PHI funding, sustainability, equity, access

Question 1

funding
what it pays for (not how its covered)

Answer 1

Private health insurance provides much of the funding for private hospitals. This means more people can be treated which increases life expectancy.

Question 2

sustainability
enough for current and future and current generations

Answer 2

Incentives such as the private health insurance rebate and lifetime health cover assist in maximising the funding gained through the private system. This means more people are treated through the private system, which reduces the strain on the public system, decreasing morbidity for more people.

Question 3

equity
how disadvantaged groups get more support

Answer 3

Those who have lower incomes receive a greater rebate from the government if they have private health insurance. This gives people more treatment options which can reduce levels of stress if serious illness occurs, improving physical health and wellbeing.

Question 4

access
in terms of $$ and geographic location

Answer 4

The federal government’s private health insurance rebate increases access to private health insurance for those on lower incomes. This provides more choice in relation to healthcare and can mean that people can be treated for a wider range of conditions, promoting physical health and wellbeing.