Our advocacy this year has focused on influencing and helping shape changes in policy – system design and changes in clinical practice.
We have provided submissions/advocacy letters including:
- letter to the NSW Department of Health advocating for the inclusion of vaccine administration as part of the role of on-site pharmacists (ACOP) within aged care settings, highlighting the importance of leveraging pharmacists’ expertise to improve resident well-being, prevent outbreaks, and ensure timely access to vaccination services.
- a submission to the Australian Government inquiry into the health impacts of alcohol and other drugs in Australia, advocating for more sustainable funding for the AOD sector to meet community needs and provide continuity of care
- input into National PHN Business Review to outline opportunities for the Commonwealth to better support the role and functions of PHNs
As part of our participation on the PHN Community Managed Organisation Working Group we engaged with key stakeholders to advocate for sustainable funding, provide input on PHN performance KPIs, and recommend greater flexibility in outcome measures. We also contributed to the development of the NSW Mental Health and Wellbeing Strategy, emphasising the role of PHNs in integrated care, the importance of co-design, and the need for systemic reform.
We contributed to a joint project to improve access to dental care for older Australians and – we have continued to advocate for the role of Allied Health and an expanded role for practice nurses. We have also worked to ensure that the rollout of the Strengthening Medicare Reforms was sensitive to the needs of general practice. We have continued our advocacy for those with an intellectual disability.
We regularly meet with local MPs to ensure they are aware of our work and the implications for their constituents.
