business - 2026-06-22

Private doctors warn Northern Beaches Hospital risks losing specialists after public transition

Source: manlyobserver.com.au

Private specialists at Northern Beaches Hospital say the hospital risks losing experienced doctors as uncertainty continues over the future of private services under its new public management model. The concern for local patients is that reduced specialist activity and fewer available services could narrow treatment options on the Northern Beaches while the hospital works through a year-long transition.

Private specialists at Northern Beaches Hospital say the hospital risks losing experienced doctors as uncertainty continues over the future of private services under its new public management model. The concern for local patients is that reduced specialist activity and fewer available services could narrow treatment options on the Northern Beaches while the hospital works through a year-long transition. Senior surgeon Dr David Dickison said one month into the changeover, the new structure was not giving private doctors much confidence. He said many were already moving themselves out of the hospital, pointing to a drop in operations and a lack of clarity about what private care will look like beyond the current 12-month "business as usual" period. The search for a new private sector operator is not due to be completed until June next year. Dr Dickison said a clearer plan was needed sooner if the hospital wanted to keep highly experienced private staff for the long term, particularly as enthusiasm among clinicians appeared to be wavering. Some private services have already been lost despite earlier political assurances around the transition. There will no longer be private beds...