|
Primary Health Care ReformsOverviewNational health reform is one of the key policy platforms of the Australian Government. At the February 2011 Council of Australian Governments (COAG) meeting in-principle agreement was reached to work in partnership on national health reform. Following the establishment of Local Hospital Networks (LHNs), primary health care reform is being progressed through the establishment of a new nationwide network of Medicare Locals. Medicare Locals will improve access to services and drive integration across general practice and primary health care by coordinating services and working closely with LHNs to identify and address the needs of local communities. The reform initiatives in relation to Medicare Locals include the establishment and fast tracking of approximately 57 Medicare Locals across Australia. On 23 December 2010 the Australian Government released the boundaries for Medicare Locals across Australia. Further information on health reform, including the boundaries for MLs and LHNs, can be found at the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA) website, www.yourhealth.gov.au. Resources & LinksAustralian Government Resources Guidelines for the establishment and initial operation of Medicare Locals Council of Australian Governments Department of Health and Ageing - National Health Reform Draft guidelines for Medicare Local After Hours until 30 June 2012 Latest NewsMEDIA RELEASE-The Hon Tanya Plibersek MP Minister for Health - New national body to support Medicare Locals MEDIA RELEASE-NICOLA ROXON - Medicare Locals to Reform Primary Health Care in Victoria AGPN News Release-19 Medicare Locals given the green light but Victoria is on amber.
The Commonwealth Government has proposed draft Guidelines for Medicare Local After Hours until 30 June 2012. The Initiative comprises three main components:
Click here for BGPN Communiqué containing summary of guidelines.
|
