Fed: States to run hospitals, fed govt to pay: AMA

AAP General News (Australia)
12-07-2009
Fed: States to run hospitals, fed govt to pay: AMA

The Australian Medical Association says the federal government doesn't have to take
over the nation's public health system .. just fund it better.

Prime Minister KEVIN RUDD's push to reform the nation's health system will be top of
the agenda at today's meeting of the Council of Australian Governments in Brisbane.

Ahead of the talks .. AMA president ANDREW PESCE has told ABC Television all state
.. territory and federal health ministers understand the way public hospitals are funded
is unsatisfactory.

He says the problem is easily fixed by implementing a single funding model for all
public hospitals.

Mr RUDD has delayed a final decision on a federal takeover of public hospitals until next year.

AAP RTV bsb/rl/sw

KEYWORD: COAG AMA (CANBERRA)

2009 AAP Information Services Pty Limited (AAP) or its Licensors.