Government must commit long-term funding certainty to Aboriginal Health Services
AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton, today welcomed the Government’s decision to extend funding for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services for another twelve months, but said a longer-term funding commitment is needed to ensure these important services can continue to effectively close the health and life expectancy gap.
Dr Hambleton said the Government should guarantee funding for at least another five years.
“Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services deliver the highest quality, culturally appropriate health care to the Aboriginal population,” Dr Hambleton said.
“It is care that needs detailed planning, an appropriately trained workforce in the right numbers, and targeted delivery to diverse high-need communities, many of which are in remote areas.
“These services make a huge difference to people suffering serious health conditions.
“There are special programs that have proved very successful in addressing high rates of chronic disease, smoking-related illnesses, drug and alcohol use, and mental health.
“These programs require special skills, vision, long-term planning, and funding certainty.
“Government investment in Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services is money well spent.
“There is clear evidence it saves lives and improves quality of life for Aboriginal peoples. It closes the gap.
“The AMA urges the Government to move to a five-year funding agreement as early as possible,” Dr Hambleton said.
7 May 2014
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