Evidence from Massachusetts suggests that a multistep process discourages enrollment. The findings could help policymakers stave off a sharp decline in coverage when COVID-19 policies change.
The budget forecast steep NDIS costs, but also allocated funds to review and support the scheme in sustainable ways that could contribute positively to the economy.
The budget gets on with the job of implementing the health policies already promised. But there’s still more to do to get the new government’s policy settings right.
Nicole Sutton, University of Technology Sydney and Nelson Ma, University of Technology Sydney
We studied 1,709 aged care homes over five years and found increases in the use of ‘agency’ staff impacted quality of care. Ahead of the federal jobs summit, the sector faces ongoing challenges.
How can we get better primary health care access, quality and affordability that Labor has promised? We need to learn from what’s worked and failed overseas.
Some NDIS participants worry if they don’t spend their annual funds, they won’t be offered the same supports in their next plan – and it’s harder for some to use what they’ve been allocated.
Appointing an assistant minister for autism signals the neurodevelopmental condition is a priority – but a focus on it shouldn’t come at the expense of other conditions.
Legislation now entering parliament aims to make Aotearoa New Zealand smokefree by 2025. Forecast effects show huge potential health gains, especially for Māori.
Hospitals are struggling, with ambulances ramping outside emergency departments and patients facing long waits for care. But doing more of the same won’t fix the problem.
The rate of very high psychological distress is rising most steeply in the middle aged, especially in middle-aged women on low incomes. New funding should match this need.