W3 - Principles and Aims of Medicare in Australia

What year was the current system of Medicare Australia introduced?

1984

What are the four principles of Medicare?

Simplicity, Affordability, Universality, Efficiency.

What is the aim of Medicare regarding access to healthcare?

Providing universal access at a set rebate.

What does Medicare allow the public to do in terms of healthcare providers?

Choose their providers.

What is the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS)?

A list of Medicare services subsidized by the Australian Government.

What is the typical Medicare rebate for GP services?

Usually 100% of the scheduled fee.

What percentage of the scheduled fee is typically rebated for medical specialists under Medicare?

Usually 85%.

What is bulk billing in the context of Medicare?

A central aspect where GPs can collect fees directly from Medicare, providing services without upfront costs to patients.

What are some types of services covered by the MBS?

Consultations, diagnostic tests, and operations.

What was a major focus of the Australian Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan 2022-2032?

To improve Australians' experience of care and population health system cost-efficiency.

What does 'Close the gap' refer to in the context of the Primary Health Care Plan?

Reaching parity in health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

What is a focus of the future health care reform in the Primary Health Care Plan?

Embracing new technologies and methods.

What is the goal of incentivizing multidisciplinary and preventive health care?

To address current gaps in the healthcare system, especially for vulnerable populations.

What does 'community-driven health care' entail?

Integrating local and regional health service models, funded at regional and state levels.

What types of healthcare providers are included in the primary care model?

GPs, community nurses, dentists, Aboriginal Health Workers, and allied health providers.

How does the Medicare system aim to alleviate financial concerns for patients?

By providing medical benefits and treatment regardless of income.

policy challenges that remain to be addressed

- equity of access to health services

- equity in terms of health status and the outcomes of health care

- quality of health services

- the efficiency and effectiveness of the health care system

the acceptability of services to patients, communities and health care professionals.