The Australian health care system

[Extract] Australia has one of the world's most efficient, accessible, equitable and cost-effective health care systems through the provision of a universal health insurance scheme called Medicare. A variable taxation (1.5-2.5% of income) ensures an adequate GDP (over 8%) is expended annually. The Australian Health Care System has a complex mix of government and private health care services with all three levels of government (federal, state and local) taking various responsibilities. Doctors, both general practitioners and specialists, practice under fee-for-service with a Medicare rebate for patients/clients. Overall Medicare aims to provide all Australians, regardless of their personal circumstances, with access to health care at an affordable cost or no cost at all, while allowing for individual choice through substantial private sector involvement in delivery and financing. In this chapter, the history of the Australian health and social care system is outlined, followed by a discussion of the national health priorities. Service providers and health care facilities are also described. The health status of Australians is outlined and a critique of the health care system is provided