Australia's health system: the search for a cure. The Australian Democrats' discussion paper on Australia's health system.

The Australian Democrats' believe that Australia is currently at a critical time in the development of its health care system. The twin pressures of higher demands and inadequate funding have led to alarmingly heavier pressure on the public health infrastructure. Increasingly, the choices confronting society is one of how to allocate limited resources in the health sector. Awareness is growing on the impact wider issues such as unemployment, fragmentation of communities are having on society's health. In the face of new challenges confronting Australia's health system of the needs of an aging population, adoption of new developments in medical treatment and technology and new relationships which are developing between the public and private health sector, the Democrats acknowledge that although there are no easy responses, it is important, nonetheless to recognise their complexities and work collaboratively towards viable solutions. Through this discussion paper, based on consultation with a wide range of stakeholder groups and individuals, the Australian Democrats' have sought to outline the options for addressing the challenges and debate which will serve to contribute to the development of a fair, efficient and equitable health care system for all Australians, now and into the future.