Health commitments keep coming

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The election campaign health commitments keep coming with the Coalition committing $65 million to establish the first dedicated Cystic Fibrosis Specialist Unit.

Cystic Fibrosis is the most common chronic and life-limiting genetic condition affecting young Australians. 

According to Prime Minister Scott Morrison, the unit will be housed at the Westmead Health and Education Precinct in Sydney, and provide treatment with state-of-the-art equipment, research and diagnostic facilities.

"Fortunately, with advancements in treatment and medication, patients are living longer, which is why a specific adult centre is required. The number of adults with cystic fibrosis has increased by 1,000 in the past 15 years," he said.

The announcement follows a raft of health commitments by both major political parties, including funding for medical research projects, diagnostic imaging, cancer treatment, Medicare and hospitals.

The new cystic fibrosis unit will include a 16-bed inpatient unit with single rooms, specialist research zone, new consultation rooms, new workspaces for clinical staff, and an upgraded outpatient service including day stay rooms for procedures and outpatient physiotherapy and respiratory testing.