Public patients out of pocket for accepting surgery program
Sydney Morning Herald
by Courtney KrukFebruary 23, 2026
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A Queensland government program aimed at reducing elective surgery waitlists has left some public patients facing financial and medical challenges. Launched in 2008 as *Surgery Connect*, the initiative outsources certain procedures to private hospitals, with a recent $49.5 million investment expected to assist up to 5600 patients. However, reports from patients highlight concerns over follow-up care, with some being forced to pay for appointments typically covered by the public system.
Patients have shared stories of inadequate post-operative support through *Surgery Connect*. A nurse who underwent hand surgeries under the program described being left without sufficient rehabilitation sessions. After receiving a joint replacement, she was initially approved for three follow-up appointments but later discovered no further sessions would be covered. Despite her protests, she was unable to return to the public hospital system and now faces significant out-of-pocket expenses for physiotherapy.
Another patient undergoing ACL surgery through *Surgery Connect* reported similar frustrations. She was not provided with information about post-operative care and was surprised when her treatment costs began piling up after being assured of Medicare coverage. Physiotherapy sessions cost $140 each, leading to expenses exceeding $1,000. Such experiences have left patients feeling exploited by a system designed to ease public hospital pressures but failing in its follow-up obligations.
Experts and officials have weighed in on the issue. The Australian Medical Association Queensland expressed concern over patients being “left in limbo” post-operation, emphasizing the need for clearer communication about aftercare before surgery. A spokesperson for Queensland Health defended the program, stating that private providers are contractually responsible for follow-up care at no cost to patients during a 90-day window post-discharge. Beyond this period, responsibility shifts to GPs or relevant health services.
Critics argue that while *Surgery Connect* may benefit some by reducing wait times, it risks creating disparities in care quality between public and private systems. Patients like these nurses and other individuals highlight the unintended
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/23/2026