A collective commitment to improving patient care
In August and September, the healthcare sector saw the introduction of new initiatives, landmark policy reforms and insightful reports that reflect a collective commitment to ensuring a more sustainable, robust and efficient healthcare system, improving patient care and paving the way for a healthier future for everyone.?
Aged care reform?
On the aged care front, the Albanese Government announced a $5.6 billion aged care reform package, based on recommendations from the Aged Care Taskforce, aimed at improving care for older Australians. ?
This overhaul, the most significant in more than 30 years, aims to enhance home care services, improve residential care quality and strengthen legal protections for older people. We look forward to continuing our support of this sector as these initiatives are implemented.?
Connected care?
In other positive news, the Council for Connected Care advisory group released its inaugural Connected Care Annual Review, highlighting significant progress in achieving its first-year interoperability objectives.??
The review also outlines the Council’s priorities for 2024-25, many of which align closely with our vision for connected care. Key initiatives include implementing a national health information exchange, building interoperability capabilities and encouraging the adoption of national digital health standards.??
We remain committed to advancing the connected care agenda now and into the future. Our latest FHIR-based offerings — a redefined Health Information Exchange and Telstra Health Smart API+ —strengthen our ability to address the connected care challenge and drive digital transformation in our sector. ?
Digital transformations?
Regarding digital transformation, an independent report released this month on the state of the NHS, led by Professor Lord Darzi, emphasises that technology, digital systems and AI are essential for unlocking productivity and transforming care. In response, the Starmer Government has announced plans to digitise the service, and we look forward to supporting the NHS in this initiative.?
Meanwhile, the governments in Canada are also intensifying their efforts to digitally transform their health sector. Virtual Health Platform was certified as a trusted and secure virtual healthcare solution by Health Canada and the Quebec Ministry of Health and Social Services, allowing healthcare providers to leverage our technology to enhance patient outcomes and streamline care delivery. ?
Lastly, as our sector navigates the opportunities, risks and benefits of using AI, we welcome the government's rollout of the Voluntary AI Safety Standard and the RACGP’s guidelines?on the use of AI scribes in medical practice. The safe and responsible integration of AI technologies in healthcare is essential for ensuring patient safety and is a top priority for us at Telstra Health as we develop innovative products that digitally enable care. ?
I look forward to sharing further updates with you in future newsletters. In the meantime, stay connected with us through our Media and Events page or via LinkedIn.??
Elizabeth Koff AM
Managing Director, Telstra Health?