High rates of unsafe drug injecting in prison are worsening the rate of hepatitis C among indigenous populations in Australia

News

High rates of unsafe drug injecting in prison are worsening the rate of hepatitis C among indigenous populations in Australia

26 January 2015

Mainstream medical services are failing Aboriginal communities, where the rate of Hepatitis C is rising, a peak Aboriginal health body has told a federal Senate inquiry.

The inquiry by the standing committee on health is examining the prevalence of the disease, testing and treatment options, associated costs, and methods to improve prevention and reduce stigma associated with it.

A public hearing in Sydney on Thursday heard submissions from stakeholders, including the National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (Naccho), which called for improved access and funding of medical services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Click here to read the full article.

Keep up-to-date with drug policy developments by subscribing to the IDPC Monthly Alert.