Logan Hospital slugged with tax
LOGAN Hospital could be slugged more than half a million dollars a year under the Federal Government's carbon tax.
It is estimated the hospital could be forced to pay upwards of $715,000 annually for their carbon emissions.
That equates to almost $2000 per bed at the Logan Hospital.
Coalition Regional Health Shadow Minister Andrew Laming said the shocking numbers were based on figures from a review of hospitals in both New South Wales and Victoria.
"When we look down south of their government's analysis, they have got some figures that Queensland doesn't have," Mr Laming said.
"So now I hope to speak to Queensland Health to try and get them to do a review to find out how the carbon tax will impact on the many hospitals around the state.
"It is our argument that it would be best to not tax things like social services and health services because it doesn't achieve anything."
Mr Laming spoke exclusively to The Reporter last week at the Logan Hospital about the impact the carbon tax would have on its services and operation.
"Not only will the carbon tax threaten jobs and increase the cost of living for people in the Logan region, but it appears our health services will also be compromised at a time when they already face immense pressures," he said.
"Anybody who has been to hospital knows it's more than just doctors and nurses treating patients.
"There is a lot of power being used to heat and air-condition the rooms, the cooking and preparation of the meals, repairs, replacements and extensions of the hospital.
"All of these actions will all be taxed."
A spokesperson for Queensland Health Minister Lawrence Springborg said the carbon tax would have a negative effect on hospitals state-wide.
"Queensland Treasury estimates the carbon tax will cost Queensland Health $129 million over four years," Mr Springborg said.
"The health system in Queensland is under immense pressure because of the previous government's financial mismanagement.
"The carbon tax is another burden for it to carry.
"This is just another amount that has to be found through reduced expenditure somewhere else."
