Neurological Alliance Australia is marking World Brain Day today by calling for an urgent national brain health agenda that connects prevention, diagnosis, care and supports research, and treatment.
Data from the Australian Health and Welfare Institute shows that neurological diseases are among the top five contributors to Australia’s disease burden, while modelling commissioned by Neurological Alliance Australia (NAA) found that investing in prevention, better treatment and rehabilitation across the 11 most common neurological conditions could save $7 billion each year – or $42 billion over the life of a National Action Plan.
Last September NAA presented the Australian Government with its Blueprint for a National Action Plan for Neurological Conditions which provides an overarching national framework for coordinated reform.
The Blueprint outlines evidence-informed actions to address gaps in neurological care, support, and research. It provides a framework for a national plan that would improve outcomes for Australians living with neurological and neuromuscular conditions while reducing long-term pressure on the health, disability, and aged care systems.
NAA Chair, Rohan Greenland says the World Brain Day theme of ‘Brain Health: Access for All’ reflects what people across the community have consistently demanded, through consultations on the Blueprint and our inaugural soon-to-be released NAA Neuro Service Gaps and Innovation Survey.
Mr Greenland says people with neurological conditions need and deserve earlier and more equitable access to diagnosis, treatment, appropriate care and ongoing support, alongside limited awareness of, and participation in, research and innovation opportunities.
“The message is clear; there is a critical need for a nationally coordinated approach to neurological care and research that results in action and measurable impact,” Mr Greenland said.
NAA is calling on the Australian Government to partner with state and territory governments, people with lived experience, carers, clinicians, researchers and the neurological sector to develop and resource Australia’s first National Action Plan for Neurological Conditions.
A national action plan would support a coordinated, equitable and evidence-based approach to improving brain health, reducing the preventable risk and impact of neurological diseases and injury where possible, and enhancing quality of life for people living with neurological conditions and their carers and families.