Why was allied health missed? A critical examination of the recommendations of the Disability Royal Commission for allied health professionals working with people with intellectual disabilities

Abstract: Many people with intellectual disabilities have complex health needs that are not met by the Australian healthcare system. The Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability (the Commission) looked at the failings of the healthcare system and the improvements needed. Services provided by allied health professionals are one part of the healthcare system. This article describes the evidence the Commission heard about the unmet allied health needs of people with intellectual disabilities, the resulting harms caused, and the recommendations to address these. Despite identifying unmet allied health needs, the Commission heard evidence predominantly about nursing and medical care, although many of its recommendations were applied to the entire health workforce, including allied health professionals. The article reflects on the challenges of implementing the Commission’s recommendations and the risk that positive change in health outcomes for people with intellectual disabilities may not be achieved.