Contexts in which the word health was used in the Senate during the 1970s

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that under the proposed Government health scheme a worker supporting a wife and earning $42.50 a week will receive full cover but a worker supporting a wife and 5 children and earning $48.76 a week will receive but two-thirds of the full cover? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, ls it not clear that the Government’s proposals for improvements in the health scheme are going to cost about twice what the Government said in the election campaign would be the cost? [More…]

• Having regard to a statement made by the Minister for Health in another place yesterday I would have thought it would be more appropriate to address this question to the Minister in the Senate representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I commend to the honourable senator’s attention the statement made by the Minister for Health yesterday. [More…]

• Minister for Health to say in another place yesterday, he is prepared to have interviews with the AMA in regard to those issues. [More…]

• The Minister for Health made it abundantly clear that the care of the health of the people was the prime consideration of the Government in this matter, and I have no doubt that the scheme, consistent with the proposals outlined in the Government’s policy speech, will eventually emerge for the good health of the people of Australia and will be consistent with the responsibilities and freedoms of the medical profession, whatever those responsibilities be. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I present the Thirtieth Report from the Standing Committee on Regulations and Ordinances, being a report on the Norfolk Island Health Ordinance of 1969. [More…]

• 2 of 1970 made under the Public Health Ordinance 1928-1966 be disallowed. [More…]

• ), of proposed new section 24 of the Norfolk Island Health Ordinance as contained in section (4.) [More…]

• of the Health Ordinance 1969 and made under the Norfolk Island Act 1957-1969, be disallowed. [More…]

• That the amendments of the Public Health (Medical and Dental Inspection of School Children) Regulations, as contained in the Australian Capital Territory Regulations 1970, No. [More…]

• 2, and made under the Public Health Ordinance 1928-1966, be disallowed. [More…]

• Notices of motion Nos 1 and 2 are that the amendments of the Public Health (Medical and Dental Inspection of School Children) Regulations - be disallowed and that the Dentists Registration Ordinance 1970 - be disallowed. [More…]

• Minister ask the Minister for Trade and Industry to make representations to the United States Administration to have mutton import restrictions lifted as each export abattoir meets the health standards required by the United States of America? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• We are concerned also with the health of the nation and with the availability of proper health and medical services to the nation. [More…]

• This is the last opportunity this Parliament will have to launch a health and medical scheme which will be accepted by all sections of the Australian community. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Why cannot the Department of Health be given full powers by making proposed new section 9b read: “The Minister may provide, or arrange for the provision of vaccine for the purpose of immunising persons’? [More…]

• It seems absurd that an Act has to be passed every time the Department of Health thinks free immunisation should be available for any disease. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she is in a position to advise what action has been taken by the Government and the Commonwealth Department of Health to further Professor J. Bronstein’s treatment for diabetics, which has been acclaimed in medical circles as a breakthrough and a better and safer treatment than insulin. [More…]

• I thank the Minister for the answer she has just given to me, but I ask her this question: Will the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) give consideration to the matter 1 raised about the States having representation on the Specialist Recognition Advisory Committees and the Specialist Recognition Appeal Committees, to which 1 directed my attention earlier in the Committee stage? [More…]

• I think that during this debate he has proven that he has a complete grasp of the health requirements of the community. [More…]

• Could we have an explanation from the Minister as to why national health funds should be spent on these operations? [More…]

• Earlier this week I sought information from the Minister representing the Minister for Health about when there would be tabled a brochure dealing with proposals related to the new national health scheme. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will take that matter up with my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: In view of the outbreak of cholera in several parts of the world, including Africa, and the reported likelihood of it spreading to Europe, and having regard to the changed conditions which have been brought about as a result of air travel, which was not in existence during earlier major outbreaks of cholera, will the Minister assure the Senate that Australia’s quarantine authorities will redouble the precautions they take at airport and shipping terminals to keep this dreaded disease out of Australia? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry: fs it a fact that 2 major meat exporting firms have objected to the increasing demands of United States health authorities and have refused to co-operate with them? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - All aspects of Repatriation, including the operation of the Repatriation Act. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and the Minister for Immigration. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, by referring to a letter I received from the Minister for Health yesterday, the concluding paragraph of which reads: lt is the desire of the Government that the maximum should be returned to contributors by way of benefits. [More…]

• That the Petition presented to the Senate this day by Senator Cavanagh, relating to crime in Australia, be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare for inquiry and report. [More…]

• That the Petition presented to the Senate this day by Senator Cavanagh, relating to crime in Australia, be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare for inquiry and report. [More…]

• I thank the Minister for notifying me of her intention to place the matter of the hospital 1 mentioned before the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) and I would ask the Minister to request him, after his consideration, to give a reply to both me and Senator Laucke. [More…]

• Senator Dame ANNABELLE RANKIN (Queensland - Minister for Housing) (10.1.8) - Yes, I will certainly see what information is available from the Minister for Health and convey this information to both Senator Cavanagh and Senator Laucke. [More…]

• I think that the best thing I can do is to place this particular case before the Minister for Health for his consideration. [More…]

• (9.52) - I will have to put this matter to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) because it is a matter of policy. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• I inform the Senate that I have received a letter from the Leader of the Opposition appointing Senator Wriedt to be a member of the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade in place of Senator Milliner and appointing SenatorMulvihill to be a member of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in place of Senator Brown. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter: The introduction of a national superannuation scheme and the methods of financing and operating such scheme. [More…]

• 1 have received letters from , Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson appointing senator to the following Senate Committees: Senator Buttfield has been appointed tq the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Senator M. F. Scott and Senator Wood has been appointed to that Committee to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Senator D. B. Scott. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether L. dopa will be available as a restricted national health service benefit for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease when the new pharmaceutical benefits are listed on 1st April next. [More…]

• 1 ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health, although I think my question involves the Minister for Social Services also, ls the Minister aware that, according to the President of the Association of Victorian Homes and Hospitals for the Aged, which Association covers 32 homes, the Chief Executive of the Church of England Diocesan Mission, the Catholic Vicar for Social Welfare and the Manager of the Salvation Army Social Services Department, homes and hospitals for the aged and children in Victoria are, due to inflation, critically short of funds and in most cases are reducing their services and the number of their patients? [More…]

• I will be pleased to place before the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) the points raised by the honourable senator and his request for further assistance if that can be made available. [More…]

• )(b) after ihe word Thai’ insert the following words: ‘(wilh the exception of those committees already established, namely, the Standing Committees on Health and Welfare and Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade)’. [More…]

• The honourable senator knows that under the provisions of the National Health Act the day to day functioning of the various insurance organisations is left to the councils controlling those organisations to determine what their policy shall be. [More…]

• 1 think the honourable senator will also recall that when the National Health Act was amended last year a power was given to the Minister for Health to exercise greater control than previously over the operations of the hospital and medical benefits funds. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health make a close examination of the Belgian social services membership funds which have a built-in form of appeal tribunal to investigate the claims of mem bers who consider that certain decisions and fund administration are unjust? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Or can he, as the Minister for Health, finalise this request separately? [More…]

• As far as I am aware there is no current proposal that the Department of Health should vacate that station, and therefore none of that area at present is available for park purposes. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of promises made by his predecessor as Minister for Health that he intended to institute an inquiry into the means of including paramedical services in the health services, with special emphasis on optometry, can the Minister advise whether this inquiry has been commenced or completed? [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• On 16th March I addressed a question to the Minister who then represented the Minister for Health concerning tests in New South Wales and Victoria which indicated that human mothers’ milk could contain up to 20 times the amount of DDT that is acceptable to dairy milk marketing authorities. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: As the Commonwealth Government recently attacked the 6 per cent increase granted in the national wage case as an inflationary and irresponsible action, will the Minister give an assurance that any increase in doctors’ fees will be less than the 6 per cent level awarded in the national wage case? [More…]

• The Government will make a determination in relation to the national health’ scheme after a decision has been made by the medical profession as to what will be the fees charged to patients, and therefore what will be the common or adjusted fees in the national health scheme. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is addressed to the Minister for Health, by referring to a report of an interview wilh the Minister published today in the ‘Age’ newspaper. [More…]

• In view of the concern expressed by the New South Wales Health Minister on the parlous state of hospital finance 1 ask the Minister for Health: What stage have discussions reached between himself, hospital funds and hospital authorities in the various States on solving this national problem? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• If an area is denied medical services or if people in an area find it difficult to obtain medical services it is a matter for the Minister for Health in that State. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he is aware that some general medical practitioners in New South Wales are issuing circular letters to at least some of their patients in the following terms: [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that such action on the part of some medical practitioners is certainly not in the best interests of the health of the Australian community, especially those people who are too ill to get out of bed to attend the doctor’s surgery? [More…]

• I desire to ask the Minister for Health a question. [More…]

• No doubt he has read the statement by the Minister for Health in Victoria, Mr [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a statement attributed to the President of the General Practitioners Society of Australia, demanding that doctors retain the inalienable right to determine their fees and stating that any attempt by the Government or the Australian Medical Association to establish standard fees throughout the country is doomed to failure? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In addressing a question to the Minister for Health I refer to a question that I asked him some time ago about the absence of resident medical, services on Groote Eylandt. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the concern of Australian studmasters at the seemingly inordinate delay being experienced in obtaining permits for the importation of thoroughbred horses which have been purchased by them in England? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, by reminding him that yesterday I asked him a. question about increased hospital charges. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister request the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories to submit a report to Parliament indicating how the production of certain drugs, now available under the National Health Scheme, could be made available at much cheaper rates than at present. [More…]

• I include among those the last speaker, the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to an announcement of a strong probability of a breakthrough in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease by doctors and authorities at the Royal Brisbane Hospital? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that pest strips containing the chemical dichlorvos have been reported to be dangerous to the health of humans? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, is supplementary to the question asked by Senator Buttfield earlier today. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister for Health by saying that I was intrigued by his answer to a question from Senator Hannan in which he said that a statement by the Leader of the Opposition in another place was false. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Department of Health set standards of quality for raw materials used in the manufacture of edible products sold in Australia. [More…]

• Which authority in Australia is responsible for maintaining health standards in respect of edible products which are manufactured in Australia for export. [More…]

• My question which is directed to the Minister for Health refers to news items and reports which relate to the discovery of a high mercury content in some types of American tinned fish. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Senate of the facts which influenced him to make the statement that fees at the Canberra Community Hospital would be raised by 44 per cent in public wards and 52 per cent in private wards? [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a statement by the Leader of the Opposition in another place claiming that the Minister deliberately delayed his statement to the Senate on medical fees and benefits until the House of Representatives had risen? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of a report in this morning’s ‘Canberra Times’ that the resignation of Dr Ford, the Director of Rehabilitation in the Canberra Hospital, has been announced? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Have all the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council, in respect of meat, been carried out in their entirety; if not, which are outstanding and to what extent. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health to clarify further his distinction between the profits and the reserves of hospital and medical benefits funds. [More…]

• Leader of the Government in the Senate: As the report of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia was introduced into this Parliament on 5th May last with much acclaim and support, and as this matter refers to the administration of a number of Ministers, will the report be read by those Ministers and the respective departments? [More…]

• Has the Minister of Health any knowledge of the installation in the New South Wales Liverpool District Hospital of sophistocated electronic and telecommunication equipment which allows instant communication between patients and nursing staffs? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to a letter in yesterday’s issue of the Melbourne Age’ outlining the total cost of a hernia operation and the return received by the person concerned from his benefit organisation? [More…]

• Does this indicate that the claim made by the Government when it introduced its health legislation that medical and hospital care would be almost free is not in fact justified? [More…]

• by leave - The long address that we have just heard from the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) outlined the functions of a trustee in bankruptcy but he made no mention whatever of the conclusion that I have reached. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I noted that in the report reference was made to the fact that the New South Wales Department of Health was undertaking inquiries. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for the Environment, Aborigines and the Arts, been drawn to a article appearing in this morning’s ‘Canberra Times’ in which the Goodradigbee Shire Council health surveyor, Mr K. Kirwan, claims that Canberra’s sewerage outfalls are responsible for the present pollution danger to the Murrumbidgee river system? [More…]

• I have received a letter from the Leader of the Government in the Senate appointing the following senators to the following legislative and general purpose standing committees: Education, Science and the Arts, Senators Carrick and Davidson to replace Senators Sir Magnus Cormack and Prowse; Health and Welfare, Senators Bonner and Jessop to replace Senators Davidson and Webster; and Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade, Senator Prowse to replace Senator Rae. [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• that the World Health Organisation Report (January 1970) confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As a corollary to the recent adjustments in the health and medical fund operations does the Government contemplate any legislation to compel employers to provide facilities for their employees’ contributions to such funds to be deducted from their pay? [More…]

• I inform the Senate thatI have received a letter from Senators Townley and Turnbull notifying the appointment of Senator Townley to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in place of Senator Turnbull. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health read the sizzling comments of the retiring president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, Sir Eric Scott, on relations between him and a long list of Commonwealth Ministers for Health, in particular the imputation by this knight of the realm that the Government is afraid to impose compulsory health warnings on packets of aspirin and APC powders for fear of antagonising the major drug companies? [More…]

• I must confess that insofar as the article, to put it in a low key, made disparaging comments about myself and my 2 predecessors as Minister for Health, I feel very sorry for the gentleman concerned - that is, if the article was an accurate report of what he had said. [More…]

• The only thing that I understood from the article was that it purported to suggest that the 3 past Ministers for Health did not know their business and that the gentleman who made the comments knew all about the subject. [More…]

• that the World Health Organisation Report (January 1970) confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• I have received from the Leader of the Opposition a letter appointing Senator Brown to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in place of Senator Mulvihill who has resigned from the Committee. [More…]

• that the World Health Organisation Report (January 1970) confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare: [More…]

• that the World Health Organisation Report (January 1970) confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the reported intentions of 3 State Governments to act on their own initiative in legislating for health hazard warnings on cigarette packets? [More…]

• Is it correct that the New South Wales Minister for Health, Mr Jago, stated that, in this matter, New South Wales would follow if the Commonwealth set the lead? [More…]

• The food and drag regulations made under the Health Act in the States provide control over the inadequate and incorrect labelling and description of goods. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that medicines prescribed for pensioner patients in nursing homes do not come within the scope of the free pharmaceutical scheme for pensioners? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that many commercial and charitable nursing homes for the aged are at a stage of financial collapse due to the cost of present nurses’ salaries? [More…]

• Representations have been made to me and yesterday I had discussions with the Tasmanian Minister for Health in relation to problems arising in a particular area in Tasmania. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the annual report of the Director-General of Health on the activities of the Commonwealth Department of Health for the year ended 30th June 1971. [More…]

• The Prime Minister has also made the following appointments of Assistant Ministers: The Prime Minister will be assisted by Mr Dobie; the Minister for Health and Leader of the Government in the Senate will be assisted by Senator Marriott; the PostmasterGeneral will be assisted by Mr Robinson; the Minister for Labour and National Service will be assisted by Mr Street; the Minister for Civil Aviation will be assisted by Mr McLeay; and the Minister for Primary Industry will be assisted by Mr King on his return from overseas after he has been sworn as a member of the Executive Council. [More…]

• Estimates Committee A - Department of Health, Parliament, Department, of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, Department of Defence, Department of the Treasury. [More…]

• The Minister for Health made it clear in his statement on smoking and health to the Senate yesterday that there had been no suppression by the Government of the recommendations of the World Health Organisation in relation to the effects of smoking on health. [More…]

• We have noticed that in this chamber the portfolio of Health has moved from the control of Senator Greenwood to the’ control of Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson. [More…]

• In some way 1 feel sorry and sympathetic for Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson now that he has become Minister for Health. [More…]

• In any case, when he is seen I trust that we will take some of the responsibility off the Minister for Health and place it on the shoulders of the Assistant Minister for Health. [More…]

• I knew the Government tactic and manoeuvre was to take the Minister for Health out of the other place where he would face the criticism, the skill and searching inquiry of the 5 doctors who sit on the Australian Labor Party benches. [More…]

• The tactic was to remove the portfolio of Health from the other place .and bring it here because that would, in some way, protect the Minister from such searching criticism. [More…]

• However, we intend to take up the cudgels on behalf of the people of this nation to see that they receive better treatment, better health facilities and cheaper and much more sophisicated treatment. [More…]

• That the petition presented to the Senate by me this day be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health advise the Senate of the occupations of members of the Commonwealth Council for National Fitness and the period of each member’s appointment? [More…]

• I thank the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) for that information. [More…]

• I wish to address a question to the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I wish to ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the statement by the PostmasterGeneral that cigarette advertising on television should not be banned because the commercial stations need the revenue, I ask: Will the Minister confirm that in this matter the Government places a higher value on commercial profit than the health of the community? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Are hospitals or State governments still making payments on behalf of pensioner patients because of delays in implementing the recommendations of the Nimmo report? [More…]

• That Committee sends a recommendation to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health any closer to making a decision on the proposal that employers’ facilities be used to deduct employees’ contributions to medical and hospital contribution funds? [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health advise the Senate how far his investigations have proceeded in relation to the payment of Commonwealth subsidies to organisations which are conducting day hospitals? [More…]

• He will recall that he indicated to me during the recent debate on the National Health Bill that he would examine that proposal. [More…]

• My question is directedto the Minister for Health and relates to a specificcase which has been brought to my notice as a matter of extreme urgency concerning the person involved but similar circumstances no doubt apply to many other people. [More…]

• In view of statements suggesting that the Government favours more creches and child minding centres, will the Government consider financing home help facilities to assist mothers who for health or other good reasons need help with young families so that the children can be kept in the home? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health: In view of the large increase in the rate of suicide in Australia over the last few years, particularly amongst the 15-year to 24-year age group, will the Minister say whether any research, sponsored by the Commonwealth, into this problem is being carried out?If not, willhe attempt to institute some such research? [More…]

• If it were not for that system there could be a bypassing of the general practitioner anda direct approach to the specialist system, and that would not accord with what is at present contained in the National Health Act. [More…]

• 5 ask the Minister for Health: ls it a fact that people who have marihuana in their possession are in breach of the law? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Before we proceed, Mr Minister, I presume we will deal with the Department of Health first for your convenience. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health say when pharmacists last received an increase in dispensing fees for prescriptions dispensed under the national health scheme? [More…]

• In view of the considerable increase in the earnings in recent times of other sections of the community, will the Minister give consideration to a review of the fees payable by the Commonwealth to pharmacists under the National Health Act? [More…]

• We now proceed to group A covering the Departments of Health, the Parliament, the Prime Minister and Cabinet, the Treasury, including a consideration of the Advance to the Treasurer, and Defence. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• 1 ask the Minister for Health whether it is a fact that at the time of the presentation of the Nimmo Committee’s report the accumulated reserve funds held by hospital and medical funds were running at the combined total of $78m? [More…]

• In the absence of the Minister for Health, I address my question to the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Because the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) is away today it has been agreed by honourable senators on both sides of the chamber that the best course to adopt in relation to this matter is to adjourn the debate. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Parliament whether the Government carried out in about 1964 an earnings survey on chemists similar to the one that is now being insisted upon and for the same purpose? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I agree with the course proposed by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• We of the Opposition are pleased that this announcement has been made and that the Government has taken a decisive step after a great period of indecision.I do not propose to traverse the whole of the matters covered by the statement of the Minist er for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) but I would like to say that as the Government made this decision only yesterday it is clear that Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson has moved very promptly. [More…]

• I do not wish to say any more than that at the moment because this is a matter which has just come to us; it is a matter of importance, and we would like the opportunity to consider the implication of the statement by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health tell the Senate what was the result of the meeting of the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee, which 1 understand was held yesterday, in relation to the matter raised by Dr McBride on the possible hazard associated with the drug imipramine and whether some warning should be required in respect of the use of that drug in certain circumstances? [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health support the concept that general practitioners who are charging the common fee and are allowing discounts for cash for home and surgery visits and therefore are reducing the amount payable by the patient after medical benefits have been refunded should be encouraged? [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for the Interior been drawn to an article which appeared in this morning’s “Canberra Times’ and which criticised the Government’s refusal to help Aborigines in the Northern Territory to testify at an inquiry into health services in the Territory? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (4.14) - The Government intends to oppose the amendment, but if there is a foreshadowed amendment and if it is suggested that Senator McManus may agree to the foreshadowed amendment, I think that the foreshadowed amendment should be canvassed. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health say whether it is correct, as stated by a correspondent named lillian Skinner, that 3 million people in Australia are without health insurance? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health make a statement to allay the rising impatience of citizens of the Australian Capital Territory at the undue delay in the creation of an Australian Capital Territory health commission? [More…]

• I am as keen as anybody to get the matter of health administration in the Australian Capital Territory decided, particularly having regard to the construction of the new hospital in the Woden Valley which is being commissioned at present. [More…]

• There are other health services in the Territory. [More…]

• It relates to health and the administration of health in the whole of the Territory. [More…]

• The point the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has just made is very helpful because it shows that he knows very little about the Public Service Arbitration Bill and that he is wrongly advised. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Advisory Medical Council of Australia makes recommendations to the Health Ministers of the Commonwealth and the Stales jointly. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• However, the film has been used by State health education authorities in training programmes for drug educators. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In view of the inability, of the States to reach agreement on the health dangers of cigarette smoking, will the Minister consult with his Cabinet colleagues with a view to investigating the possibility of introducing Commonwealth laws banning all advertising associated with cigarettes and other tobacco products. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is it a fact that a person treated for an injury in a hospital operating theatre, but not admitted to hospital overnight, receives no medical benefit for this treatment; if this is so, would not this be a positive inducement to overhospitalise, in an effort to provide health insurance benefits for the patient. [More…]

• 2 on the notice paper - I intend to call the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, I have listened to this debate with a great deal of interest. [More…]

• Because of the great work load that has been put on the members of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, it has not been possible up to this stage, for the Senate to determine whether or not the matter should be referred to that Standing Committee. [More…]

• Then we could proceed with the third matter, which is the proposed reference to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.2) - I want to respond to the remarks of the Leader of the Opposition (Senator Murphy). [More…]

• Although no Commonwealth Department or instrumentality is conducting research into multiple sclerosis, the Commonwealth is, through the National Health and Medical Research Council supporting two major research projects related to multiple sclerosis. [More…]

