Improving Primary Health Care for All Australians
Introduction
The Commonwealth Government is committed to improving Australia's health care system so that all Australians can access high quality services that meet their needs and the needs of their family.
Primary health care is the part of the health system which Australians use the most. Over four out of five Australians will see a GP or other primary care health professional at least once a year.
Primary health care is delivered in the community, outside of hospitals. It covers a wide range of providers such as general practitioners, practice nurses, psychologists, physiotherapists, community health workers and pharmacists.
Under National Health Reform, the Commonwealth Government is aiming to shift the centre of gravity of the health system from hospitals to primary health care.
A strong primary health care system is crucial in ensuring that individuals and communities can get the health care they need when and where they need it.
A strong primary health care system helps patients better manage their health conditions in the community and prevent disease.
This results in fewer people using hospital services. And it helps to free up hospital beds and emergency departments to look after those who need hospital based care.
This booklet explains why primary health care is important, why it needs to be improved and what the changes will mean. It also provides further details on Medicare Locals, and their central role in improving the primary health care system.