Redland, Redcliffe and Hervey Bay hospitals have recruited specialist mental health nurses who will work with emergency clinicians to provide faster assessment and care.
The three hospitals are the first to recruit the specialist nurses as part of a $93.1 million statewide investment, funded from the Mental Health Levy.
Recruitment for similar positions has started at Cairns, Nambour, Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Caboolture hospitals.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the Queensland Government was committed to adding 46,000 health workers by 2032.
“Arriving at an emergency department for mental health support can be an extremely stressful situation for a patient,” Mr Nichols said.
“These new specialist nurses will play a critical role in ensuring people experiencing mental health concerns are assessed promptly and are assessed promptly and are connected to the most appropriate care pathway as early as possible.”
