Big Health Promises, Little Prevention: Experts Warn System at Breaking Point
Mike speaks with Adjunct Professor Terry Slevin, CEO of the Public Health Association of Australia, who says that while both major parties have made big health promises this election, neither is focusing enough on prevention.
Slevin notes that billions are being pledged to hospitals and treatment, but only 3% of Australia’s $250 billion health budget goes to preventing illness. Without a stronger focus on prevention, he warns the system is financially unsustainable.
He calls for a long-term vision to keep Australians healthy, especially the young and aging populations, which would ease pressure on hospitals and help the economy. He also points out that the two parties differ clearly on plans for a national Centre for Disease Control.
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