AMA Sets Out Health Policy Priorities For Voters Ahead Of The 2004 Federal Election
AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson, today released Key Health Issues for the 2004 Federal Election, the AMA's checklist of the priorities that will be central to the health policy debate for the coming election.
Speaking at the National Press Club in Canberra, Dr Glasson said the AMA document would provide the media, the public and health commentators with a handy guide to how the major parties are responding to the health needs of the community.
"Health policy affects every Australian every day in some way," Dr Glasson said.
"We have one of the best health systems in the world, but we cannot be complacent.
"Based on feedback from our members, our patients and the community, we have identified the main elements of the health system and health policy that the Government and the Opposition must address in their election platforms.
"The AMA will seek meetings with all the major parties to explain and discuss our recommendations.
"The most important message we will give them is that health policy must be geared for the long term with genuine structural reform instead of the usual grab bag of 'treats' at election time.
"That approach might win votes bit it won't save lives or improve the health of the Australian community.
"We need health policies that set a framework for services that will benefit us in our old age and, more importantly, will be there for our kids throughout their lives.
"I firmly believe that the AMA and its expert first-hand view of the health system can and will make a valuable contribution to enduring high quality affordable patient care in this country," Dr Glasson said.