Establish specialised neurological hospitals in regional areas

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The issue

My family's personal journey with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) has shown me firsthand the enormous gap in specialised healthcare available in regional areas. My younger daughter and husband both suffer from NF1, a genetic disorder that affects the nervous system, and we currently have no choice but to undertake exhausting and costly trips to Melbourne to access the expert care they need. Yet, we aren't alone in facing this challenge.

Across Australia, countless families are burdened with similar taxing journeys frequently required for children and adults suffering from an array of neurological disorders. Imagine adding the stress of long travels to an already difficult scenario of managing a chronic neurological condition. It doesn't have to be this way.

In 2018, the Brain Foundation in Australia highlighted how pivotal specialised neurological care is, estimating that neurological disorders impact thousands of Australians, with substantial numbers in regional areas experiencing delayed diagnoses and treatments due to lack of nearby facilities. The current infrastructure just simply isn't enough.

Our proposal is to establish specialised hospitals in regional areas specifically focused on neurological disorders, equipped with the expertise and technology to cater both to adults and children. This initiative could dramatically enhance the quality of life for those with neurological conditions by providing timely and specialized care, while also alleviating financial and emotional strains on families.

Moreover, accessible healthcare in regional areas can save lives by allowing for quicker diagnosis and treatment, and could significantly reduce the cost burden on the national healthcare system. Investing in such infrastructure also ensures uniformity in healthcare access, a step towards more equitable health services nationally.

We call upon the Australian Government, health authorities, and regional development stakeholders to prioritise the establishment of these vital health facilities. Ensuring a dedicated budget allocation and forming partnerships with neurological health organisations could be initial steps towards realising this objective.

We must act now for our families and the numerous individuals battling neurological disorders daily. Your signature can make a real difference in advocating for systemic change. Please sign this petition to help champion for specialised neurological hospitals in regional areas.

avatar of the starter
Annie May MuirPetition starterhi everyone I am a stay at home mum my husband and I have 2 beautiful girls our eldest daughter is in grade 2 and 8 years old and our youngest is in 4 year old kindergarten who will be starting prep next year at the specialist school.

The Decision Makers

Brain Foundation Australia
Brain Foundation Australia
Department of Health and Aged Care (Australia)
Department of Health and Aged Care (Australia)

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