ACOSS proposes alternative evidence-based and equitable savings to Australian health services

The Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS) has called on the federal government to heed the growing community concern about affordable, accessible universal health care; and to focus on evidence-based solutions to pull back wasteful spending in the health Budget.

"We know that our health system faces increasing costs with an ageing and growing population, but it's certainly not a crisis," said ACOSS CEO Cassandra Goldie, adding: "Savings measures should be selected that will either drive improved health outcomes, or cut real waste in existing spending."

She noted that Australia’s Prime Minister has asked for alternatives to the government's proposals for the Health Budget. “ACOSS welcomes the invitation. Our proposals are grounded in evidence and would improve the effectiveness of government spending in improving health outcomes for the greatest number of people,” Dr Goldie argued.

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