AHANA recently submitted a comprehensive submission to the federal government, outlining the critical need for AHA workforce recognition and funding. This proposal is a significant step forward in ensuring that AHAs are recognised, supported, and regulated in a way that reflects their vital role in the healthcare system.
The objectives of the proposal include:
Enhancing the quality and accessibility of AH services;
Securing sustainable funding for AHA services to support sustainable service delivery in primary and community care settings; and
Promoting the effective integration of AHA services across the healthcare system.
AHAs can play a pivotal role in improving AH care accessibility and delivery. However, this can only occur when the services they provide are recognised explicitly within government funding streams, supporting their implementation in appropriate settings and for appropriate tasks.
The Need for Recognition and Funding
AHAs play an essential role in delivering person-centred care under the supervision and delegation of allied health professionals (AHPs). This model significantly enhances the efficiency and reach of AH services, particularly benefiting diverse patient populations, including older adults, individuals with disabilities, and those transitioning from hospital care.
AHAs, when recognised and funded appropriately, can help reduce health service waiting times, deliver care closer to patients, and allow AHPs to focus on more complex care delivery. Despite their importance, AHAs currently operate under disparate employment awards, agreements, and contracts across states and territories, lacking standardised training and qualification requirements. This fragmentation hinders the optimal utilisation of the AHA workforce.
The Key Benefits from the Recognition and Funding of AHA services
Enhanced access to healthcare services:
Increased service capacity
Reduced wait times.
Cost-effective healthcare delivery:
Lower costs
Efficient resource allocation.
Improved patient outcomes:
Continuity of care
Holistic care.
Support for government healthcare service goals:
Alignment with workforce strategies
Addressing workforce shortages.
Promotion of multidisciplinary care:
Collaborative healthcare teams
Streamlined referral pathways.
Equity and inclusion:
Accessible services for vulnerable populations
Geographical reach.
Enhanced professional development and standards:
Professional recognition
Standardised training and certification.
What’s Next?
Our submission to the federal government is just the beginning. AHANA will continue to engage with stakeholders, including government representatives, AHPs, and AHAs, to advocate for the adoption of a co-regulation framework. We believe that this is a crucial step towards strengthening the AHA profession and ensuring that AHAs are fully recognised and supported in their roles.
We encourage all our members to stay informed and engaged as we work towards achieving these goals. Your support is vital as we continue to advocate for the interests of AHAs across Australia.
Get Involved
For those of you who contributed to the development of this proposal- Thank-you!