As the latest Disability Royal Commission held in Sydney progressed through its concluding days, attendees heard about the varying levels of choice and control around health care options offered to people with disability. While some providers were identified as demonstrating “good practice in helping participants to manage their health”, others were criticised for acting upon staff convenience rather than in a participant’s best interests.
Other concerning issues raised included instances of doctors making assumptions about a participant’s ability to make informed choices about their own treatments.
Poignant remarks from three mothers of people with disability revealed their concerns about who would advocate on behalf of their children when they were no longer able to.
Final recommendations from a disability advocate stressed the importance of effective communication and the need for Easy Read documents to be provided to people with disability as they access health care.
Interaction will continue to provide updates throughout the Royal Commission. The next hearing on Education is scheduled to begin on Tuesday 24th March in Brisbane.
If you are in need of legal services in relation to the Disability Royal Commission, a new website has been launched. This service is available to both staff and participants and can be reached at 1800 771 800 during business hours.
Interaction welcomes feedback and concerns from our participants, families, carers and staff. Our complaint form can be accessed here, with an easy-read policy to assist if needed. As always, you can contact us anytime on 1300 668 123, or info@interactionservices.org
If you need help providing feedback, you can ask any of our staff to help, or contact the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to get advice on 1800 035 544 (TTY 133 677) or visit their website on www.ndiscommission.gov.au.
The Australian Government is providing free advocacy support services for people with disability. Advocates can provide advice, act on your behalf to access supports and help protect your rights. You can learn more by visiting their website here, or email disabilityadvocacy@dss.gov.au.
The Council for Intellectual Disability has published easy-read information about the Royal Commission. Click here to access the easy-read articles.
