AAREA Website: About AAREA

What is AAREA – “The National Voice”

The Australian Asthma and Respiratory Educators Association is a national network of health professionals (multidisciplinary) working in the field of asthma / respiratory education. It offers training, professional development and credentialing programs in addition to providing representation, information, support and a professional network for asthma and respiratory educators throughout metropolitan, rural and remote regions of Australia.

History of AAREA

AAREA was launched by the Governor of NSW on 28 February 2006 at the University of Sydney, with support from the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, the Commonwealth Department of Health and Aging, the National Asthma Council and the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. The formation of AAREA brings together the New South Wales and Victorian Asthma Educator associations, and the informal professional groups from the remaining states and territories. AAREA, utilises a Total Quality Management approach to service delivery, building on the initiatives of its parent organisations. AAREA had over 400 active members at inauguration.

Objectives of the Association

Promote patient and carer access to asthma and respiratory education services
Implement National standards and frameworks for professional training and credentialing
Deliver a national professional development program for health professionals working in the field of asthma and respiratory education
Lobby for research and training opportunities in the practice of asthma and respiratory health education
Promote awareness of asthma and respiratory health education as an integral part of the optimal management and prevention of respiratory disease across the age spectrum

Membership Eligibility

Health Professionals working in or with an interest in Asthma / Respiratory Education are invited to join AAREA. The membership application form is available on our website: www.aareducation.com

Services to Health Professionals

Biennial National Symposium
Previously held in Canberra in 2003 & 2005. Keep your Calendar free for August 2007 for this popular event.
Professional Development (PD)
The new association is busy developing a PD calendar for each State & territory. The program incorporates current areas of interest/training in the field.
Annual Travel Grant (to TSANZ meeting)
Annual Research Grant
Training Opportunities
The current training program includes:
- Basic Training Course in Asthma Education
- Practice Nurse Workshop in Asthma management/education
- Asthma Update for health professional working in the field
- Charles Sturt University offers post graduate external courses in Respiratory Education/Science (grad cert/grad diploma/masters)
Standards of Practice
A guide to best practice in Asthma Education
Credentialing Program
National Credentialing Program for Asthma Educators commenced 2006
Newsletter
National Quarterly Newsletter
Networking
Is promoted through our gatherings, local networks and website, includes: Mailing List – distribution service; website forums, Networking Directory & Links to all relevant areas / fields.