Solutions
To effectively solve these problems, Commonwealth should:
- meet target number of places for residential aged care
- if target is not met, use money for other care options such as home based programs
- Allocate funding to transitional and interim care
- Allow the use of federal, state and territory money for new programs
The demands for Australian health care is growing due to change in population and change in technologies. Just as there are new challenges, there are also new ways to address these challenges. It is not enough to use the same format over and over again in tackling new challenges. Negotiating an Australian Health Care Agreement that will effectively apply new solutions to these new challenges is the best option. Replacing outdated arrangements, overcoming obstacles to innovation and providing adequate funding for health services will ensure quality health care for all Australians (Australian Health Care Agreement, 2003-2008).
References:
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Commonwealth Department of Health and Aged Care. Health Financing and Population Health.
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http://www.health.qld.gov.au/publications/aust_hlth_care_agreement/Facing_the_Future_AHCA.pdf
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Wikipedia. ( 15 September 2007). "Australia". Retrieved September 16, 2007 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Australia
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