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Health Professionals References

Global: Professional Reference Centre

Provided as a free service to Global Agency staff and professional colleagues and students in the health care sector.

NOTE: Some references may move location or become out-of-date. To request an addition to this web page and possible inclusion in the Global e-Gazette: Disability & Aged Care e-newsletter please email GlobalGazetteDisabilityAgeing@gmail.com

Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency

All Health Professional Registrations, including nursing, for all states, except Western Australia, from 1 July 2010 go through the new National registration system.

Check out the requirements and application process from the web site of the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency.

http://www.ahpra.gov.au/Registration.aspx

Western Australia (not part of the National Register as yet)

Registration is compulsory.

WA Nurses Registration Board

The health of Australian males

Drawing on a wide range of data sources, this report provides a snapshot of the health of Australia's males. Examples of the report's detailed findings include: males born between 2007-2009 can expect to live 24 years longer than males born between 1901-1910; around two-thirds of adult males and one-quarter of boys are overweight or obese; nearly half have ever had a mental health condition; nearly one-quarter have a disability and nearly one-third have a chronic health condition; 16% of males do not use any Medicare services in a year. AIHW catalogue number (PHE141). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Australian hospital statistics 2009-10

Australian hospital statistics 2009-10 presents a detailed overview of Australia's 1,326 public and private hospitals. In 2009-10, there were 8.5 million separations from Australia's hospitals including: 4.8 million same-day acute separations; 3.5 million overnight acute separations; almost 337,000 non-acute separations. There were 7.4 million presentations to public hospital emergency departments, with 70% of patients seen within the recommended times for their triage categories. AIHW catalogue number (HSE107). Available from CanPrint for $54 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Australia's hospitals 2009-10 at a glance

Australia's hospital 2009-10 at a glance provides summary information on Australia's 1,320 public and private hospitals. In 2009-10, there were: 8.6 million hospitalisations in public and private hospitals; 7.4 million presentations to accident and emergency departments, and 70% of patients were seen within recommended times for their triage category. This publication is a companion to the annual Australian hospital statistics 2009-10 publication. AIHW catalogue number (HSE106). Available from CanPrint for $10 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Mandatory folic acid and iodine fortification in Australia and New Zealand: baseline report for monitoring

This report presents key baseline data for monitoring mandatory folic acid and iodine fortification in Australia and New Zealand. Data are presented for each component of the fortification monitoring frameworks as follows: food composition; folic acid and iodine intake; folic acid and iodine status of the populations; and health outcomes. AIHW catalogue number (PHE139). Available from the internet only.Click on the link to view the report.

Public health expenditure in Australia, 2008-09

Since the first public health expenditure report in 1999-00, expenditure on public health activities by health departments has grown, in real terms, by 88%. Total expenditure on public health activities in Australia in 2008-09 was $2,300.2 million. This was an increase of $120.5 million, or 5.5%, on what was spent in 2007-08, raising the 2008-09 per person expenditure to $106. After adjusting for the effects of inflation, there was a real increase in per person expenditure of 2.2% from 2007-08 to 2008-09, continuing the growth in total public health expenditure which has averaged 7.3% per year since 1999-00.

AIHW catalogue number (HWE52). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Australian health expenditure by remoteness: a comparison of rural, regional and city health expenditure

The report looks at selected health services for the financial years 2001-02, 2004-05 and 2006-07 and examines the way these services were delivered across Australia. This analysis was performed using the Australian Standard Geographical Classification System to compare the expenditure and usage rates of the health services by residents of Major Cities, Inner Regional, Outer Regional, Remote and Very Remote areas of Australia. AIHW catalogue number (HWE 50). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the report.

Health and the environment: a compilation of evidence

There is increasing awareness that our health and the environment in which we live are closely linked. This report compiles evidence on the relationship between health and a selected list of environmental factors including `natural' features (such as temperature and ultraviolet radiation) and aspects of our surroundings which have been created by humans (such as housing and transport). The results of this compilation highlight that:

our surroundings can influence our physical health and mental wellbeing through a variety of channels
health and wellbeing may be affected in both positive and negative ways
humans, through their intervention in the environment, can play a vital role in exacerbating or reducing health risks.

As the pathways involved can be indirect and complex, this report also examines some of the difficulties involved in assessing the broader relationship between health and the environment. AIHW catalogue number (PHE136). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Health expenditure Australia 2008-09

Health expenditure in Australia in 2008-09 reached $112.8 billion, an increase of $9.2 billion since 2007-08. The area of health expenditure with the largest increase was public hospital services, which accounted for over one-quarter of the total increase in 2008-09. 'Health expenditure Australia 2008-09' examines expenditure on different types of health goods and services in the decade to 2008-09. The report:

describes funding by the Australian Government and state governments, private health insurance and individuals
compares health expenditures in the different states and territories
compares Australia's spending with other countries'.

AIHW catalogue number (HWE51). Click on the link to view the media release and report

Medical labour force 2008

The supply of employed medical practitioners increased between 2004 and 2008, from 283 to 304 full-time equivalent practitioners per 100,000 population. The increase reflected a 20.5% rise in practitioner numbers. The gender balance continued to shift, with women making up 35% of practitioners in 2008 compared to 33% in 2004. The average hours worked by male practitioners declined from 47.1 to 45.4 hours, while hours worked by female practitioners changed marginally from 37.6 to 37.7 hours. AIHW catalogue number (AUS 131). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

AIHW Director backs accuracy and reliability of MyHospitals data

AIHW Director Penny Allbon has rejected claims from Federal Opposition health spokesman Peter Dutton that a leaked email suggested that the MyHospitals website data were flawed.

“The MyHospitals website provides nationally consistent data that has been rigorously checked by the AIHW as well as all states and territories”, she said.

Dr Allbon said the data issues mentioned in the leaked email have all been resolved on the website that went live today.

“Not only is the email five months old, it has been taken out of context, and misquoted”, she said.

