Eleanor Jackson Bowers, PHC RIS
AUSTRALIA 2020 SUMMIT
 By 2020 research should be recognised as a profession with clear leadership and mentorship and with a professional body to drive it.
This was one of the ideas generated by the 2020 Summit, a gathering with a difference as the new Prime Minister gathered 1000 of Australia's best thinkers on 19-20 April 2008 to bring together their ideas and help to shape the long term future of Australia .
The ideas developed at the summit have been distilled into a series of reports in each of ten critical areas. The report on a long term national health strategy reflects a wide ranging discussion and contains a plethora of good ideas.
A strong theme was on developing a wellness focussed health system and the promotion of healthy lifestyles. A National Preventive Health Agency funded through taxes on cigarettes, alcohol and tobacco was proposed, as were wellness centres and health impact statements on all new government policies.
Discussion explored health inequalities, the health workforce, better sharing of health information, and improved systems for health research and research translation. Research training, career pathways for researchers and the better recognition of research as a profession were also much discussed.
The ideas are presented as they have been received and the individual voices of those presenting the ideas comes through strongly. While many have been circulating in health circles for some time, there are some gems, such as using the face book concept to develop personal health records which are accessible from anywhere.
The report is an interesting read for anyone in need of inspiration and looking for fresh ideas. It shows the type of health system and health priorities Australians want and will thus be a valuable guide for government planning and for service development.
The summit website containing all the reports is available at <www.australia2020.gov.au/>
|
print version
email this page
