Australian Anaesthesia Allied Health Practitioners (AAAHP)
A Brief Overview AAAHP (Australian Anaesthesia Allied Health Practitioners) was conceptualised in 1994 as the Australasian Society of Anaesthesia Technicians (ASAT) when a steering committee representing all regions was formed. The final governing authority came about in 1999 in Perth where there was consensus from all regions resulting in the signing of a common Constitution. All members abide by the Code of Ethics as published by the Society. All regions have similar aims and objectives. ASAT decided to rename the association in 2002, to reflect a more professional title for the profession. With a lot of member feedback the name ASAPO (Australasian Society of Anaesthesia Paramedical Officers), was chosen. However in recent years, due to the Ambulance paramedics pushing for national registration, the title PARAMEDIC will become a protected title. Due to this issue the ASAPO committee and Working Party discussed at some length over three years and came up with the new title, AAAHP, Australian Anaesthesia Allied Health Practitioners. The Association Committee currently consists of eight members who are elected from each region and act as the Management Committee (above). The Executive consists of members from these regions. The regions are Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia and also a liaison with New Zealand. The successes of AAAHP are a reflection of the commitment of the original steering committee that convened the first meeting and created the concept of ASAT, now known as AAAHP. In recent times the Society has undertaken the mammoth task of obtaining information from each region about: the number of members the qualifications accepted who has undertaken training what courses are available, and the development of nationally recognised training through the Health Training Package. This has been the most expansive and thorough study to date in Australia to ascertain the depth and breadth of qualified "Assistants to the Anaesthetists". Where to from here? AAAHP will continue to develop the national course and postgraduate courses for both technicians and assistants. AAAHP will also continue to improve the membership registration process for Anaesthetic Technicians. Work is underway in the establishment of a technicians' and assistants' Voluntary Registration process to protect the patients we care for. We will continue to work with all disciplines in the development of our profession..
Code of Ethics All members of the Society are required to abide by the following Code of Ethics which has been promulgated not only for the benefit of the members, but also for the protection of the patient. Carry out duties with skill, care and judgment in such a way as to promote and protect the rights and wellbeing of the patient. Confidentiality for the patient shall be respected and maintained at all times. Be aware of the value for all professional persons associated with the provision of patient care. Recognise any limitations of competence and never undertake delegated tasks without first receiving instruction, which will facilitate the duties to be carried out in a professional and capable manner. Endeavour to achieve and maintain a high standard of knowledge and to impart such knowledge to fellow members. Afford and maintain a high standard of care to patients suffering ill health due to communicable disease, in accordance with local policy.
With our upcoming Conference on the Gold Coast in October 2024 , we are seeking industry partners to sponsor this event. Great advertising and exposure opportunities availble , via workshops and event interaction. Contact the regostrar at registrar
aaahp.org.au .
