7 lessons for Australia’s health system

In a report released today, the Grattan Institute outlines seven key lessons that can help make the health system more effective, efficient and equitable, and better able to deal with future crises.

“One health” for the world

A “One Health” approach which combine animal, human, and environmental measures could help prevent another devastating pandemic and support a more holistic definition of security.

A chance to reframe health politics

The response to COVID-19 is a reminder of the huge capacity of states to improve health outcomes and exposes how our acceptance of suffering on the basis of ‘affordability’ costs lives.

Healthy habits ‘deliver a disease-free decade’

A study of US workers shows how healthy habits in middle age can help you enjoy extra years of disease-free life later on in life.

Cutting health costs through better prosthesis

Health insurance costs are rising and the price of prostheses such as hip replacements are partly to blame. Fortunately there is a way to rein in costs – and give patients more choice and better devices.

Patients have rights, here’s how to use yours

As a patient, you have rights about how you’re treated. This includes not just your actual therapy, but how you’re spoken to, how your records are handled and even whether you wish to be treated at all.

Don’t forget Mum’s health: Reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes

University of South Australia researchers are appealing for better support for women diagnosed with gestational diabetes to help them return to or maintain a healthy weight after pregnancy.

Consumer insights are the hidden assets in shaping a better health system

The Consumers Health Forum of Australia supports Health 2040’s proposals to shift the focus in the Australian health system towards consumers, rather than service providers.

Australia’s Health 2040: The right care, at the right price, in an efficient system

A year-long collaboration of health industry stakeholders has delivered a case for practical reforms to improve the long-term sustainability of Australia’s healthcare system.

Health is not a short-term issue

The Chair of Australia’s Health 2040 Taskforce Martin Bowles AO PSM explains the rationale behind the Taskforce report and its recommendations.

Achieving affordable healthcare through sensible policy change

The cooperative approach demonstrated by participants in the Australia’s Health 2040 report augurs well for the future of Australia’s mixed public private health system.

Value-based health care: how and why it can work in Australia

The Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association recently launched the Australian Centre for Value-Based Health Care to bring together educational and training opportunities, quality research, best-practice case studies and similar resources.