AMA calls for accreditation changes
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) wants ongoing medical care to be included as one of the criteria for aged care accreditation.
The association’s president, Dr Andrew Pesce, said older people living in residential aged care have limited access to medical care.
“The health needs of older Australians are becoming more complex and numerous, so access to general practice services in particular is crucial,” said Dr Pesce.
Under the AMA proposals, aged care facilities would receive financial support to enter into service agreements with specific medical practitioners.
“Australia needs a long-term strategy and significant investment to prepare for the huge demand on aged care services over the next few decades,” said Dr Pesce.
“Planning for Australia’s aged care ‘boom’ must start immediately.”
