The Integrated Assessment Tool (IAT) is currently under development due to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. Scheduled for implementation in July 2024, the IAT aims to streamline assessment processes for Commonwealth-subsidised aged care services, consolidating ACAT, RAS, and AN-ACC assessors into a unified system. However, chronic oedema screening is notably absent from the current framework.

It is crucial that we advocate for its inclusion in the IAT to ensure our elderly population’s needs are met. We must collectively lobby our federal ministers, urging them to address this gap. By explaining the importance of including chronic oedema screening and providing clear guidance on implementation, we can ensure our voices are heard.

Download a template outlining the rationale for inclusion and a simple screening method, such as the 10-second pitting test, which has been supported by research findings. I know as part of the lymphoedema practitioner’s assessment, the pitting test is much longer, but remember, we aren’t asking them to diagnose or assess the type of oedema but rather observe if there is the presence of oedema.