Health Care and Public Policy

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This book provides a comprehensive analysis of health care and public policy in Australia. It explains what governments have done and what they can do about shaping Australia's health care system, and considers the political, economic and social contexts within which health policies develop, and the forces that promote and oppose change. It deals with major issues, including health insurance, the organisation and provision of hospital, community health and medical services, health care technologies, disease prevention and health promotion. The special needs of disadvantaged groups such as women and Aboriginal people are also emphasised. This second edition revises all relevant data and provides a thorough review of the major policy shifts and changes since 1988. In particular, it goes into greater detail on case-mix funding and management, and on the division of responsibilities between purchasers and providers of health care, two of the more important developments in recent years. The book will be an invaluable text for students in health administration, health planning, social work and social administration as well as students in all health-related courses and those working in health care, either in policy or service delivery.