The member for Macarthur has branded the move to close the after-hours GP clinics at Campbelltown and Liverpool hospitals as a “folly” and “senseless”.

Dr Freelander raised the issue during a speech over the course of the parliamentary sitting week.

“We presently have a government that does not understand health policy, and that will allow an essential service to be taken away in a growth area,” said the Member for Macarthur.

Having the clinic co-located is deemed beneficial as it allows for referrals between the hospital and clinic as necessary. Patients that present to the hospital with a condition that should be treated by a general practitioner will be appropriately be referred to the clinic, and vice versa.

“This is the M.O. we have come to know and expect of the Liberal and National parties in Government,” said Dr Freelander.

“Since the election of the Abbott-Turnbull-Joyce-McCormack and O’Farrell-Baird-Berejiklian-Stoner-Grant-Barilaro Governments, we have witnessed a tirade of attacks on such vital services. What we require is stability, and a strong government that understands the consequences of the removal of such a service.”

“I have serious concerns about the consequences of this unacceptable closure, not least of which will be an added pressure on our already over-stretched Emergency Department.”

With constant buck passing between respective state and federal governments, their respective ministries, the Local Health District, and contractors, it appears no one wants to claim responsibility over this controversial decision.

“I will continue to make inquiries in this matter, to ultimately find those responsible for this decision and fight for a reversal of this move.”