How Can the Australian Government Make Primary Care and Private Health Insurance More Affordable?

Abstract

As health care costs rise in Australia, the affordability of primary care and private health insurance (PHI) are critical concerns. Key questions include whether primary care should be free for all, and what role should PHI play alongside Medicare. The Government spends $6.7 billion on PHI rebates, yet these incentives have limited impact. The Government should reduce public support on PHI and improve primary and preventive care. Primary care should be free for all low-income people and children regardless of where they live, and cheaper for other population. This can be achieved with the current budget and better policy design.