The Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences says that periods of national disruption underscore the importance of resilient health systems, resilient research capability and evidence-based planning.

During periods of domestic pressures arising from global instability, the Academy said national resilience must include the continuity of health care, medical supply chains, emergency response capability and the research infrastructure that supports patient care and public health.

Academy President Professor Louise Baur AM said: “At times of uncertainty, it is important that health resilience is recognised as part of national resilience. Health systems do not operate in isolation from the broader infrastructure, logistics and supply chains on which communities depend.”

“Effective health planning, continuity arrangements, and evidence-based decision-making are essential to maintaining care, protecting vulnerable populations, and supporting system resilience during periods of disruption.”

The Academy said major supply and infrastructure shocks can affect not only the delivery of health care, but also the health and medical research capability that underpins it – disrupting access to medicines, diagnostics and pathology, placing pressure on clinical and emergency operations, affecting workforce mobility, and interrupting critical research continuity.

“As Australia responds to a more uncertain environment, it is important that preparedness planning is informed by evidence and by the expertise of those working across the health and medical research system,” Professor Baur said.

The Academy emphasised that on matters of public and individuals’ health, trusted, expert and non-partisan public communication is critical during periods of uncertainty.

“Clear and evidence-based communication helps maintain public confidence and supports better decision-making across the community and the health system alike.”

The Academy said its Fellowship, comprising many of Australia’s leading health and medical researchers, clinicians and system experts, has deep expertise relevant to questions of preparedness, resilience, continuity and public trust, and is prepared to assist the government in its national health resilience preparedness planning.

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