‘Healthcare hardly mentioned in Government’s disability report’ - Physicians

1 August 2024

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians (RACP) says the response from the Australian Government to the Disability Royal Commission does not adequately address healthcare for people with disability, particularly the important role of physicians and health literacy.

In fact, the words “health care” are only used less than 50 times in the mammoth 312-page report.

The report also failed to include the recommendation to implement the findings of the Tune review, which would ensure the advice of physicians is included in all aspects of patient assessments.

Professor Jennifer Martin, RACP President, says that whilst the RACP welcomes the Commonwealth Government’s in-principle acceptance of the recommendation to improve specialist training and continuing professional development in cognitive disability healthcare, much more is needed.

“Physicians have an important role to play in the healthcare of people with a disability and we were hoping to see a greater emphasis on the value they bring.

“In particular, the Federal Government must ensure that Australians who need extra support have effective and inclusive communication channels, particularly with and between healthcare providers, to access the information they need for themselves and for their loved ones to get the care they need.

“It is vital that the current barriers in electronic communication between physicians and other health care providers are addressed to significantly improve the experience people with disability have with health services.  The up-to-date, real time information which digital health systems can offer is critically important. 

“Addressing health literacy has been overlooked in the Government’s response, which is disappointing. People with disability should always be able to understand information and communicate their needs in the way that is best for them.

“The RACP acknowledges the government’s commitment to improving information accessibility in areas such as housing, employment and education. This commitment needs to be extended to healthcare.

“Making communication inclusive and accessible will improve health outcomes for all Australians,” Professor Martin said.

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