Canberra Health Services and the University of Canberra have partnered to expand pulmonary rehabilitation services in the ACT.

Provided to people who have been diagnosed with chronic lung conditions, the eight-week program will double in capacity, resulting in 375 patients with chronic lung disease being able to access rehabilitation each year.

It is expected that wait times will drop from 18–24 months to around two months, ensuring timelier access and improved clinical outcomes.

It is estimated that these additional services will reduce hospital admissions by approximately 480 bed days each year, which equates to $1.4 million annually.

Physiotherapy students from the University of Canberra will work at the UC Health Clinics as part of their work-integrated learning placements, under the close supervision of experienced CHS clinical staff.

Minister for Health, Dr Marisa Paterson, welcomed the partnership between Canberra Health Services and the University of Canberra.

“The ACT Government is committed to delivering high-quality healthcare closer to home for Canberrans. Expanding these services will enable more targeted care, improve patient outcomes, and support a more efficient and responsive public health system” Dr Paterson said.