Ahpra launches the National Scheme Strategy 2031

The Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra) has launched the National Scheme Strategy 2031. The strategy centres on three strategic themes: effective harm prevention, a culturally safe health system for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, and a sustainable health workforce.

“These priorities will drive our reform agenda. They will guide every decision and investment we make to ensure Ahpra can continue its vital work of protecting the public for years to come,” Ahpra CEO Justin Untersteiner said.

Under the strategy, Ahpra said effective harm prevention will remain a top priority in the face of continued workforce pressures, changes in society and advancements in technology. Untersteiner noted that, as stewards of the National Scheme, Ahpra and the National Boards play a crucial role in ensuring Australians could continue to have faith in their health system.

“We have a proven ability to effectively register and regulate health practitioners in Australia. This is our core business and our commitment to public protection has never been in doubt,” Untersteiner said.

“But we know we can’t stand still. We have to take stock and make sure we’re in step with what’s next — for health consumers, health workers and the health of the system.”

Ahpra Board Chair Gill Callister PSM said the importance of collaboration and partnership in healthcare regulation could not be overstated. “Our ability to protect the public and support a safe, skilled health workforce depends on National Scheme partners working together in a coordinated and constructive way,” Callister said.

You can learn more about the scheme here, via the Ahpra website.

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