$24 million for innovative research to improve emergency care

10 research projects across the country will receive a share of $24 million from the Morrison Government to explore better ways to reduce wait times for Australians presenting to emergency departments (EDs).

These projects will point the way to new approaches to enable EDs to operate more efficiently and more effectively, to provide better health outcomes for all patients.

Flinders University will receive $1.1 million for their project, which will partner with consumers to develop a geriatric urgent care unit, as an alternative to the EDs for older people.

Based on an alternative model of urgent care for older people developed in 2021 by the Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, the research will use mixed methods to assess the outcome of this new model for patients, families and the health service, and inform service improvements.

The University of Tasmania will receive $2.9 million to conduct research on the use of clinical pathways (CPs) in acute care to improve patient care and reduce pressure on EDs. This project will use a consumer-driven approach to investigate barriers, develop a strategy and identify priorities to improve care for Australians.

In Western Australia, the University of WA will receive $2.9 million for a project focussed on improving emergency health care for older people with cognitive decline or acute illness. OPERATE: Older Persons Early Recognition Access and Treatment in Emergencies will implement, coordinate and evaluate strategies including better care at home rather than in hospitals, streamlined ED and hospital care when necessary, and ensuring safe discharge and ongoing care.

Minister for Health and Aged Care, Greg Hunt, said this investment was part of the Morrison Government’s commitment to investing in our nation’s brightest medical researchers.

“We know right across the country that Australians are facing increased wait times when presenting to hospitals,” Minister Hunt said.

“These projects will look at alternatives to how we can ensure Australians are getting the best care they can, without having to go to an ED.”

“Our Government has invested record funding in medical research, delivering breakthrough advances in treatments and cures and creating more jobs in our world class medical and biotechnology sector.”

The Morrison Government’s $20 billion MRFF, is a long-term, sustainable investment in Australian health and medical research, helping to improve lives, build the economy and contribute to the sustainability of the health system.

This is a stark contrast to Mr Albanese and Labor, who when last in Government stopped listing essential medicines and treatments on the PBS, slashed funding for mental health support and tried to rip funding out of medical research.

Further information about the MRFF is available at www.health.gov.au/mrff

MRFF 2022 Models of Care to Improve the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Acute Care Grant Opportunity