“The performance data on the website are for the most recent financial year, 2009–10. This is the earliest these data have ever been published at a national level.”
“Staff numbers are not included on the website. The AIHW determined that the available data on staffing was incomplete, provided only a partial picture of staff numbers in hospitals, and was therefore not ready to be placed on the site. Further work is needed to improve the consistency of reporting.”
“Data issues regarding outpatients have been resolved. Outpatient services on the website are those provided by the hospital. The website makes it clear that this does not necessarily include outpatient services provided by doctors in a private

Australian hospital statistics 2009-10: emergency department care and elective surgery waiting times

Australian hospital statistics 2009-10: emergency department care and elective surgery waiting times presents information relating to emergency department care in major public hospitals and public hospital elective surgery waiting times for the period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010. In 2009-10: almost 6 million emergency department presentations were provided by major public hospitals, with 70% of patients receiving treatment within an appropriate time for their urgency (triage category); about 610,000 patients were admitted to Australian public hospitals from waiting lists for elective surgery, with 50% of patients admitted within 36 days. AIHW catalogue number (HSE 93). Available from CanPrint for $21 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

General practice activity in Australia 2009-10

This report presents results from the twelfth year of BEACH program, a national study of general practice activity. From April 2009 to March 2010, 988 general practitioners recorded data about 98,800 GP-patient encounters involving the management of 155,373 problems. For an 'average' 100 encounters, GPs recorded 107 medications, 35 clinical treatments, 18 procedures, 9 referrals to specialists and 4 to allied health services, and ordered 45 pathology and 10 imaging tests. AIHW catalogue number (GEP27). Available from CanPrint for $28 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Cardiovascular medicines and primary health care a regional analysis

Cardiovascular medicines and primary health care: a regional analysis shows how the supply of cardiovascular medicines and primary health-care services differs across regions in Australia. This report examines the complex relationship between cardiovascular diseases, remoteness and the supply of cardiovascular medicines and primary health-care services. It will be of interest to policy makers, providers of health services, researchers in the field of cardiovascular disease, and members of the broader community. AIHW catalogue number (CVD 48). Available from CanPrint for$33.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the report and media release.

Health system expenditure on disease and injury in Australia, 2004-05 (internet only)

Health system expenditure on disease and injury in Australia, 2004-05 provides a systematic analysis of health system expenditures associated with specific disease and injury groups in Australia in 2004-05. Expenditure on cardiovascular disease is compared with expenditure on cancer, injuries, nervous system disorders and other diseases. Health expenditure for each age group ranges from $2,223 per year for girls/boys aged 5 to 14 years to $8,030 per year for women/men aged 75 to 84 years. This report also discusses the changes in expenditure by disease between 2000-01 and 2004-05. AIHW catalogue number (HSE 87). Click on the link to view the report.

Use of health services for arthritis and osteoporosis
There is considerable variation in the type and extent of health services used and actions taken to manage the three conditions. While the management of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is primarily focused on reducing pain and slowing down disease progression, the focus in the case of osteoporosis is largely on containing its role as a risk factor for fractures and other associated complications. AIHW catalogue number (PHE 130). Available from CanPrint for $23 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the report

Cancer in Australia 2010: an overview

Cancer in Australia: an overview, 2010 provides a comprehensive overview of national statistics on cancer in Australia. The report presents the latest available statistics on cancer overall, as well as on many individual types of cancers, and it includes information on incidence, mortality, survival, prevalence, burden of cancer, hospitalisations, and national cancer screening programs. AIHW catalogue number (CAN56). Available from CanPrint for $35.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and FREE online report.

Cancer in Australia 2010: in brief

AIHW catalogue number (CAN55). Available from CanPrint for $10.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and FREE online report.

Cardiovascular disease: Australian facts 2011

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a very common and serious disease in Australia with about 3.5 million people reporting having the condition in 2007-08. Despite significant advances in the treatment of CVD and for some of its risk factors, it remains the cause of more deaths than any other disease - about 50,000 in 2008 - and the most expensive, costing about $5.9 billion in 2004-05. And not all sectors of Australian society are affected equally by CVD with people in lower socioeconomic groups, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and those living in the remote areas of Australia often more likely to be hospitalised with, or to die from CVD than other members of the population. AIHW catalogue number (CVD53). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

General practice activity in Australia 2000-01 to 2009-10: 10 year data tables

This report presents results from the most recent 10 years (April 2000 to March 2010) of the BEACH program, a national cross-sectional study of general practice activity. During this time 9,842 GPs provided details of almost 1 million GP-patient encounters. Readers can review changes that have occurred over the decade in the characteristics of general practitioners and the patients they see; the problems managed; and the treatments provided. Changes in patients' body mass index, smoking status and alcohol use are described for a subsample of adult patients. AIHW catalogue number (GEP28). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Doctors warned of bizarre side effects from sleeping drug
Doctors are being warned of bizarre possible side effects from a popular sleeping pill. The Adverse Drug Reactions Advisory Committee has received more than 100 reports of adverse reactions to the drug Stilnox. Read the ABC ‘The World Today’ report at http://www.abc.net.au/worldtoday/content/2007/s1839237.htm
(Always discuss any medication issues and concerns with your doctor – Global Editor)

Asthma snapshot

From 1 March 2011, aihw.gov.au will showcase topics on the health and welfare of Australians in a new 'snapshot' format. The snapshots will summarise the issues of each topic for web viewing, enabling visitors to easily read and download concise, up to date and relevant information. The first of these snapshots is asthma. Aihw.gov.au's new layout and functionality will also be launched on 1 March. Click on the link to view the media release and web product.

National Palliative care performance indicators: results of the 2008 performance indicator data collection.
National palliative care performance indicators: results of the 2008 performance indicator data collection presents the findings of the fourth national collection of performance indicator data from Australia's palliative care sector. The information collected provides information on the extent to which palliative care agencies have met the four national performance indicators that were developed based on the goals and objectives of the National Palliative Care Strategy. The report also presents information on changes to performance (as measured by these performance indicators) that have occurred between the 2008 survey and previous surveys. AIHW catalogue number (HWI 106). Available from CanPrint for $20 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the report.

GLOBAL RISK FACTORS FOR CANCER (ABC Health Minutes: 15/08/2007) Researchers have identified nine causes of cancer worldwide - smoking, alcohol, obesity and six others. Over 2.4 million deaths annually are linked to one or more or these preventable risk factors. http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s2000324.htm

Cardiovascular disease mortality trends at different ages

Despite a dramatic reduction since the late 1960s, cardiovascular disease remains the largest cause of death in Australia. Cardiovascular disease mortality: trends at different ages examines recent data to determine if the observed decrease in cardiovascular disease deaths since the 1960s is shared across disease sub-types and among different population groups. This report includes information on the past and recent trends of key cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease and stroke, and describes how trends vary on the basis of age group and sex. International trends are also presented for comparison. The analyses presented in this report help to better understand what is driving the observed decrease in cardiovascular disease deaths, and are a useful resource for policy makers, researchers and health professionals interested in cardiovascular diseases. AIHW catalogue number (CVD 47 ). Available from CanPrint for $25.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Time trends and geographical variation in re-admissions for asthma in Australia

Re-admissions for asthma can be considered an indicator of health system performance in relation to the management of patients with asthma. This bulletin examines the overall rate of re-admissions for asthmas in Australian and investigates time trends in re-admissions for asthmas as well as differences according to age, sex, socioeconomic status and remoteness of residence. AIHW catalogue number (ACM21). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media releasereport. and

Access to public dental services: Survey Report – NCOSS A Report by the NSW Oral Health Alliance, Access to dental services amongst clients of non government human service organisations, presents the findings of a study undertaken last year to examine access to dental services for clients of NSW non government organisations (NGOs). NCOSS wrote to all NSW Parliamentarians and political parties on behalf of the NSW Oral Health Alliance, seeking support for the recommendations in the report. Click here for more information and to download report.

