Opposition Threatens to Obstruct Landmark Health Reform legislation

This is very disappointing news and I hope that it amounts to nothing.

A media release from the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council

report that the federal opposition is not supportive of the new legislation:

The federal opposition has indicated their unwillingness to support landmark legislation which will improve access for the Australian public to quality healthcare and a greater choice of providers by enabling nurse practitioners and eligible midwives to access the Medicare and Pharmaceutical Benefits Schemes. Related Bills will also guarantee access for eligible midwives to professional indemnity through a scheme underwritten by the commonwealth government.

Please contact your local member of Parliament and have your voice heard, urge for the support of these Bills:

The ANMC urges all parties to support the passage of this key health reform legislation through the parliament to demonstrate their commitment to high quality healthcare provision and choice for Australian healthcare consumers............

Minister Roxon has also indicated a commitment to resolving those issues of access to professional indemnity insurance for eligible midwives assisting women who chose to birth at home. These issues have arisen through the revised requirements for national registration and accreditation of health professionals. ANMC will also continue to pursue this dialogue to a positive outcome for consumers of maternity services in the interests of safe, quality healthcare for the Australian community.

Come on now is the time to be pro-active and be heard!

Pauline