Private healthcare is an essential pillar of our health system, working in partnership with the public sector to ensure Australians have access to safe, high-quality, and affordable private healthcare. The viability of our private system however is in trouble due to a significant shift in the demographics of the insured population. Without immediate intervention, the balance between the public and private sector will continue to be threatened, which will ultimately lead to patients not being able to access the care that they need, when they need it.

The AMA is seeking feedback on this discussion paper which proposes an independent authority – the Private Health System Authority – be established oversee the private healthcare system. The authority would have new functions to fill gaps in regulation, while continuously overseeing the sector and highlighting system issues to government. It would also have the capacity, objectivity, and expertise to ensure that the system evolves as government policy intends, ensuring that robust mechanisms are in place which balance the interest of all sector stakeholders in the delivery of patient-centric, clinician led care. Importantly, the Private Health System Authority would create a platform for all the players in the sector to come together and agree on the necessary once-in-a-generation reforms which are required to secure the future viability of private healthcare in Australia, and build a better system.

Submissions close 31 August 2022.