The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) supports the findings by NPS MedicineWise in the Choosing Wisely in Australia 2016 Report, which reinforce the urgent need for a national conversation on the appropriate, safe and effective use of the country’s health resources.
Australia’s health care system faces a number of complex challenges in providing high quality, innovative, safe and cost effective care. As consumer advocates in a range of roles, nurses are well placed to improve outcomes by utilising evidence to effect change that helps shape the health care landscape. ACN supports the recommended ‘5 Questions’ for consumers when speaking with health professionals.
ACN CEO Adjunct Professor Kylie Ward FACN said, “ACN commits to advancing nurse leadership and is a strong consumer advocate. Earlier this year, as part of the Choosing Wise initiative, ACN provided five recommendations to eliminate unnecessary practices and improve patient outcomes. ACN will continue to work with NPS MedicineWise to advocate for patient needs.”