• The Queensland Council of National Health Benefits Organisations considered this matter on 7th March 1972, and recommended that hospital benefits organisations in Queensland introduce an ancillary benefit of $10 to be paid where an outpatient has been charged by an approved hospital for the use of an operating theatre. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: ls the Minister aware that out-patients at private hospitals in Queensland are denied reimbursement of fees by hospital benefits funds when the operating theatres at such hospitals are used; if so, is this a new procedure. [More…]

• Senator MURPHY (New South WalesLeader of the Opposition) - At the request of Senator Fitzgerald, I hereby remove Senator Fitzgerald as a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Following the announcement yesterday by the Minister for Health about the rises in common fees charged by doctors, will the Minister explain how the Government intends to persuade the large number of doctors now charging more than the new common fees to conform to the new rates? [More…]

• I am opposing this motion because it would take me more than half an hour to castigate the Government, the Minister and the Department of Health for their supine attitudes to smoking. [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• With reference to the proposal by the General Practitioners’ Society recommending a substantial increase in doctors’ charges, will the Minister (a) conduct a survey of 1,000 doctors concerned to obtain a quantitative expression of opinion on this matter, (b) take action to prevent doctors, who depart radically from the common fee schedule, from receiving the substantial Commonwealth Government contribution towards their income, and (c) give consideration to a regulation whereby those doctors, who charge in excess of 5 per cent above the common fee, can be prevented from participating in the National Health Scheme. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister seen reports that the Victorian Health Minister has decided lo require the placing of health warnings on cigarette packets. [More…]

• I think that in the circumstances all I can do is convey the sentiments expressed by Senator McAuliffe to the Acting Minister for Health for him to consider and to make such response as he deems proper. [More…]

• Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What is the amount of free reserve held by each medical and hospital health insurance organisation in each of the States at 30th June 1971. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health; upon notice: [More…]

• How many applications were lodged last year with the Commonwealth Department of Health for use of Drugs classified . [More…]

• What is the usual period of time it takes for an application concerning the listing of an item for pharmaceutical benefits to be processed by the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• As a result of the ‘Woofa’ episode, when a Sydney dog was inadvertently dispatched by air to Britain, has the Department of Health introduced a new form of documentation that will require the dog owner’s signature prior to the dog’s shipment overseas. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The matters raised in this question and in the honourable senator’s questions without notice on 9th and 23rd May 1972 have been the subject of examination by the Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question. [More…]

• certain health certification requirements have been met. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What was the average cost of hospital health insurance in each of the States for (a) public, (b) intermediate, and (c) private patients, in October 1969. [More…]

• What was the average cost of medical health insurance in each of the States in October 1969. [More…]

• What is the average cost of medical health insurance in each of the States now, and what percentage increase has taken place in each case. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• and (3) In October 1969, the weekly family* contribution rates of the major health insurance organisations for hospital and medical benefits in each State were: [More…]

• and (4) The current weekly family contribution rates of the major health insurance organizations for hospital and medical benefits in each State are: [More…]

• Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health investigate the announcement by the head of the Chemistry Department at the University of Tasmania that he has developed a lead-free petrol which gives improved vehicle performance? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Do any Medical and Hospital Insurance companies allow rebates for home nursing visits, by trained nurses in private practice, when ordered by a medical practitioner; if so, (a) which health insurance companies allow such a rebate and which ones do not, (b) what is the amount of the rebate allowed, and is there any total limit per member per year, and (c) does the Commonwealth make any contribution to any rebate payable by health insurance companies for home nursing visits when carried out by a registered nurse and ordered by a doctor. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It should be noted that there are a number of registered organisations which provide such benefits from an unregistered ‘Ancillary’ or ‘Other Services’ fund; however, as the operation of such funds is outside the ambit of the National Health Act, details have not been included. [More…]

• I direct a further question to the Minister for Health relating to the statement which he has made. [More…]

• Have consultations been held recently between the Department of Immigration and the State Health authorities, in an endeavour to determine Australia’s intake of overseas nurses; if so, how was the decision made to institute deportation proceedings against double certificated Sister Paeatonga Talia. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is it a fact that there is only 1 woman and 21 male members of the National Health and Medical Research Council; if so, how does this come about. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• On Thursday last I asked the Minister a question in relation to research into the areas of personal stress and mental health as it is related to heart disease. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health- [More…]

• I can advise that the National Health and Medical Research Council is supporting projects which are related to this matter. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The advertisements were approved by the Director-General of Health on this recommendation. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the cause of the delay in the publication of the survey the fact that one of its conclusions has upset health officials because it shows that Australian school children are considered to be among the most unfit in the world. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Do the allowable dust standards, recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council in the asbestos mining industry, give recognition to the new standards imposed in the United States of America following extensive research conducted by the Mount Sinai School of Medicine; if so, what action is being taken to ensure that State Government Mining Acts are suitably amended, so as to reduce the likelihood of this industrial disease in Australia. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the fact that from next month the cost of the contraceptive pill will be reduced, will the Minister consider reducing the cost of other medicines available under the national health scheme from $1 per itemto 40c or 50c per item so that other people, many of whom arc much more ill than those on the pill, will be able to afford their medicines a little more easily, particularly those who need to take a lot of medicine regularly? [More…]

• I wish to ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is there any truth in the rumour that the Department of Health is about to publish a list of the names of doctors who have allegedly benefited themselves by falsifying medical benefit items? [More…]

• The Minister assures me that the proposed increases reveal the parlous financial position into which the funds had been allowed to drift by the previous Liberal-Country Party Government which resorted to the discreditable tactic of concealing mounting cost pressures which affected its complicated, excessively expensive and most unsatisfactory system of health insurance. [More…]

• In reply to the last portion of the honourable senator’s question, may I say that the Government is examining the whole question of the maintenance of the present system of health insurance. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND - The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I shall refer his question to my colleague the Minister for Health in another place. [More…]

• It would be wise for us to give some consideration to how we can best conduct our business here with due regard to the health of honourable senators as well as the efficiency of the operation of the committees and the Senate. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the report of the sub-committee of the Commonwealth Health Insurance Council on nursing home insurance proposals, dated 1st August 1972. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the acute shortage of influenza vaccine in South Australia, concern about which has been expressed by Dr Mellows, the President of the State Branch of the Australian Medical Association? [More…]

• The matter raised by Senator Prowse clearly comes within the purview or ministerial responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Draft Model Asbestos Regulations have been prepared by the Occupational Health Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council, and are under consideration by State authorities as to their suitability for adoption in whole or in part in State industrial legislation. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health made any progress towards insisting that any chemicals used in colouring, flavouring and preserving foodstuffs are listed on the label by their accepted chemical names and percentages so that people may have some idea of what chemicals they are now unwittingly consuming? [More…]

• -I call Senator Douglas McClelland as the Minister representing the Minister for Health as it is clearly within his competence. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In view of the impending debate on a Bill to provide for abortion on demand, will the medical officers of the Department of Health, in conjunction with the Institute of Anatomy and any relevant university medical school, arrange for the display in the [More…]

• Under the provisions of the National Health Act, the administration of which is the responsibility of the Minister for Social Security, eligibility for pensioner medical service benefits ceases when a pensioner’s means reach a certain limit. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How many medical practitioners have been employed in the Commonwealth Department of Health in each year since 1 July 1968, including the numbers at present employed. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• As at 31st December 1972 there were 1,245 premises approved as nursing homes under the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND - The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• [ will certainly refer this matter to the Prime Minister, who is also Minister for Foreign Affairs, and to the Minister for Health and ascertain whether the honourable senator’s suggestion is worthy of consideration. [More…]

• This is obviously a matter for my colleague the Minister for Health who is in another place. [More…]

• The matters involved in the honourable senator’s questions are, 1 think, more for the Minister for Social Security than the Minister for Health, and because I know that the Minister for Social Security is considering these matters I think the best thing for the honourable senator to do would be to place his question on the notice paper so that my colleague in another place can give him a suitable answer. [More…]

• Minister for Health. [More…]

• The answer was supplied by my colleague the Minister for Health in another place. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a report from the National Hospitals and Health Services Commission Interim Committee titled ‘A Community Health Program For Australia. [More…]

• I have not seen or heard of the report to which the honourable senator refers but I will have the matter referred to my colleague the Minister for Health to ascertain the position and I will let the honourable senator know. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia recently approved a project to investigate the incidence of incest amongst Aborigines. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND - The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1), (2) and (3) Records of the National Health and Medical Research Council disclose that the Council has not, during the past two years, approved any medical research project specifically intended to investigate the incidence of incest among Aborigines. [More…]

• I shall refer Senator Townley’s suggestion to my colleague the Minister for Health to be taken into consideration in the review that is taking place. [More…]

• Does the Minister consider that past Commonwealth Health Ministers unduly pandered to the desires of the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia Ltd, rather than the interests of the fund subscribers, in view of the massive cash reserves held by those funds. [More…]

• 1 am given to understand by the Department of Health - and I have not been able to contact my colleague the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) about the correspondence that has been exchanged between Senator Rae and the Minister - that the cost of hearing aids provided privately, quite apart from those provided by the Government under the provisions of this legislation, are at great variance throughout different parts of Australia. [More…]

• However, I will pursue that matter further with my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I call Senator Primmer, but before he asks his question I would like to say to him that most honourable senators will share my pleasure at seeing him restored to health and back in this place in the Senate. [More…]

• If so, are these levels within the limits considered by Health Authorities as being acceptable. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been directed to the statement in this morning’s Press that doctors have the highest suicide rate in the community, namely 1 in 30? [More…]

• Mr President, I seek leave to make a brief statement relating to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• We hope that it will not be long before he is restored to good health again. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for the Media has been good enough to obtain information in reply to questions which I asked him concerning the publicity campaign being conducted for the proposed new health scheme. [More…]

• That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• My Party has already decided to refer a petition to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, but I am wondering to what extent this Senate Standing Committee inquires into such a reference. [More…]

• That the petition be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I support the Minister for Works (Senator Cavanagh) because anybody who has read the Nimmo report, which was not a political document, knows that it indicated that there was a great deal wrong with the general structure of the private medical and health funds and until that report is considered I think it is complete propaganda to persist with what has been suggested by the petitioners. [More…]

• It is a Budget which has had to deal with the problems not only of finding large sums of money to meet great new expenditures on health, education and social security generally but also of coping with the price instability and the residues of unemployment which had been left by the previous Government. [More…]

• Does the Government of the People’s Republic of China consider the effects of nuclear fall-out to be of little significance to health, or does it display a callous disregard for the health and welfare of its people. [More…]

• The recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council of November 1 972 relating to national emission standards for air pollutants is being considered by the Emission Standards Sub-Committee of the Australian Environment Council. [More…]

• 1 ) Is the Minister aware of the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council in November 1972 as to national emission standards for smoke, solid particles and soot. [More…]

• Does the Minister representing the Minister for Health know that there has been an apparently serious outbreak of cholera on the island of Mindanao in the Philippines, 3 miles from the city of Davao? [More…]

• Because many international aircraft and ships come to Australia via Manila, will the Minister make immediate and urgent inquiries to see whether the Philippine health authorities have sufficient vaccine, staff and facilities to carry out the necessary innoculations and treatment? [More…]

• I know that in cases such as this the World Health Organisation has procedures under which speedy help may be given to any nation which needs it. [More…]

• The honourable senator’s proposals seem to be practical proposals, and I shall certainly convey them to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian Health Insurance Program and any National Health Scheme [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• What numbers of cattle, calves, sheep, lambs and pigs were slaughtered in each State under the supervision of health inspectors employed by the Department of Primary Industry in the years 1968-69, 1969-70, 1970-71, 1971-72 and 1972-73. [More…]

• The event to which the honourable senator refers was a private meeting which Dr Deeble attended, at the invitation of the Tasmanian Branch of the National Association of Medical Specialists, in order to explain aspects of the Report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• Did Dr Deeble, the Government’s health economics adviser, indicate in Hobart, on 9 August 1973, that he did not even know the current health insurance rates for Tasmania, and yet state in so many words in front of some 100 doctors that four out of five doctors will be better off [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• This matter does come within the ambit of the Department of Health, of course, but I shall refer the question to the appropriate Minister. [More…]

• -On behalf of Senator Little 1 give notice that on Tuesday 6 November he will ask leave to introduce a Bill to amend the National Health Act 1953-1972. [More…]

• All that I can undertake to do is to refer the matters raised by the honourable senator to my colleague the Minister for Health, who is in another place, and secure answers for him. [More…]

• On behalf of Senator Douglas McClelland, for the information of honourable senators I present the annual report of the Director-General of Health on the activities of the Australian Department of Health for the year ended 30 June 1973. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• When will adequate provision be made within the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme to enable persons suffering chronic ill health to receive larger quantities of pharmaceuticals than are presently allowed by the Scheme at any one time, with a consequent saving to the Government and, more importantly, the patient. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I present the report and transcript of evidence from the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare relating to its inquiry on repatriation. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present a white paper entitled ‘The Australian Health Insurance Program ‘. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister consider again allowing doctors to prescribe the drug under the National Health and Pensioner Medical Service Schemes. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This drug is currently available as a pharmaceutical benefit, on the authority of my Department’s Director of Health in each State and Territory, for the treatment of hypsarrhythmia and for patients who are being withdrawn from long-term corticosteroid therapy. [More…]

• Tetracosactrin was transferred from an unrestricted listing to its present restricted listing on 1 December 1972 at the recommendation of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, an expert committee established under the National Health Act to advise me, as Minister for Health, on matters concerning the listing of drugs as pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• In accordance with a recent recommendation by the Committee, tetracosactrin will also be available as a benefit, as from I December 1973, with the authority of the relevant Director of Health, for the treatment of- [More…]

• I saw the remarks of Mr Hicks and in fact I referred them to my colleague the Minister for Health to see whether he had anything to say about them. [More…]

• Unfortunately I have not heard from my colleague at this stage but I most assuredly will take up with the Minister for Health the suggestion of Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson who, of course, was Minister for Health in the previous Government. [More…]

• My question which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health concerns the free community health centre in Melba, Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security aware of public reaction in favour of the Government’s White Paper on its health insurance program? [More…]

• On behalf of the Government I pay tribute to the work of that Committee and also to the work done by the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which inquired into the problems of the mentally and physically handicapped. [More…]

• This matter comes within the administration of the Minister for Health and I will refer the question to him. [More…]

• -For the information of honourable senators I present a report from the Interim Committee of the National Hospitals and health services commission entitled ‘A Medical Rehabilitation Program for Australia’. [More…]

• Other health matters are to be debated later today. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Is the Minister aware that the National Health and Medical Research Council did not renew a grant of $13,000 to a medical research team for 1974 to enable it to proceed with an investigation into Huntington’s Chorea, an hereditary mental disease. [More…]

• He quoted from a document or a letter sent to someone in Queensland by a British doctor and used it as an argument in defamation of a national health scheme. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Government funds for medical research are allocated on the recommendation of the National Health and Medical Research Council as advised by its expert committee, the Medical Research Advisory Committee. [More…]

• Australian Government funds for medical research are made through the National Health and Medical Research Council and are allocated to projects on the basis of merit within the financial resources available. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council and the Government are aware of the personal problems and the cost to the community arising from mental disabilities. [More…]

• More research funds are available to the National Health and Medical Research Council than in former years. [More…]

• On behalf of the Minister for Health, I ask that the question be placed on the notice paper. [More…]

• I, as Minister representing the Minister for Health in this chamber, have received a telegram from Mr Tooth, the Queensland Minister for Health, on this aspect. [More…]

• My colleague, Dr Everingham, issued a Press statement on 1 1 December in the last paragraph of which he emphasised that he and the Australian Government were seeking collaboration with and the co-operation of State governments wherever possible in the formulation of a broad health program, including collaboration on any proposals put forward by voluntary organisations or local government bodies. [More…]

• Dr Everingham as Minister for Health and the Australian Government wish to continue this close collaboration. [More…]

• -In a spirit of co-operation and of seeking collaboration, as emphasised by me in my reply in the second reading debate, I have had discussions with my colleague the Minister for Health about the matter, and the Government is prepared to accept the amendment. [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall that in 1971, in accordance with the wishes of the Senate, the then Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, gave an undertaking that this practice would be followed in the future by the Government of which he was a member. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If he proposes to permit permanent occupation, will he contact the appropriate Minister to arrange for the establishment of toilet blocks to protect the public health? [More…]

• That the present systems of financing of hospital and medical care in Australia are outdated, complex, unwieldy, and provide inadequate or no security against health care expenditure for a substantial proportion of the people of Australia; [More…]

• That there is an urgent need for a new national health insurance scheme, to which each person receiving an income should contribute an amount which is equitably calculated on the basis of that income, and which provides adequate security to each person against the costs of care for every kind of illness and injury. [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the parliament will speedily pass appropriate legislation to bring the benefits of an equitably financed, universal, and comprehensive health insurance scheme to the people of Australia. [More…]

• My recollection is that one senior officer has retired because of ill health, and another senior officer has retired because he reached the retiring age. [More…]

• That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• That the existing National Health Scheme involves a vast amount of public money distributed by private Benefit Societies and that it is necessary to join one of these to qualify for the full Government Health subsidy. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that you will urgently legislate for a Comprehensive National Health Insurance Scheme financed from taxation, and covering everybody instead of only those who can now afford it. [More…]

• 1 from the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare dealing with rehabilitation services for the disadvantaged (handicapped). [More…]

• I thought I should say to the Senate that she has been in rather poor health for some time. [More…]

• She has been very unwell but I am sure that this honour will do a lot to improve her health. [More…]

• Senator Dame Nancy Buttfield has earned in South Australia the reputation of being a very hard working senator, particularly in the health and welfare field. [More…]

• -Mr President, I suggest that the Health Insurance Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1 973 be dealt with in a cognate debate. [More…]

• That the existing National Health Scheme involves a vast amount of public money distributed by private Benefit Societies and that it is necessary to joint one of these to qualify for the full Government Health subsidy. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that you will urgently legislate for a Comprehensive National Health Insurance Scheme, financed from taxation, and covering everybody instead of only those who can now afford it. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate is one of the 2 principal Bills which will govern the new Australian health insurance program. [More…]

• This Bill, together with the Health Insurance Bill, has been passed previously by the House of Representatives on 2 separate occasions but each time these Bills have been rejected by the Senate. [More…]

• This Bill establishes a Health Insurance Commission as a statutory authority to plan and establish an organisation to administer the new Australian health insurance program. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission Bill is being re-introduced in the identical form to which it was previously placed before honourable senators. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Repatriation and Compensation inform the Senate whether disabled ex-servicemen and war widows currently entitled to free medical treatment from the Repatriation Department will be required to pay the tax levy designed to finance the proposed national health scheme? [More…]

• That the existing National Health Scheme involves a vast amount of public money distributed by private Benefit [More…]

• Societies and that it is necessary to joint one of these to qualify for the full Government Health subsidy. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that you will urgently legislate for a Comprehensive National Health Insurance Scheme, financed from taxation, and covering everybody instead of only those who can now afford it. [More…]

• In answer to a question last Thursday the Minister representing the Minister for Health stated that special precautions are being taken at Darwin with passengers arriving from Bali and Timor to prevent the introduction of foot and mouth disease into this country. [More…]

• -but now that the Department of Social Security has trespassed so much into the health care field, and as a result of the findings of an interdepartmental committee, different fees will be paid for similar medical services performed by doctors according to the State or Territory in which they live? [More…]

• I have said publicly that I am against these health Bills. [More…]

• To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled: The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of the Commonwealth respectfully sheweth: that the present systems of financing of hospital and medical care in Australia are outdated, complex, unwieldy, and provide inadequate or no security against health care expenditure for a substantial proportion of the people of Australia; that the costs associated with the present schemes fall disproportionately on people having low and middle incomes; that there is an urgent need for a new national health insurance scheme, to which each person receiving an income should contribute an amount which is equitably calculated on the basis of that income, and which provides adequate security to each person against the costs of care for every kind of illness and injury. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Parliament will speedily pass appropriate legislation to bring the benefits of an equitably financed, universal, and comprehensive health insurance scheme to the people of Australia. [More…]

• That the existing National Health Scheme involves a vast amount of public money distributed by private Benefit Societies and that it is necessary to join one of these to qualify for the full Government Health subsidy. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that you will urgently legislate for a Comprehensive National Health Insurance Scheme, financed from taxation, and covering everybody instead of only those who can now afford it. [More…]

• -The responsibility for this matter falls within the portfolio of the Minister for Health, and I shall refer the question to him. [More…]

• -On 18 July 1974, Senator Drake-Brockman asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, the following question without notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has now furnished me with the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• To the Honourable the President and Members of the Senate in Parliament assembled: The humble petition of the undersigned citizens of the Commonwealth respectfully sheweth: that the present systems of financing of hospital and medical care in Australia are outdated, complex, unwieldy, and provide inadequate or no security against health care expenditure for a substantial proportion of the people of Australia; that the costs associated with the present schemes fall disproportionately on people having low and middle incomes: that there is an urgent need for a new national health insurance scheme, to which each person receiving an income should contribute an amount which is equitably calculated on the basis of that income, and which provides adequate security to each person against the costs of care for every kind of illness and injury. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the parliament will speedily pass appropriate legislation to bring the benefits of an equitably financed, universal, and comprehensive health insurance scheme to the people of Australia: [More…]

• -Will the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security investigate the problem which is faced by country parents who have to take children to the city for medical treatment, often several times a month, so facing crippling financial burdens for travel and accommodation expenses, with a view to relieving them of that burden, as no claim for such expenditure can be made on health funds and no taxation relief is allowed? [More…]

• In speaking to the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1974 1 mentioned that the levy is to be imposed on people residing in Austrafia and that its collection is to be integrated with the collection of income tax. [More…]

• This Bill will ensure that the arrangements for relief of double taxation apply to both income tax and health insurance levy. [More…]

• I can give no undertaking to the Manager of Government Business in the Senate (Senator Douglas McClelland) that we will agree to his proposal in regard to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Act 1973, and [More…]

• With the Minister’s intention, as set out by Senator Greenwood, apparently to gain public sympathy for his stand on the health funds, which is not a popular stand at the moment, I tend to believe the funds. [More…]

• As the honourable senator implied in his question, apart from the illegal smuggling aspect there is also the important question of health. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Act 1973 [More…]

• The Joint Sitting will now proceed to the consideration of the fourth proposed law named in the Proclamation, namely, the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, and pursuant to rule 11, I propose the question: [More…]

