The proposed plan is projected to require around $54 billion in funding over the next ten years.
The Greens party has put forth an ambitious proposal for the upcoming election, aiming to facilitate free GP visits for all Australians. They have pledged to establish Free Local Healthcare Clinics in every electoral district, offering complimentary appointments with primary healthcare professionals.
This initiative, designed to alleviate the cost of living for millions, will be officially introduced by Greens Leader Adam Bandt, alongside health spokesperson Senator Jordon Steele-John and candidate Sophie Greer on Oct. 3 in Perth, a crucial target seat for the Greens.
Anticipating a minority government post-election, the Greens have identified this policy as a central negotiating point. They estimate that the plan will entail approximately $54 billion (US$37 billion) in expenditures over the next decade.
Bandt has proposed funding the plan by imposing additional taxes on large corporations, ensuring that these entities contribute their fair share to enable free GP visits for the public.
At the core of the proposal is the establishment of 1,000 Free Local Healthcare Clinics nationwide, with a minimum of six clinics per electoral division. These facilities will provide complimentary services delivered by government-employed professionals such as GPs, dentists, nurses, and psychologists.
To enhance healthcare affordability, the Greens intend to triple the bulk-billing incentive, guaranteeing that all Medicare cardholders can access bulk-billed GP appointments at private practices without incurring out-of-pocket costs.
Moreover, the policy seeks to extend GP appointment durations by increasing Medicare rebates by 20% for extended consultations, allowing doctors to allocate more time to patients in need. The Greens also aim to address workforce shortages by ensuring equitable pay for trainee GPs compared to their hospital-based counterparts, ensuring that the healthcare system can effectively meet the rising demands for services.
Steele-John emphasized the urgency of the situation, citing the current cost-of-living crisis that forces individuals to choose between essential expenses. The proposed plan aims to alleviate this burden by enabling free GP visits for all Australians.
A pre-election survey conducted by the University of Melbourne highlighted health as a significant concern for over 13% of respondents. Cost-of-living pressures were also a key issue, with one respondent emphasizing the necessity of improving access to high-quality healthcare in rural and regional areas.
Source link
