New study shows that Australians still stand by the private health system

New research shows that 70 per cent of Australians believe that Australias health care system would not cope without a strong private hospitals sector but many are unaware of the range of services provided by Australias private hospitals

The research commissioned by the Australian Private Hospitals Association APHA highlights that many Australians still do not understand just how significant private hospitals are to Australias overall health care network

It is important to understand that the private health system treats 40 per cent of all patients in Australia which is more than 37 million patients each year said Michael Roff Chief Executive Officer of the APHA Australias private hospitals also offer 99 per cent of the same treatments and procedures as public hospitals They are not only a crucial part of Australias overall health system but also a part of their local communities

The data has been released to coincide with Private Hospitals Week the APHAs annual weeklong event that aims to educate the community on the importance of private hospitals and the range of services they offer This years event which runs from 2630 March is the largest ever with over 180 private hospital facilities across the country showcasing their services and holding events to engage with their local communities

Private Hospitals Week gives hospitals an occasion to bridge the knowledge gap and educate Australians about the range and types of services available said Mr Roff It is an opportunity for hospitals across the country to open up their doors and showcase the brilliant work they do Each private hospital has an important role to play in Australias overall health system and together we are ensuring that Australians continue to have access to the best healthcare services in the country

Age played a factor in the research with 42 per cent of Australians between the ages of 18 and 24 unsure about how private hospitals operate and also less likely than older Australians to know the types of services provided by private hospitals


Date : 26 Mar, 2012
Reference : http://www.news-medical.net/news/20120325/New-study-shows-that-Australians-still-stand-by-the-privat

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