Burden of disease due to asthma in Australia 2003

In 2003 asthma was the leading cause of burden of disease in Australian children, contributing 17.4% of total DALYs and the eleventh-leading contributor to the overall burden of disease in Australia, accounting for 2.4% of the total number of DALYs. Asthma also contributed a substantial proportion to the Indigenous health gap in the burden of non-communicable conditions. It is predicted that asthma will continue to rank as one of the major causes of disease burden in Australia for the next 2 decades, particularly among females. AIHW catalogue number (ACM 16). Available from CanPrint for $ 21.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media releaseFREE report. and download

CAUSES OF MACULAR DEGENERATION (ABC Health Minutes: 15/08/2007) Researchers have identified risk factors for macular degeneration – a common cause of vision loss in the elderly. People who eat foods like
fruit, whole grains, fish and vegetables have a lower risk, they say. http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s2000328.htm

Assisted reproduction technology in Australia and New Zealand 2007

In 2007, there were 56,817 assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment cycles undertaken in Australian and New Zealand. Of these cycles, 17.4% resulted in a live delivery (the birth of at least one liveborn baby). In total, 10,856 liveborn babies were born following ART treatment undertaken in 2007. The most important recent trend in ART treatment has been the reduction in the rate of twins and triplets births, with the multiple delivery rate falling from 18.7% in 2003 to 10.0% in 2007. This trend has been associated with an increase in the proportion of ART treatment cycles using single embryo transfer, from 32.0% in 2003 to 63.7% in 2007. AIHW catalogue number (PER 47). Available from CanPrint for $35 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and download FREE report.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Services Report, 2008-09: OATSIH Services Reporting - Key Results

The main findings from the 2008-09 OATSIH Services Reporting data collection show that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander: - primary health care services provided 2.1 million episodes of health care to around 375,000 clients - substance use specific services provided treatment and assistance to address substance use issues to about 23,200 clients - Bringing Them Home and Link Up counselling services provided counselling to about 8,400 clients. AIHW catalogue number (IHW31). Available from CanPrint for $24.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

PEANUT ALLERGY (ABC Health Report: 13/08/2007) A leading Australian allergy researcher has suggested a simple test for people who are at risk of peanut anaphylaxis. http://www.abc.net.au/rn/healthreport/stories/2007/2001422.htm

Women and heart disease Cardiovascular profile of women in Australia

Cardiovascular disease is Australia's biggest killer. This report focuses on its impact on the health of Australian women - a group who may not be aware of how significant a threat this disease is to them. The report presents the latest data on prevalence, deaths, disability, hospitalisations, services, treatments, risk factors and expenditure, as well as comparisons to other important diseases among women. This report is a useful resource for policy makers, researchers, health professionals and anyone interested in cardiovascular disease in Australian women. AIHW catalogue number (CVD 49). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Integrated Primary Health Care 2009 - 30 Sep-1 Oct 2009,
Novotel on Collins, Melbourne. Improvements in primary health care are vital to strengthen the overall health system. With Minister Roxon's agenda to develop an Integrated Primary Health Care Strategy, and with the commission of the National Primary Health Care Strategy ERG and the National Health and Hospitals Reform Council, the focus to develop and implement an improved community-based primary health care system has never been stronger. To reach this crucial reform hurdles and barriers need to be addressed and examined. Integrated Primary Health Care 2009, will look at reforms in funding, governance, e-health and working partnerships to enable an Integrated Primary Health Care Strategy. This conference will look at how a primary health care strategy can achieve a patient centric system that is accessible and beneficial for all. Click here for more information.

Australia’s Health 2010
Australia's health 2010 is the 12th biennial health report of the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. It's the nation's premier source of statistics and informed commentary on: determinants of health and keys to prevention; diseases and injury; how health varies across population groups; health across the life stages; health services, expenditure and workforce; the health sector's performance. If you're interested in health, Australia's health 2010 is an essential reference for your bookshelf. AIHW catalogue number (AUS 122). Available from CanPrint for $60 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

SURVIVING LUNG CANCER (ABC Health Minutes: 15/08/2007) Survival figures for non small cell lung cancer are generally poor – a few months. But a very small proportion of people with the condition survive beyond 10 years.
http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s2000322.htm

Cervical screening in Australia 2006-2007 The major objective of the National Cervical Screening Program is to reduce incidence and mortality from cervical cancer. Over 3.5 million women (61.5%) aged 20-69 years participated in the Program in 2006-2007, up from the last report. Incidence and mortality remain low at 9 new cases in 2005 and 2 deaths in 2006 per 100,000 women aged 20-69 years. AIHW catalogue number (CAN 43). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

State of Our Public Hospitals June 2009 report – DoHA The state of our public hospitals, June 2009 report provides a snapshot of public hospital activity in 2007-08. The report shows public and private information at state, territory and national levels. The report aims to increase community understanding about our hospitals and their performance. This year's report also includes chapters on national hospital reform, Indigenous Australians in hospitals, maternity services in hospitals and state and territory public hospital performance reporting. Click here for more information and to download report.

Public and private sector medical indemnity claims in Australia 2006-07 a summary (internet only)

Public and private sector medical indemnity claims in Australia 2006-07: a summary presents data from the combined Medical Indemnity National Collection of public and private sector claims. Data on claims that were current at any time over the period of 1 July 2006 to 30 June 2007 are included. The report includes the circumstances that gave rise to claims, the medical specialities involved in claims, the people making claims, the size of claims and the length of time they have been open. AIHW catalogue number (HSE 86). Click on the link to view the report.

SUNBEDS AND CANCER (Life Matters)
Sunbeds have been put into the highest cancer risk category by the international body charged with evaluating potential cancer hazards. The International Agency for Research on Cancer, which comes under the auspices of the World Health Organisation, has reviewed all available research and decided that artificial solar radiation can not only cause skin melanomas, but eye melanomas as well. It has also issued a warning to welders that the UV radiation from arc welding might cause eye melanomas. The findings are published in the latest edition of The Lancet Oncology. http://abcmail.net.au/t/587399/598860/11290/0/

Refining national asthma indicators Delphi survey and correlation analysis This report is the result of a systematic review undertaken by the Australian Centre for Asthma Monitoring (ACAM) to refine and simplify asthma monitoring in Australia. A Delphi survey and correlation analysis were used to review the currently recommended list of 24 national asthma indicators in order to identify a smaller set of core indicators, which provide the most important and relevant information and which are more effective at signalling change for future asthma monitoring activities. AIHW catalogue number (ACM 15). This is an internet only publication. Click on the link to view the report.

