Lady Cilento Children's Hospital could be renamed

The Lady Cilento Children's Hospital in Brisbane could soon be renamed to try and clear up confusion over whether it is public or private. 

Less than half of parents recently surveyed by Queensland Health knew the Lady Cilento Children's Hospital was a public hospital, with almost a quarter believing it was private.

“I’ve had doctors tell me parents are worried they can’t afford treatment at Lady Cilento Children’s Hospital because they think it’s a private hospital” Health Minister Steven Miles said.

“I don’t want even the slightest risk that parents think they can’t or shouldn’t have their child treated at this hospital if they need it.”

The Children’s Hospital Foundation believes the potential new name - the Queensland Children's Hospital - will also help it raise more money for vital research and medical equipment.

The Hospital Medical Staff Association and the Children’s Hospital Foundation support the name change, but the opposition has slammed the idea as “absolutely ridiculous”. 

“Imagine the cost of changing everything from the uniforms to the signage,”  Liberal National Party Deputy Leader Tim Mander said. 

“Phyllis Dorothy Cilento was a fierce advocate for the health of mothers and children.

“Her story is inspiring and should be celebrated by Queenslanders.”

The health minister said if the name is changed, it might be appropriate to rename part of the hospital after Lady Cilento.

Queenslanders have a month to have their say on the Get Involved website.