Budget must put Australia’s health front and centre
With less than a week until federal budget, the AMA has released its full pre-budget submission, outlining costed solutions that will help ease the pressure on Australia’s struggling health system.
AMA President Professor Steve Robson welcomed recent announcements from the federal government on allowing patients to access two months’ supply of some medicines for one co-payment, new investment in general practice and significant vaping reform.
“We look forward to more detail on the announcements that were made following National Cabinet and during the minister’s press club address that give the promise of first steps towards reforming primary care, strengthening general practice and keeping Australians healthy and out of hospitals,” Professor Robson said.
“However, immediate funding is needed to ensure general practice continues to be viable and to improve access to care for vulnerable Australians. We also need to see investment across other areas of the health sector to address significant challenges, including workforce shortages, increased demand, and rising costs of providing healthcare.
“The AMA’s Pre-Budget Submission 2022–23 contains evidence-backed, detailed proposals that will reduce the strain on the health system and improve the lives of Australians. Next week’s budget is a perfect opportunity to ensure our health system is well-resourced and able to meet the needs of all Australians, now and into the future.
“Our submission includes targeted initiatives that would immediately improve access to GPs after hours, help Australians with chronic wounds access care, enable patients to spend more time with their GP, increase access to a allied health in general practice, and improve access to general practice for our most vulnerable communities.”
Professor Robson said the AMA’s 2023 Public Hospital Report Card launched last week revealed further decline in public hospital performance, with growing wait times for planned surgery, specialist appointments, and emergency department care.
“These are real people, in real pain. While the current review of public hospital funding presents a chance for long-term reform, we need immediate action to address ramping, growing waiting lists, and backlogs in care.
“Key to reducing pressure on public hospitals is shoring up our private health system, which provides patients with increased access to care and will be critical in addressing the growing backlog of surgeries. We have provided a roadmap to ensuring the sustainability of the private health system — including making it more affordable and attractive for younger people. At the centre of the roadmap is the establishment of an independent Private Health System Authority to bring together the sector and create a platform for reform.”
Professor Robson said the government could also make real inroads on public health, by implementing a tax on sugary drinks to curb Australia’s growing obesity problem and initiatives to improve the health outcomes of vulnerable communities.
“Whether it’s investment in public health, primary care, public hospitals, or our private system — health will always be the best investment, as it improves lives and supports economic productivity and growth. The upcoming budget presents a unique opportunity for the government to demonstrate its commitment to the health of all Australians.”
Read the AMA Pre-Budget Submission 2022–23
