Health Challenges in Australia

This article reviews some of Australia's health system achievements and identifies health issues that pose challenges to the society and health policy decision makers and managers. The paper follows an ecological approach drawing on published research into health and health services. Expenditure on health care is considered in the context of Australia's growing income per capita and the choices made by individuals and society at large. Population health gains are described along with continuing disparities in health status associated with cultural background and socioeconomic status. Factors affecting the mental health status of individuals are highlighted together with weaknesses in relevant services. The importance of health promotion both in the workplace and domestic sphere is discussed in the context of its potential impact on health care expenditure. The article compares myth and reality regarding population ageing; and the response of management and training practices to technological change. Current formulas of health funding by state and federal governments and the subsequent division of responsibilities and potential for cost shifting are examined. Finally, discussion turns to current trends in private practice and the notion of "defensive medicine", diagnostic and prescribing patterns and their impact on the national economy.