OCTOBER 2014
SENATE SELECT COMMITTEE ON HEALTH VMAG was invited to speak at the recent public hearing for the Senate Select Committee on Health. VMAG submission emphasised that VMAG is a strong defender of Medicare as our members are committed to a high quality, equitable health system for all. We see a key principle of Medicare is universal access free at the point of service and are particularly concerned about the impact that formally undermining this principle will have. We are especially concerned that despite the success of Medicare, people on low incomes and indigenous people in particular, have far worse health outcomes than other Australians and the data available suggests that they are far more likely to delay health care because of co-payments than other groups. MAY 2014
Inquiry into Out-of-pocket costs in Australian healthcare 2014 VMAG made a submission to the Inquiry into out-of-pocket costs in Australian healthcare. In the submission , VMAG emphasised it was firmly against the creation of a two tiered health system where those who have the financial resources are able to access treatment and those without miss out. VMAG reiterated that Medicare is NOT a free service - Taxpayers already contribute via progressive taxation as well as the progressive impact of the 1.5% Medicare levy. The introduction of a flat co-payment bears no relationship to people's capacity to pay. VMAG is concerned that co-payment to visit the GP is being considered in isolation of all of the other out of pocket expenses people already pay for. |
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