ACT Government releases roadmap for child and adolescent health services

A roadmap for ACT Government child and adolescent health services has been released, designed to better respond to the needs of children and their families across acute, outpatient and community services.

 

The Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Plan 2023-2030 builds on previous work to improve and strengthen services for children, adolescents and their families in the nation’s capital.

 

Development of the Plan was overseen by the Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Expert Panel and is a key deliverable of the ACT Health Services Plan 2022-2030 released in August 2022.

 

The Plan was developed through consultation with a range of stakeholders, as well as analysis of data to ensure actions build on and improve services across Canberra’s public health system. This includes work to strengthen the relationship between Canberra Health Services and the Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network.

 

“While we have been boosting investment in child and youth services in recent years, the Child and Adolescent Clinical Services Plan will further guide the development of services for children, adolescents and their families where and when they need them,” said Minister for Health Rachel Stephen-Smith MLA.

 

“The early years of life are vital and we are committed to providing the best possible care for young Canberrans from early childhood through to their transition to adult services.”

 

The plan builds on the previous work on Kids in Interstate Care, which has developed since Health Care Consumers Association’s research report in 2019. The aim is to streamline these processes, improve communication and make sure children and families have clear paths and support when their children need care interstate.

 

“The outcomes and priorities identified in this Plan complement other key pieces of work across maternity services, the first 1,000 days of a child’s life, preventative health and the ACT Health Services Plan, as well as recent reviews and ongoing initiatives in paediatric services,” explained Ms Stephen-Smith.

 

She thanked the Expert Panel members for their commitment and dedication in supporting the future health and wellbeing of Canberra’s children, adolescents and their families, also extending her gratitude to everyone who took time to contribute and provide feedback during the process.