The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) has taken aim at the lack of specified allied health funding for aged care in the Federal Government’s proposed new funding tool, the AN-ACC.

Launching their new campaign promoting how physiotherapists can help our ageing population, the APA campaign supports physiotherapists who are highly qualified and trained experts in helping residents in aged care, as well as older people still living at home, to maintain their physical and mental health, reduce falls, manage pain and increase their quality of life.

Committing to reforming primary care and connecting patients to the most appropriate and cost-effective pathway is an immediate action that any incoming government can take without delay.

The Australian Physiotherapy Association (APA) is calling on all political parties to commit to reforming primary health care by expanding publicly funded physiotherapy.

The APA’s Election Statement, Physiotherapy: A Path to Better Care, calls for a commitment to real primary care reform through new advanced pathways that will strengthen care for all Australians.

A debate at the National Press Club (NPC) between the Minister for Health and the Shadow Minister for Health is essential, so that Australians have an opportunity to hear from the Government and Opposition about their policies for the next term.

Reports that, unlike previous election campaigns, no formal NPC debate on health care policy will take place are disappointing and, if confirmed, denies voters the chance to see the next Minister for Health questioned about their policies.