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Legislative Assembly for the ACT: 1997 Week 8 Hansard (28 August) . . Page.. 2701 ..

. Mr Speaker, I believe that consultation with the community, and subsequent action to clarify the law in relation to consent to medical treatment is both urgent and necessary.

. There are several desired outcomes which this project should achieve--

- health carers will have a better understanding of the law and other issues in relation to health care decision making, and have more comprehensive guidelines to follow;

- they will have more confidence and understanding in dealing with-consent issues. It should result in a better understanding, and more efficient use, of the services of the Community Advocate; and

- there should be better access and equity in relation to health services through an enhanced understanding of processes and communication between health carers and their clients, as patient's rights will be more fully understood and properly recognised, both by them and their carers.

. The net result should be less dissatisfaction with medical care, and less complaints relating to consent issues.

. This paper, which identifies issues and canvasses options, is intended to assist the Government to achieve this outcome.

. My Department will be working with the Department of Health and Community Care to establish a formalised co-operative arrangement between our Departments.

. Any other proposals which come out of the community response, such as recommendations for the development of guidelines, protocols or educational programs will be referred to the Department of Health and Community Care to assist the joint development of a comprehensive and useful combination of legislation and guidelines, which will provide an effective source of reference for health carers.

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