Deb Frecklington is proud to announce that Telestroke services will soon be available at Kingaroy Hospital, following a commitment confirmed this week by Health Minister Tim Nicholls. This announcement is the result of sustained advocacy for improved stroke response services in the South Burnett.

Following a meeting in 2022 with local stroke advocates Rishana and Graham Smith, Mrs Frecklington wrote to the then Health Minister, Yvette D’Ath, calling for Kingaroy Hospital to be prioritised for Telestroke capability.

“Alongside local advocates Rishana and Graham, I have pushed for this important service for our region for far too long,” Deb said.

“At the time, Queensland was the only state in Australia without a Telestroke service – a gap that placed regional patients at a significant disadvantage.”

“The introduction of this service will deliver lifesaving benefits, ensuring stroke patients receive rapid specialist assessment and treatment guidance when every minute counts.”

“I want to thank the Crisafulli Government for their commitment to our region.” Said Deb

Kingaroy Hospital is expected to begin offering Telestroke support as early as next week, marking a major step forward for healthcare in the South Burnett.

This is a significant win for the community and a testament to the persistence of local advocates who have joined Mrs Frecklington in championing better stroke care for rural Queenslanders.