Neurological conditions are on the rise in Australia and worldwide, yet despite being one of the nation’s top disease burdens, neurological conditions remain under-recognised and underfunded.
The Neurological Alliance Australia (NAA) is calling for the establishment of a Taskforce for Neurological Conditions, to urgently address the needs of millions of forgotten Australians.
The Count Us In campaign highlights six pressing areas of need to be comprehensively progressed by the Taskforce:
Greater investment in medical research
A stronger NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)
Establishment of a national neurological dataset
Equal access to assistive technology
An end to NDIS age discrimination
Improved Aged Care, Health and Disability sector integration
Invest in funding for medical research
Neurological conditions are a national priority given the estimated 1 in 6 prevalence; significant additional research investment is needed.
We are advocating for:
- the creation of a Neurological Mission (or equivalent) within the MRFF to provide a focus for research investment and innovation.
Strengthen the NDIS
The conditions we represent are generally poorly understood by the NDIA; this affects access and the quality of assessment and care received.
We are advocating to:
- advance the work of the Neurodegenerative Disorders and Palliative Care Working Group in the NDIA
- address barriers to access
- ensure better education and training of NDIA staff about neurological conditions.
Address neurological conditions data gaps
Most NAA members experience considerable data gaps. This data is a key foundation for building a platform for planning and prioritising health policies and evaluating the effectiveness of intervention programs and initiatives.
We are advocating for:
- funding for the establishment of a neurological data set within the Australian Institute of Health & Welfare.
Ensure equal access to assistive technology
Australians living with disability should have equal access to the life-changing assistive technology they need, regardless of their age, location or gender.
We are advocating for:
- the establishment of a national assistive technology program to meet the needs of people with disability who cannot access the NDIS.
End age discrimination for NDIS eligibility
Access to, and funding for, the NDIS and the Aged Care systems are not equitable. NDIS eligibility should be assessed solely by reference to the person’s disability, regardless of age.
We are advocating for:
- an end to age discrimination related to funding to support people with disability over the age of 65 years.
Improve Aged Care, Health and Disability sector integration
There is an urgent need to improve the interface between the Aged Care, Health and Disability sectors to improve care.
We are advocating for:
- current gaps in services to be identified and addressed
- referral services to operate effectively
- movement of people between these sectors to be realistic, measured and safe.
Proudly supported by
Members of the Neurological Alliance Australia
