Page 1898 - Week 07 - Wednesday, 22 August 2007
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dollar cost of which is estimated to be $6.3 billion. The report highlights why chronic illness management is so important, not only to save money but also to improve early detection and to provide medical and care services that enable patients to continue to work for as long as possible.
Ms Mapes, who is 31 years old, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease three years ago and represents a growing demographic affected by the disease. Parkinson’s can strike anyone at any time. While the disease is commonly associated with older men, it is now becoming prevalent in younger generations. Parkinson’s Australia believes that a national approach is required to tackle the burden of Parkinson’s disease. The cornerstone of the approach is a commitment to better health for people with Parkinson’s disease through early intervention, clinical research and improved care and cure.
The report also puts forward five recommendations which will result in greater public awareness of Parkinson’s disease, reduce disadvantage, improve community participation by PWP—people with Parkinson’s—and their families, and encourage cost-effective solutions to improve quality of life for people with Parkinson’s disease, as well as delaying institutionalisation and slowing growth in the total cost of caring for people with Parkinson’s.
Mr Marshall called on governments throughout Australia to consider the report’s recommendations. He looks forward to working with decision makers and other allied health professionals to improve the lives of people living with Parkinson’s disease. I will present the report to our health minister, Katy Gallagher, and hope that she takes it on board.
Question resolved in the affirmative.
The Assembly adjourned at 6.05 pm.
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