As a member of the Australian IDDSI steering group IHHC are pleased to share the joint statement below. Ongoing support is available through the IDDSI website.
Statement regarding the implementation of the International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) in Australia, January 2019
Key stakeholders from Australian and New Zealand professional associations and industry bodies agreed at a forum in 2016 that the IDDSI framework should be adopted in Australia and New Zealand. Implementation of the international framework is best practice for professionals and will support safety in the management of dysphagia.
The Australian implementation date is set for 1 May 2019. Implementation of the IDDSI framework in Australia is voluntary, as was implementation of the Australian Standards in 2007.
The following organisations are proud to offer continued support of adoption of the IDDSI framework in Australia:
- Dietitians Association of Australia
- Institute of Hospitality in HealthCare
- Speech Pathology Australia
The Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) is the national peak body for dietetic and nutrition professionals, representing more than 6,500 members. DAA and its members both research and deliver evidence-based information on food and nutrition locally, nationally and internationally. Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are university-qualified professionals that undertake ongoing training and education programs to ensure that they are your most up-to-date and credible source of nutrition information. They translate scientific health and nutrition information into practical advice.
The Institute of Hospitality in HealthCare (IHHC) is recognised as the peak body for support service professionals employed int the Health and Aged Care Industry. Membership is open to managers and supervisors working across the support services spectrum with the highest percentage being directly involved in foodservice. Dedicated to improving the professionalism and quality of support services in our Industry, the IHHC has actively sought to ensure members are fully conversant with changes that directly impact on the health and well-being of their patients and residents.
Speech Pathology Australia is the national peak body for speech pathologists in Australia, representing over 9000 members. Speech pathologists are university trained allied health professionals with expertise in the diagnosis, assessment, and treatment of speech, language and communication disorders, and swallowing disabilities.