A long-term vision for health is nowhere to be found this election campaign. The devastating impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have exposed a broken health care system in need of significant reform. Commitment to funding greater access to allied health and multidisciplinary care that encompasses the entire health workforce is vital.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) today reiterated its call for a transformational national plan to address critical workforce shortage issues in healthcare, beyond simply increasing numbers of doctors and nurses. Optimal care relies on multidisciplinary teams working together and leveraging the skills of a range of health professionals.

Transforming the health system requires a national workforce policy solution that includes incentives to drive strong skills growth alongside policies that improve efficiencies by advancing team-based care.

Over 6 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Australia, with more than 7,600 tragic deaths and many of those affected still living with the long-term effects of their infection. The establishment of long-COVID clinics is a critical step to support the recovery of those living with the condition.

Statement from APA National President Scott Willis

The future of health care in Australia needs to be an election priority.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association’s (APA) Election Statement, Physiotherapy: A Path to Better Care, calls on all political parties to commit to real primary care reform through the expansion of publicly funded physiotherapy using new advanced pathways that will strengthen care for all Australians.