The Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association (AHHA) has welcomed the federal government’s Medicare funding announcement of $8.5 billion, but for this investment to provide the greatest benefit for Australians, the focus must be on delivering value over volume.
‘Decades have passed since the establishment of Medicare, and while it revolutionised access to universal health care in Australia, much has changed in both the health conditions that people manage and the way care can be delivered,’ says AHHA CEO Kylie Woolcock.
‘This investment in primary care is a significant step towards strengthening Medicare, and increasing access to the health care people need, when they need it, particularly during this cost-of-living crisis.’
People have diverse health care needs that can be addressed in primary care, however, different care models will be needed across our country to meet those needs. A strong primary care system is critical to keeping people well and protecting them from needing visits to EDs and hospitals.
‘Australians should be asking – How will this investment ensure a more timely, accurate diagnosis when I present with symptoms? How will it ensure I am informed about the treatment options available to me? How will it ensure I have access to and can navigate the range of supports I need tomonitor and manage my condition? How will it keep me from needing to go to the hospital?’
‘To achieve what matters to Australians with this investment, we must ensure it drives improved health outcomes and quality of care, and this requires collaboration across our health system,’ Ms Woolcock continued.
‘We need to be open to innovative approaches that are focused on outcomes, embracing the potential that team-based care or technology can bring and connecting services across the health and social care systems.’
AHHA will continue to work across the sector to ensure that this funding is supported within a broader reform agenda to enhance the quality and sustainability of primary health care in Australia and deliver better outcomes for all Australians
