Page 2329 - Week 09 - Wednesday, 16 September 1992
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a number of conditions that are peculiar to this age group. On the other hand, treating teenagers in normal hospital wards can be very intimidating and can cause adolescents to feel out of place. For instance, I certainly would not want to see young people with minor psychiatric problems, possibly like anorexia or bulimia, placed in Ward 15A, where they may be frightened and severely stressed by extremely ill older patients. They often feel lonely amongst adults and they would enjoy and benefit from the company of their peers.
Some of the problems arising from childhood and adolescence which are very well treated in an adolescent unit, both on an inpatient basis and on an outpatient basis, include developmental concerns such as delayed puberty, menstrual irregularities, scoliosis and even severe acne; also renal and orthopaedic disorders; chronic illnesses such as juvenile onset diabetes and juvenile arthritis; congenital disorders such as cystic fibrosis and spina bifida; teenage pregnancy - that really means the antenatal and postnatal care components - and sexually transmitted diseases; psychological problems such as anorexia, depression and suicidal behaviour; physical and sexual abuse; and areas like the misuse of alcohol and risk taking behaviour. Many of these areas are not ones that are well covered in other parts of the hospital, and certainly not in a way that is appropriate for adolescents. As well, as I have indicated, many of the illnesses and problems common to adults, adolescents and children alike are still appropriately treated in an adolescent unit. Adolescents feel comfortable amongst their peers in supportive environments.
In the past there has been a black hole as far as adolescents are concerned. Their needs have never really been considered to be special or unique, and the arrangements in Canberra hospitals have been no exception to this approach. I suppose that, historically, this may have been because, as Ms Szuty rightly pointed out, teenagers are regarded as being in robust good health, possibly even approaching the obstreperous. Unfortunately, the general picture has disguised many problems, again as Ms Szuty appropriately said. Adolescents are disproportionately represented in mortality statistics. Adolescents also have a number of very specific concerns for their health, and once again I must point out that they are not well looked after in paediatric or adult wards. Adolescents, and adolescent problems, have not attracted the attention they should, and I believe that this must change.
Madam Speaker, I have been accused of just wanting to spend more money. This is simply not true. I am not an advocate of every kind of expenditure on youth or young people. Expenditure must be tied to outcomes. For example, the utilisation of the Civic Youth Centre at times has been disappointing. The building at times has been in bad shape and is strewn with graffiti, Ms Szuty. An adolescent medical unit, however - - -
Mr Cornwell: Public art.
MRS CARNELL: Yes, public art; I am sorry. The adolescent medical unit, however, is a totally different kettle of fish. Such a unit would cater for the very real problems and would make a very real impact on the health and welfare of our adolescents, and one that is quite demonstrable. The unit should be a priority over some of the other expenditures that the Government seems keen to promote.
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