• Before the debate commences I would like to suggest that it may suit the convenience of the Joint Sitting to have a general debate covering this proposed law and the proposed law entitled Health Insurance Act 1973, as they are related measures. [More…]

• That the proposed law, namely the Health Insurance Act 1973, be affirmed. [More…]

• What action has been taken to punish the motor cruiser owner- either a knave or a fool- who illegally introduced into Australia 40 birds and 2 monkeys from Bali which had to be destroyed in conformity with Australian health laws? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Dr Jarvis did resign from the Health Centre recently to return to private practice. [More…]

• 3 ) Dr Jarvis has indicated that whilst he was certain that the Health Centre concept offered an enlarged dimension for family medicine, he felt personally that he would be happier working in a private capacity. [More…]

• No other reasons for his resignation were given to the Chairman of the Interim Committee of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• This reason was not given to the Chairman of the Interim Committee of the Capital Territory Health Commission either in writing or verbally. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Was Dr David Jarvis, an experienced general practitioner, employed at the salaried Health Centre at Melba, Australian Capital Territory from the beginning of September 1973. [More…]

• Did Dr Jarvis recently resign from the Health Centre to enter private pracitce in Latham, A.C.T. [More…]

• Did the reasons include lack of control over his own clerical and nursing staff in the Health Centre. [More…]

• With the implementation of the Government’s new health policy, what arrangements are proposed for the coverage of repatriation medical and hospital cases? [More…]

• Is he in a critical state of health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a report from the Hospitals and Health Commission entitled: ‘Continuing Medical Education’, dated August 1974. [More…]

• Will the Minister make a statement to the Senate outlining his findings relating to his study of health insurance in Canada undertaken during his visit earlier this year. [More…]

• b) retraining for those suited by age, health, etc. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What is the breakdown of moneys for medical research by the National Health and Medical Research Council given as dollars and as percentages of total grants between: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Doctors in salaried Health Centres are able to determine case loads and the number of patients they see. [More…]

• They use an appointment system and other health professionals at the Health Centre to this end. [More…]

• No ‘production quotas’ are applied at Health Centres. [More…]

• One of the expressed aims of the community health program is to improve the quality of health care. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did Mr Barry Read, Chairman of the Community Committee of the Melba Health Centre, issue a press statement on 22 July 1974 concerning the resignation of Dr David Jarvis. [More…]

• Will the doctors working in salaried Health Centres not be able to determine their case loads and the number of patients they see. [More…]

• Will the Minister give an assurance that quality and care will not be prejudiced by the placing of pressure on doctors in Health Centres to meet specific ‘production quotas’ at the expense of health care given. [More…]

• Has the health insurance scheme proposed by the Labor Government not yet been introduced. [More…]

• What use will the computer be put to in the event of long delay in the implementation of the Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice; [More…]

• 1 ) Are five new Community Health Centres planned for the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney; if so, will the Centres be staffed by second-year resident medical officers seconded from teaching hospitals [More…]

• Do the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney enjoy a favourable health care situation; if so, is this an area of need as defined by the Government’s policy. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: - [More…]

• ) What arrangements are proposed to cover repatriation medical and hospital cases under the Government’s new health policy. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What recommendation does the World Health Organization make as regards quarantine procedures. [More…]

• Do the procedures in Australia conform with those recommended by the World Health Organization. ‘ [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The number of trained full-time quarantine staff (exclusive of medical officers) employed by the Australian Department of Health in Western Australia is 23. [More…]

• 1 ) Will the Minister for Social Security have tabled in the Senate a report of his most recent visit to New Zealand to study the national health scheme of that country. [More…]

• 1 ) Does the Minister for Social Security still hold the view that bulk billing of medical fees by doctors is an essential ingredient in the Government’s proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• 1 ) What is the current estimate of the cost of the Government’s proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• 1 ) How many health benefit organisations are at present registered in Australia, excluding duplicate registrations because of multi-state operations. [More…]

• How many branches are proposed for the new Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• How many agencies are proposed for the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I shall ask the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) to let me have a statement on the important matters raised by Senator Baume this afternoon and as soon as I have received it I shall seek leave to make a statement to the Senate so that Senator Baume and others who are interested may be informed of what position the Minister for Health takes. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Fumigation processes undertaken by the Department of Health are earned out by trained and experienced officers. [More…]

• Where fumigation processes are carried out by commercial operators, the Department of Health has no jurisdiction over their training of experience. [More…]

• 1 ) Will the Minister for Social Security have tabled in the Senate a report on his most recent visit to Canada to study health care services in that country. [More…]

• Did the Minister’s investigations confirm what the others had discovered, namely that health care costs have escalated alarmingly in Canada since the introduction of the compulsory health scheme. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Department of Health ensure that all fumigation processes are carried out by trained and experienced operators. [More…]

• The procedures to be used to collect the health insurance levy will be identical with those now used to collect income tax. [More…]

• Employers will simply deduct a single amount representing income tax and health insurance levy as shown on a published schedule, just as they do now for payasyouearn income tax instalments. [More…]

• The schedule will show how much of the deduction is for health insurance levy and employers will be asked to indicate this on pay slips and group certificates. [More…]

• Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to an article in the edition of 3 August of ‘Taxpayer’, the national organ of the Taxpayers’ Association, referring to tax collection aspects of the proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• 1 ) Does the Minister claim that there arc too many health benefit organisations in Australia. [More…]

• How many additional health benefit organisations have been registered since 2 December 1 972. [More…]

• Why did the Minister approve such registrations, at a time when the Government claimed that there were already too many health benefit organisations. [More…]

• 1 ) Does the Minister for Social Security accept the recommendation of the Nimmo Committee that health benefit organisations should hold reserves equal to at least three months’ contribution income. [More…]

• How many of the appointees will be transferred to the proposed Health Insurance Commission when it is formed. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to the report of the statement by Mr Snedden in Tasmania 1 1 days ago that the Liberal Party, if returned to government, would consider extending the Royal Flying Doctor Service to King and Flinders Islands? [More…]

• How many appointments have been made to the proposed National Health Commission. [More…]

• As I mentioned earlier, they relate to the health funds and I require a division. [More…]

• The proposal to purchase equipment direct from I B M. Australia Ltd was based on two major considerations related to the severe time constraints associated with the Government’s intention to achieve a 1.7.1974 implementation date for the then proposed National Health Insurance Plan. [More…]

• In introducing the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1 974 I outlined basic features of the proposed health insurance levy. [More…]

• These are contained partly in that Bill and partly in this Bill- the Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In addition, a Rehabilitation Advisory Committee comprising a variety of health and medical professionals from a number of Government and hospital departments reviews and makes recommendations on the adequacy of rehabilitation services in the Australian Capital Territory and co-ordinates departmental initiatives in this area. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1)I refer the honourable member to my reply to Question on Notice No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• During his absence the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) will act as the Minister for the Environment and Conservation. [More…]

• -The same obstacle applies as did apply 6 months ago when Senator Wright asked the question and that is the Japanese refusal to accept Tasmanian and other Australian apples on the basis of their not meeting Japanese requirements on health and quarantine matters. [More…]

• The Minister concerned was not even prepared to respond to the debate on the National Health Bill, which was the previous Bill before the Senate. [More…]

• How many regional offices of the Department of Social Security are to be used for administering the Medibank health insurance scheme. [More…]

• What will happen to the present employees of the Health Funds when ‘ Medibank ‘ scheme is fully staffed. [More…]

• The decision will no doubt be influenced by the advice of the Health Insurance Commission, which will report on the efficiency, level of service and cost of agency arrangements. [More…]

• How does the Minister expect the Health Funds to effectively carry out their agency responsibilities if their staffs are being encouraged to leave the Funds and become employees of Medibank ‘ schemes. [More…]

• The answer is that some of the present employees will be on the staff of the Health Insurance Commission, others will continue on the staff of their present employers and many others will have left their employers in accordance with the high rate of staff turnover which has always characterised the private health insurance industry. [More…]

• What will happen to the Health Funds which may act as agents for ‘Medibank’ scheme after the three years agency period has expired. [More…]

• How does the Government plan to operate the Medibank scheme if the Health Funds do not agree to act as agents? [More…]

• -This Bill has already been dealt with cognately in the debate on the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I am afraid that this is not a question that I am able to answer without reference to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I shall ask the Minister for Health to give me an answer to it as soon as possible. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• $1,080,000 for media campaigns to prepare and inform the public how the new health plan will operate. [More…]

• Covered in these campaigns will be information concerning the methods of claiming health insurance and such points as options of recoupment under the scheme. [More…]

• $500,000 for explanatory leaflets, including foreign language issues, explaining the Australian Health Insurance Plan. [More…]

• I believe that the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) is aware of these matters and is taking appropriate action. [More…]

• It relates to division 939- Capital Works and Services- and to item 3 which refers to an appropriation of $500,000 for payment to the Health Insurance Commission established under the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 for the purposes of the Commission. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Speaking to the Minister as a fellow dog owner I ask him: What information can he give to the Senate on the steps being taken by the Department of Health and other Australian Government instrumentalities to prevent the spread of this deadly virus to Australia? [More…]

• It is a fact that an IBM 370/168 computer was purchased by the Department of Social Security for the following purposes: The development of the Medibank data processing system; the central development and maintenance of the social security benefits data processing systems operating on State based computers; the processing of health insurance statistics relating to the existing scheme; the processing of statistical analysis of social security benefits; the evaluation, development and maintenance of special and general purpose software to support all departmental computer systems; the development of management information systems and for assistance to other departments in Canberra requiring access to computer facilities. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minster for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the National Health and Medical Research Council taken into account the proportion of mercury present as methyl mercury in the formulation of their standard; if not, do they propose to do so in the future. [More…]

• Since present data implicates methyl mercury as the principal health hazard in mercury contaminated fish and methyl mercury analysis is far more reliable than total mercury analysis, is any attempt being made to use methyl mercury as the basis for the standard. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This survey was carried out in Melbourne in 1972 with the assistance of a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council in recommending a maximum permissible level of total mercury in fish took into consideration the methyl mercury toxicity factor. [More…]

• I am informed that there is support for such children under other Acts, for instance the Health Act, whereby nurses go into the homes. [More…]

• How is it intended to register, for purposes of the Health Insurance Act, those Australian adults who are not on the Electoral Roll or who do not receive Child Endowment. [More…]

• Recognised hospitals will generally be those public hospitals currently approved for the purposes of payment of Australian Government hospital benefits under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Did the Minister, in a press release dated 16 April 1975, state that in States which entered the Medibank Hospital Plan, people would be automatically covered for the cost of standard ward care; if so, will this promise of cover for costs of standard ward care extend to patients in standard ward beds in public hospitals run under the State health systems. [More…]

• Have some voluntary health insurance funds sought permission to insure for the actual gap between the real fee charged by doctors and the Medibank benefit payable under the new health insurance proposals. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How is it intended to identify all children entitled to health insurance cover so that health insurance cards for them can be prepared. [More…]

• However the Health Insurance Act provides for the payment of health program grants to approved organisations to cover the cost of an approved health service. [More…]

• Under the Health Insurance Act an approved organisation is entitled to be paid an amount equal to the cost incurred by the organisation in providing the approved health service, including such part of the management expenses of the organisation as the Minister considers attributable to the provision of the health service. [More…]

• Will Medibank refunds for 85 per cent of scheduled fees be available to these organisations for services rendered by such salaried doctors, or will it be necessary to dismiss the doctors and then allow them to resume practice on a feeforservice basis in order to generate health insurance benefit payments. [More…]

• I note that there has been passed recently a statutory rule which relates to the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• 135, has recently prescribed 160 public hospitals in Victoria for the purpose of section 17( 1 )(b) of the Health Insurance Act and, if so, why have they been so prescribed? [More…]

• I ask: Is it a fact that the effect of regulation 2A(e) of the Health Insurance Regulations prevents medical benefits under Medibank being paid to patients in public accommodation in prescribed hospitals and, if that is so, why is it? [More…]

• I also ask: Is it a fact that the further effect of regulation 2A(e) of the Health Insurance Regulations will be to prevent a Medibank medical benefit being paid in respect of any professional services rendered on the premises of any of those prescribed hospitals? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The question involves specifically the States and also the Australian health authorities. [More…]

• health factors, and naturally we all would be concerned that the Government was keeping a proper watch on these matters. [More…]

• That the amendments of the Health Insurance Regulations as contained in Statutory Rules 1975 No. [More…]

• 135 and made under the Health Insurance Act 1973-1975 be disallowed. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• He will be aware that the Minister for Health announced on 1 July 1975 the purchase of the Fawnmac group of companies by the Australian Government for approximately $6m. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the first edition of a ‘Handbook of Health Manpower’ prepared by the Australian Department of Health. [More…]

• Did the previous Minister for Social Security, in a press release dated 16 April 1975, state that ‘in States which entered the Medibank Hospital Plan, people would be automatically covered for the cost of standard ward care’; if so, will this promise of cover for standard ward care extend to patients in standard ward beds in public psychiatric hospitals run by the State Health systems. [More…]

• I suggest to Senator Baume, because I think he will appreciate that I am in this chamber the Minister representing the Minister for Health and that I do not have this type of detail in my possession, that if he were to direct a question on notice to me at a later stage I would provide him with full information about the matter. [More…]

• I do not know to what extent the Minister for Health has suffered from that. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware that the Government and of a lot of voluntary organisations in the educational field have been very hard pressed to match the campaigns which have been waged by those who wish to make popular the use of legal drugs such as alcohol and nicotine. [More…]

• It is for that reason that the Minister for Health has felt obliged to use the weight of his office and the information which he has as Minister for Health in order to lend some assistance to the efforts of those people who are trying to counter the use of these drugs which, I think everybody would admit, are at best unhealthy. [More…]

• The Council has adopted a code which states that public health education responsibilities of pharmacists should be applied in connection with the sale of tobacco products. [More…]

• Apparently my colleague the Minister for Health was described recently by Mr Sigley on a Melbourne television program as a wowser. [More…]

• -I draw the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health to considerable publicity given in recent weeks to statements by the Minister for Health in connection with the dangers of smoking, alcohol and the over-use of pharmaceutical drugs. [More…]

• Has the Minister received any indication of support from organisations with an interest in the health field? [More…]

• Do his efforts in the interests of improved public health suffer from gibes of wowserism in some quarters of the media? [More…]

• 1 ) Did the previous Minister state on 4 December 1974 in the Senate, in relation to the health situation among Aboriginal children in Wilcannia, New South Wales, that pathological tests showed that the children were suffering from measles; if so, was this same statement also contained in the previous Minister’s press release of 3 December 1 974. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Because of the unusual circumstances attending the release of the prisoners and the requirement that they leave Chile immediately, basic formalities, e.g., health examination, were completed after arrival in Australia. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a discussion paper entitled Provision of Health Services in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the Annual Report of the Director-General of Health for the year ended 30 June 1975. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Government claimed that hospital treatment in standard wards will be free in those hospitals systems participating in the hospital side of the Government’s health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I think that this is clearly a question which only my colleague, the Minister for Health, could adequately answer. [More…]

• Did the State or Australian Governments at any time before, during or after the flood in February 1974 assist in, or contribute in any way to (a) move or assist Aboriginal people to move from the Wilcannia Mission area to the Wilcannia Mallee area; (b) supply transport, food, tents, clothing and emergency services; (c) supply and install water traps, ablution, washing and other sanitary facilities, garbage facilities; (d) health services; (e) temporary and/or permanent accommodation; and (0 any other form of assistance. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I emphasise that the Bills seek appropriations for the payment of moneys in respect of a wide variety of expenditures including: Salary and wages for public servants and other employees of departments and of statutory authorities; student assistance programs; health services, including for the operation of Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory hospitals; employment training and assistance and expenditure on projects for the relief of unemployment; maintenance of Australian representation abroad; payments to international organisations; aid programs; grants for aged persons homes and hostels; defence services; and the reconstruction of Darwin. [More…]

• The membership of the Committee was specially constituted for the purposes of reporting on the measures that should be adopted to protect the individual privacy of persons affected by the then proposed Government Health Insurance Programme. [More…]

• The Committee’s second interim report made recommendations to the Government on legislative and other means that should be adopted to protect the individual privacy of persons affected by the then proposed Government Health Insurance Programme. [More…]

• That report was tabled in Parliament on 7 March 1974 and the Health Insurance Bill (No. [More…]

• Were the Departments of Education, Social Security, Health, Tourism and Recreation, and the Treasury all represented on the committee; if not, which departments were represented. [More…]

• Do the reports indicate that there has been a lack of co-ordination by the Government among locally based programs covering schools, health, social welfare, urban improvement and employment. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 32 of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission Act 1973 I present the annual report of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission for 1974-75. [More…]

• Is it the intention of the Australian Government, after the introduction of Medibank on1 July1975, that all medical and hospital expenses and health insurance premiums paid by taxpayers should continue to be concessional deductions for the purpose of taxation; if not, why not. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I will refer it to my colleague the Minister for Health for an answer. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• With regard to advertising on other than radio and television, this is a matter that State Ministers for Health will be discussing at their conference this year with the Federal [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have no information from the Department of Health with regard to the proposal outlined by the honourable senator. [More…]

• My question to the Minister for Social Security concerns an offer made by the Voluntary Health Insurance Association to pay out Medibank rebates at no charge to the Government or the public at the same time as it pays gap insurance benefits from the respective funds. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 42 (3) of the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, I present the first annual report of the Health Insurance Commission for the period to 30 June 1975. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• With reference to a statement made on 31 August 1975 by the then Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, regarding the introduction of a requirement to include a warning against abuse on all radio and television advertisements for analgesics, has such a warning ever been required to be given by advertisers of analgesics? [More…]

• I think that the nature of the question is such that I should obtain an answer from my colleague, the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Social Security in her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health and obtain some further information for the honourable senator at an early date. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Under the Child Welfare Ordinance 1957 the Director of Child Welfare has responsibility for matters affecting children and so action in relation to child bashing can be a joint enterprise between the Welfare Branch of the Department of the Capital Territory, the Police and Health and allied services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In making application to the National Health and Medical Research Council for a research grant not only does the applicant undertake to comply with the National Health and Medical Research Council conditions which include the Code but assurance that the application is in conformity is received from the Institution in which he is working. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did the press release state that successful applicants for the National Health and Medical Research Council grants for medical research would have to conform with the code of practice. [More…]

• Is it intended that the conditions for experimental animals used by the National Health and Medical Research Council scholars will be regularly inspected; if so, what are the plans for such inspections as regards their extent and frequency. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Dr Dodson was telephoned by a newspaper reporter and asked to explain the basis of classification for the statistics issued by the Director-General of Health regarding the activities of the National Biological Standards Laboratory. [More…]

• The results of testing of products by the NBSL are stated in Tables 98 and 99 of the Annual Report of the Director-General of Health 1974-75 which was tabled in Parliament on 10 September 1975. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has been provided by his Department with the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• While a grant has not been given, within the Health portfolio, to any organisation specifically wishing to express a contrary view, the Government provides assistance to both the Australian Federation of Family Planning Associations and the Australian Catholic Social Welfare Commission ($250,000 and $125,000 respectively in 1975-76) to assist with family planning and contraceptive programs. [More…]

• However, as a condition relating to the previous Government’s re-establishment grant to the Preterm Foundation, statistics on the effects of abortion are to be made available to the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did the Australian Capital Territory Health Commission discuss at a meeting held on, or about, IS October 197S, the circumstances in which the names and addresses of certain patients were disclosed to a research worker. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I will refer the matters raised by the honourable senator to the Minister for Health and obtain whatever information he is able to provide. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Government has established the Medibank Review Committee to examine and report on the financing and delivery of health care in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• To what extent are the factors listed in the article on page 3 17 of the Lancet of 16 August 1975, on ill health and child abuse, a true reflection of the factors operating in cases of this problem coming to the attention of the authorities in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1)I understand that the Karumba Progress Association has been advised by Messrs Craig Mostyn and Co., that the building in which the clinic is now operating will be required for Company use by 30 June 1977 and possibly as early as November 1976. [More…]

• The Association is already receiving support under the Community Health Program for the conduct of a nursing clinic at Karumba. [More…]

• The Hospitals and Health Services Commission is currently examining a request from the Association for a further $9,000, being 75 per cent of the sum needed to build a small clinic. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I will direct the question to the attention of the Minister for Health and obtain an answer from him on the matter raised by the honourable senator. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Department of Health has not cautioned medical practitioners on the addictive potential of the drug which is not widely used in Australia. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What percentage of claims were rejected month by month from the computer used by the Health Insurance Commission for the preparation of Medibank claims, because of incomplete, incorrect or inadequately programmed claims. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Department of Health be in a position to provide the quantity of vaccine required. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What was the expenditure by the Department of Health for the financial years 1973-74, 1974-75 and what is the anticipated expenditure for 1975-76 in each of the States and Territories. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did Mr Rupert Frew, the Chairman of the Guild’s National Health Committee, claim in the Guild’s 1975 National Report that the Department of Health’s reply to the submission was that we would not even put it to Treasury. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This is a matter which I need to refer to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical Benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The promotions either approved or effected in the Chatswood Office of the Health Insurance Commission in the three weeks before and the three weeks after 11 November 1975 were as follows: One Officer-promoted from: Claims Officer Grade 3, Chatswood ($6581-7054); to Administrative Officer Class 2, Chatswood ($768 1-87 17). [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What promotions were either approved or effected in the Chatswood Office of the Health insurance Commission in the three weeks before and the three weeks after 1 1 November 1975. [More…]

• I am unaware whether the matters that have been stated by the honourable senator are accurate, but I shall refer the question to the Minister for Health so that he can supply an answer to the honourable senator. [More…]

• Health: Vegetable Oils in Plastic Containers (Question No. [More…]

• I shall do what has been asked of me and refer this matter to the Minister for Health and to see that some priority can be given to the completion of the creche at Nhulunbuy. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• All food additives, including food colours, are maintained under continual review by the Expert Food Committees of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Subject to eligibility for entry being established on these grounds, all applicants must then meet the migrant standards relating to health, character, personal qualities and intention of permanent settlement. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Are Australian arthritis sufferers unable to obtain the gold injection Myocrisin because of an Australia-wide shortage of supplies of the drug; if so what action has the Department of Health taken to overcome this shortage. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Department of Health is unable to take any action to overcome this shortage which I am informed is due to an unprecedented world-wide demand for Myocrisin since December-January and has been accentuated by a shortage of raw materials. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• It is needed because the proposed health insurance levy will be collected through the income tax system and is for many technical purposes to be treated as an income tax. [More…]

