Page 4545 - Week 15 - Wednesday, 20 November 1991
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .
If a problem is reported to the section, the complaint is discussed at length with the complainant - usually that occurs by telephone - and is followed up by a visit to the service, I am told, within 48 hours. Obviously, how quickly a person can get out there would depend on the seriousness of the complaint or allegation. If the complaint is substantiated, the licensee is advised of the problem and a child-care adviser prescribes remedial action. I am advised that to date it has never been necessary to take the action of suspending or cancelling a licence, as compliance has always resulted from this type of remedial action.
MR MOORE: I have a brief supplementary question. Do you know whether these inspections ever focus on the quality of the programs offered in the child-care centres?
MR CONNOLLY: They certainly focus on the quality of the service in terms of whether the child is - - -
Mr Moore: The educational level of the programs is what I am referring to.
MR CONNOLLY: I think there is probably a degree of discretion or judgment in that; and, to that extent, no. I am advised that it looks at the quality of the service.
Medicare Numbers - Privacy
MRS NOLAN: Mr Speaker, my question is to the Minister for Health, Mr Berry. Although this matter is a Federal issue, as it relates to Medicare, it could affect many in the ACT community. Can the Minister assure this Assembly that he will pursue with his Federal colleagues doctors' and patients' concerns regarding privacy relating to Medicare numbers? Currently, provided a doctor's name and address and provider number, which appears on any patient's receipt, and a name, date of birth and current address are given for a patient, a Medicare number is given out over the telephone. Does the Minister agree that these concerns relating to privacy are very important and must be pursued?
MR BERRY: Mrs Nolan is right in the first place - it is not a matter over which this Government has any control. I am quite happy to talk to my Federal colleague about issues of substance, but I am not prepared to worry him with something that has no substance. I am prepared to take it up with Mrs Nolan and examine the issue with a view to some further consultation with the Minister once I am across the issue, with the assistance of Mrs Nolan.
Next page . . . . Previous page . . . . Contents . . . . Debates(HTML) . . . . PDF . . . .