STROKES LATER IN LIFE (ABC Health Minutes: 21/08/2007) The good news about strokes is we're getting them later in life. The bad news is, we're still getting them.
http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s2005495.htm

Cancer in Australia: an overview, 2008: from AIHW
Cancer in Australia: an overview, 2008 presents comprehensive national data on cancer incidence and mortality in 2005 and projections for 2006 to 2010. Other topics covered include incidence of lymphohaematopoietic cancers using a WHO-based classification scheme, cancers attributed to smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, incidence in the states and territories, incidence rates and most common cancers over the life span and cancer-related hospitalisations. Summaries are provided for cancer survival, cancer prevalence, the cancer screening programs and the burden of cancer. The report is complemented by substantial online cancer data on the AIHW website. Via Australian Policy Online Free Report at the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare

THE DANGERS OF A DEADLY TAN (ABC 7.30 Report: 21/08/2007)
http://www.abc.net.au/7.30/content/2007/s2011387.htm

Primary carers of people with arthritis and osteoporosis

Family members known as 'primary carers' provide significant assistance to people with disability associated with arthritis and osteoporosis to help them cope with their restrictions and continue independent living. The demand of caring however can have significant impact on the health and wellbeing of the carers. This report brings together the latest data to highlight the impact of caring. The information provided in the report should be useful to the broader community, policy makers and anyone with an interest in carers and caring issues. AIHW catalogue number (PHE 124). Available from CanPrint for $15.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

healthdirect: National Health Call Centre Network

The healthdirect Australia service is now available across NSW and provides a 24-hour hotline for people who need health advice. The advice is delivered by highly skilled Registered Nurses who are supported by health triage software, a website and an up-to-date service directory of local facilities. Since May 2009, people living anywhere in NSW have been able to contact the hotline and it is estimated that 650,000 calls from NSW residents will be managed by healthdirect each year. If people have a health concern and are unsure what to do next they can call healthdirect which will deliver important health information and help people make good choices about where to seek treatment and when. healthdirect is not an emergency service. People with a health emergency should still contact 000. Calls to healthdirect Australia on landlines are free but mobile charges may apply. The healthdirect Australia number is 1800 022 222. Click here to go to healthdirect Australia's website.

Cervical screening in Australia 2007-2008

This data report uses the previous definition of performance indicators, and supplies up-to-date data, but with no commentary. A full report using the new definitions of the performance indicators (for 2008-2009) will follow. AIHW catalogue number (CAN 50). Click on the link to view the report.

UPDATED PHYSICAL ACTIVITY GUIDELINES

(ABC Health Report: 20/08/2007) More than ten years after they were first published, the American College of Sports Medicine and the American Heart Association have updated their physical activity recommendations for adults.
http://www.abc.net.au/rn/healthreport/stories/2007/2010834.htm

Ovarian cancer in Australia an overview, 2010

Ovarian cancer was the most common cause of gynaecological cancer death and the sixth most common cause of cancer-related death among women in 2006. Although the prognosis for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer was relatively poor compared with a number of other cancers, the prognosis has improved over time. These and other data in this report provide a comprehensive picture of ovarian cancer in Australia including how ovarian cancer rates differ by age, Indigenous status, country of birth, socioeconomic status and geographical area. AIHW catalogue number (CAN 48) Available from CanPrint for$26.00 (1300 889 873) Click on the link to view the FREE ONLINE report and media release.

ASTHMA RISK AT WORK (ABC Health Minutes) Occupational exposure is a common and underestimated cause of asthma, a study shows.
http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s2005527.htm

Incidence of type 1 diabetes in Australian children 2000-2008
Type 1 diabetes is a serious, life-long disease which causes a major health, social and economic burden for individuals with the disease, their families and the community. There were over 8,000 new cases of Type 1 diabetes diagnosed in Australian children between 2000 and 2008, an average of two new cases every day. But, while the rate of new cases increased significantly over the first part of the decade (2000-2004), there has been little change since 2005. Incidence of Type 1 diabetes in Australian children 2000-2008 presents the latest available national data on new cases of Type 1 diabetes for children from Australia's National Diabetes Register. AIHW catalogue number (CVD 51). Available from CanPrint for $25 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Breast cancer and early menopause: a guide for younger women
This booklet is for younger women diagnosed and treated for breast cancer who may be at risk of early menopause. Click here to download booklet.

Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other respiratory diseases in Australia

In 2004-05, Australia spent $3.3 billion directly on the management of respiratory conditions. In 2007-08, general practitioners managed respiratory problems more than any other condition and in 2006 conditions of the respiratory system were the third most common underlying causes of death. This report presents the epidemiology of each of the main respiratory conditions and highlights their differences and similarities. The conditions addressed include asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, allergic rhinitis, chronic sinusitis, influenza, pneumonia, bronchiectasis, cystic fibrosis, pneumoconiosis and sleep apnoea. AIHW catalogue number (ACM 20). Available from CanPrint for $32.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

NEW TREATMENT FOR STRESS INCONTINENCE (ABC Health Minutes)
Austrian surgeons have come up with a new treatment for stress incontinence which involves injecting cells into the wall of the urethra. http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s2005499.htm

Eye health labour force in Australia

The delivery of eye health care in Australia is undertaken by an eye health labour force that consists of ophthalmologists, ophthalmic nurses, optometrists, orthoptists, optical dispensers, optical mechanics. The number of full-time equivalent ophthalmologists, optometrists and orthoptists increased by 15% , 11% and 20% respectively between 2001 and 2006. Ophthalmologists are on average older than other eye health workers. In 2006 the average age of ophthalmologists was 52 years. The average age of the other eye health occupations ranged from 36 years (orthoptists) to 46 years (ophthalmic nurses). AIHW catalogue number (PHE 116). This publication is available free from Department of Health and Ageing Click on the link to view the media release and download FREE report.

Link between bereavement and heart attack

A study has shed light on why people traumatised by the loss of a loved one are more susceptible to having a heart attack. The study was conducted by clinicians from the Sydney Medical School and the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery at the University of Sydney. Read the full article on communityNet - click here for a quick link.

