Better health and ageing for all Australians

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States urged to continue reform for better outcomes for older Australians in hospitals

Opening the 21st Century Innovative Care for Older People Conference in Sydney Senator Patterson said the responsibility for aged care in hospitals was shared between Commonwealth and State Governments and health service providers.

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States urged to continue reform for better outcomes for older Australians in hospitals

The Federal Minister for Health and Ageing, Senator Kay Patterson, today urged the States to continue with reforms to ensure older Australians get the best possible hospital care.

Opening the 21st Century Innovative Care for Older People Conference in Sydney Senator Patterson said the responsibility for aged care in hospitals was shared between Commonwealth and State Governments and health service providers.

"The Government is committed to improving the quality and safety of patient care through identifying and promoting innovative projects. This forum brings together major players in the health system - the Commonwealth, the States, the deliverers of health and the consumer, who will have to work together to improve hospital based care options for older Australians" Senator Patterson said.

The Minister said prominent International speakers will cover a range of topics about improving the quality and safety of patient care for older Australians including waiting times for acute care, sexual health and management of illnesses such as delirium and constipation.

"A gathering of this kind is sure to make an important contribution by bringing together ideas, information and experiences which better support care for these valued older Australians as they deal with hospitals of the 21st Century," she said.

There are 30 hospitals participating in this latest phase of the Program, bringing the total number of hospitals that have already participated to 80. Hospitals from every State and Territory have participated and there has been significant involvement from hospitals in rural and regional Australia.

"Hospitals play a crucial role in our care for older people and this conference is an important opportunity to hear about the latest developments. It will be a forum where experts share their experiences and we all learn from each other," Senator Patterson said.

This 21st Century - Innovative Care for Older People Conference is part of the National Demonstration Hospitals Program - a Program aimed at the care of older Australians through the hospital system.

Media inquiries, contact Sarah Higginbottom, Media Adviser, Senator Patterson's office, 02 6277 7220.