Health policy

Signed consent backtrack a win for aged care

The Albanese Government has walked back strict bulk‑billing consent rules after warnings they would disrupt GP access for aged‑care residents,…

Over‑50s most likely to overdose

Experts say ageing bodies, multiple medications and overlooked drug use are fueling a rise in overdose deaths among older adults,…

Calls for earlier dementia advance care planning

Dementia Australia and Advance Care Planning Australia say early, supported planning is essential as dementia progresses, but inconsistent practice, limited…

Coercive control underrecognised in elder abuse

Researchers say current coercive‑control laws are too narrowly focused on intimate partner violence, leaving older people unprotected in situations where…

Priority aged care access for MND

Australians living with motor neurone disease will be fast‑tracked into aged‑care services under new rules that give them priority access…

Senator questions Health’s budget underspend

Senator Anne Ruston has accused the federal government of hiding a $2.7bn “slush fund” after health officials were unable to…

Coalition intensifies criticism of aged care reforms

A 12‑month delay to Support at Home price caps has reignited political tensions, with the Coalition arguing that poor planning…

Australians wait 12 months for aged care

A new federal report shows older Australians are now waiting more than a year for aged care support, with experts…

Experts call for yearly frailty screening

A new national framework is calling for annual frailty screening for Australians over 65, with researchers urging stronger focus on…

Report reveals aged care VAD failures

A new national report has found that most aged‑care providers are failing to support residents’ access to voluntary assisted dying,…

Aged care funding misses one key point

The removal of personal‑care fees has been welcomed by advocates, but the shift also raises questions about how Australia funds…

Ageing well more than just health

A study of older Australians has found that ageing well depends as much on purpose and belonging as on physical…

The Iran war may disrupt access to medicines

While PBS stock‑holding rules provide a buffer against short disruptions, experts warn that prolonged conflict in the Middle East could…

SA Labor to deliver on aged care

With Labor returned to government in South Australia, Premier Peter Malinauskas has set out a sweeping health agenda, including major…

Transparency won’t cut specialist fees

New legislation to boost specialist fee transparency is a start, but won't solve rising costs alone. Medicare rebates need reform,…