Breast Screen Australia monitoring report 2005-06

Breast cancer is the second most common cause of death from cancer in Australian women. The Breast Screen Australia Program aims to reduce mortality and morbidity from breast cancer through detecting cancers early, with over 1.5 million women (56.9%) aged 50-69 years participating in the Program in 2005-2006. Mortality from breast cancer has decreased steadily since the Program commenced in 1991, from 66 to 47 deaths per 100,000 women. AIHW catalogue number (CAN 44). Available from CanPrint for $ (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

NATURAL HRT - MAGIC BULLET OR CLEVER CON? (ABC Catalyst) The development of hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, has helped to relieve the symptoms associated with this inevitable phase of life and recent developments in production techniques have seen the emergence and promotion of so called 'natural' hormones. But with rising evidence that some users have suffered near fatal side-effects, some doctors are saying women are being conned into thinking that natural means safe. http://www.abc.net.au/catalyst/stories/s2006092.htm

Trends in access to dental care among Australian children

From 1994 to 2005 approximately 80 per cent of children aged 5-11 years and 75% of children aged 12-17 years visited a dentist within the previous 12 months. Private dental attendance by the younger age group increased significantly from 2002 to 2005, reflecting a decline in the utilisation of the School Dental Service. Regular access to dental care for all Australian children is vital to ensure children receive preventively-focussed care, prompt treatment of dental disease and professional advice on oral hygiene. Establishing favourable dental visiting behaviour during childhood will lead to better oral health outcomes as adults. This publication provides an analysis of the dental visiting patterns of children aged 5 to 17 years during the period 1994 to 2005. AIHW catalogue number (DEN 198). Available from Can Print for $24 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media releasereport.

Health of Women with Intellectual Disabilities

Patricia Noonan Walsh, Tamar Heller ISBN : 1405101032 "Health of Women with Intellectual Disabilities," is the first book in the forthcoming series of books. IASSID is very pleased to thank IASSID members, Drs. Patricia Noonan Walsh and Tamar Heller, for their work in compiling this edited text. The book was launched at a special reception held at the IASSID-Europe Congress in Dublin, Ireland on June 14, 2002 http://www.iassid.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=books&file=index&bkid=1&ttitle=Health_of_Women_with_Intellectual_Disabilities&POSTNUKESID=94bf55365c427a267b88529c933e6c20

Trends in access to dental care among Australian adults 1994-2008

Between 1994 and 2008 half of all Australians visited a dentist most years and the proportion of those who visited for a check-up increased from 46% to 55%. However, there were growing inequalities in the use of dental care. People on low incomes, those who live in rural areas and those without dental insurance did not have the same gains in visiting a dentist regularly for a check-up compared to higher income earners, urban dwellers and those with dental insurance. AIHW catalogue number (DEN204). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Women and heart disease summary

Cardiovascular disease is Australia’s biggest killer. This report provides a summary of cardiovascular disease and its impact on the health of Australian women. Women and heart disease: summary presents the key findings of its companion report, Women and heart disease: cardiovascular profile of women in Australia and looks at prevalence, deaths, disability, hospitalisations, medical services, treatments, risk factors and health care expenditure, as well as comparisons with other important diseases among women. AIHW catalogue number (CVD 50). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

National Health Survey: Summary of Results, 2004-05. http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/subscriber.nsf/log?openagent&43640_2004-05.pdf&4364.0&Publication&3B1917236618A042CA25711F00185526&0&2004-05&27.02.2006&Latest

Cost of arthritis increases with ageing population – AIHW

Spending on arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions increased by more than 5% annually between 2000-01 and 2004-05, according to a report released today by Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). The report Health expenditure for arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions 2004-05 found that arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions, such as osteoporosis, account for more spending on doctors and specialists than any other disease group in Australia, at almost $1.2 billion. ‘Because these conditions are more common in older people, an increasingly ageing population is likely to further add to the associated disease burden and the cost of providing health services in Australia,' said Ms Tracy Dixon of the AIHW's National Centre for Monitoring Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Conditions. According to the report, arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions were the fourth largest contributor to direct health expenditure in 2004-05, amounting to $4 billion or more than 7% of total allocated health expenditure. Osteoarthritis accounted for nearly one-third of expenditure for these conditions, and 75% of the funds allocated to osteoarthritis were spent on hospital costs, mainly related to knee and hip replacements. For rheumatoid arthritis, prescription pharmaceuticals accounted for over half ($92 million) of the expenditure, illustrating the use of medication to manage the disease. Pharmaceuticals also accounted for almost three-quarters ($215 million) of the expenditure for the prevention and management of osteoporosis. The report showed the amount spent on prescribed pharmaceuticals for preventing and managing osteoporosis nearly tripled (in current prices) from $75.5 million in 2000-01 to $215 million in 2004-05. About 6 million Australian men, women and children have a musculoskeletal condition. Click here for more information and to download report.

Health Care Needs of Older Carers Jayne Lucke Home & Community Care Conference 2007 powerpoint presentation http://www.agedservices.asn.au/docs/products/Jayne%20Lucke.pdf

HEALTH CARE POLICY & PROCEDURES IN DISABILITY

http://www.dadhc.nsw.gov.au/dadhc/Publications+and+policies/People+with+a+disability/Policies+relating+to+people+with+a+disability.htm

The NSW Department of Ageing, Disability & Home Care have published a comprehensive range of their health care policies and procedures for people who have a disability on their internet site.

Some of the documents are:

It also includes their Epilepsy policies:-

Epilepsy Policy and Procedures 2006
- Epilepsy Policy and Procedures Attachment 1
- Epilepsy Policy and Procedures Attachment 2
- Epilepsy Policy and Procedures Attachment 3

Nutrition and other policies, procedures and guidelines have also been included. DADHC should be congratulated for sharing their guidelines and policies and procedures with community organizations through their web site. (Editor).

Check out the informative NSW DADHC web site at www.dadhc.nsw.gov.au

Public and private sector medical indemnity claims in Australia 2008-09

This report presents information on public and private sector medical indemnity claims for 2008-09. There were 9,173 medical indemnity claims open at some point during the year, including 5,072 from the public sector and 4,101 from the private sector. The main clinician specialties allegedly involved in the incidents giving rise to claims were General practice and Obstetrics and Gynaecology. AIHW catalogue number (HSE112). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Oral health behaviours in the Australian population 2004-06

AIHW catalogue number (DEN 197). This is an Internet Only publication. Click on the link to view the report.

A health screening programme for adults with Down’s syndrome.

Nursing Times (UK) VOL 103, NO 3-31

Clare Backer, BSc; Nicola Jervis, PhD, BSc
People with learning disabilities, especially those with Down’s syndrome, have a higher level of health needs than the general population. In Down's syndrome they are more likely to experience problems involving the heart, thyroid, sensory impairment, diabetes and epilepsy, and they have an increased risk of developing dementia http://www.nursingtimes.net/nursingtimes/pages/AscreeningprogrammeforadultswithDownssyndrome (subscription to online newsletter may be required to access the full article)

Useful Links

Down Syndrome Association NSW http://www.dsansw.org.au/

Down Syndrome UK www.downs-syndrome.org.uk

Down Syndrome Scotland www.dsscotland.org.uk

National Bowel Cancer Screening Program: annual monitoring report 2009 data supplement 2010

The National Bowel Cancer Screening Program annual monitoring report 2009 presented estimated national statistics on key program activity, performance and outcome indicators for people invited to screen in 2008. Using the latest program data to January 2010, this data supplement provides final statistics on participation, documented follow-up procedures, and cancer and bowel abnormality detection outcomes for these people. While this data update provides a larger amount of outcome data, incomplete reporting, particularly histopathology confirmations, still hinders a complete picture of participant outcomes. AIHW catalogue number (CAN53). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the FREE report.

