The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) welcomes the announcements made in today’s ACT Budget, including providing an additional $64.7 million to increase the number of elective and emergency surgeries, and $34.5 million to expand the Hospital in the Home program. Furthermore, decisions to increase the ACT’s nursing workforce, along with other health professionals, will see more patients receive timely care.
“The ACT’s health services are utilised by a growing population so investing in health services, including our workforce, is a smart investment that ensures ACT residents and people from the surrounding region receive appropriate health care. Investing in our health services and workforce is investing in the health of our population”, said ACN Chief Executive Officer, Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN.
“The expansion of the Hospital in the Home program is a key example of meeting community health needs in the comfort of people’s own homes whilst also reducing pressure on hospitals. This is an innovative model of care which is a win-win for patients and the health system overall.
“ACN looks forward to more nurses working in the ACT health sector to meet the growing health needs of the population. Meeting health targets is a constant challenge and this Budget is to be commended for investing in programs, such as Hospital in the Home, which are showing positive results.”