• In substance, however, the levy is a payment for health insurance. [More…]

• When introducing the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill I outlined the basic features of the Government’s scheme for introduction of a health insurance levy. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Levy Bill declares the basic rate of levy. [More…]

• The speech is in identical terms with that which was read in the House of Representatives by my colleague, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present the report of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission entitled Review of the Community Health Program, together with a summary of that report. [More…]

• She has gone closer than the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has gone at any stage to admitting that in fact the premium that will be paid to opt out of Medibank or to avoid paying the Medibank levy if staying in Medibank will be fixed in relation to the fees set by the private health funds and not in relation to anything else. [More…]

• It is obvious that the premium will be fixed at a rate which bears a relationship to the fees of the private health funds in order to keep 50 per cent of the people out of Medibank. [More…]

• Is the honourable senator referring to the premium for the private health funds? [More…]

• In relation to negotiations with the private health funds, they are still continuing and until the Government has further negotiations I am unable to give any specific answer as to the premium that will be charged by those funds. [More…]

• At the present time there are 6 Bills on our notice paper which relate to the Government’s proposals with respect to the Medibank health insurance scheme. [More…]

• They are the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill, the Health Insurance Levy Bill, the Income Tax (International Agreements) Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2), the Health Insurance Amendment Bill, the National Health Amendment Bill and the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill. [More…]

• Is it going to be fixed in relation to the private health costs? [More…]

• The provision of health care in the Bourke area of N.S.W. [More…]

• is primarily the responsibility of the Health Commission of N.S.W. [More…]

• The Commission is concerned at the low health status of Aborigines in the area and attributes this to multiple deprivations in the socio-economic sense, especially the high rate of unemployment and associated alcoholism. [More…]

• This situation will not be overcome by health means alone. [More…]

• However, with Commonwealth Government financial assistance, the Health Commission has endeavoured to take special measures to alleviate the health situation of the Aboriginals in the area and these include the employment of a medical officer and of a nurse and full-time Aboriginal health worker. [More…]

• Further, the introduction of Medibank with effect from 1 July 1975, would have removed some of the financial constraints that might otherwise have restricted health care for Aboriginals in the area. [More…]

• It is not possible therefore to demonstrate quantitatively the significance of poor quality control on the economic health of the small business sector. [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the results of a survey on the ‘Physical Health of Aboriginal Children in Bourke, N.S.W.’ [More…]

• What steps have the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and the former Office of Aboriginal Affairs taken since 1971 to ensure the provision of more effective health care for the Aboriginal children living in the Bourke area of New South Wales. [More…]

• At the Australian Environment Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council levels discussions are going on in order to achieve acceptance of minimum standards on both those questions. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a report by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission entitled ‘Rural Health in Australia’. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health indicate whether Medibank Private will cover chronically ill patients insured under the higher Table 2 for as long as they are in hospital? [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health advise the Senate whether there is any ground for fears about the introduction into Australia of lassa fever, particularly whether there is a tab on all the people who came in on the aircraft concerned, and also on any manifestations of the disease that may have become apparent. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In answering these questions the Minister stated that single pensioners who qualified for pensioner medical health service cards and who are on an income level of up to $33 a week will have exemption from the Medibank levy. [More…]

• Does not the booklet produced by the Commonwealth Department of Health about Medibank say, in relation to pensioners: ‘If you pay any income tax you will also have to pay the levy.’? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The administrative costs of the Health Insurance Commission for 1975-76 were $51,867,000. [More…]

• The estimated administrative costs of the Health Insurance Commission for 1976-77 are $58,747,000. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• On behalf of honourable senators, I offer my best wishes to Mr Stitt and his wife and wish him good health and a long and happy retirement, with thanks for the assistance he has given the Senate throughout his career. [More…]

• I will need to refer this matter to the Minister for Health for his determination. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In that particular article my comments were directed primarily towards the absurdity of a national strike on a matter which was complicated, which at the time could not be understood because then the relevant rates for Medibank and the private health funds had not been published and it was extremely difficult for members of the public to be able to understand. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) How many persons have so far been prosecuted for offences under the Health Insurance Act relating to the lodgment of false Medibank claims. [More…]

• I will refer the questions to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer for the honourable senator on the matters raised. [More…]

• I will bring it to the attention of the Minister for Health and obtain a report for the honourable senator. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• (a) and (b) The area to which reference has been made contains a network of health centres operated mainly by the South Australian Government. [More…]

• The Northern Territory Medical Service under long-standing arrangements with the South Australian authorities has provided those health centres with regular routine radio consultations, emergency evacuation services and routine medical visits and, as well, has provided services to health centres in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• In addition, Aborigines consult their traditional healers (Ngangkari) in relation to their health matters. [More…]

• The Departments of Health in South Australia and Western Australia, as well as the Northern Territory Medical Service, recognise the inadequacy of services they are able so far to provide in this area, especially to Aboriginal groups that have tended to move away from established communities and health facilities. [More…]

• Health authorities providing these services have, over the years, experienced considerable difficulty in maintaining a stable staffing situation in the remote desert areas. [More…]

• However, an active health education and disease prevention program is instituted by Public Health personnel from Adelaide, and in addition medical specialists from Alice Springs and Adelaide also visit centres in the area. [More…]

• In accordance with arrangements agreed with the health authorities in South Australia and Western Australia, the Northern Territory Medical Service is endeavouring to recruit additional staff, including a medical practitioner, to upgrade the health service to the Central Reserves area where these people are located. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to a statement in the Canberra Times dated 13 July 1976, by the Senior Medical Officer of the Central Australian Aborigines Congress, Dr Trevor Cutter, that three government Health Departments have failed to recruit a medical practitioner to establish a community health service for the Pitjantjatjara Aboriginal tribe in central Australia. [More…]

• If the answer to ( 1 ) is in the affirmative, (a) has the Australian Department of Health been involved in the recruitment, and why has it not been possible to locate a suitable medical practitioner; (b) what health facilities are currently available to the Pitjantjatjara people; (c) is Dr Cutter justified in saying, as quoted in the Canberra Times on 13 July, that the area ‘had very poor health services’; and (d) what proposals, if any, does the Minister have to upgrade health services in the area concerned. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The Budget for payments in 1 975-76 from the Health Insurance Fund in respect of hospital services and benefits was$822m. [More…]

• Commonwealth Government payments from the Health Insurance Fund and under the State Grants (Hospital Operating Costs) Act 1976 towards the cost of operating the public and private hospital systems in Australia in 1975- 76 were $948m. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The matter of the question was referred to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It could be placed on notice or I could have it referred to the Minister for Health for an early answer. [More…]

• The National Health Act has been changed to substitute the words ‘Permanent Head’ for ‘DirectorGeneral of Health’. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Up to 30 June 1973, the Commonwealth under the States Grants (Mental Health Institutions) Act made payments to the States on a $ 1 to $2 basis for capital expenditure on mental health institutions. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to statements by Professor E. Saint, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Queensland, in the Courier Mail of 20 May 1976, that insufficient funds are being spent on mental health services in Australia; if so, (a) what financial assistance has the Australian Government provided for mental health programmes since 1 July 1970, (b) what additional funds are planned for injection into mental health programmes for the remainder of this financial year; and (c) is the Department of Health in general agreement with Professor Saint’s statement that spending on mental health should be doubled or trebled, given the availability of funds in the Government’s national priorities. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the annual report of the Director-General of Health for the year ended 30 June 1976. [More…]

• In introducing the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill (No. [More…]

• While the Bill, in form, repeals the Act imposing the health insurance levy for 1976-77, and enacts another in its place, the only changes of substance specify the maximum- or ceiling- amounts of levy payable in varying circumstances. [More…]

• -Mr Deputy President, I understand that the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle), who is in charge of this legislation, would propose a comprehensive debate covering the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976, the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976 and the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976, and that the Opposition would like the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976 and the Health Insurance Levy Bill (No. [More…]

• The implication of this approach of the conservative government is that if Medibank is financed by way of a levy and if a substantial number of Australians joins private health funds, the deficit will be reduced. [More…]

• Everyone agrees that someone has to pay for the health service. [More…]

• Someone has to accept payment for the health service provided it is kept at moderate levels by reasonable and sensible restraint by doctors. [More…]

• The misuse of the health scheme is by doctors. [More…]

• Nevertheless, if there is restraint by doctors and they maintain an admirable ethical standard the health care cost of this country can be kept at around $2,000m; and the community will pay. [More…]

• One of the most perplexing problems for any government, whether it be socialist or conservative, is the health care of its country’s population. [More…]

• No matter what is said and what has already been said, the fundamental truth of the matter is that all of us would like to see a situation in which everyone receives sufficient attention to the health worries that they might have. [More…]

• I shall refer the question to the Minister for Health for information. [More…]

• We believe that if the Government wants to set up a reinsurance pool it should set up a proper one, a pool established from contributions from all the private funds, including Medibank Private, which are involved in private health insurance. [More…]

• Therefore we believe that the contribution rates, the premiums for those people who wish to join the private health funds and wish to take up this sort of insurance, should be readjusted to cover that point. [More…]

• People at the moment are joining private health funds believing that they are paying insurance for all their illnesses and to cover themselves completely. [More…]

• All the organisational work has been done in the Department of Health and by Medibank in anticipation of the vote in this place. [More…]

• To begin with, people do not believe that their private insurance will insure them against 100 per cent of the cost to the country of their health care. [More…]

• They also know, because they have been told and told repeatedly, that those people who are insured in private health care funds pay 70 per cent of their total health care. [More…]

• Those who pay the levy alone pay roughly 18 per cent of the cost of their total health care. [More…]

• How can Senator Grimes say that the levy payers are subsidising those who are privately insured when I have given him those figures showing the percentage of their full health care that they are paying? [More…]

• The amendments moved on behalf of the Opposition merely propose the deletion of the word ‘Private ‘ in relation to Medibank ‘s private health insurance function. [More…]

• We cannot get even a guarantee that the Minister for Health will use his regulatory powers. [More…]

• I am not the Minister for Health. [More…]

• No doubt the Minister for Health will have some power to make regulations as to the behaviour of funds and as to what he has done. [More…]

• I assume that the Minister is saying that he will support in every way the recommendation that the Minister use his regulatory powers to ensure that the health funds do not abuse the situation. [More…]

• Consider, for example, the large number of people who rely on their contributions to a health fund to cover them for hospital services. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the increased incidence of rabies amongst dogs in Europe caused the Department of Health to institute quarantine precautions to avoid the spread of this disease to Australia. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a report prepared by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission entitled ‘Health Transport Policies for Australia ‘. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How many journalists were employed in the Department of Health, and in commissions and statutory bodies under the Minister’s control, at 1 September 1976. [More…]

• As with the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The Bill provides for the definitions of ‘eligible pensioner’ and ‘dependant’, in relation to an eligible pensioner, to be the same as those proposed for ‘pensioner’ and ‘dependant’, in relation to a pensioner, in the National Health Bill. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1)1 have already asked for the report of the World Health Organization Conference, Geneva, 31 August to 7 September 1976 relating to preservation of foods by irradiation to be made available as soon as possible in the Parliamentary Library. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Can the Minister provide the Senate with details of the World Health Organization Conference held in Geneva between 31 August and 7 September 1976, relating to foodstuffs preserved by irradiation. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Act makes provision for payment of medical and hospital payments during the temporary absense overseas of an Australian resident. [More…]

• However I will draw the attention of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) to the matter raised by Senator Mulvihill. [More…]

• 1 will draw that matter to the attention of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• (2) and (3) The U.K.. Department of Health and Social Security has advised that it has no knowledge of any such study prepared recently for its Standing Medical Advisory Committee. [More…]

• However, I can tell the honourable senator that the National Health and Medical Research Council has recommended now the membrane filter method for estimating air-borne asbestos dust in the asbestos industry. [More…]

• The Northern Territory Division of the Department of Health maintains surveillance of dust diseases, which include asbestosis. [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission is responsible for the continued monitoring of the situation. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) How many rural health centres have been completed in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• What is the role of the health centres on Aboriginal settlements, missions, etc. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has a report recently been made public of a study prepared for the Department of Health and the Social Security Standing Medical Advisory Committee which raises new doubts about the safety of white asbestos as well as reemphasising the known dangers of crocidolite, the naturally occuring blue form of asbestos. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to reports that certain companies require their executives to undergo compulsory health checks and that these companies then avoid payment by subsequently requiring the employee concerned to pay the bill and seek reimbursement from Medibank. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of Press reports indicating that an ore dump at Port Pirie in South Australia contains dangerously high levels of radioactivity? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Queensland Minister for Health, Dr L. Edwards, quoted in the Courier-Mail dated 3 October 1976, has expressed disappointment that the Commonwealth Government has reduced funds for welfare services for the aged. [More…]

• The Department of Health has advised that imported avocado fruit is coming only from California, United States of America, provided the consignment is accompanied by a phytosanitary certificate endorsed ‘This fruit is derived from a grove established from sources free of avocado sun blotch vims’. [More…]

• The Minister for Health health provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Where a participating State expends moneys in connection with a paramedical service scheme, approved by the Commonwealth Minister for Health, there is payable to the State an amount equal to one half of the amount so expended. [More…]

• Grants for community-based services, which encompass paramedical services to aged persons, are made to all States under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• Total State expenditures of Commonwealth funds provided under the Community Health Program in 1975-76 were: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Do any States receive grants for paramedical services for aged persons under health programs other than that referred to in (1). [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) What are the names and professional qualifications of the persons who are the members of the governing boards of the private health funds in Western Australia. [More…]

• What provision does any State, or Commonwealth law, or ‘.he rules of each private health fund, have for (a) the election of the board of management by contributors to the Fund, and (b) the publication of annual balance sheets of the Funds. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: When can it be expected that livestock from the United Kingdom and Ireland can be imported directly into Australia? [More…]

• Would it include a health inspector or a building inspector? [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the text of a statement by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) relating to a high security off-shore animal quarantine station. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Dean of the University of Queensland’s School of Medicine, Professor Eric Saint, in a speech reported in the Courier-Mail dated 7 September 1976, has advocated the establishment of a new Commonwealth Commission to control funding of medical education because of the continued neglect of Australian medical schools under the traditional method of funding through the Universities Commission and State Health Departments. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice. [More…]

• What is the projected staff ceiling for the Department of Health as at 30 June 1977. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that, in the Queensland Parliament on 30 September 1976, in answer to a question without notice, the Queensland Minister for Health, Dr Edwards, said he knew of no legislative restriction on Queenslanders joining private health funds in other States to take advantage of lower rates of health insurance. [More…]

• If so, (a) was the Queensland Minister for Health correct, and what are the details; (b) does the situation apply to all States; and (c) how should persons make the application for health insurance in a State other than that in which the persons’ names appear on the electoral roll. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What views have been expressed by the National Health and Medical Research Council relating to the intake of compound analgesic and single analgesic preparations to the occurrence of various kinds of kidney disease. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Did the National Health and Medical Research Council produce in 1975 an Australian code of safe practice for vinyl chloride manufacture. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What are the health risks of these decay products of thorium and other radioactive materials. [More…]

• Does the Minister have evidence to support the contention of Professor Robert O. Pohl, in Search of August 1 976, that there is a significant health risk associated with the presence of these radioactive decay products. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• I will seek that information from the Minister for Health as soon as possible. [More…]

• I will draw the attention of the Minister for Health to the United States experience with this influenza and see that as a matter of urgency he makes the necessary investigations in the interests of the people of this country. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Government intend to undertake a comprehensive cost-benefit analysis of all components of the current health insurance scheme after it has been in operation for a period of time. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The matter which I wish to raise briefly on the first reading of this tax Bill arises from a series of questions asked by Senator McLaren and me and a letter from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health to see whether there is further detail which I can provide for the honourable senator. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I lay on the table 2 reports: Firstly, the report of the Committee on Care of the Aged and the Infirm and, secondly, the first report of the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health entitled Proposals for Change in the Administration and Delivery of Programs and Services. [More…]

• On behalf of the Minister for Health and pursuant to section 32 of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission Act 1973, 1 present the annual report of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission for 1975-76. [More…]

• On behalf of the Minister for Health and pursuant to section 42 of the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, I present the annual report of the Health Insurance Commission for the year ended 30 June 1 976. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I undertake to refer the matter to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and to obtain some response on the matters raised. [More…]

• I did see the report mentioned by the honourable senator but I have not discussed the matter with the Minister for Health and I have no information from him with regard to federal research funds which may have been or will be made available. [More…]

• I will draw the attention of the Minister for Health to the question and the information given in it and ask that he conduct any investigation which he considers desirable. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: In view of the reported abuses of the Medibank system by a small minority of doctors, can the Minister say whether the existing staff techniques are adequate to detect abuses and to follow them up with prosecutions? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and concerns a very technical diagnostic procedure, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. [More…]

• Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health (Question No. [More…]

• When the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health visited each State following correspondence with each Premier, it found the State officers with whom it had discussions (they were from Social Welfare, Health and other Departments) fully and co-operatively ready to assist it in its task. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Under the Mental Health and Related Services Assistance Act 1973, Commonwealth financial assistance was provided to AFADD on the basis of 100 per cent funding of costs associated with the establishment and maintenance of a national secretariat, primarily to co-ordinate the activities of the Foundation ‘s various State branches. [More…]

• Does the Prime Minister agree that the Task Force’s recommendations will be a most inaccurate means of determining the future delivery of health and welfare services in Australia, given the short time allowed for the inquiry. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The main objectives of the Institute would be to foster the development of the maximum potential of mentally retarded persons, their inclusion into the mainstream of community life and the development of services for the retarded as part of comprehensive general community health and welfare services. [More…]

• As the honourable senator will be aware, the first report of the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health was tabled on 17 February 1977 (Hansard, 17 February, pp. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 March 1977: [More…]

• Can the Minister inform the Parliament how many Aboriginal health aides are employed in Victoria? [More…]

• Are salaries paid through the Victorian Department of Health and is the funding through the Commonwealth Government? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1) to (3) The Department of Health has not employed apprentices in any trade since 1 July 1970. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• 1 ) In what trades have apprentices been employed in the Department of Health since 1 July 1970. [More…]

• There have been no charges laid for breaches of the National Health Act. [More…]

• However, six medical practitioners have been charged by virtue of section 129 of the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• 1 ) How many duly qualified medical practitioners have been interrogated by Commonwealth Police in connection with prosecutions considered being launched by the Commonwealth for breaches of the National Health Act since it was first amended last year. [More…]

• How many medical practitioners have had charges preferred against them by the Commonwealth for breaches of the National Health Act since the Act was first amended last year. [More…]

• Has Australia refused to donate funds to the World Health Organisation research program on tropical diseases. [More…]

• World Health Organization: Research Program on Tropical Diseases (Question No. [More…]

• Australia has not refused to contribute to the Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases jointly sponsored by the World Health Organisation and the United Nations Development Program. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: [More…]

• Does the Department of Health carry out an immunisation program against diphtheria in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• What action is the Department of Health taking to ensure that typhoid is not introduced into Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I have been asked specific questions which are the responsibility of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have no direct knowledge of the matter raised by Senator Ryan but I will certainly pass on her comments to the Minister for Health ( Mr [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• For example, a resignation prompted by ill health may in fact warrant invalidity retirement, and a grant of leave without pay might be more appropriate than a resignation when an officer wishes to care for a sick relative. [More…]

• However, I did not appreciate the particulars involved and have not been able to obtain any advice in regard to the discussions for amalgamation which have taken place, I gather, between the Health and Research Employees Union and the Hospital Employees Federation of Australia, No. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• On 17 February 1977 the Prime Minister tabled the Report of the Committee on Care of the Aged and the Infirm which recommended an increased role for private health insurance in the funding of nursing home care. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) In terms of overall health services there are, no doubt, many responsible authorities who would see other areas as also requiring priority attention. [More…]

• Already, a beginning has been made through the Community Health Program which has provided support for some services specifically designed to cater for the health needs of migrant groups and for other services to be located in areas of high migrant population. [More…]

• Wherever possible, these centres have employed bilingual health workers to offer preventive, supportive and therapeutic mental health care to migrants. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March, 1977: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister seen a statement in the First Annual Report (1976) of the Commissioner for Community Relations that ‘the greatest inadequacy in public services in Australia lies in the field of mental health’; if so, is this statement correct. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, dated 15 March 1977: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• Has the Department of Health made investigations into the death of a baby at the Darnley Island Clinic recently. [More…]

• This Committee of officials was established to help co-ordinate New Zealand’s activities in various fields as they affect their Pacific island neighbours, particularly in fields such as trade, economic co-operation, immigration, health, defence and transport. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• During the examination of the Department of Health estimates I asked some questions about goal setting and objectives. [More…]

• Senator Harradine, are you addressing your remarks to the Department of Health estimates, divisions 325 to 335? [More…]

• -I crave one minute of the Committee’s time simply to say that during the hearings of Estimates Committee D I did attempt to ascertain whether the Capital Territory Health Commission knew what was going on at the Women ‘s Centre Incorporated in Lobelia Street, which was being used as a front for other operations. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• With respect to the Minister’s press release dated 27 March 1 977, entitled ‘ Health Program Grants for Evaluative Research and Development’, why was it necessary to establish an advisory committee within the Department of Health to ‘look for ways of getting better value for the nation’s increasing health expenditure’ when the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare is currently conducting an evaluation of the adequacy of Australian health and welfare services. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present a statement concerning an inquiry into the case of Mr William Frederick Toomer, an officer of the Department of Health in Western Australia. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: [More…]

• What guidelines exist and what consultation has been carried out with the providers and the consumers of health care regarding the future development of medical deputising services in the Territories. [More…]

• I will obtain the information requested by the honourable senator from the Minister for Health as early as possible. [More…]

• I will draw the question to the attention of the Minister for Health and obtain an answer for the honourable senator. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 March 1977: [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health explain why Medibank Private in Tasmania uses the Bank of New South Wales branch at the White Horse Plaza, Box Hill, Victoria, for payments of its refunds? [More…]

• I shall refer it to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 May 1 977: [More…]