ABC Health Updates (For health news this is a great e-newsletter to subscribe to – Edr)
Health Updates is a weekly alert about recent ABC health coverage now
available online. Information on how to subscribe can be found at:
http://www.abc.net.au/health/mailinglist.htm

Health and Human Rights Info:
This website provides practical information and material on mental health and human rights. It aims to give browsers access to organisations, publications, guidelines and manuals regarding the effects of human rights violations on individuals’ mental health in the contexts of violence. This website contains a database with links to selected materials, divided into three categories and thematic pages. Topics include torture, child soldiers, post traumatic stress disorder, asylum seekers in Europe and post conflict communities. Health and Human Rights Info is a project initiated by the International Society for Health and Human Rights (ISHHR) and funded by the Norwegian NGO Mental Health Project. Visit: www.hhri.org

2010 Pandemic Vaccination Survey: summary results

This report presents results from the 2010 Pandemic Vaccination Survey conducted in January and February 2010 by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The report provides estimates of swine flu vaccination uptake by Australians, along with the motivation for, and barriers to, vaccination. The survey showed that the swine flu vaccine uptake as of February 2010 was estimated at 18.1% (or about 3.9 million people). Some of the reasons why people wanted to get vaccinated include the seriousness of swine flu (24.7%), doctor's advice (16.8%), employment-related reasons (13.7%) and being in an 'at risk' group (10.9%). AIHW catalogue number (PHE 128) Available from internet only. Click on the link to view the downloadable report and media release.

Chronic kidney disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

This report presents the first detailed analysis of chronic kidney disease in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and how it compares to non-Indigenous Australians. Indigenous Australians have a greater burden of disease for many health conditions, and chronic kidney disease is no exception. Indigenous Australians were found to be more likely to have end-stage kidney disease, and be hospitalised or die with chronic kidney disease than non-Indigenous Australians. AIHW catalogue number (PHE151). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

ASPIRIN AND STROKES (ABC Health Minutes: 12/07/2007)
A small dose of aspirin can help prevent heart attacks and strokes, but
larger doses may be harmful.
http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s1973474.htm

Australia's public sector medical indemnity claims 2008-09

This report presents data on the number, nature and costs of public sector medical indemnity claims for the period 2004-05 to 2008-09, with a focus on 2008-09 claims. There were fewer new claims in 2008-09 (1,231) than in any of the four previous years (about 1,330 to 2,000 claims per year). As in previous years, the three health service contexts most often implicated were Accident and emergency, Obstetrics and General surgery. AIHW catalogue number (HSE111). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Insulin-treated diabetes in Australia 2000 - 2007

Insulin-treated diabetes in Australia 2000-2007 presents the latest available data from Australia's National Diabetes Register (NDR). This report shows that the incidence of Type 1 and other insulin-treated diabetes in Australia is increasing and people with insulin-treated diabetes have significantly higher death rates than other Australians. The information in this report can be used to understand the changing patterns of insulin-treated diabetes, who the disease affects and where people with insulin-treated diabetes reside. AIHW catalogue number (CVD 45). Available from CanPrint for $27.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Australia’s Health 2010 – in brief
All in all, Australia is a healthy nation. We do face challenges, however, and there is certainly scope for improvement. Australia's health 2010 - in brief presents key points and trends from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare's 12th biennial report card about the nation's health, Australia's health 2010. AIHW catalogue number (AUS 126). Available from CanPrint for Free (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the report.

Medicare Information Kit in community languages
The Medicare Information Kit is for new arrivals to Australia has information about Medicare's main health programs, including Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. The kit is translated into 19 community languages and has useful information for everyone, even if they have lived in Australia for some time. Available in Arabic, Bosnian, Chinese, Croatian, Dinka, English, Farsi, Greek, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Khmer, Korean, Macedonian, Russian, Serbian, Spanish, Tagalog, Turkish and Vietnamese. Click her for more information and to download kits.

Chronic kidney disease hospitalisations in Australia 2000-01 to 2007-08

In 2007-08, chronic kidney disease (CKD) contributed to 15% (nearly 1.2 million) of all hospitalisations in Australia, one million of which were for regular dialysis. Indigenous Australians were hospitalised at 11 times the rate of other Australians for regular dialysis, and at 5 times the rate for other principal and additional CKD diagnoses. Hospitalisations for regular dialysis increased by an average of 60,000 per year between 2000-01 and 2007-08, equating to a 71% increase over this period. Increases of 12% for other principal diagnoses of CKD and 48% for additional diagnoses were also recorded. AIHW catalogue number (PHE127). Available from CanPrint for $25.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and FREE downloadable report.

A LITTLE EXERCISE HELPS HEALTH (ABC Health Minutes)
Even a small amount of exercise has health benefits, research confirms.
http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s1973518.htm

The health of Australia's prisoners 2009

The health of Australia’s prisoners 2009 is the culmination of several years’ development of national indicators in relation to prisoner health in Australia. This first national report shows that prisoners in Australia have poor health compared to the general community. A week-long snapshot of prison entrants in Australia during 2009 showed:

* 25% had a chronic condition (such as asthma, cardiovascular disease or diabetes)

* 81% were current smokers; 52% consumed alcohol at risky levels; and 71% had used illicit drugs during the previous 12 months

* 37% of prison entrants reported having received a mental health diagnosis at some time; 43% had received a head injury resulting in a loss of consciousness; and 31% had been referred to prison mental health services.

The report also contains data relating to communicable diseases, educational attainment, deaths in custody, the use of health services and the types of medications used by prisoners. AIHW catalogue number (PHE 123). Available from CanPrint for $ 38.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and FREE DOWNLOAD report.

