The Australian Greens have successfully amended the National Health and Hospitals Network Bill 2010, significantly strengthening the legislation in a number of areas and improving the operation of the Australian Commission for Safety and Quality in Health Care.

Senator Rachel Siewert, Australian Greens Health Spokesperson said today the amendments will ensure the involvement of consumers and carers in the development of a better health and hospital system.

“The ultimate result of this will be better health care and better health outcomes,” Senator Siewert said today.

“Under the National Health and Hospitals Reforms, the Australian Commission for Safety and Quality in Health Care will be responsible for developing and monitoring quality and safety standards; working with clinicians to identify best practice care; and ensuring the appropriateness of health care.

“The Commission’s board will now include members with expertise and experience in primary health and community services – areas which are often overlooked in health discussions.

“The Greens amendments also improve patient confidentiality, ensuring full informed consent is gained from patients before their information can be published or disseminated.

“Too much emphasis throughout the health reform process has been on hospitals and the Greens believe that much more should be done to focus on prevention measures, primary health and community services to keep people well and out of the hospital system.

“These amendments improve the operation of this Commission, which we hope will be seen through the positive health outcomes it delivers for the community,” concluded Senator Siewert.