WEEK 10: HEALTH SYSTEM AS A SOCIAL DETERMINANT Flashcards
• When health systems are well designed and resourced, they can:
o Protect people from social disadvantage
o Improve inequalities in health
o Build support for governments to address health equity
What are the features of health systems that address the social determinants of health?
o Universal coverage
o Redistribution of resources to those most in need
o Strong primary health care approaches
o Work across different sectors (e.g. education, welfare, transport, housing) to promote health
o Strong community participation in decision making
What are some history facts on the australian health system
- Founded on the European model of medicine
- Largely ignored the health practices of the Indigenous people
- High rates of ill-health amongst the convicts led to rapid development of hospitals
- Health care was expensive and for the rich
How does medicare work?
- Health insurance for all Australian residents, citizens and others who have reciprocal rights
- It is a universal system where you pay a % of what you earn
Who are the main people of the health workforce?
• Medical practitioners
o Most powerful, well paid and prestigious of the health professions
• Nurses
o The largest of the health occupations
o Mostly hospital based
o Female dominated with many part-time workers
Who are some of the alternative profession in the health workforce?
o Dentistry, osteopathy, chiros, physio, pharmacy, naturopaths, occupational therapist, etc
