Public Health
145 lives saved in Queensland by Christmas – thanks to nurse-to-patient ratios
A new study conducted by the Queensland University of Technology and the University of Pennsylvania has revealed Queensland’s nurse-to-patient ratios legislation has saved 145 lived and up to $81 million in taxpayer dollars.
The landmark study on Queensland’s Ratios scheme used advanced modelling to determine the improvements in patient outcomes that have resulted from the legislation. It found that, since the scheme was implemented in Queensland Health:
- 145 deaths have been avoided
- 255 readmissions have been avoided
- 29,222 hospital days have been reduced
- Between $54 and $81 million dollars saved from taxpayer coffers.
The study also found that the legislation reduced the average workload of medical and surgical nurses by between 1-3 nurses. The legislation has also ensured a more equitable workload between metropolitan, regional and rural nurses.
“The life-saving results of nurse-to-patient ratios have exceeded all expectations”, said Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union Secretary Beth Mohle.
“[Ratios are] a huge saving for Queensland taxpayers and Queensland Health. The cost of avoiding 145 deaths in Queensland is immeasurable”.
Ms Mohle indicated that her union and federal counterparts will continue to advocate for nurse-to-patient ratios, including in Aged Care, Emergency Departments and maternity services.