• What efforts are made to co-ordinate research into nutrition that is carried out by the various universities and State health departments. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The National Health and Medical Research Council supports the following research projects relating to the nutritional status of Australians, both children and adults: [More…]

• -I undertake to discuss the question, as it was raised, with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the fact that the health and lives of many babies are at stake, will the Government review the situation and supply the necessary funds? [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card have suffered undue hardship as inmates of private nursing homes, because the Federal Govrnment subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to private nursing homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the private nursing home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Senator McLaren raised the matter of the animal health laboratory and its proposed building at Geelong. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 March 1977: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 4 May 1977: [More…]

• -(Victoria-Minister for Social Security)- Pursuant to section 9 of the Medical Research Endowment Act 1937 I present the report of the National Health and Medical Research Council on medical research projects, 1975. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The mass media has made many references to statements concerning Aboriginal health attributed to Dr Kalokerinos. [More…]

• and the Nutrition Section of the Department of Health conducted a special study into his theories on Vitamin C deficiency and its relation to Aboriginal infant health. [More…]

• Although I am not a medical practitioner, I was concerned about his current stand on immunization, which if accepted, would eventually have grave consequences for the health of our children and particularly our Aboriginal children. [More…]

• Professor Cheek, to investigate this with particular reference to the health of Aboriginals. [More…]

• Although I have a high personal regard for Dr Kalokerinos, the honourable senator will understand that my Department must rely upon acceptable scientific evidence as a basis for action to improve the health of Aborigines and contribute to their social and economic advancement. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister studied the many reports of Dr A. Kalokerinos regarding Aboriginal health. [More…]

• I will refer them to the Minister for Health for his considered reply. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health say what proportion of all pharmaceutical prescriptions was for sedatives and what proportion was for tranquilisers? [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present the annual report of the Director-General of Health for the year ended 30 June 1977. [More…]

• Clause 2 1 referred to by Senator McLaren refers to registration of health insurance funds, and not to registration of nursing homes. [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue hardship as inmates of private nursing homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to private nursing homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the private nursing home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow $6 per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• This includes close and continuing liaison with the Department of Health, in addition to the close operational liaison in [More…]

• Is the Minister also aware of the Commissioner’s statement that there are no trained mental health interpreters available for mental hospitals. [More…]

• What consultations have been held with the Minister of Department of Health on these matters. [More…]

• I shall refer the several matters raised by Senator Keeffe to the Minister for Health and obtain an early answer. [More…]

• The recommendations are being studied by the Ministers for Aboriginal Affairs, Health, Education and the Northern Territory. [More…]

• I have no information on the matters raised by the honourable senator but shall refer them to the Minister for Health for an early answer. [More…]

• 1 ) Is the Minister aware of a statement in the Annual Report of the Commissioner for Community Relations for 1976 that if problems relating to mental health services for immigrants are to be overcome, three approaches should be taken: ( a ) encourage the migration of more bi-lingual professionals; (b) adequate professional interpreter services: and (c) every Australian professional in the mental health field should, as part of that person’s training, undertake a course to provide some appropriate background on this problem. [More…]

• Have consultations been held with the Minister and Department of Health on this matter; if so, what has been the outcome. [More…]

• The medical screening of prospective migrants takes into account, amongst other matters, their psychiatric health. [More…]

• I will refer again to the Minister for Health the matter that has been raised and endeavour to obtain an early answer to the question that was asked on 13 October about the Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service. [More…]

• 7 ) The Department of Health is presently seeking ways to implement this proposal; [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 25 August 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1), (2) and (3) I refer the honourable senator to the answer provided to Question No. [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Department of Social Security taken steps to establish a Social Welfare Unit for Aborigines within the Department; if so, is this Social Welfare Unit to have comparable powers to the Social Welfare Units in the Departments of Health and Education. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 13 October: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service Nutrition Program been approved and recommended by both the Aboriginal Health Section of the New South Wales Health Commission and the Aboriginal Health Branch of the Australian Department of Health. [More…]

• Did the Minister for Health state, in a subsequent reply to a question without notice asked on 6 September 1977 (Senate Hansard, p. 599), that he supported the program and that he was holding discussions on this matter with the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs; if so, how does the Minister equate these statements with the fact that neither the Department of Aboriginal Affairs nor the Department of Health has been in contact with the Aboriginal Medical Service since the meeting of 15 August at which the regional director of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs stated that there were no funds available for the Aboriginal Medical Service Nutrition Program for the 1 977-78 year. [More…]

• What action has been taken by the Minister to have it included in the national health list, if not for everyone, at least for pensioners? [More…]

• I am not able to answer the question asked by Senator Georges, but I will refer it to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer from him. [More…]

• If I mav respond first to the matter raised for the consideration of the Minister for Health, I feel sure that the report of the committee to which the honourable senator referred has been placed before the Minister. [More…]

• I shall refer those details to the Minister for Health to seek an early answer from him. [More…]

• I shall refer them to the Minister for Health for his attention. [More…]

• In July 1977 the matter was examined fully by a National Health and Medical Research Council standing committee and that committee recommended that no action should be taken. [More…]

• As a result, in co-operation with my colleague the Minister for Health and through the Tertiary Education Commission, I set up an inquiry into nursing education under Dr Sax. [More…]

• We trust you are enjoying good health. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health is aware of the article that appeared in the newspaper mentioned by Senator Bonner. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer for her. [More…]

• -I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a discussion paper on paying for health care prepared by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission together with the text of a statement by the Minister for Health relating to the report. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 February 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Department of Health within the last three years engaged the Institute of Cultural Affairs as a consultant. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) and (2) An approach is currently being made to raise the Department of Health staff ceiling and so allow the recruitment of staff to overcome a backlog in the processing of data received from private health funds. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 February 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) Does the Department of Health have sufficient staff for the assessment and processing of information concerning doctors’ incomes, voluntary health funds services and benefits paid. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health approached the Public Service Board with a view to obtaining more staff; if so, with what result. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (l)No. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Social Security: Is it a fact that applicants for invalid pensions must be examined by a medical officer employed by the Department of Health? [More…]

• It will be responsible for the development of plans and policies and review of existing policies and programs in the broad field of health and welfare. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 32 of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission Act 1973 I present the annual report of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission for 1 976-77. [More…]

• Where his comments have related to other Ministers such as the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) or to me I shall see that note is taken of the information that has been given by him and I shall draw to the attention of Ministers concerned the information which he has provided tonight. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 2 March 1978: [More…]

• -The Minister representing the Minister for Health will no doubt remember that late last year I asked the Minister in the interests of the health of our community to seek consideration by the Treasurer of a differential excise on beer with a low percentage of alcohol. [More…]

• As the Treasurer has no fixed views on whether revenue should be raised by a fixed excise or a differential excise for low alcohol beer, will the Minister ask the Minister for Health to make recommendations to the Treasurer about the alcohol percentage in beers which the Department of Health feels should be on the market? [More…]

• Does the Minister feel that the health of our community is more important than the protection of the excise that the Government presently receives from beer sales? [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 February 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister for Health required private health benefit organisations to provide data to the Commonwealth regarding individual services such as: (a) patient identification; ( b) doctor providing the service; (c) item of service; (d ) fee charged; and (e) benefit paid. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 14 March 1978: [More…]

• I will seek the information that was requested from the Minister for Health and see that the honourable senator is advised. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 2 March 1978: [More…]

• I referred to the Minister for Health the question regarding the school dental scheme in Darwin. [More…]

• That the removal of this item from the schedule would destroy the concept of universal health insurance, and would have the most serious repercussions for women and their health. [More…]

• I will draw to the attention of the Minister for Health the matters raised by Senator Bonner and ask him to give particular attention to the suggestion concerning the reimbursement of the cost of mouthguards and other dental preventive measures when he is reviewing the schedule. [More…]

• I will see that it is referred to the Minister for Health so that an early report and response on the matter raised by Senator Bonner can be obtained. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the National Health and Medical Research Council ever proposed a regulation which would have served to protect women of child bearing age or pregnant women against exposure to 2,4,5-T? [More…]

• I will refer them to the Minister for Health and see that some publicity is given to his answer. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the heavy costs faced by people living in isolated areas in obtaining specialist medical treatment and of the heavy burden travel and accommodation costs place upon patients who have to travel long distances for health care, not to mention the social costs due to disruption of family life? [More…]

• If so, is the Minister in a position to tell the Senate when her colleague the Minister for Health intends to honour his promise made on S December 1977 to implement a scheme by which such people would receive financial assistance? [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that the Medical Services Committees of Inquiry provided under the Health Insurance Act 1973 were formally established in all States in August 1977. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: What progress has been achieved in establishing the Committees of Inquiry set up under the Health Insurance Act to deal with complaints against providers of medical care? [More…]

• I shall refer it to the Minister for Health to see what information is available and to ascertain whether he is in a position to make a statement about this matter. [More…]

• Therapeutic agents, on the other hand, are causing increasing concern among professional health workers and others who are aware of the need for care in the use of drugs available over the counter or on prescription. [More…]

• We propose to initiate the inquiry without delay so that interested persons may have the opportunity of preparing and forwarding submissions during the next few months while the Committee proceeds with its current reference on the evaluation of the adequacy of Australian health and welfare services. [More…]

• Senator Brown, who served as Chairman of the former Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, and Senator Tehan have both rendered significant service to the Standing Committee on Social Welfare and we shall miss them. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has been concerned about some of the statements which were made recently with regard to deaf and blind children and about attributing those conditions to rubella. [More…]

• However, I shall draw to the attention of the Minister for Health the question raised by the honourable senator and his suggestion that further steps should be taken to see that as many young girls and women of child bearing age as possible do have immunisation against rubella because of the disastrous consequences for newly-born children. [More…]

• My question which is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to the provision and use of rubella vaccine by health authorities in Australia. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health have the Department of Health consider the feasibility of the proposal? [More…]

• 1 ) What proportion of the Australian Capital Territory’s (a) retail, (b) restaurant, (c) cinema, (d) indoor sporting/ recreation, (e) outdoor sporting/recreation, (f) primary school, (g) secondary school and college, (h) pre-school, (i) child care, (j) health centre, (k) playground and (1) parkland facilities, have been established in the North Canberra area. [More…]

• 1 ) What proportion of the Australian Capital Territory’s (a) retail, (b) restaurant, (c) cinema, (d) indoor sporting/recreation, (e) outdoor sporting/recreation, (f) primary school, (g) secondary school and college, (h) pre-school, (i) child care, (j) health centre, (k) playground and (1) parkland facilities, have been established in the South Canberra area. [More…]

• 1 ) What proportion of the Australian Capital Territory’s (a) retail, (b) restaurant, (c) cinema, (d) indoor sporting/recreation, (e) outdoor sporting/recreation, (f) primary school, (g) secondary school and college, (h) pre-school, (i) child care, (j) health centre, (k) playground and (1) parkland facilities, have been established in the Belconnen area. [More…]

• I will refer it to the Minister for Health in order to obtain an answer for her. [More…]

• I understand that the Government will be suggesting to the Legislative Assembly in each Territory that it consider the recommendation which calls for a review of health, welfare and community development programs in the context of moves towards selfgovernment and that the Government has offered assistance to the assemblies for any follow up of that recommendation. [More…]

• Health Insurance Levy Assessment Amendment Bill 1978 [More…]

• Hospitals and Health Services Commission (Repeal) Bill 1978 [More…]

• 6469 on Health Refunds would affect a women’s right to claim a rebate through Medical Health Insurance. [More…]

• Furthermore, as Section 6469 on Health Refunds is the item for abortion removing the Medical Rebate for Item No. [More…]

• I am not aware of the intake of nurses in training courses at Darwin Hospital but I shall refer that matter to the Minister for Health and draw his attention to the statement made by Senator Robertson with regard to staff intakes that will be required on the completion of the new hospital. [More…]

• I will readress the former question and direct the further suggestions to the Minister for Health and seek his information on this matter. [More…]

• Firstly, they erode the universality of health cover and, secondly, they are an inequitable redistribution of health costs away from those who are less often sick to those who are most often sick. [More…]

• Senator Baume emphasised the need at all costs to reduce expenditure on health services. [More…]

• We are interested to know also why the Government, which is apparently so dedicated to freedom of choice for health funds, will not allow a fund which desires to retain a bulk billing system to do so. [More…]

• It is a complex administrative matter to change a procedure in a health system of this kind. [More…]

• The Government considers that the abolition of bulk billing is part of the overall strategy to control health costs. [More…]

• What has been done in this clause is quite consistent with what we believe is an important part of health cost control. [More…]

• That, of course, does not affect universality but I think it is an anomalous way to conduct a dual system of private and public health insurance funds. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 June 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• and (2) There is no objection to the importation of cattle embryos from New Zealand provided health certification requirements are fulfilled. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 June 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• and (2) Annual reports are not required to be furnished under sections 74 and 75 of the National Health Act 1953. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The fees for nursing homes approved under the National Health Act (other than Government Nursing Homes) are gross fees and are those approved as at 1 June 1978. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 24 May 1978: [More…]

• What nursing homes approved under the Nursing Homes Assistance Act 1974 and the National Health Act 1953 are situated in each of the electoral divisions of Casey, Diamond Valley and Deakin. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 25 May 1978: [More…]

• 1) On what dates since 31 December 1975 have annual reports of registered private health funds been filed with the Minister’s Department as required under sections 74, 75 and 76 of the National Health Act 1953. [More…]

• 3 ) What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that private health funds fulfil their legal obligations under the sections of the Act in (1). [More…]

• I undertake to refer the question to the Minister for Health who, I am sure, will be interested in the statements that have been made by Senator Young and will undertake whatever investigations may be required. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Geelong Australian National Animal Health Laboratory, Victoria [More…]

• He commented directly on the health of pigs and possible research into certain diseases of pigs. [More…]

• the Conference of Health Ministers and the Standing Council of Social Welfare Ministers be asked to assist in encouraging and monitoring progress towards the establishment of appropriate advisory mechanisms on policies and services for the handicapped in each State; [More…]

• My Department is making the necessary arrangements to have the National Advisory Council for the Handicapped proposal listed for discussion at the next meetings of Health and Social Welfare Ministers. [More…]

• Australian radiation protection standards, as set by the National Health and Medical Research Council are essentially identical to those adopted internationally. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 13 September 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) Was a Commonwealth Health Department publication entitled Cannabis- A Review, withdrawn at the direction of a meeting of Commonwealth and State Ministers concerned with drug abuse. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) and (2) A document prepared by officers of the Commonwealth Department of Health, entitled Cannabis- A Review, was withdrawn at the request of a meeting of Commonwealth and State Ministers. [More…]

• It was not an official publication of the Department of Health. [More…]

• The purpose of the review was to provide a resource document for those with a professional interest in the drugs of dependence area, particularly government officers and those involved in health education. [More…]

• Health Insurance Levy Bill 1978 [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 13 September 1978. [More…]

• What are the criteria under which pregnant women may claim the cost of amniocentesis tests from the various health insurance schemes. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 13 September 1978: [More…]

• We have health funds that are run by doctors and by all sorts of sectional groups which may at various times run into trouble. [More…]

• -In the debate on the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1978, the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1978 and the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill 1978, which are before the Senate tonight, we have had a fine example ofthe socialist policies of the Australian Labor Party. [More…]

• We heard Senator Grimes say: When we get over crossing the doctors’ palms with silver’- that is the fee for service- ‘and introduce the health maintenance scheme we will be far better off’. [More…]

• Ever since the Labor Government interfered with the finely balanced health arrangements of this country both that Government and this Government have been grappling with health costs. [More…]

• The Medibank system that the Labor Government introduced was the cause of the greatly escalating costs in health care. [More…]

• Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• That a referendum of voters of the Australian Capital Territory should be held, as soon as possible, to confirm or reject the recommendations of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health in its Report No. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the report of the DirectorGeneral of Health for the year ended 30 June 1978. [More…]

• I am unable to respond to that question, but I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health and seek information from him. [More…]

• I am not aware of the recent survey nor do I have any information from the Minister for Health on this matter. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health to seek some information on the matter that has been raised. [More…]

• Of course, there are other expenditures through the Department of Health on hospital and health services for the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• I will need to refer those matters to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 September 1978: [More…]

• Senator Martin has raised an important matter which I would need to refer to the Minister for Health for information from him. [More…]

• I will ensure that the matter is referred to the Minister for Health and that a response is given in due course. [More…]

• -I will refer those questions to the Minister for Health and seek information for Senator Bonner on the matter he has raised. [More…]

• I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health and advise the honourable senator of his reply as soon as possible. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Most private health insurance funds apply a pre-existing illness exclusion in relation to supplementary (i.e. [More…]

• Pre-existing illness exclusions have a long-standing history in private health insurance and have applied to supplementary insurance since the advent of such insurance in 1975. [More…]

• Since the advent of supplementary health insurance, the funds have been allowed latitude for innovation and flexibility in respect of such insurance. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 23 November 1978: [More…]

• That the report of the Capital Territory Health Commission 1975-76 be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Government Operations for investigation and report as to the delay in its presentation. [More…]

• On behalf of Senator Guilfoyle and pursuant to section 72 of the Health Commission Ordinance 1975 I present the annual report of the Capital Territory Health Commission for the year ended 30 June 1 976. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 23 November 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 November 1978: [More…]

• Is Medibank Private permitted to refuse membership of its 100 per cent table, and of its ‘Extras’ table, as implied by the statement in the Medibank brochure dated November 1978 that ‘Benefits on the 100 per cent medical table may be reduced to 75 per cent, and benefits on the Extras tables may be refused, for a pre-existing condition’; if so, does this action have the approval of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Finally, will the Minister consider the report with a view to determining whether a need exists for further controls over the health expenditures of State governments? [More…]

• I have noted the matters raised by Senator Messner and I will ensure that they are referred to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• They may be aware of the continuing discussions which are held by the Federal Minister for Health with his State counterparts. [More…]

• If the Minister for Health has anything to report on this matter I will ensure that Senator Messner is advised accordingly. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health inform the Senate whether the Commonwealth Government is able to take unilateral action which will force the State of Tasmania to close the maternity unit in the Ulverstone Hospital in Tasmania, as is indicated in Press reports by the Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mr Barnard? [More…]

• I will need to refer that question to the Minister for Health for his views. [More…]

• This is a matter on which I have no information at present from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• During 1972-73, the Commonwealth funds were provided to the States for capital works under the States Grants (Mental Health Institutions) Act as follows: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• Has the Department of Health carried out any investigations in relation to the contents of ‘Ma Evans’ hair restorer’ and the claims made about the ‘restorer’ in the Courier Mail, 14 December 1978; if so, what are the results of the investigations. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Department of Health has not carried out any investigations in relation to the contents of ‘Ma Evans’ Hair Restorer’. [More…]

• Since this preparation has been manufactured locally any investigations into the contents and claims for the product are a matter for consideration by the relevant State health authority. [More…]

• I am not sure whether they were to come from the National Health and Medical Research Council, or from other avenues, but the figure mentioned approached $150,000. [More…]

• My recollection is that a letter written in late 1 978 by Dr Dintenfass concerning the required $150,000 indicated that he was still confident that he would be able to obtain funds from the National Health and Medical Research Council, but was taking up our suggestion that he apply to the Australian Research Grants Committee for assistance. [More…]

• 2 standing in my name relating to a report of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• -On 7 March 1979 (Hansard, page 556) Senator Elstob asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question, without notice, concerning regulations governing the health of workers exposed to occupational carcinogens. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Legislative and administrative responsibility for the health of workers exposed to occupational carcinogens rests primarily with the States and Territories. [More…]

• To assist the responsible authorities in this matter, the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) endorsed, in 1978, ‘Model Carcinogenic Substances Regulations’ and recommended they be adopted by the States and Territories. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Social Security: Is it true that children with coeliac disease have been accepted as being eligible for the handicapped child’s allowance of $15 a week when, in the absence of any other handicap, the only disadvantage they incur is the need to avoid wheat and rye products in their diet in order to enjoy normal health? [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The information requested in parts ( 1 ) to (4) was sought from the South Australian Health Commission but is not currently compiled. [More…]

• Accordingly, I have asked the South Australian Minister for Health whether he will make special arrangements for the information to be extracted. [More…]

• From information supplied by the Stale health authority under the hospital cost sharing arrangements the gross operating costs of recognised hospitals in South Australia during the period requested were: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 28 September 1978: [More…]

• When he raised these matters previously I undertook to refer them to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• I will have them referred to the Minister for Health and seek an early answer. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• -On behalf of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare I present the report on the Committee’s reference on evaluation in Australian health and welfare services together with the official Hansard transcript of the evidence and a submission received by the Committee subsequent to the taking of evidence. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present the report of the Australian Bureau of Animal Health for the years 1974 to 1978. [More…]

• Health to get his views on the arrangements that may be made by private contract between people and their private health funds. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that persons insured with private medical benefits funds are finding that, after they have contributed to a fund for lengthy periods, their fund reduces the benefit to 75 per cent payment because those persons have made too many claims? [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health intend to take any action to prevent this practice since it often imposes unfair hardship on elderly sick persons? [More…]

• I will need to refer his question today with regard to any projected or proposed increases in hospital costs because of private hospital arrangements to the Minister for Health and seek his advice for the honourable senator. [More…]

• On behalf of Senator Guilfoyle, for the information of honourable senators I present the text of a statement by the Minister for Health concerning the herbicide 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• I will need to refer that matter to the Minister for Health and possibly to the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs to seek a response for Senator Tate. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 72 of the Health Commission Ordinance 1975 I present the annual report of the Capital Territory Health Commission for the year ended 30 June 1 977. [More…]

• I have no knowledge of the attitude of the Minister for Health with regard to a proposal of that kind. [More…]

• I wish to add to a response I gave to a question from Senator McLaren relating to the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• When the first person personal pronoun is used in the course of the statement it refers to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• The Treasurer (Mr Howard) has briefly outlined certain measures which the Government has decided to take in the health sphere. [More…]

• If debate on those Bills is completed, the Government, in accordance with the amendment which has been moved and which it is prepared to accept, will resume the debate on the statement which I have made on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• I have no information on that matter from the Minister for Health but I will refer the question to the Minister and get an answer as soon as possible for Senator Gietzelt. [More…]

• I do not recall seeing any such report, which the honourable senator suggests was prepared by the Department of Health. [More…]

