Tasmania health gets federal support THE Federal Government will inject $325 million into Tasmania's ailing health system, health minister Tanya Plibersek says. Ms Plibersek announced today the Commonwealth was taking "urgent action" to head off a crisis caused by the island state's aging population, higher rates of chronic disease and system constraints. The funding, over four years, was decided after government consultations with Tasmanian Independent MP Andrew Wilkie and Tasmanian Labor MPs. "The Government has come up with an emergency rescue package we believe will address the unique challenges faced by the state," Ms Plibersek said in a statement. The funding includes money for extra operations such as orthopedic and cataract surgery, the set up of walk-in clinics in Hobart and Launceston for minor injuries, better after hospital care, medical specialist training, mental health services and the roll out of personal electronic health record systems in local hospitals. "These investments respond to the ideas that frontline clinicians have told me will be the best ways to tend to Tasmania's health system," Ms Plibersek said. The Minister said the Tasmanian Government would have to comply with strict reporting and accountability programs, and maintain current funding levels before receiving any extra funding. As well, a Commission on Tasmanian Government Delivery of Health Services will be set up to ensure the state was delivering services as effectively and efficiently as possible. Comment is being sought from the Tasmanian Government and Mr Wilkie.