Funding to give consumers a voice in health care
Nicola Roxon
posted Wednesday, 11 August 2010
The Minister for Health and Ageing, Nicola Roxon, today announced funding for the Consumer Health Forum to train consumers to participate as members of governing councils of Local Hospital Networks and Medicare Locals.
The Consumer Health Forum is the peak member-based organisation representing consumers on national health issues.
The funding will provide opportunities for consumers to be actively involved in health service delivery in their local communities through:
* The development of an interactive Consumer Health Platform.
* Engaging consumers across the country who can represent their local communities.
* Providing an intensive two day training workshop for selected consumers.
* Ongoing support for consumer members of governing councils.
“The Gillard Labor Government is committed to giving consumers a real voice in the delivery of health services in their communities,” Nicola Roxon said.
“This money will allow community members to be trained and supported to participate in Local Hospital Networks and Medicare Locals.
“While it is important that medical professionals are represented, it is equally important that local service users have a voice in how services are provided in local communities.
“Consumer representatives provide a different voice,” Nicola Roxon said.
The Gillard Labor Government will provide funding of $2.9 million as part of the funding for the NHHN provided for in the 2010-11 Budget.
Tags: consumer, forum, health, Roxon