• I will check with my own Department and the Department of Health, and let the honourable senator have a reply. [More…]

• I will refer that question to the Minister for Health for reply. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 April 1979: [More…]

• I will bring the question to the attention of the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• 3 ) The danger of poisonous chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 April 1979: [More…]

• Mr President, before proceeding with the second reading debate on this Bill 1 suggest that with the concurrence of honourable senators it would suit the convenience of the Senate to hold a cognate debate on this Bill and the National Health Amendment Bill 1979. [More…]

• I acknowledge the fact that Senator Cavanagh gave up some of the two hours for quite work that he normally has between 6 and 8 p.m. while the rest of us are eating and drinking to explain to me and the officers of the Department of Health the problem that he has raised. [More…]

• I undertake to obtain some response from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) on the point he has raised in relation to the Bill. [More…]

• -On 24 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 2086-7), Senator Walters asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question without notice regarding the resolutions recommended by the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs in February this year and their implications for the Tasmanian poppy industry. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Additionally, one of the aims of the recently announced national health promotion program will be to reduce known risks to health, of which smoking is a prime example. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 April 1979: [More…]

• Which ofthe 17 recommendations related to smoking, contained in the Report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare- Drug Problems in Australia- has the Government accepted and acted upon. [More…]

• I will have to refer it to the Minister for Health for a reply. [More…]

• A decision on any limitations on importation of live aquarium fish will not be taken until discussions referred to in ( 1 ) above have been held and I have reached agreement on the matter with the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -Is the Minister for Social Security aware of news media allegations attributed to the South Australian Minister of Health, Mr Duncan, that staff retrenchments at the Regency Park crippled children’s complex were due to the Commonwealth Government measures which resulted in a reduction of funding to that organisation? [More…]

• I will draw that question to the attention of the Minister for Health and seek an answer for Senator Watson. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 23 November 1978: [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a report entitled ‘Promoting Health- Prospects for Better Health throughout Australia’. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health; upon notice, on 7 June 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health in South Australia has established an inquiry by his Department as a result of the effects on those who worked at Radium Hill in South Australia. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• I am advised that the prescribed maximum amount is payable by anyone who is not the holder of a pensioner health benefits card. [More…]

• If a drug costs less than $2.75 it does not come under the pharmaceutical benefits scheme unless it is purchased by a pensioner who is the holder of a pensioner health benefits card. [More…]

• My query relates to clause 3 of the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The danger of poisonous chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• My advice is that the National Health Act requires pharmacists to charge the full prescription fee, that is, $2.75. [More…]

• In other words, come next Saturday, if a pharmacist charges $2.50 for a national health script will he be acting within the law? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 June 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: ( I ), (2) and (3) The information sought by the honourable senator was not available within my Department. [More…]

• I will need to refer Senator Gietzelt ‘s question to the Minister for Health and seek some information from him on the matter. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health and seek information for the honourable senator. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and refers to a Nationwide program emanating from Melbourne on 30 July in which it was stated that the South Australian Government had released a report concerning death by cancer of former mine workers at Radium Hill. [More…]

• Has the Federal Minister for Health seen the report? [More…]

• Is he aware of any reason why there should be any real difference in health status of officers in one State as opposed to officers in another State? [More…]

• If, on the other hand, he is bright-eyed, shining and a general picture of good health, I am sure it will be extremely damaging to the people of Queensland. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to the Budget announcement of an allocation of $2.4m over the next three years for the training of interpreters and translators to work in the health services for migrants and Aboriginals. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that, following reports in the media, the Minister for Health wrote to his then South Australian counterpart requesting, on a confidential basis, a copy of the report of the study group. [More…]

• So far as the Minister for Health is aware, no report of the study has been released by the South Australian Government. [More…]

• To honour an undertaking given to the South Australian Minister, the Minister for Health is restricting his comments to aspects of the study already mentioned in the Press report. [More…]

• In 1975 the Department of Health developed standards of radiation health. [More…]

• The Board, in conjunction with the Department of Health, the Department of Finance and the Australian Government Retirement Benefits Office, has completed an examination of procedures for reviewing an officer’s fitness for duty. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 72 of the Health Commission Ordinance 1975, I present the annual report of the Capital Territory Health Commission for the year ended 30 June 1978. [More…]

• With the establishment in Darwin by the Federal Government of the Lionel Rose Laboratory, which with the subsequent transfer of powers to the Northern Territory Government is under the control of that government, what role is now envisaged for the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in animal health research and surveillance in the north? [More…]

• As it is a matter of some interest to numbers of people, may I suggest that he place his question on notice and obtain the information from the Minister for Health in that way. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 May 1979: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 June 1 979: [More…]

• Health and energy, thank you. [More…]

• -On 18 September 1979 (Hansard, page 756), Senator Mason asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the prescribing of Valium syrup for use by young children. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health inform the Senate what response has been made by the Government to the Ralph committee report which was tabled recently in Parliament? [More…]

• 1 ) Does any section of the Department of Employment and Youth Affairs investigate the social consequences of youth unemployment, such as ill health, drug abuse, crime and suicide. [More…]

• I recall a similar question along these lines, but I will seek information from the Minister for Health and advise Senator Townley. [More…]

• Mururoa Atoll is of concern to my own Department and to the Department of Health. [More…]

• I will need to refer the question to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer for her. [More…]

• In introducing the Social Services Amendment Bill 19791 referred to the Government ‘s decision to extend the eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards to supporting parents. [More…]

• Under the National Health Act the holders of pensioner health benefit cards are entitled to free pharmaceutical benefits, and hearing aids. [More…]

• Clause 3 of this Bill amends the definition of ‘pensioner’ in the National Health Act to include supporting parent beneficiaries. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen criticism of committees of inquiry into overservicing expressed by the General Practitioners Society in Australia in its journal? [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the annual report of the Director-General of Health 1978-79. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 10 October 1979: [More…]

• Is it planned to establish a pre-natal statistics unit at the school of public health and tropical medicine; if so; (a) will the general public, or at least medical practitioners, have access to the statistics on demand; (b) what will be the total staff complement; and (c) what qualifications will staff members be expected to have obtained. [More…]

• Mr President, may I suggest that the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) 1979 and the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 21 August 1979: [More…]

• -For the information of honourable senators, I present a report entitled ‘Health Promotion in Australia 1978-79’. [More…]

• I will need to refer that matter to the Minister for Health for an answer to Senator Townley ‘s question. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 1 1 September 1979: [More…]

• What are the costs of: (a) an out-patient consultation provided by public hospitals; (b) an in-patient day in public hospitals; (c) a consultation during normal hours provided by Government Health Centres; and (d) a consultation outside normal hours in Government Health Centres, in each Australian State and the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 October 1979: [More…]

• I will need to refer the question to the Minister for Health for a response. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The labelling of Berylium, including every salt, active principle and derivative of Berylium, has already been considered by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 1 7 October 1979: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 1 1 October 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health as the Minister responsible for the carriage of the report, expects to announce the Government’s response to the recommendations contained in the report shortly. [More…]

• I raise a matter on behalf of the Australian Licensed Aircraft Engineers Association, one of whose members made a claim against Trans-Australia Airlines for compensation in a case which may have some sinister health implications, regarding the effects of a compound known as ethylene glycol. [More…]

• The fourth is the answer received by my colleague in the other place, Mr Tom Uren, from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) to Question No. [More…]

• If not, will he investigate the matter to ascertain whether he, through the Minister for Health, might be able to give some assistance to the relevant Queensland authorities to overcome the problem? [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present a report entitled ‘Rehabilitation in Health Services 1 979 ‘. [More…]

• On behalf of Senator Guilfoyle and for the information of honourable senators I present the interim report of the Capital Territory Health Commission 1978- 79. [More…]

• I am not aware of a statement that was made, as suggested by Senator McLaren, by a spokesman for the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt. [More…]

• -Senate Estimates Committee C in its report asked the Government to provide the Senate with a comprehensive statement on why there had been a long delay in the tabling of the 1 977-78 annual report of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• I have referred the matter to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That the lead content levels in Australian petrol have been proven to give rise to detrimental health effects on the population and particularly on children. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 12 September 1979: [More…]

• I should like to make it quite clear to the Senate that, whilst I might regret yet again that confidential documents have been leaked, I am not vaguely embarrassed or apologetic about the proposition that there should be a program effectiveness review into Aboriginal health programs. [More…]

• I should like to make it quite clear to you, sir, and to the Senate that I am certainly not satisfied that Aboriginal health programs are as effective as they should be. [More…]

• I am quite sure that the National Aboriginal and Islander Health Organisation is not satisfied that existing programs are as effective as they should be; I am quite sure that the public is not satisfied; and I am quite sure that Senator Keeffe is not satisfied. [More…]

• There is no point in putting money into programs which do not have the effect for which they are designed, and my objective and that of my Department in this matter is to ascertain simply to what extent the programs which have been funded by my Department now over a period of years are achieving the effect that is sought, namely, the better health of Aboriginal people. [More…]

• I address a question to the Leader of the Government in the Senate, ls there any truth in the statement that the new health benefits scheme, originally estimated in the election policy speech of the Prime Minister to cost $16m, is now estimated to cost an extra $S8m? [More…]

• Matters relating to poverty are within the responsibility of a number of portfolios, including Social Services, Health and Education and Science. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health or Cabinet given any consideration to the suggestion from the National Health and Medical Research Council that all forms of advertising of cigarettes, especially on radio and television, be restricted? [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has made a recommendation to the Government. [More…]

• Nevertheless it seems to many honourable senators that the hours of sitting are not conducive to efficient work or to our good health. [More…]

• I think that my suggestion would be a more efficient manner of working and certainly would be more conducive to the good health of honourable senators. [More…]

• I wonder whether that would be more damaging to the ultimate health and happiness of honourable senators than the system which we operate at present. [More…]

• Education, Labour, Posts and Telegraphs, Public Health, Public Works, and Trade and Industry. [More…]

• This is a matter related to the responsibilities of the Ministerial Member for Health. [More…]

• Extensions to the provincial hospital including a child health and maternity building, kitchen and dining room, toilets and ambulance garage were carried out, and major repairs were effected to sewerage and drainage systems, water and electric reticulation. [More…]

• I have believed over the years that in many ways New South Wales spends more on education and lest on health than Queensland, where the situation is reversed. [More…]

• It simply means that in one State you may have got a better education, but in your early years you may not have received good health services. [More…]

• Take this vexed question of health. [More…]

• If the Government intends to implement the rest of the Nimmo Committee recommendations, particularly its recommendation for a national health commission, well and good. [More…]

• I am happy at any time to have a full scale debate on this subject, but I would now like to turn to health. [More…]

• I think that evidence given to the Senate select committee which inquired into health insurance benefits brought out that there was a degree of either non-insurance or under insurance which varied between 10% and 15% in the community. [More…]

• In the statement released by the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) a great deal of reference is made to the Nimmo Committee and the recommendations of that Committee but that from a quick reading of the document I could find no reference to the Senate select committee. [More…]

• Before I conclude, I would like to say that I believe there has been some laxity in the Department of Health in not enforcing greater economies in the past in regard to management expenses. [More…]

• There is no provision in the Speech to take care of the social problems of health and education, and also social welfare. [More…]

• The advise of the Department of Treasury, Department of Health and Department of Education and Science was also taken by the Australian delegation. [More…]

• The selection procedures will provide for an assessment by Australian officers of the general suitability, health, character and the potential of the individual to conform to Australia’s concepts of political and social behaviour. [More…]

• But the whole community has also a responsibility for the economic health of the primary industries. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the published results of experiments conducted in America by Drs Hammond and Auerbach titled: ‘The Effects of Cigarette Smoking upon Dogs’? [More…]

• Will urgent consideration be given to forcing the labelling of cigarettes as a menace to health and the listing of the tar and nicotine content of the product on the package? [More…]

• We heard the report of the GovernorGeneral, on the subject of health and hospitals, and we know that in the very near future the Government proposes to bring down a statement on this issue. [More…]

• The headlines in the Press, of course, inform us that the Commonwealth’s health scheme is an elaborate bluff by the Government in an attempt to force doctors to accept the common fee. [More…]

• The cost of the Government’s election promises regarding health was approximately $16m, but now 1 am led to believe that the figure is in the vicinity of $32m. [More…]

• Another Press report states that the Australian Medical Association has asked for major changes in the health scheme, that doctors do not agree with the list of common fees, and that the health scheme has been rejected. [More…]

• Effluent from the Department’s treatment works at Bankstown is regularly tested by the State Department of Health, found to be satisfactory and well within tolerable limits. [More…]

• This effluent proceeds to the Georges River via a drain which the Health Department had found to be polluted by other users. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister have the situation examined and take the necessary action to protect the health of the community? [More…]

• an acceptable health scheme; [More…]

• There ought to be in domestic affairs an acceptable health scheme, but there is not. [More…]

• The United States has a superannuation scheme and a health scheme. [More…]

• Why cannot this nation, which is one of the richest in natural resources - perhaps the richest per head of population - afford to provide for its own people a reasonable health scheme and a decent national superannuation scheme? [More…]

• The Government will introduce legislation in the fields of social services and health and will propose amendments to schemes which we hope will go a long way towards getting rid of these pockets of poverty, Australia is too grand and rich a country for us to put up with allowing pockets of poverty, other than those that are selfinflicted wounds, to continue to exist. [More…]

• I direct to the Leader of the Government in the Senate a question relating to the decision taken by the executive of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association to reject the Government’s proposals regarding a national health scheme and to refuse to hold a ballot among members of the Victorian Branch of the Australian Medical Association. [More…]

• In view of the Government’s enthusiasm for the imposition of court controlled ballots and penal provisions upon industrial unions of workers, will it consider having a court controlled ballot within the Australian Medical Association and, in the event of the Association refusing to carry out any decisions that may be made by the Government regarding a national health scheme, will the Government consider the imposition of penal provisions upon the Australian Medical Association similar to those imposed upon the Waterside Workers Federation and other industrial organisations? [More…]

• Progress is being made by : the Senate Select Committee which is enquiring into ali aspects of the national health scheme. [More…]

• Although we have heard reference to the report of the Committee headed by Mr Justice Nimmo, never once have we heard the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) or the Prime Minister (Mr Gorton) mention the report of the Senate Select Committee. [More…]

• I wish to speak mainly about national health insurance and the national health service. [More…]

• If that is so, the Government will have no doctor taking part in the national health scheme in any circumstances. [More…]

• I heard the Minister for Health say that his Government is concerned only with what is best for patients. [More…]

• This may be quite true, but we were better off without the national health scheme, if the honourable senator would like to know. [More…]

• It would be far better if there were no national health scheme. [More…]

• It is unfortunate that the Minister for Health listened to his Department. [More…]

• The Minister was told in this case that the problem with the national health scheme was that people had high bills to pay when they saw a specialist, and especially where an operation was involved. [More…]

• This is going to make the cost of this national health scheme astronomical because there is no doubt at all that a surgeon will be rushed with operations which, at present, general practitioners do. [More…]

• Another point I wish to make is in regard to the differential between the fees charged for services provided by general practitioners and specialists for certain items under the proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• The list of items is so absurd that one finds it extremely difficult to understand how the Australian Medical Association and the Department of Health could have allowed some of them in the first place. [More…]

• If the Government wants an economic health scheme it should take note of the fact that not one country in the world will deny that the cheapest form of a national health scheme is a general practitioner service. [More…]

• On a previous occasion I moved an urgency motion on this matter, but I was brushed off by the Minister responsible for the portfolio of Health in this chamber. [More…]

• I know that the portfolio held by Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin is not Health, but as she represents the Minister for Health in this chamber she should be here. [More…]

• All the suggestions which the medical profession have made are useless, according to the Department of Health and the Government. [More…]

• All it says is: In the national health service we are considering the patient.’ [More…]

• It could do the simple things which it has been asked to do by the National Health and Medical Research Council, the AMA and others. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) to ask this question of the Minister for Health, whom she represents in this chamber. [More…]

• We fought the election on the health policies of each Party. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has sharply criticised the Australian Medical Association. [More…]

• The Government should tell the doctors what they must do under the national health scheme. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is having trouble with the doctors. [More…]

• We know that the main reason for the support we got in the election was the proposals contained in our health scheme. [More…]

• an acceptable health scheme; [More…]

• They believe that their children are entitled to education and health facilities. [More…]

• an acceptable health scheme; [More…]

• We shall pay pensions at standard rates instead of at married rates to aged couples who lose the economies of living together by reason of failing health - for example, if one or both of them is in a nursing home. [More…]

• The purpose of this Bill is to bring into operation for repatriation Service pensioners the election promise of the Prime Minister (Mr Gorton) that the Government would introduce legislation providing increased pensions for married means test pensioners who lose the economies of living together because of failing health. [More…]

• Very little is being done to try to protect them, f have the greatest sympathy for them for many reasons, f do not like to see people in hardship and I do not want lo see these people flowing into the industrial areas in competition with the work force which is there, not for work, because there is work about for people to do, but for the facilities for them and their families; that is, the facilities to educate them, and the facilities for their health and welfare, which are sadly lacking at the present time. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• When will the Government do something positive to protect the health of the people of Australia, especially the young people, by entering upon a public health campaign to warn the people against the known dangers and to curb the advertising on radio and television which is promoting the use of goods dangerous to the health of the people? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Because Australian doctors have indicated their dissatisfaction with the patched up health scheme produced by the Minister for Health, will the Minister representing that Minister tell the Senate how the Government will meet the doctors’ confrontation threat not to co-operate? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Government, on the advice of the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee, has allowed the Australian public to consume a great volume of drugs without any real knowledge being available as to the effect on the health of the persons taking those drugs? [More…]

• Is it a fact that in the case of a number of chemical compounds there is now clear evidence that some pills are harmful to health and that it will now be necessary to caution the users about the hazards to their health? [More…]

• I have a question for the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• How does the Minister correlate her statement in answer to a question about health, that is, that the first consideration ot the Government and the Minister for [More…]

• Health was the health of Australians, with the complete lack ‘ of activity in regard to the harmful effects of smoking on Australians? [More…]

• I do not know of any State in Australia except Tasmania that does not have a great need for additional housing, and in many instances for school and health facilities. [More…]

• In that year there was allocated to Queensland from Commonwealth resources 800,000 for housing, $325,000 for health and. [More…]

• Commonwealth to New South Wales for housing, health and education was $775,000. [More…]

• The Government is doing a great deal to improve the health of Aboriginals. [More…]

• Included in this area are the very important fields of health, housing, education and employment. [More…]

• Grants totalling $5,410,000 will be made to the States in 1969-70 to support State activities in the fields of housing, education, health, employment and vocational training. [More…]

• In the field of health, subsidies were given to the Far West Children’s Health Scheme. [More…]

• These children are provided with the best dental and health care. [More…]

• The document to which I am referring shows that a subsidy of $7,000 was provided to the Far West Childrens Health Scheme in New South Wales. [More…]

• Assistance is given also in other areas of health, such as to the Bush Nursing Association and the Western Shires Dental Scheme. [More…]

• An amount of $5.4m is being made available for housing, health, education and employment. [More…]

• After discussing these matters they continued their planning for the future in the field of housing, in the field of education and in the field of health, all of which I believe are tremendously important for the future of the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• On removal, where it is necessary because of the wife’s health or because the ages of the children are such that it would not be reasonable to expect her to bear the sole responsibility for the movement of the family. [More…]

• As Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin suggested in her second reading speech the proposal carries out, in part in my view, the promise made by the Prime Minister (Mr Gorton) during the election campaign that the Government would pay pensions at the standard rate instead of at the married rate to aged couples who, by reason of failing health, lose the economies of living together. [More…]

• The purpose of the proposed legislation is lo provide additional pension assistance to certain married persons whose living expenses increase because, through failing health, they leave the matrimonial home for accommodation specially suited to their particular needs. [More…]

• This is not said in an unduly critical way because, after all, the public has lost its money and the governments may think it better to spend money on education or health rather than discovering how the public’s money was lost in some company or on the stock exchange. [More…]

• Has the South Vietnam Health Minister obtained a report on the number of abnormal births in areas where defoliant chemicals were used? [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been directed to the fact that American health authorities consider that certain drugs, commonly known in Australia as ‘The Pill’, are considered so likely to damage health that manufacturers of such products must now include with them a 700- word leaflet warning of the risks to health? [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister take whatever action is necessary to protect the health of the community? [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Appropriate action has been taken by referring the matter to the National Health and Medical Research Council which is undertaking a review of all toxicological information available on the use of DDVP pest strips. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health advise me whether a medical practitioner can refuse to see pensioners who have medical entitlement cards on the grounds that he is not prepared to ‘see any more pensioners’? [More…]

• Can the Commonwealth Department of Health take any action against a medical practitioner who refuses to see pensioners who hold medical entitlement cards? [More…]

• Generally the committees consist of the Commonwealth, represented by the Department of Civil Aviation; the State governments, represented by the Ministers for Transport and/or Health, if they wish to be represented; people of municipalities surrounding the airport; and such people in the city area who feel that they have a special case to represent or a special problem to present. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Before legislation to amend the National Health Act is introduced into this Parliament will the Minister request the inclusion of a provision for the payment of Commonwealth benefits on a specialist basis to contributors to health schemes who attend an ophthalmologist and the specialist, after diagnosing an ocular disease, prescribes glasses? [More…]

• One of the problems is that jumbo jets carry a tremendous complement of passengers, and facilities for clearing passengers through customs, health and immigration areas naturally are not as advanced in some airports as they are in the major centres. [More…]

• Let us assume that you have a regulation in relation to the Social Services Bill or some health legislation; let us assume that certain benefits are given by regulation and let us assume, in order to get an idea of the magnitude of this proposition, that 20,000 people are getting the benefit. [More…]

• To be blunt about this, it could be argued that the Concord or Drummoyne councils in metropolitan Sydney are able to provide the basic local government facilities and over and above that are able to provide facilities to activise local groups, whereas in other developing suburbs - I instance places like Blacktown or perhaps Bankstown - they have so much to do and the people in the area are doing so much for younger groups or, young mothers with children through baby health clinics that it becomes a matter of priority and they are not able to do so much for aged groups. [More…]

• This is one more part of the care that this Government is endeavouring, through its home care programme, to give these people who are able to continue to live in the familiar and happy surroundings of their own homes and to bring into their own homes the special care which makes all the difference in their living and maintaining a good standard of health- I have had a long association with this kind of work and with the people who have done this work both in this country and overseas. [More…]

