Scleroderma Australia Champions Nurse-Led Clinics in the ACT

Grassroots advocacy leads to political recognition in the ACT Legislative Assembly

Scleroderma Australia has taken a significant step forward in advocating for improved healthcare access for people living with scleroderma in the ACT. In a heartfelt letter dated 27 May 2025, Chair Amanda Lawrie-Jones addressed ACT Health Minister Rachel Stephen-Smith, highlighting the urgent need for nurse-led rheumatology clinics to alleviate the growing strain on specialist services.

A key driver of this advocacy has been Liz, the leader of the ACT Scleroderma Support Group. Scleroderma Australia has proudly supported Liz in her tireless efforts to raise awareness and push for systemic change. Through her initiative, Liz has gained significant traction, successfully setting up meetings with multiple Members of Parliament. Her work directly contributed to the recent milestone in the ACT Legislative Assembly.

In a promising development, Greens MLA Jo Clay spoke in the Assembly last week about the importance of scleroderma care and the need for a nurse-led clinic. Her speech can be viewed on the Legislative Assembly, and the written Hansard version is available on page 1886.

Jo Clay has also expressed interest in attending the local support group meeting in Canberra, further demonstrating her commitment to this cause.

Scleroderma Australia’s advocacy aligns with the ACT Health Workforce Strategy 2023–2032, which aims to build a sustainable health workforce. Our letter proposed several strategic initiatives, including:

• Establishing a full rheumatology training pathway in Canberra.
• Offering financial incentives to attract specialists.
• Creating academic and research opportunities.
• Supporting nurse-led and multidisciplinary clinics.

Nurse-led clinics, in particular, were emphasized as a practical and evidence-based solution. Nurse practitioners with advanced rheumatology training can:

• Monitor and assess stable patients.
• Provide education and disease management support.
• Triage urgent cases and facilitate timely referrals.
• Prevent hospital admissions.
• Ensure continuity of care during specialist absences.

These models have proven successful in other regions, resulting in improved patient outcomes and reduced hospital admissions.

Scleroderma Australia continues to advocate for meaningful change, ensuring that those living with this complex condition receive timely, expert care. The push for nurse-led clinics is a vital part of this mission, and with growing political support and community momentum, there is real optimism that meaningful change is on the horizon.

PICTURE

Left to right are Leanne Castley MLA (Leader of the Opposition and Shadow Health Minister), Liz (support group Leader, Jenni (support group member) and Chiaka Barry MLA (Shadow Minister for Disability).