Welcome News For Aboriginal Elderly Out Bush

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22nd September 2008, 03:11pm - Views: 1001





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Media Release

22-9-2008



Welcome news for Aboriginal elderly out bush


The government’s $46.2m package announced today for aged care facilities in

remote Aboriginal communities is a welcome recognition of the needs of the elderly

in remote areas says Dr Mick Adams Chairman of NACCHO, the national peak body

for Aboriginal medical services.


”It is so important to old people out bush to be able to live out their days on their

country” Dr Adams said.

 

“Remote communities value the chance to have their own aged care facilities so their

elderly members of families can stay in the communities with a better level of care. 


“However, old people’s care in remote communities shouldn’t be compromised by the

under funding of services, worn out facilities and, sadly, worn out staff. 


“Tragically aged care services in remote areas have been under resourced for many

years and the chronic staff shortages throughout the health system are much worse

in remote areas.


“Remote aged care services struggle to recruit experienced staff, retain them and to

get staff to replace when they go on leave or resign. 


“NACCHO congratulates the Minister for Ageing, Justine Elliot, for today’s investment

designed to redress these staffing problems, and to upgrade facilities and care that

are just not up to standard anymore” Dr Adams said. 



NACCHO Media Contacts:

Chairperson Dr Mick Adams 04 0964 6952

CEO Dea Delaney Thiele 04 1704 6692

Media Chris Hallett 04 0770 4788



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