Media Release: 31 March 2010

New funding model should improve patient care

Australian Nursing Federation welcomes a new Federal Government announcement on block funding for diabetes care in general practice.

Federal Secretary Ged Kearney said the announcement heralded a significant shift in primary healthcare and was a step in the right direction.

“There is no doubt that we need change to improve chronic disease management and preventative healthcare in Australia,” she said.

“Block funding will enable innovation and will also serve to increase the number of nurses employed in general practice. The winners are the patients.”

“General practice nurses will be able to use their considerable expertise to manage and improve the health of enrolled patients with diabetes. They are keen to work to their full scope and are ready for this initiative.

“Communities with more nurses experience better health outcomes.

“These changes will ensure more flexible options for people to receive the care they need.

“Patients will have better access to a range of health professionals - including nurses, diabetes educators, dietitians and podiatrists just to name a few. Obviously such comprehensive care is of great benefit.

We look forward to working with the government to develop frameworks whereby the program can be evaluated. “It is important that these new funding models are reviewed to ensure they produce the best result for patients,” she said.

Media Contact
Eleni Hale, Media Advisor, 0458 892 999

 

The ANF, with 175,000 members, is the professional and industrial voice for nurses and midwives in Australia.