Opioid Harm in Australia
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare released Opioid harm in Australia: and comparisons between Australia and Canada, a report into opioid harm in Australia and Canada this month, with concerning findings.
Key figures included:
- 3.1 million people filled 15.4 million opioid scripts in 2016–17
- Opioids accounted for 62% of drug-induced deaths and rose by 62% from 2007 to 2016
- In 2016–17 there were 5,112 emergency department presentations and 9,636 hospitalisations due to opioid poisoning
- Every day in Australia three people die from opioid-related reasons
In a Painaustralia Media Release, CEO, Carol Bennett pointed out that Australia is facing a pain epidemic.
“These findings are not just about medication, but shine a light on Australians fighting what is often an invisible condition – pain”.
This report renewed calls to implement our National Strategic Action Plan on Pain Management, including better consumer information and education for doctors about the role opioids play in pain management and the need for interdisciplinary care.
This story garnered widespread media attention, with Carol appearing on Sky News, SBS News, AJP and being quoted across FM radio (Triple M) and 9News.com.au.
National plan to address Australia’s burden of pain
A feature piece written by Painaustralia CEO Carol Bennett, was also featured in the National Rural Health Alliance’s magazine, Partyline. The article highlights the specific challenges to proper pain management outside Australia’s capital cities, as well as the prevalence of pain in these regions. Read National Plan to Address Australia’s Burden of Pain here.
Productivity Commission Inquiry into PHI in Australia
Another key media event in November was the joint statement to federal politicians requesting a Productivity Commission inquiry into private health insurance.
The letter comes amid growing concerns about the rising cost of private health insurance without the added value and improved access for consumers. This is a core concern to all Australians, as the private system’s key intent is to take pressure off the public system. The collapse of private health care will place too much additional strain on an already overburdened system.
The letter was cosigned by Painaustralia, Consumers Health Forum (CHF), National Rural Health Alliance, Public Health Association, Choice and eight other peak organisations.
Read the release here.
Pain Champion's global expose on the regulation of medical implant devices
Pain Champion and ABC National health journalist, Sophie Scott, revealed a worldwide investigation into implanted medical devices and how the system is impacting Australian patients. Click here to read the ABC story.