Innovation and enhanced technology must be included in all current and future aged care planning to reduce costs, increase efficiency and enhance quality of care, the AMA says in a position statement released this week. Australia must actively seek evidence-based innovative ways to sustainably provide high quality care in the face of an ageing population with complex care needs. Australian Medical Association President Dr Tony Bartone says the interim report of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has highlighted deficiencies in the sector and uncovered an aged care system plagued by “rigid conformity and an absence of innovation”. Dr Tony Bartone “Innovation is vital to improve the level of care provided, to deliver consumer-centred care, and enable the sustainability of the aged care system,” he said in a statement. The position statement contains six principles covering resourcing, electronic records, medication management, assistive technology, communication and data. […]