• Mr Whitlam’s 2 critics, the Ministerial Member of Health, Mr Lokoloko, and the Ministerial Member for Posts and Telegraphs, Mr Giregire, would not set a target date for self-government for independence. [More…]

• They want land, they want housing, they want health services and they want education. [More…]

• With the exception of Sir Robert Menzies who made a brief health visit on one occasion, I believe, to Port Moresby and then got out of the Territory in a great hurry, no leader of the Liberal-Country Party, or the United Australia Party or what ever it has been called, has ever spent the same amount of time in the Territory as has the Leader of the Australian Labour Party. [More…]

• There are open tire places and so-on, and all these things are health hazards. [More…]

• The scale has been drawn up by nutritional experts in collaboration with the Department of Public Health. [More…]

• Was this disagreement about health care at the Reserve. [More…]

• Did Sister Lalor have a disagreement wilh Director Moy over Aboriginal health matters. [More…]

• A representative from the Department of Primary Industry, a representative from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, a representative from the Department of the Interior, a representative from the Department of External Territories, a representative from the Department of Health, a representative from the Treasury and last but by no means least a representative from the Department of Trade and Industry also are members of the Standing Committee. [More…]

• In addition, the Government will pay health insurance benefits for medical or hospital expenses incurred in the first 2 months following arrival in Australia, provided the migrant joins a Fund at the time of making a claim. [More…]

• The National Radiation Advisory Committee in its most recently published Report - that of March 1969 - concluded that the fallout over Australia from the most recent series of French Nuclear Tests in the Pacific, like that from earlier French nuclear tests, was of no significance as a hazard to the health of the Australian population. [More…]

• My quest ion is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That would enable patients to be placed on a similar basis to those in approved special hospitals for the purposes of the National Health Act, for the purpose of receiving fund benefits from a registered medical benefits fund and, if necessary, for the purpose of placing them in special accounts on a similar basis to that which applies to patients in other approved hospitals. [More…]

• The object of this is to allow patients receiving treatment in such approved special day hospitals to be placed on an appropriate basis under the National Health Act in order to receive fund benefits from registered medical benefit funds and. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of a crisis situation in the nursing section of hospitals throughout Australia as indicated by a reduction in the recruiting rate, an increasing drop-out rate, a growing shortage of nursing staff which results in vacant beds, and a dissatisfaction among nurses in relation to their terms and conditions of employment, their salaries and their status? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health call a meeting of all State Ministers for Health and the heads of health departments in the Commonwealth and the States to examine ways and means of arresting the decline in morale in this most important but neglected segment of the health services of the nation? [More…]

• Because of the importance of this great profession and because of the great service that it gives both in Australia and overseas, I will certainly put the points raised by the honourable senator before the Minister for Health. [More…]

• His previous experience included 6 years primary and post primary teaching and 12 years in senior administrative posts in the fields of physical and health education, youth welfare and community recreation, and in-service training. [More…]

• Can the Minister rep resenting the Minister for Health inform the Senate whether a judgment was given recently in Germany against the manufacturers of the drug thalidomide? [More…]

• That efficiency should have regard to the efficiency of honourable senators and their health as well as the efficient despatch of the business of this chamber. [More…]

• It is not one which is conducive to the efficient dispatch of business and it is not one which is conducive to good health. [More…]

• I said that I could certainly take some action to have the windows replaced or do something at a health level to force the owner to replace them. [More…]

• We believed that many of the social problems of today, particularly those of juvenile delinquency and health, had their roots in the lack of housing and in bad housing as far as young people were concerned. [More…]

• The proposed new Health Act would be expected to increase the incidence of variation to deductions for medical benefits contributions to a marked degree. [More…]

• It amazes me that when I say something that Senator Keeffe does not like he decides that we will debate the National Health Bill. [More…]

• I notice that in part this is recognised by a measure yet to come before this chamber in the National Health Bill which is currently before the House of Representatives. [More…]

• The honourable senator will recall that not merely the present National Health Bill but also several taxation measures have been printed in that way. [More…]

• We believe that, as in Canada, the Federal Government must now take the initiative in consulting and reimbursing State governments, local government and voluntary agencies on and for the provision of such necessities as food, shelter, clothing, transport, health care and tools of trade. [More…]

• In addressing my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health 1 remind her that on 23rd April I asked whether she was aware of a crisis situation in the nursing profession because of a reduction in the recruiting rate, an increase in the drop-out rate and a shortage of nursing staff resulting in vacant beds. [More…]

• I now ask again, on 12th May, whether the Minister for Health will call a meeting of State Ministers for Health with a view to conducting u thorough examination of the critical situation in the nursing profession. [More…]

• -My question, which also concerns a health matter, is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Customs and Excise. [More…]

• Does the Minister agree that the illegal import and export of birds is a social crime and is potentially extremely dangerous to health and commerce? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• This action was taken on the recommendation of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee which is a statutory body established under the provisions of the National Health Act to advise the Minister for Health on matters concerning the listing of pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• I refer to Business of the Senate, Notices of Motion Nos 1 and 2, which read: 1 Senator MURPHY: To move-That the amendments of the Public Health (Medical and Dental Inspection of School Children) Regulations, as contained in Australian Capital Territory Regulations 1970. [More…]

• 2, and made under the Public Health Ordinance 1928-1966, be disallowed. [More…]

• [ am not referring to the National Health Bill but to a drug called Intal’. [More…]

• On two or three occasions when I have asked whether any drug has been taken off the list because of cost the Department of Health has said no. [More…]

• Apart from the fact that it has been said that if we allowed Intal to be a free drug our health bill would go up by millions, nevertheless I point out that fewer people suffer from asthma than the number suffering from hypertension. [More…]

• Firstly there are the general benefit drugs which any doctor can prescribe if they are listed in the little holy bible that the Department of Health issues to us. [More…]

• Then there is the group of drugs which requires a special authority, that is, drugs for which, if one wants to use them, one must obtain the consent of the Department of Health through its director in the State in which one is practising. [More…]

• Many of us do not believe that there should be even these 3 categories because the drug which the doctor believes is the one to be used in the best interests of the patient is the drug that he should order irrespective of what the Department of Health thinks. [More…]

• We have heard so much ranting and raving about the National Health Bill and the fact that the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has only the welfare of the patient in mind, but we do not hear from anybody that the Minister will do nothing about the Pharmaceutical Advisory Committee and its actions and that he will do nothing to try to help the very patients about whom he talks so glibly. [More…]

• But even the Department of Health has realised the futility of using this symbol because today, after saying for so many years that we had to use the drug for specified purposes, the Department now says that we do not need to do so. [More…]

• The whole crux of the matter is that it is the doctor who knows what is in the best interests of the patient, not the Department of Health. [More…]

• Having filled in the form, the doctor then sends it down to the doctor who represents the Director-General of Health in the State in which the doctor is living, and then this doctor sitting in his office, in Hobart in my case, or in Sydney in other cases, decides what drug that patient, whom he has never seen or examined, should receive. [More…]

• J have got up in this chamber on many occasions and criticised the Department of Health’s method of the control of drugs. [More…]

• Many officers in the Department of Health are drop-outs from general practice. [More…]

• The request came down to- -I will not lose my temper - an unintelligent officer in the Department of Health, sitting in Hobart, who wrote back and said that he disapproved of the use of the drug. [More…]

• Time and again we hear Ministers get up in this chamber and say that the Minister for Health is doing his best for the patient. [More…]

• The Department of Health is concerned, as is also the Department of Education and Science, the Tourist Commission, the Department of the Interior and the Department of National Development A meeting of these departments and their representatives is to take place on the 18th of this month - next Monday - for the purpose of concerting the viewpoints of the Government’s advisers on the matter that should go to the Darwin conference and then go to the Ministers’ conference out of which action should take place. [More…]

• This report indicates quite clearly that the use of raw kangaroo meat is a great danger to the health of the people. [More…]

• This document clearly indicates that kangaroo meat is very dangerous to the health of the community as has been proven by laboratory tests. [More…]

• F.R.A.C.P., Director-General of Public Health Adelaide. [More…]

• Thirty-six samples were purchased over a period of two weeks by an inspector of the Department of Public Health, and forwarded to the Salmonella Reference Laboratory in batches of 12 on the day of purchase. [More…]

• There can be little doubt that kangaroo meat sold as pet food constitutes a serious danger to public health, if the observed degree of salmonellae is allowed to continue. [More…]

• Attention is drawn to the public health problems arising from the continual sale of this meat, and the possible transmission of infection to the community. [More…]

• Will the Minister take action to protect Commonwealth meat inspectors from being blamed for the results of an American tactic to use health measures to erect a barrier against United States imports of Australian mutton? [More…]

• ), of proposed new section 24 of the Norfolk Island Health Ordinance, as contained in section (4. [More…]

• ), of the Health Ordinance 1969 and made under the Norfolk Island Act 1957-1969, be disallowed. [More…]

• At present the Health Bill is being debated in the other place. [More…]

• Because of the brawls that are going on within the Government Parties over controversial Bills relating to the proposed Industry Development Corporation, territorial waters and the national health scheme, the business is not flowing through to us. [More…]

• Mr Howard, who was the first officer in charge of Yuendumu, was allegedly dismissed because of a disagreement with a nurse at (he hospital, but according to my information he was dismissed because he condemned the health conditions at Yuendumu. [More…]

• I believe the health officer at the Darwin hospital supported his condemnation and said that they were the worst conditions he had ever witnessed. [More…]

• When the Petroleum (Submerged Lands) Bill was brought before this chamber some 3 years ago - in 1967 to be precise - honourable senators were told that 2 sections of the Act would cover working conditions of people engaged in the industry, safely standards, health standards, etc. [More…]

• A permittee or licensee shall carry out all petroleum exploration operations and operations for the recovery of petroleum inthe permit area or licence area in a proper and workmanlike manner and in accordance with good oil-field practice and shall secure the safety, health and welfare of persons engaged in those operations in or about the permit area or licence area. [More…]

• A person who is the holder of a special prospecting authority or an access authority shall carryout all petroleum exploration operations in the area in respect of which the special prospecting authority or access authority is in force in a proper and workmanlike manner and in accordance with good oil-field practice and shall secure the safety, health and welfare of persons engaged in those operations in or about that area. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Civil Aviation aware of the grave danger to public health existing in the aircraft of both of the major domestic airlines where the floors of the entrance foyers are lined with either linoleum or vinyl? [More…]

• After reviewing the problem in 1965, the Government approved the creation within the four responsible departments, namely, the Department of the Interior, the AttorneyGeneral’s Department, the Department of Health and the Treasury, of special groups of officers to be assigned exclusively to the task of reviewing the laws of the Territory and to keep those laws up to date. [More…]

• In the case of the RAAF Reserve, reservists are required to notify my Department each year of their address, general health and any change in physical condition which might render them unfit for further service. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate is to authorise the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission to import and sell to the Commonwealth, for the purpose of immunisation campaigns, those vaccines referred to in section 9b of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Once the vaccine is cleared for issue in Australia the Commonwealth Department of Health, on receipt of requests from the States and Territories, asks the Commission to forward the appropriate quantities of the vaccine to the States and Territories. [More…]

• The Commission then claims reimbursement from the Department of Health for the vaccine supplied in accordance with a price that has been determined by the Minister under section 22 of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Act. [More…]

• It reads: On 4th March last, the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) announced the details of the Government’s decision to implement its new health benefits plan. [More…]

• This decision was influenced to a very large degree by the recommendations of the Commonwealth Committee of Enquiry into Health Insurance - the Nimmo Committee - and the plan will bring into effect the major recommendations made by that Committee relating to medical benefits and the administration of the voluntary health insurance organisations. [More…]

• The advances made possible by the National Health Bill now before us, in conjunction with the other improvements introduced by this Government in 1968 and 1969, will bring financial protection against the costs of medical and hospital treatment within the reach of every person in the community. [More…]

• At the same time the new health benefits plan will retain the basic principles which the Government believes are essential in any national welfare measure. [More…]

• Commonwealth and fund medical benefits, introduces new measures concerned with the administration of registered medical and hospital benefits organisations and provides assistance on a wider scale towards the cost of health insurance for families on low incomes. [More…]

• The First Schedule sets out the new rates of Commonwealth benefit payable for each medical service and replaces the Schedule of Commonwealth benefits contained in the present National Health Act. [More…]

• The identification of specialists for the purposes of the health benefits plan has also received the Government’s attention. [More…]

• However, not all States have implemented legislation providing for the registration of specialists and because of this the Bill provides machinery for the recognition of specialists for the purposes of the National Health Act. [More…]

• 1 wish to turn now to the position of low income families under the new health benefits plan. [More…]

• In October 1969 the National Health Act was amended to provide free health insurance for persons receiving unemployment and sickness benefits, for families with weekly incomes not exceeding $39 and for migrants during their first 2 months in Australia. [More…]

• As a result of the increase in the Commonwealth minimum weekly wage in December 1969, it is proposed to increase the eligibility level for full health insurance for low income families to $42.50 per week. [More…]

• The Bill also provides for graduated assistance toward the costs of contributing for health insurance to families wilh weekly incomes not exceeding $48.50. [More…]

• Finally, I would like to mention the amendment to section 9b of the National Health Act authorising the provision of rubella vaccine for mass immunisation campaigns. [More…]

• Senator MURPHY: To move- That the amendments of the Public Health (Medical and Dental Inspection of School Children) Regulations, as contained in Australian Capital Territory Regulations 1970. [More…]

• 2, and made under the Public Health Ordinance 1928-1966, be disallowed. [More…]

• I had discussions with the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) and I announced yesterday that I would be moving for a disallowance today, which I intended to do. [More…]

• He had had farther discussions with the Minister for Health and with the dentists. [More…]

• The agreement reached with the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in another place, to which Senator Dittmer referred, does not alter the position ohe iota because it has always been the case that the dental therapists operate under the general surveillance of dentists. [More…]

• On behalf of the Opposition I move the following amendment to the motion by the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in this place, that the Bill be now read a second time: [More…]

• That the following words be added: ‘but the Senate is of the opinion that, while the Bill represents some improvement, a National Health Insurance Commission financed from graduated contributions would pay for medical and hospital services for all more equitably and economically’. [More…]

• The purpose of this amendment is to enable us to highlight the present Government’s failure to introduce a health scheme which will overcome all the anomalies of the existing scheme and to provide an alternative which will ensure to every Australian citizen the best treatment available to him in this country within the financial ability of everyone. [More…]

• The Government’s dillydallying and the wrangling that has been engaged in in public debate over Australia’s national health scheme arc a scandal comparable to the Government’s infamous, inefficient and incompetent handling of negotiations to purchase Fill aircraft. [More…]

• On 14th May it was reported in the Sydney ‘Daily Telegraph’ that Dr Forbes, the Minister for Health, had told a meeting of the Government Parties that the Government could not get any agreement with the medical profession as a whole and that it should now - I emphasise the word ‘now’ - consider the position of patients and the public. [More…]

• We take that course only because the Bill represents an improvement of the existing costly, wasteful and anomalous national health scheme. [More…]

• The scheme discriminates between the healthy and unhealthy. [More…]

• It eases from the shoulders of wealthy people their share of responsibility for the health of the Australian community and a heavier burden is consequently placed on the shoulders of the poor people or men supporting large families. [More…]

• The Australian people have the Opposition in the Senate to thank for bringing out into the open arena of public debate the grave shortcomings of the existing national health scheme. [More…]

• In March 1967 - about 3 years ago - the Opposition in the Senate gave notice of a motion to appoint a Senate select committee to inquire into health and hospital costs in Australia. [More…]

• Until that time it had been the cry of supporters of the present Government - and it continued for a short time thereafter - that the Australian system of voluntary health insurance was the best system in the world. [More…]

• They claimed that other countries looked on us with envy, that the health insurance funds were administering the scheme efficiently, austerely and without extravagance, and in the interests of contributors. [More…]

• The policy of the Government at that time was one of laissez-faire - leave well alone - as was instanced in an answer given to me by the Minister for Health about 2 years ago when I asked about the purchase of a private aircraft, at a cost of about $40,000, by a large health insurance fund operating in New South Wales. [More…]

• The Voluntary Health Insurance Council of Australia continued its expensive publicity drive lauding its own work and castigating those people who dared to criticise it. [More…]

• The aim must be to have a constant stream of stories reaching the public and all containing some aspect of our story quietly and unobtrusively, presented in a way so calculated to build that confidence in and high regard for the present health scheme that any attempt to nationalise it no longer has any significant support from the public and therefore ceases to be attractive as a political tool. [More…]

• In short, the funds not only were the recipients of public moneys for health insurance purposes but . [More…]

• The complacent attitude of the Government to national health continued, even after March 1967 when the Opposition gave notice of a motion in the Senate for. [More…]

• During the debate on that motion supporter after supporter of the Government was reported in Hansard to have claimed that the Australian health scheme as it was then was the best in the world. [More…]

• On that day the Senate agreed to the appointment of a Senate select committee to inquire into health and hospital costs in Australia. [More…]

• I venture the suggestion now that had the Senate voted otherwise, the hopeless, wasteful and extravagant health scheme that Australians had then and still have would be allowed to go on its merry way today. [More…]

• Indeed, it visited Canada to investigate that country’s health scheme. [More…]

• Being an independent and impartial committee - to use the Minister’s term - it made 42 specific recommendations affecting not only the Commonwealth Government but also the State governments, the medical profession and the health insurance funds. [More…]

• The operation of the health insurance scheme is unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many. [More…]

• Madam Acting Deputy President, you will recall that in evidence given before the Senate Select Committee a deputy directorgeneral of the Department of Health said that he saw nothing in the Nimmo Committee’s report which in the light of what the Department knew was exaggerated. [More…]

• The findings of the Nimmo Committee were the greatest indictment possible of any voluntary health insurance scheme that was being administered by the health funds under the control of the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• I suggest that within 2 years, despite the improvements that will be made to the present health scheme by the passage of this legislation, another crisis will arise in relation to the bridging of the gap between the amount of the doctor’s fee and the amount of the refund and in relation to the amount of contributions by workers to the funds. [More…]

• If the Government is adamant on preserving a system of voluntary health insurance under which some citizens are covered and others are not, then one complete government scheme, in my opinion, would be far better than the present unsatisfactory arrangements under which there are 78 registered medical benefits organisations and 109 registered hospital benefits organisations. [More…]

• The Committee closely considered all the suggestions placed before it and finally decided, by a majority vote, that ite Report should be framed with the intention of recommending ways of extending and improving the existing voluntary health insurance scheme, and of providing the maximum levels of health care generally throughout the Australian community. [More…]

• But I suggest that if the Government had waited for the Senate Select Committee’s full report it would have found that there is still much to be done if voluntary health insurance is to cater adequately for the health needs of the Australian community. [More…]

• One recommendation, which was made by the Nimmo Committee and which the Minister himself said on 4th March he would implement, was for the establishment of a national health insurance commission. [More…]

• The Committee considers that this objective would be advanced by the transfer of the administration of the health insurance scheme from the Commonwealth Department nf Health to a National Health Insurance Commission with as much independence as possible. [More…]

• March 1969 - namely, that the Government establish a national health insurance commission - the Minister for Health made a statement to the Parliament on 4th March. [More…]

• The administration of health insurance received considerable attention by the Nimmo Committee and its recommendations on this subject have been thoroughly reviewed by the Government. [More…]

• It has been decided to adopt the Committee’s proposal that a National Health Insurance Commission be established. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee made such a report in March 1969, and in March 1970 the Minister for Health said that he would implement the recommendations of the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• The National Health Bill is before this Parliament, and there is not one word in the Bill about the Government deciding to establish such a commission. [More…]

• The Government received the Nimmo Committee’s report 15 months ago, and whilst major amendments to the national health scheme are now being made under this Bill, there is nothing included amongst the amendamendments about the establishment of a commission which would have within its membership, as I have said, a person representing the interests of contributors and patients. [More…]

• There is one other matter to which I should refer, and that is the provision introduced last year to subsidise the payment of health insurance premiums of low income earners. [More…]

• I should have thought that if the Government had the supreme faith in the voluntary health insurance funds that it professes to have, once it accepted a person as being eligible for subsidy under the provisions relating to low income earners, the Commonwealth ultimately would pay the subscriptions of that low income earner to the fund of his choice. [More…]

• If this is so, then I suggest that the present Government is only making a mockery of the continuation of the present costly voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I suggest that the Government tolerates the continuation of the voluntary health insurance scheme because the system has grown into such a Frankenstein monster. [More…]

• Expenditure on health services in Australia in 1966-67 - the last figures available to us - amounted to $1,1 18m, principally provided by the Commonwealth, the States, local government, voluntary insurance and patients’ fees. [More…]

• Indeed, the amount of $1,1 18m is broken down in this manner: The Commonwealth provided $3 27m - and I will leave out the decimal points - for expenditure on health services in 1966-67; the States provided $240m; local government provided $l1m, making a total of $579m. [More…]

• Expressed as percentages of the expenditure of SI, 118m on health services in Australia 3 years ago, the Commonwealth provided 29.3%, the States provided 21.5%, local government provided 1%, patients’ fees provided 34.2%, voluntary insurance provided only 13% and the ‘other’ category accounted for 0.9%, making a total of 100% of the $1,1 18m. [More…]

• We believe that these percentages highlight the case of the Labor movement regarding the inadequacy of voluntary health insurance in Australia. [More…]

• In other words, if he cannot have his own way, if the Government is not going to have voluntary health insurance and dares to bring in a universal health insurance scheme, there will be no co-operation from such people as Sir Ronald Grieve and that so far as they are concerned the Australian community can be thrown to the wolves. [More…]

• In 1938, some 32 years ago, Mr Casey, as he then was, the Federal Treasurer, introduced the National Health and Pensions Insurance Bill into the Federal Parliament. [More…]

• The advantages of Labor’s scheme of universal coverage over voluntary health insurance are concise and clearcut. [More…]

• Under our scheme nobody would be required to pay more for health insurance than that which he could afford to pay. [More…]

• We say that Australians arc entitled to a health scheme which will provide proper service at a cost that all sections of the Australian community can afford to pay. [More…]

• The Government said in October last during the general election campaign that its proposals in relation to national health would cost some S16m. [More…]

