Current Topics and Trends in Australian Healthcare
Australian Healthcare Index
To those who completed the survey, thank you for your responses and we appreciate your time. The survey had a strong response, and the findings will be published in October. As we look to share findings of the survey, patients like you willing to share your story in the media contribute to influencing industry decision-makers in the fight for a more sustainable healthcare system. Please fill out the form if you are interested in sharing your story across radio, television, print or online media outlets by clicking here.
APA Submission to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport on Diabetes
When it comes to managing health and wellbeing, the APA believes in the old axiom Prevention is better than cure. Our submission focused strongly on the relationship between obesity and Type II diabetes and recommended various measures including implementation of sugar tax, addressing the flaws of, and improving, the current Health Star rating system, and tackling obesity by promoting health and wellbeing at the societal level. A copy of the submission is available here.
Shared Decision Making
Shared Decision Making is when patients and doctors work together and decide on the treatment options. You have the right to be involved in making choices about your medical treatment, the medicines you take and any operations you have. This is beneficial to both patients and health service. Shared decision making is a good way of delivering care that meets the needs of patients. There are four main questions to think about before considering the treatment options – What are the benefits, risks, alternatives and what would happen if you did nothing. For shared decision making resources for consumers visit the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care by clicking here.
Families can’t access the most-prescribed antibiotics for their kids, but experts say children are not at risk
Parents and carers have been warned that a shortage affecting the most-prescribed antibiotics for children could continue until early next year. There is a national shortage of liquid antibiotics for children. Experts say while it is frustrating, the shortage is not putting children’s health at risk. Click here to read the complete article published in ABC News on 12th September 23.
Study finds that going vegan can help you lose weight and save money
Volunteers who switched to a vegan diet were found to save an average of 16 percent on their grocery shops. Switching from a meat-based to a vegan diet can not only help you lose weight — it could also save you money, a US study has found. To read the complete article and access the findings of the study click here.
Women’s Health Week (4-8 September 2023)
The theme for this year’s Jean Hailes Women’s Health Week is Grow your knowledge. It’s all about supporting women to make informed decisions about their health with information that’s easy to understand. Click here for new information and resources on a range of important health topics, including hormones, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), menopause, cervical screening self-collection, heart health, pelvic pain and nutrition.
Victorian Healthcare Week (VHW)
The Australian Patients Association (APA) is excited to announce its involvement in the upcoming 11th Annual Victorian Healthcare Week (VHW), taking place in Melbourne from 18-19 October 2023. The event brings together leaders and professionals from all sectors of the healthcare industry, providing a platform for the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and networking opportunities. Click here to register for free.
Click here to Support APA to advocate on behalf of patients by making a tax deductable donation. Have a story to tell, click here.