HUNDREDS of South Australian pathology workers would lose their jobs under sweeping changes recommended in an independent audit.
THE government-commissioned review by Ernst & Young found the cost for SA Pathology of providing public diagnostic services is well above industry benchmarks.
It says the government could save up to $42 million per year by streamlining pathology services across SA, resulting in 332 full-time equivalent job losses by 2017/18. The government is yet to consider its response to the recommendations. But SA Health chief executive David Swan says reforms are needed to improve the health system. “The proposed recommendations will significantly improve productivity and SA Pathology’s business performance,” he said. The government will consult with staff and unions in the coming months.