PTA Advocacy Activities
Drawing on the expert knowledge and experience of the PTA team and broad member base we develop policy positions and contribute to government and special interest working groups.
Explore our recent publications, reach out for collaborative opportunities, and engage in our many member-driven activities as we continue to demonstrate the critical value of pathology technology in healthcare.
Read our publications & reports.
PTA PUBLICATIONS & REPORTS
Value of Pathology Technology
PTA commissioned this report in partnership with HTANALYSTS and Humanise Health, highlighting pivotal role of pathology technology in the Australian healthcare.
Calculated over $7Billion in forgone value through insufficient or delayed funding to critical tests and technology.
Delays in access most deeply affect patients, families, and communities.
PTA-C/24 Congress Communique
More than 160 healthcare examined the role of technology in healthcare:
- Does your postcode dictate your healthcare outcome?
- Have we been left behind in the technology race?
- How can technology address some of the biggest issues facing Australians and our health?
Data capture during the Congress created the consensus-driven communique.
To view footage from PTA-C/24 https://www.ptacongress.com/ and sign up to News and Information.
Sovereign Capability in Diagnostics
In collaboration with MTPConnect, we conducted 84 interviews with 144 interviewees, drawing insights from stakeholders across the value chain, both within Australia and internationally.
A meticulously stress-tested recommendation for an Action Plan emerged as a robust roadmap. This strategic blueprint addresses the need to invest in onshore technology manufacturing, closing the capability gap and fortifying our healthcare system.
WORKING GROUPS & ADVISORY BODIES
Point of care testing
PTA is represented in a multi-stakeholder working group convened by the Department of Health and tasked with:
- Identify priority areas in healthcare with greatest gaps in standard laboratory testing.
- Advise on opportunities and challenges with PoCT to address these gaps.
- Advise on appropriate quality assurance framework for the use of PoCTs.
- Develop guiding principles for the assessment of PoCTs to inform suitability for public funding.
The final whitepaper recommendation will be sent to the Medical Services Advisory Council (MSAC) in the first quarter of 2025.
Join our Member Advisory Panel.
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Genomics
PTA was selected in a government expert advisory group (EAG) tasked with scoping the purpose, priorities, and functions of a Federal body for genomics in healthcare – Genomics Australia, due to be established July 2025.
A MAP informed our voice throughout the 12-month process ending July 2024. This diverse group of members and stakeholders agreed the way this body operationalises in collaboration with States and Territories is key. This MAP will stay active and continue to advocate for a seat at the table to advise on the critical decisions of how genomics will be integrated into Australia’s health system.
Join our Member Advisory Panel.
Antimicrobial Resistance
PTA was part of a stakeholder roundtable in August 2024, convened by CSIRO and Research Australia, brought together over 20 people that included representatives from the research sector, professional associations, the health industry and consumer groups.
The goal was to build consensus on the key priorities for achieving optimal
prescribing of antimicrobials including opportunities for a more patient-centric and multidisciplinary approach to
evidence-informed prescribing.
You can read the communique here.