About 1,000 new cases of Type 1 diabetes in children each year

Australia is in the top 10 countries with the highest rates of Type 1 diabetes in children, with about 1,000 children 14 years and younger developing this type of diabetes each year, according to a report released today by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. The report provides the latest information from Australia's National Diabetes Register (NDR). The register applies to Australians who began using insulin for diabetes since 1999. ‘There were about 7,000 children who developed Type 1 diabetes over the 8-year 2000-2007 period', said Katherine Faulks of the Institute's Cardiovascular Disease, Diabetes and Kidney Unit. ‘There were 990 new cases in 2007, a 30% increase compared with the number of new cases in 2000', she said. The report, Insulin-treated diabetes in Australia, 2000-2007, also looked at insulin-treated cases of Type 2 diabetes and found that there were almost 6,000 new cases in people aged 15-34 years of age over the 8-year period. However, the vast majority (95%) of new cases still occurred in people aged 35 and over. ‘Across all ages, there was a 63% increase in new cases of insulin-treated Type 2 diabetes, between 2000 and 2007,' Ms Faulks said. According to the report, about 1 in 5 people with Type 2 diabetes use insulin to treat their condition. The report also found that there was a 6-fold increase in the number of new cases of insulin-treated gestational diabetes among women aged 15-49 years between 2000 and 2007. ‘All these numbers are saying the same thing, which is that the incidence of insulin-treated diabetes in Australia is increasing, no matter what the age group or the type of diabetes', Ms Faulks said. Click here for more information and to download Insulin-treated diabetes in Australia 2000-2007.

Health care expenditure on chronic kidney disease in Australia 2004-05

Chronic kidney disease is a common and serious problem in Australia. Those with the most severe form, end-stage kidney disease, usually require dialysis or a kidney transplant to survive. It is with these resource intensive and technologically advanced treatments that much of the health costs for chronic kidney disease are incurred, with regular dialysis the most common reason for hospitalisation in Australia. Chronic kidney disease contributes substantially to health care expenditure in Australia(PHE 117). Available from CanPrint for $22.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and download FREE report. and is increasing much faster than expenditure on total health care. In 2004-05 it accounted for 1.7% of total expenditure ($898.7 million), an increase of 33% since 2000-01 ($573.6 million). AIHW catalogue number

OVARIAN CANCER SIGNS (ABC Health Minutes)
There's no simple test to diagnose ovarian cancer, however US doctors
have developed a list of four symptoms that should be investigated.
http://www.abc.net.au/health/minutes/stories/s1973408.htm

Public health expenditure in Australia, 2007-08 (Internet only)

Public health expenditure in Australia 2007-08 is the eighth in a series of annual reports on public health expenditure in Australia produced by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. In that time expenditure on public health activities by health departments has grown, in real terms, by a total of 77.7%, at an average annual growth rate of 7.4%. In 2007-08 it represented 2.2% of total recurrent expenditure on health-up from around 1.9% in the previous years. In the last year, from 2006-07 to 2007-08, public health expenditure increased by $444.0 million to $2,158.8 million. This was largely due to a substantial increase in spending on organised immunisation activities such as the National Human Papillomavirus vaccination program. AIHW catalogue number (HWE 47). Click on the link to view the media release and free report.

Exercise Programs Benefit Quality of Life for Residents suffering Dementia
Leeanne Dove Aged & Community Services Conference 2007 powerpoint presentation http://www.agedservices.asn.au/docs/products/Leeanne%20Dove.pdf

Key indicators of progress for chronic disease and associated determinants: data report

With preventive health now a major focus of health reform in Australia, this report provides information about the prevalence of those chronic diseases for which behavioural changes, or increased screening practices, can reduce onset, assist in management, or prevent death. The report contains current prevalence rates, and where possible, shows trends in chronic conditions over time. Statistics about the determinants of chronic disease assist in planning of prevention programs and strategies. When monitored over time, they may also help explain and predict any changes in chronic disease trends. AIHW catalogue number (PHE142). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Premature mortality from chronic disease

This bulletin uses potential years of life lost to describe mortality patterns for deaths due to chronic disease. It shows that most premature deaths were due to chronic disease. The leading cause of premature mortality among females was breast cancer and among males it was coronary heart disease. Further, the bulletin highlights that a large proportion of premature chronic disease deaths were also potentially avoidable. AIHW catalogue number (AUS133). Available from CanPrint for $10.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Breast Screen Australia Evaluation Report
At the Australian Health Ministers' Conference meeting on 4 September 2009, Health Ministers agreed to publicly release an expert committee's evaluation of the BreastScreen Australia Program. The Australian Government and the states and territories will now work together to consider the 19 recommendations of the Breast Screen Australia Evaluation Report. Click here for more information and to download report.

Dental health of Indigenous children in the Northern Territory: findings from the Closing the Gap program

This report details the oral health of Indigenous children in the Northern Territory who have received dental services as part of the Closing the Gap Initiative. AIHW catalogue number (IHW41). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

BreastScreen Australia monitoring report 2006-2007 and 2007-2008

Breast cancer is the second most common cause of death from cancer in Australian women. BreastScreen Australia monitoring report 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 is the tenth report presenting national statistics (combining data from the 2006-2007 and 2007-2008 reporting periods) on key program activity, performance and outcome indicators for BreastScreen Australia, which aims to reduce mortality and morbidity from breast cancer through detecting cancers early. Since BreastScreen Australia commenced in 1991, mortality from breast cancer has decreased steadily. Further, more than half of all invasive breast cancers detected by BreastScreen Australia are small, with small breast cancers associated with increased treatment options and improved survival. AIHW catalogue number (CAN 51). Available from CanPrint for $30 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and FREE downloadable report.

Expenditure on health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people 2008-09

In 2008-09, total health expenditure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people was estimated at $3,700 million. The average health expenditure per person for Indigenous Australians was $6,787, compared with $4,876 for each non-Indigenous Australian. Correspondingly, the Indigenous to non-Indigenous per person health expenditure ratio was 1.39. This report, the sixth in the series, again shows that Indigenous Australians are more likely than non-Indigenous Australians to rely on public hospital services. In 2008-09, per person expenditure on public hospital services for Indigenous Australians was more than double that for non-Indigenous Australians - an expenditure ratio of 2.25. AIHW catalogue number (HWE53) Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

A snapshot of osteoporosis in Australia 2011

This snapshot brings together the latest data on osteoporosis in Australia. The purpose of the snapshot is to provide the latest statistical information in a timely and efficient manner. AIHW catalogue number (PHE137). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Physical Health of adults with Intellectual Disabilities.
Vee Prasher (Editor), Mattew P. Janicki (Editor)
ISBN : 1405102195 To order, write to Marston Book Services, PO Box 269, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, England OX14 4YN. Callers can telephone +44 (0) 1235 465 500 or fax +44 (0) 1235 465 556. Email inquiries may be directed to direct.order@marston.co.uk.
http://www.iassid.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=books&file=index&bkid=2&ttitle=Physical_Health_of_adults_with_Intellectual_Disabilities.

