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Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care (the Commission) is a corporate Commonwealth Government agency and part of the Health Portfolio. As such, it is accountable to the Australian Parliament and the Minister for Health, the Hon. Greg Hunt.

The Commission works in partnership with patients, carers, clinicians, the Australian, state and territory health systems, the private sector, managers and healthcare organisations to achieve a safe, high-quality and sustainable health system.

The Commission aims to provide a health system that is informed, supported and organised to deliver safe and high-quality health care.

Vision and mission

The Commission’s purpose is to contribute to better health outcomes and experiences for all patients and consumers, and improved value and sustainability in the health system by leading and coordinating national improvements in the safety and quality of health care.

How the Commission can help

The Commission aims to ensure people are kept safe when they receive health care and that they receive the health care they should.

Programs, apps and tools

Decision Support tools for patients

Information / helpline

Call 02 9126 3600 Mon to Fri, 9am to 5pm AEST for general enquires

Recommended links

Last reviewed: May 2020

Information from this partner

Found 51 results

Osteoarthritis of the Knee : Clinical Care Standard Consumer Fact Sheet

Osteoarthritis is a condition that causes joints to become painful and stiff. The knee is a common joint that is affected.

Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website

What you need to know about CT scans for children

A resource for parents and carers.

Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website

Information for clinicians – Low Back Pain Clinical Care Standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

What clinicians need to know

Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website

FAQs for consumers on elective surgery | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

Your questions answered Updated 29 June 2021

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Cognitive impairment and COVID-19 | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

During COVID-19, people with cognitive impairment may be further disoriented by the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and find instructions such as social distancing hard to follow. There may be restrictions on family and carers who are usually there to support them.  

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How should care be delivered at the end of life? Information for patients and their families and carers | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

The way that we look after people who are dying is important. Good care at the end of life can help to reduce distress and grief for the person who is dying and for their family, friends and carers.

Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website

Information on end-of-life care for consumers | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

How should care be given at the end of life?

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Comprehensive Care - Element 2: Identifying goals of care - Tips for patients and consumers | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

A goal is about a treatment outcome and the things you want to be able to do. It is important that the healthcare team understands your goals, as it helps them understand what is important to you. It is also important to talk about your goals, as sometimes they might be different to your healthcare team’s goals.

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Acute bronchitis: should I take antibiotics? | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

Acute bronchitis: should I take antibiotics? Downloads Acute bronchitis: should I take antibiotics? Publication year 2021 Resource type Guide, user guide or guidelines Topics Antimicrobial resistance, use and stewardship

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Preparing and participating in open disclosure discussions | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care

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Read more on Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care website

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