Page 2161 - Week 07 - Thursday, 16 May 2013
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Due to the complex and dynamic nature of chronic conditions, the strategy outlines a collaborative approach to their management. The strategy outlines a range of possible action areas to improve access and to enhance services, including the improved use of online directories to provide information available to patients; the expanded use of telehealth in the home to increase ease of access to home monitoring, coaching, video consultation appointments and home medication management; patient-centred chronic condition management plans to better incorporate the medical, psychological and social aspects for the person with a chronic condition; and a streamlining of cross-government directorate processes to reduce barriers to service as well as to employment opportunities, financial support and housing.
We have already delivered a range of services for the self-management of chronic conditions, including home telemonitoring and care coordination, to help people better manage their condition at home. However, this new strategy will increase the options available for the care and support provided to those living in the community with chronic conditions. The strategy also acknowledges the very important role for primary health care, complementary therapists, support and advocacy groups, family, friends and carers in the ongoing management of chronic conditions.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Dr Bourke.
DR BOURKE: Minister, what effect do chronic conditions have on the overall health system?
MS GALLAGHER: I thank Dr Bourke for the supplementary. Chronic conditions present unique challenges to our health system and certainly create a lot of demand across the system. Whilst we enjoy a largely healthy community, the prevalence of chronic conditions is increasing, with 80 per cent of demand for disease and injury health care now due to chronic illnesses. Cancers, cardiovascular disease and neurological conditions are some of the most prevalent conditions which affect 19 per cent, 15 per cent and 11 per cent of the ACT population respectively.
So we do understand the need to invest in the care and prevention of chronic conditions to keep people well and well managed in the community and out of the hospital system. I do not think I have ever met somebody who wants to spend more time in hospital, and we also acknowledge that in the delivery of care the majority of recovery happens in the home, as is appropriate.
In recent years approximately half of the potentially preventable hospital presentations in the ACT were due to chronic conditions. It is certainly something that more often than not affects people over the age of 45. So if we are able to improve management of chronic conditions in the community, we will be able to better prevent unnecessary hospital presentations, and that of course is at the expensive end of healthcare delivery. There would be significant financial benefits that flow to the health system and also in the quality of care provided to people.
MADAM SPEAKER: A supplementary question, Mr Hanson.
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