AUSTRALIA | The submission made by the Australian Medical Association (AMA) to the Department of Health and Aged Care's consultation on the proposed Aged Care Data and Digital Strategy expresses the view that the draft strategy places undue reliance on individual aged care consumers to manage their health and aged care journey.
In the proposed strategy, older individuals are expected to navigate their aged care journey using digital (mobile) applications. The AMA finds this problematic, especially in light of recent findings from the Aged Care Royal Commission, which highlighted a strong preference among older people for receiving individualised support in navigating the complexities of the aged care landscape.
In its submission, the AMA raises concerns about potential over-investment in digital solutions without conducting a baseline analysis of the older cohort's desire or interest in engaging with digital applications. The submission also questions the feasibility of improving older individuals' health and digital literacy over the proposed 5-year strategy term.
Furthermore, the AMA expressed apprehension regarding a proposal suggesting that digital enablement could reduce the estimated shortfall in the aged care workforce from 36,974 to 20,951 workers by 2030. While the AMA supported efficiency improvements in care delivery through technology, it underscores the importance of recognising that technology should complement, not replace, human-delivered care and engagement. The submission emphasises the ongoing need for adequate staffing numbers and an appropriate mix of care staff skills in the continuous resourcing of aged care.
