Member for Cook Jason O'Brien has called on locals in the Cook Electorate to be part of a health care revolution in their community.

Mr O'Brien said expressions of interest have just opened for positions on the governing councils of Local Health and Hospital Networks.

“The establishment of these networks is part of a massive shake up of how health services are delivered in Queensland,” Mr O'Brien said.

“What this means is that health services will be managed in the community, for the community, with  the community."

Mr O'Brien said the reforms would help better meet the different health care needs of individual communities by strengthening local involvement.

“We know every community is different, and that’s why it is so important to have people with knowledge and understanding of what’s needed on the ground running these services,” he said.

“There will be local decision-making and local accountability with each autonomous network run by an expert governing council to ensure tax payer dollars are spent wisely and well.

“We’re looking for people who live locally or have a connection with the community  and a strong understanding of local issues.

“Each council will need a good mix of people including those with business, financial, legal and human resource expertise as well as those experienced in the delivery of clinical services.

“I would encourage suitably skilled locals to put their hands up to be part of this major reform and play a role in delivering quality health services in their community.”

Mr O'Brien said the new system would allow the public to see and influence how taxpayer dollars are spent on delivering health services in their local communities.

“Involving local communities in decisions about health service planning and delivery will help ensure a more transparent and accountable health system,” Mr O'Brien said.

“People in Cook will be able to see how much is being spent, what is being delivered and how well when compared to similar networks across Queensland and Australia.

“This is about giving the community a greater say about local health services and I would encourage locals to get involved.”

An information kit which includes an explanation of the role and responsibilities is available on the Queensland Health website.