Health reforms could benefit community

The Australian Federation of AIDS Organisations has indicated that recommended changes to the national health system could lead to benefits for all Australians, including those living with HIV.

The National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission has made 123 recommendations to improve the performance and cost-effectiveness of the Australian health system.

The report made little specific reference to the gay and lesbian or HIV communities though there could be roll-on effects, according to AFAO.

The report makes no reference to HIV or hepatitis and few references to sexual health, beyond noting that sexual health should be included in health promotion programs targeting young people, an AFAO spokesperson said.

The implications for HIV services and other services accessed by people living with HIV are therefore likely to be indirect and incremental, though nonetheless these may be significant over the longer term.

Other suggestions that could benefit the GLBT community include boosting mental health services, particularly for young people, and improving palliative care options, in recognition of Australia’s ageing population.