FECCA Submission on Quality Use of Medicines and Medicines Safety
FECCA’s submission addresses quality use of medicines and medicines safety for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) older Australians. Highlighting challenges faced by CALD seniors, including language barriers, low health literacy, and limited access to culturally competent healthcare services. FECCA underscores the importance of educating CALD seniors and their caregivers on medication safety and addressing preferences for traditional medicines, which may carry risks. The submission recommends comprehensive health literacy programs, culturally competent training for healthcare workers, and enhanced community engagement to better serve CALD seniors in aged care.
FECCA also stresses the need for improved data collection to ensure policies are evidence-based and inclusive. It advocates for a national CALD data project to capture critical variables like language needs and interpreter requirements, enabling more tailored interventions. Additionally, the document calls for the establishment of a dedicated advisory group for CALD health in aged care, emphasising the role of community organisations in bridging gaps in care and communication. These measures aim to enhance the safety and quality of medicine use among diverse senior populations, reducing preventable harm and fostering equity in aged care.
