24 August 2023

The Royal Australasian College of Physicians says today’s Intergenerational Report highlights the importance of physician specialists to be fully integrated into Australia’s growing care economy, with Australians predicted to live longer and face the increased likelihood of complex diseases and co-morbidities.

“It is a welcome news that Australians are expected to live for longer, however the growing cohort of individuals over the age of 65 highlights the key role physicians will play in keeping Australians healthy,” RACP President Dr Jacqueline Small said.

“We know that around half of all Australians are already suffering from complex and comorbid conditions. That is expected to rise over the next 40 years as Australians age.

“That’s why preventative health and integrated care is so important. To keep people healthy for longer – we must do more to prevent chronic disease.

“We desperately need to reform our healthcare system to better integrate specialist care into frontline health networks. And totally rethink the way that we deliver everyday patient care.

“Physicians involvement at the right time and the right place will support preventative healthcare, limit disease progression, ease the burden on the healthcare system and, most importantly, ensure patients can continue to enjoy a high quality of life well into their later years.

“The Intergenerational Report presents another opportunity to reform the healthcare system before the burden becomes too great. Now is the time to innovate our healthcare system to ensure it can thrive well into this century.

"It’s positive to see the report recognise climate change and the transition to net zero as an important part in shaping Australia’s future wellbeing, including its economy and population health.

“We must ensure that we have healthy and climate resilient communities and healthcare systems that are prepared for the impacts of climate change – including impacts on infrastructure, workforce, and demand for health services.

“This vindicates the RACP successful call for The National Health and Climate Strategy and we emphasise the opportunity to act is now to build climate resilience and reduce emissions, and the strategy must come with a commitment of full funding.”