The June 2023 issue of the Australian Health Review, the Australian Healthcare and Hospital Association’s peer-reviewed journal, includes health policy research that strengthens the evidence base and leads towards the best possible healthcare system to provide Australians with safe, high quality and financially accessible care. 

Australia’s healthcare needs are constantly growing and changing, particularly in a post-COVID environment and with the aging population. The healthcare system needs to keep pace with these changes if it is to provide quality and accessible care to people who are most in need. 

“Ensuring safety and quality, and consistent monitoring and reviewing, is a key component of any well-functioning healthcare system,” said Dr Sonĵ Hall, Australian Health Review EIC.

“Healthcare funding reform is another key area of interest in this issue, as many households in Australia continue to face high levels of financial pressure that can affect their ability to seek health care or afford the necessary medications,” added Dr Hall. 

Reducing diagnostic errors is one aspect of improving care. A Perspective in this month’s issue examines how healthcare organisations can improve diagnostic safety. It is estimated that diagnostic error affects up to 10% of clinical encounters and is a major contributing factor to 1 in 100 hospital deaths. 

According to Dr Hall, even with the increased Medicare funding, patients often face significant financial barriers in accessing radiation oncology services. 

“In looking to progress better health outcomes for older Australians through new and updated models of care, research from The University of Western Australia examines the effectiveness of a facility-based transition care program. The program aims to improve rehabilitation outcomes and support older adults in returning to and remaining at home after in-patient care.” 

Additionally, articles on helping returning-to-work injured workers, roster optimisation for junior doctors, peer messenger skill development as part of a professional accountability programme, and nursing and midwifery strategic workforce planning are included in this issue’s research. 

‘It is also crucial to look after our healthcare workforce, and plan for our future healthcare and workforce needs,” said Dr Hall.