National best practice guidelines for collecting Indigenous status in health data sets

All clients of health services should be asked if they are of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander origin in the process of routine data collection. Despite improvements in recent years, there have been continuing problems in establishing and maintaining standard practice in the collection of Indigenous status, resulting in the under-identification of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in key national health data sets. These guidelines have been developed to ensure the standard Indigenous status question is asked correctly and consistently of all clients of health services, and that this information is correctly recorded. AIHW catalogue number (IHW 29). Available from CanPrint (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Health Services Union

Aged Care Policy http://hsu.net.au/publications/a.html

Mental Health Policy http://hsu.net.au/publications/f.html
Aboriginal and Torres Straight Islander Policy http://hsu.net.au/publications/q.html
Occupational Health and Safety Policy http://hsu.net.au/publications/er.html

End-stage kidney disease in Australia: total incidence, 2003-2007

The incidence of end-stage kidney disease is an important indicator of the health of the Australian population and valuable for healthcare planning. In the past we have been limited to counting only individuals treated with dialysis or transplant. However it is recognised that many people with end-stage kidney disease might not receive these treatments for a variety of reasons. This report presents a new method for counting the total incidence of end-stage kidney disease which also includes those not treated with dialysis or transplant. This method indicates that for every new case treated with dialysis or transplant there is one that is not, although the vast majority of these are elderly. AIHW catalogue number (PHE143). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

From corrections to the community a set of indicators of the health of Australia's prisoners

The National Prisoner Health Indicators project is developing a national data collection on the health of Australia's prisoners. This document outlines the Indicators to be report on, which have been written in consultation with experts in the field. These indicators will assist in monitoring the health of prisoners, information prisoner health service planning and delivery, and evaluating the provision of services. AIHW catalogue number (AUS 120). Available from CanPrint for $10.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the free report.

Diabetes in pregnancy: its impact on Australian women and their babies

Diabetes is known to adversely affect women and their babies during pregnancy, labour and delivery. These adverse effects differ by type of diabetes and between population groups. This report is the first to explore these differences among Australian mothers and their babies at a national level, showing that:

diabetes affects about 1 in 20 pregnancies
mothers with pre-existing Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes, and their babies, are at highest risk of adverse effects
mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus, and their babies, are also at increased risk
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mothers and their babies are more likely to experience adverse effects than non-Indigenous mothers and their babies.

This report is a useful resource for policymakers, researchers, clinicians and others interested in the effect of diabetes on the health of Australian mothers and their babies. AIHW catalogue number (CVD52). Available from CanPrint for $31.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

The Australian Immunisation Handbook 8th Edition, 2003 ONLINE

For the first time the Australian Immunisation Handbook is being provided in an interactive online format. Please use the navigation toolbar on the left of this screen to negotiate between the sections of the Handbook. The online Handbook also contains a search facility, located at the top of the navigation toolbar.
Important copyright and disclaimer statements can be found here.
To visit the Immunise Australia website click here

Update on 9th Edition Handbook

Update on the development of the Australian Immunisation Handbook, 9th Edition (PDF 27 KB)

Important Update
The Influenza Chapter of the Australian Immunisation Handbook, 9th Edition, is being released following endorsement by the NHMRC in order to provide early access to revised paediatric dosage and other information in advance of the release of the full 9th Edition Handbook later in 2007. It supersedes the draft Influenza Chapter released as part of the public consultation, which should be discarded.

For technical information regarding Influenza vaccination please refer to Chapter 3.9 – Influenza of the Australian Immunisation Handbook 9th Edition 2007.

What's new

November 2007 - Update on the Development of the Australian Immunisation Handbook, 9th Edition: More information ...

August 2007 - Chapter 3.9 – Influenza, Australian Immunisation Handbook, 9th Edition: More information ...

July 2007 - National Rotavirus Vaccination Program: More information ...

April 2007 - Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program
More information ...

Other web sites:

National Immunisation Committee (NIC)

Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI)

National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance – NCIRS (Sydney University)

Adverse Drug Reactions Advisory Committee – ADRAC (TGA)

Australian Childhood Immunisation Register – ACIR (Medicare Australia)

Australian Immunisation Handbook 8th Edition 2003 (NHMRC)

National Immunisation Program Schedule (NIPS)

Prevalence of Type 1 diabetes in Australian children, 2008

Type 1 diabetes is a serious, life-long disease which causes a major health, social and economic burden for individuals with the disease, their families and the community. Prevalence of Type 1 diabetes in Australian children, 2008 presents for the first time estimates of the prevalence of Type 1 diabetes in children aged 0-14 years in 2008, based on Australia's National Diabetes Register data. In 2008, it is estimated that over 5,700 children aged 0-14 years had Type 1 diabetes in Australia. The prevalence rate increased with age and varied by state and territory. Assuming that new cases of Type 1 diabetes in 0-14 year old children continue increasing at the rate observed between 2000 and 2008, it is estimated that the prevalence rate will increase by 10% between 2008 and 2013. AIHW catalogue number (CVD54). Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Public and private sector medical indemnity claims in Australia 2007-08

This report presents data for public and private sector medical indemnity claims, collected through the Medical Indemnity National Collection (MINC), for the period from 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2008 and is the first report in its series to publish claim numbers. The information presented includes the circumstances giving rise to claims, the age and sex of the subjects of the claims, the alleged physical and mental effects on claim subjects, the specialties of clinicians involved, the size and finalisation mode of claims and the length of time that claims were open. AIHW catalogue number (HSE90). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

The use of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs for the management of rheumatoid arthritis

Disease and modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are now considered first-line treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA). When initiated early, they have been shown to alter the disease course and reduce joint erosion, reducing or preventing disability and improving quality of life. AIHW catalogue number (PHE138). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.

Hospital separations due to injury and poisoning, Australia 2005-06

This report provides statistics on hospitalised cases of injury in Australia in 2005-06. In that year:

more than 370,000 cases of hospitalised injury occurred in the community
these comprised 5.5% of episodes in hospital due to all causes
accidental falls (36%), transport crashes (14%), assault (6%) and intentional self harm (6%) were the main causes of the injuries.

AIHW catalogue number (INJCAT131). Available from CanPrint for $25.00 (1300 889 873). Click on the link to view the FREE report.

Trends in serious injury due to land transport accidents, Australia
This report presents trends of serious non-fatal injury due to land transport accidents in Australia over the period 2000-01 to 2007-08 with a focus on road vehicle traffic crashes. Over the 8-year period, age-standardised rates for persons seriously injured due to a road traffic crash increased from 138.4 to 153.4 per 100,000 population. Over one-quarter (28%) of those seriously injured due to a road traffic crash sustained life-threatening injuries. Drivers of motor vehicles, motor cyclists and pedal cyclists all recorded significant increases in age-standardised rates of life-threatening injury over this period. For males aged 45-64 years, the combined total of high threat to life injuries due to motorcycle and pedal cycle road traffic crashes as a percentage of all high threat to life injuries due to road traffic crashes rose from almost 30% in 2000-01 to 50% in 2007-08. AIHW catalogue number (INJCAT132). Available from the internet only. Click on the link to view the media release and report.