• Now, without including the establishment of a national health commission the proposals are estimated to cost about $30m. [More…]

• We say also that when a Labor government is elected the Australian people will receive a truly national health scheme which will provide economically and equitably hospital services for all, and that the scheme will be financed by graduated contributions. [More…]

• Again the Labor movement will lead the world in the field of national health in the spirit of true social reform. [More…]

• The honourable senator used some rather extravagant language in condemning the health scheme. [More…]

• Indeed one would suggest that the discussions which have taken place between the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) and the doctors - probably at times heated - would have been even more heated if the Labor Party’s scheme had been implemented because whatever scheme there is. [More…]

• One can talk rather glibly about a free health scheme but it. [More…]

• Senator Murphy is not here so I am careful to refer to the Leader of the Opposition in another place - and they were challenged immediately by the Department of Health as being incorrect. [More…]

• Certainly there is a very wide divergence between the costing by the Labor Party and the costing by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As Senator McClelland mentioned, in recent times 2 committees have examined the health scheme. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health has certain powers over health and medical benefit funds, but I think it is fair to comment that it appears to be reluctant to use these powers. [More…]

• The Department of Health has relied upon persuasion to influence those funds whose expenses are far too high to reduce them, but I do not think that this approach has been successful. [More…]

• I think the funds have gambled on the fact that the Department of Health has not been prepared to use the ultimate powers it has. [More…]

• The Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs, of which I was a member, recommended a considerable tightening of the National Health Act to give the Department far greater control over funds by way of imposing far greater penalties. [More…]

• The threat of suspension has been clearly written into the Bill and it provides that action can be taken against officers of funds who do not obey the instructions of the Department of Health in regard to taking action when management expenses become too high. [More…]

• I believe that it is very necessary for the Department of Health to exercise far greater control over the management expenses of many funds. [More…]

• I hope that the Department of Health will not hesitate to use its powers to control the expenditure of funds, including, as the last resort, its ultimate power of suspension. [More…]

• Therefore, it would appear that there are grounds for criticism of the health scheme at present, particularly in relation to the operation of health and medical benefit funds. [More…]

• But our scheme will cover these people who are an element in voluntary health insurance which poses a problem which should not exist any longer. [More…]

• A joint Press statement issued by the Commonwealth Minister for Health and the President of the Australian Medical Association said: [More…]

• Senator McMANUS (Victoria) 14.15]- The National Health Bill 1970 has now reached the Senate, but not without blood, sweat and tears. [More…]

• The Australian Labor Party has moved the following amendment to the motion for the second reading of the Bill: but the Senate is of the opinion that, while the Bill represents some improvement, a National Health Insurance Commission financed from graduated contributions would pay for medical and hospital services for all more equitably and economically. [More…]

• it is desirable in dic national interest thai the National Health Bill find maximum possible acceptance from all interested parties; [More…]

• 1 said earlier that my Party would not dissent from the proposition stated in the amendment moved by the Australian Labor Party which calls for a National Health Insurance Commission financed from graduated contributions because for a long time the Democratic Labor Party’s policy has been for a comprehensive national insurance policy on a contributory basis to cover sickness, accident, unemployment, death of a breadwinner, and old age. [More…]

• 1 took out some figures some years ago which showed that expenditure on health services as a proportion of national income was 7.5% in the United States, in Israel 7.4%, Canada 7.2%. [More…]

• I hope nobody will suggest that this is just an attempt to induce further delay and to further hold up the implementation of the Health Bill. [More…]

• I will not delay the Senate any further except to say once again that any health scheme must depend upon the willing cooperation of the medical profession. [More…]

• When he launched his amendment he was in the happy position of having been a member of a committee that had been able to lift the lid from some of the machinations of the various health funds that have masqueraded as public benefactors. [More…]

• I thought 1 could start on no better point than to turn back the pages of history and refer to the opening speech of the then Minister for Health, Sir Earle Page, way back in 1953. [More…]

• A national health scheme, lo be permanently successful, must be much more than can be slated in figures or money. [More…]

• The New South Wales State Minister for Health, Mr Jago, contends that they are increasing by 10% every year. [More…]

• Anyone who has followed the American health system, particularly over the last 3 years, and considers it, even with the injection of the medicare scheme, will appreciate that the whole weakness of the scheme is its excessive fragmentation. [More…]

• To prove this point I propose to quote from ‘Membership of Voluntary Health Insurance’ by R. B. Scotton. [More…]

• Senator McClelland dealt in great detail with our proposal for a national health insurance commission. [More…]

• There is very little talk about that from honourable senators opposite, because an individual without shares in the health funds would stand up Mr Turner and all those other czars of the funds. [More…]

• I certainly would be the last to deny the vital role of members of the medical profession, but all that the Government is doing in this Bill is trying to placate the medical profession on the one hand, and the health funds on the other hand, instead of issuing orders to the funds to put their houses in order through compulsory amalgamations. [More…]

• They are fellows who are in reasonably good health. [More…]

• We are debating health matters, but the plain fact of the matter is that we should bc concerned about such people who today receive average margins above the basic wage. [More…]

• In the final analysis, whatever wage a man is receiving, he may reach the stage that he cannot pay for health insurance because of competing demands on his limited wage packet. [More…]

• We have offered a wealth of criticism in the past about the administration of the health funds. [More…]

• He made strenuous efforts to get information but he had as much chance of getting that information as he had of finding out what goes on at Pine Gap, because of the security embargo that the Government places on particular matters relating to the health of the community. [More…]

• The Blue Cross system of health insurance was pioneered in the United States but it is now admitted there that fragmentation has occurred. [More…]

• It has happened there, as it has happened here, that sections of the medical profession - as Senator McClelland said - would prefer to have no health insurance funds at all than to have greater government supervision. [More…]

• Irrespective of the political colour of a government, it has to devise an effective health scheme. [More…]

• We have referred to the health schemes in force in Britain and Scandinavian countries. [More…]

• After contributing for 14 years in good health to a fund I would not have objected if I had received a refund of 100% of the cost of the operation. [More…]

• The health funds in Australia have millions of dollars salted away in reserves. [More…]

• I remind Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin, who represents in the Senate the Minister for Health, that I am speaking for many subscribers who are fed up to the teeth. [More…]

• I agree with Senator McManus - I believe that the Government does, too - when he expresses concern about the fate of the general practitioner under this revised health scheme. [More…]

• Speaking as a layman, I am one of those people who believe that the general practitioner is the very basis of the whole medical profession and certainly is the basis on which a national health scheme should rest. [More…]

• But I take it that during that period of 3 or 4 weeks the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) had conferences with the people affected, including the general practitioners associations. [More…]

• As always, the Opposition proposes to institute a health scheme based on the graduated income tax scale. [More…]

• He criticised the Government for setting up the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance - the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• The Minister for Health set up that Committee to try to devise ways and means by which the health services of this country could be improved. [More…]

• It made certain recommendations - some of which are embodied in the Bill now before us - setting out various ways and means by which the health services of Australia could be improved. [More…]

• For years past the deficiencies in the health scheme of this country - and there were deficiencies - have been pointed out to us on many occasions. [More…]

• It is something dear to the hearts of many people all over the world that when a health scheme is put into operation the very acme of perfection is to nationalise it and to charge the cost to the public on a graduated scale of income tax. [More…]

• A nationalised health scheme has been operating in the United Kingdom for 25 years, I suppose it must be. [More…]

• Furthermore, the United Kingdom has had committees reporting to the Government and setting out to devise ways and means by which the health services - the doctor services and all the rest of them - can be improved, lt has been a matter of very great concern to many people in the United Kingdom that there was so much leeway to be made up over recent years after the scheme had been in operation for a long time, not only in regard to medical services but also in regard to hospital services. [More…]

• I am one of those people who believe that the solution does not lie in the nationalisation of health services. [More…]

• But, whatever the figure was, if that proposition ever came into operation in this country and if I were a betting man 1 would bet 2 to 1 that the estimate would be exceeded, tat it would probably be doubled and at the cost would go on rising for evermore These nationalised schemes - especially nationalised health schemes - seem to have something inbred within them which means that the costs mount and keep on mounting until there is taxpayer resistance to them. [More…]

• Emergency action is being taken by the Department of Health to combat very large increases in the cost of pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• These committees arc understood to have made certain recommendations which are now being considered by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The point about this Bill is that when one tries to study it one is faced with this problem: ls the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) a doctor? [More…]

• I want to assure the public that he is a Doctor of Divinity because when you look at the Bill you will see its close connection with the prayer of confession, I think it is called, in the Church of England Book of Common Prayer where it says words to this effect: We have left out those things which we ought to have put in, and we have put in those things which we ought not to have put in, and there is no health in us. [More…]

• Yet the Minister tells us that this is a health Bill. [More…]

• That is one thing that the Minister for Health need not worry about because he will never confess his faults. [More…]

• How many speakers have we had on one of the most important Bills that has ever faced this chamber - the National Health Bill? [More…]

• It was social services and the proposed health legislation which nearly sank the Government, so it has rushed in with this Bill and today we are told that we have to get it through before 1st June. [More…]

• The Minister for Health says: Yes, we will review the situation. [More…]

• It is a well established fact that the cheapest form of national health service is the general practitioner service. [More…]

• It is the basis of all national health services throughout the world. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has said that this Bill is in the interests of the people. [More…]

• There is nothing in section 101 of the National Health Act which says that the membership of the Committee shall be anonymous. [More…]

• I think it is their association with the Commonwealth Department of Health which has made them a part of this ludicrous band of humorists. [More…]

• Firstly, I wish to refer to a triple compound tablet which the Department of Health wishes I would forget about mentioning. [More…]

• I asked the Minister for Health whether it was on account of the cost of it. [More…]

• That term was cooked up by the Department of Health because it could not think of anything else or because the Attorney-General frightened it into thinking that it might be liable, if a patient used a specified purpose drug which caused some side effects, to be sued; so the Department of Health put ‘SP’ on certain drugs as a method of getting out of its legal obligation because the doctor will have realised that it is an SP drug and therefore the blame will fall on him. [More…]

• Who is to decide the fate of the patient - the Department of Health or the doctor treating him? [More…]

• Doctors have to write to the capital city and ask the Commonwealth Health Officer in that city. [More…]

• Who is this Commonwealth Health Officer? [More…]

• It is ridiculous and nonsense that the Department of Health can do it. [More…]

• It is only the health officers employed by the Government who know anything. [More…]

• Just recently someone said that when be was a resident medical officer he could order any dangerous drug he liked, but now that he has reached maturity and he has experience he has to wait on the Commonwealth Department of Health to say which drugs he can use. [More…]

• I have always said that if a national health scheme is to work there must be co-operation between the government and the doctors. [More…]

• If that is done we will get a better health scheme. [More…]

• But they have now got together at last and they have some agreement and they think they can make a better health plan of it. [More…]

• Senator Turnbull referred to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) - I know he meant it in a larrikin way but it is in the record - as a doctor of divinity. [More…]

• I know that he has been a Treasurer in Tasmania, I know that he has been a Minister for Health and I know he has been a self appointed specialist to the Royal Hobart Hospital, and we have heard a lot about medicine and health from him from time to time. [More…]

• This afternoon the Senate began a debate on a Bill for an Act to amend the National Health Act 1953-1969. [More…]

• Remembering that this Government came into power in 1949, this is at least the third legislative review of the national health scheme introduced by this Government. [More…]

• When we in the national Parliament come to debate this legislation we are dealing with a problem that has 2 basic important facets: Firstly, it is surely aimed at the physical welfare and wellbeing of the ill; secondly, it must be remembered that the national health scheme, the pharmaceutical benefits scheme and other social welfare legislation ure important parts of the fiscal policy and responsibility of any government. [More…]

• 5m a year to this aspect of the national health scheme. [More…]

• Surely the aim of a national health scheme - at least one put forward by this Government - is to provide the highest quality medical services to all who are in need of those services and to provide them at a cost which is, as nearly as possible, within easy reach of all the people in all circumstances of life. [More…]

• In the policy speech of our Prime Minister, Mr John Gorton, during the last election campaign for the House of Representatives it was announced that there would be a new approach towards widening and improving the national health scheme. [More…]

• I believe 1 am truthfully reporting the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in staring that he said that if amendments are required and a case is put to the Government and to him, amendments will be introduced to try to satisfy the persons who are disgruntled wilh the legislation. [More…]

• In my view one of the weaknesses of the national health scheme has arisen - not from a legislative point of view, but from the viewpoint of the medical profession - when the old trad tion has not been followed of the family doctor referring a patient, if he thought fit, to a specialist. [More…]

• But, if the Commonwealth pegs the fees of Tasmanian doctors; - both general practitioners and specialists - at those operating How, when (he doctors have kept their fees down in fairness to the community and in an effort to make the national health scheme work, it will create a financial problem as far as the income of general practitioners and specialists in Tasmania is concerned and in the years ahead we will have the problem that there will not be the enticement for specialists in particular to come to Tasmania because under this system their fees will be pegged if. [More…]

• Health and the Government as to what weaknesses have been shown up and what jj needed to ensure that the medical profession receives a fair deal and that there is an income incentive for doctors to specialise and to come to a State such as Tasmania where, of course, we will need some specialists in all branches of medicine. [More…]

• Members of the medical profession have been awakened to their responsibilities to get together and to put a combined and united case to the Government on any anomalies that may be proved to exist in this amended national health scheme. [More…]

• The facts of the matter are as follows: It is true that at the time in question I had just become Minister for Health in Tasmania. [More…]

• I then moved to Hobart, and a part time officer of the Department of Health, who had taken on the job of honorary dermatologist at the Royal Hobart Hospital as 8 fill in job, resigned his position. [More…]

• I knew that he would almost certainly ventilate his spleen, on occasions amounting almost to haired, against the officials of the Department of Health. [More…]

• I disagree with him on this point because I believe that the officials of the Department of Health are extraordinarily capable men and I appreciate their sincerity of approach. [More…]

• I think that health is a fundamental, basic human right of people. [More…]

• Not only is it a basic human right, but it can make a contribution to the economic welfare of the nation, because a healthy community can produce greater economic productivity in the welfare of the country. [More…]

• I think that the nation has a responsibility to face up to its total responsibility for health in the same way as it has attempted to do for education. [More…]

• Ever since I came to the Senate 12 years ago I have been suggesting that the voluntary health insurance scheme was in need of inquiry, that there were many anomalies in it which required rectification, but I was not instrumental in persuading the Government to do anything until the present Prime Minister ascended to power. [More…]

• It had to make findings within the ambit of the present voluntary health insurance scheme, lt was not given authority to go outside the ambit of the present scheme. [More…]

• Certainly the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs could and did go outside the ambit of the voluntary health insurance scheme and it made many worth while suggestions - much beyond the suggestions of the Nimmo Committee - but the Government and the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) saw fit to take no notice of the suggestions. [More…]

• In fact, the voluntary health insurance scheme inaugurated by the late Sir Earle Page has proved to be a bonanza for general practitioners. [More…]

• Mr Jago, the Minister for Health in New South Wales, is now proposing - and the Australian Medical Association has agreed to it - that a register of specialists should be established in New South Wales. [More…]

• If not, I think that the Director-General of Health with advice from medical practitioners or the Australian Medical Association, whichever you wish, can determine a register to serve his own purposes. [More…]

• it is interesting to note from a reading of the speech of the Minister for Health that there is little or, I think, no mention of the problems of hospital care. [More…]

• I should like to see introduced - I think it is inevitable in the process of time and if I had the time I could justify it - a complete scheme embracing all health, hospital and ancillary services. [More…]

• It is time that we had a real inquiry into the legitimate needs of the health of the people. [More…]

• Canada is a country which most recently undertook a complete investigation of the health needs of the community. [More…]

• It embraced not only medical care but also the training of dentists, the training of nurses, the research requirements of the community, the remuneration of practitioners in the field of health and so on. [More…]

• The personnel of the royal commission embraced men of all callings who had a thorough knowledge of health and health needs. [More…]

• The royal commission in Canada had a permanent staff of 167 researchers engaged full time researching the health requirements of the community. [More…]

• He has inherited this legacy from his predecessors and in the near future he may seek to correct it and provide a full and worthwhile health service for the community embracing health, hospital and ancillary services. [More…]

• Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin, who in this place represents the Minister for Health, may say that this is the Government’s idea of an adequate approach. [More…]

• The majority have had to find their contributions to the health funds as well as the margin varying between 29% and 35% to pay to the doctors. [More…]

• I plead with the Minister to make submissions along these lines to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• What is more necessary than a healthy community; a community which can live happily enjoying good health; a community which can face up to economic burdens more efficiently: a community which can make a greater economic contribution to the welfare of the nation? [More…]

• – The Senate is debating a Bill to amend the National Health Act. [More…]

• National health is a very contentious matter. [More…]

• The provisions of this Bill are the product of many years of study by the Government of the question of health in the Australian community. [More…]

• I refer to the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, which is known as the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• The Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in this chamber, said in her second reading speech: [More…]

• I do not think that all the experts in this chamber, in another place and among the public in general - if they were to set about and attempt to design for the money that is available - could come up with a better medical health scheme than the one we will have. [More…]

• The amendments to the Act will provide a better medical health scheme. [More…]

• Senator Webster commenced his remarks bv congratulating the Government on implementing a major recommendation of the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance - ‘the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• Can the Government justify a national health scheme which provides different benefits - I emphasise the words national health scheme’ - according to (he residence of the Australian citizen? [More…]

• What has happened to the great myth of 1949 of patient-doctor relationships which we heard from the present Parties when they opposed the Australian Labor Party’s health scheme? [More…]

• In this way the cost of health to the patient will be increased. [More…]

• The maintenance of good health becomes more expensive every day. [More…]

• In various ways it has risen now by S65m and this is part of another burden that the people will have to pay for their health. [More…]

• With no guarantee from the medical profession that the list of common fees will be adhered to, has the Government given any consideration to the burden that it is building up for the public to bear for health? [More…]

• This is the only way in which a national health scheme can be made to work. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry on Health Insurance, known as the Nimmo Committee, told us that it was without foundation, and the Senate Select Com’mittee on Medical and Hospital Costs told us that it was without foundation, yet the Government, in pursuit of its so called free-enterprise policy - it is free only sometimes, not always - will persist in wasting millions and millions of dollars of the taxpayers’ funds in shoring up a scheme of thin nature. [More…]

• It is difficult because I know that he has read the Bill and because he is the type of senator who applies himself to his work, but if the matter of the Bill was read, the text examined and the many speeches made by the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) appreciated, what Senator Cant has said would be seen to lack any foundation. [More…]

• I do not care what members of the Opposition might say as to the obligation to provide some national medical and health scheme - expressing it in language which is vague and general and not condescending to the particular - I believe that the function of government is to help people when they are faced with financial hardship. [More…]

• Indeed, it is what the national health scheme has always recognised since it was introduced by Sir Earle Page in 1953. [More…]

• 1 wish to refer to what Sir Earle Page said in 1953 because I think he put succinctly the policy behind the current national health scheme. [More…]

• The great danger in any government aided health scheme is the tendency to develop a psychology of dependence and diminished personal and community responsibility. [More…]

• It is a scheme which embodies the principles which were inherent in the original national health scheme. [More…]

• Its major recommendations are incorporated in the present health scheme proposals. [More…]

• Early in 1968, after the present Prime Minister took office, the health scheme enabled chronic illness to be covered absolutely. [More…]

• Throughout 1969 there was continuing controversy in the field of national health. [More…]

• Amendments were made to the National Health Act in September last year so that persons and family units in receipt of an income of less than $39 a week would receive not only free government assistance to meet medical and hospital costs, but also free fund benefits for the same objective. [More…]

• They were asked whether they wanted a health scheme which embodied the voluntary principle - that was the proposal put forward by the Government - or whether they wanted a compulsorily financed scheme - the policy put forward by the Labor Party. [More…]

• In March this year, on the second day of this session, a very elaborate statement was made by the Minister for Health, in which he set out the broad outlines of the scheme now embodied in the Bill before the Senate. [More…]

• A patient may choose the doctor he wishes to visit I believe that that ought to be a consideration of weight in any health scheme. [More…]

• Again it is basic to the Government’s scheme that what is involved in this national health scheme will ensure that. [More…]

• Indeed, one of the .points of controversy between the Minister for Health and the medical profession at the beginning of this year was whether the doctors would be prepared to adhere to a common fee. [More…]

• I believe that the Minister for Health is to be congratulated on what is the culmination of a tremendous job of work. [More…]

• Whilst there are areas of doubt and whilst there are particular points that I believe have to be watched and surveyed carefully as the scheme develops, what has been proposed offers fair prospects of providing a medical and health scheme which has been unequalled by what has been put forward so far. [More…]

• However, this is a measure which, as I said, will bring financial protection against the costs of medical and hospital treatment and will do so in accordance with certain basic principles which this Government has always recognised and which emphasise that patient responsibility, individual responsibility and the willingness of individuals to do something to help themselves ought to be fundamental in any health scheme. [More…]

• In particular, f believe that the Minister for Health is deserving of the commendation of this Parliament and that what he has done ought to be recognised. [More…]

• Senator McManus, on behalf of the Democratic Labor Party, welcomed the Bill in that it marked a substantial advance in the provision of health and medical benefits and treatment for the Australian public. [More…]

• It suggests the establishment of a national health commission. [More…]

• But tonight in this place we have been presented with a list of 30 substantial amendments from the official Opposition going to the very heart and nature of many proposals in the health legislation. [More…]

• There is no way in which these amendments - many of them of very great substance and going to the fundamental texture of the National Health Act - can be considered adequately by our Party. [More…]

• I wish to address myself to some aspects of the second reading speech of the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in this chamber. [More…]

• The Minister, in her second reading speech, referred to the eligibility level for full health insurance for low income families to $42.50 per week. [More…]

• The Bill also provides for graduated assistance toward the costs of contributing for health insurance to families with weekly incomes not exceeding S48.50. [More…]

• We have sought to add: but the Senate is of the opinion that, while the Bill represents some improvement, a National Health Insurance Commission financed from graduated contributions would pay for medical and hospital services for all more equitably and economically. [More…]

• Surely honourable senators would agree, without referring to the report of the Commonwealth Committee of Enquiry into Health Insurance - the Nimmo Committee report - that it is selfevident that there is a pretty wasteful gathering and distributing of funds under this scheme. [More…]

• Indeed a very large part of health costs are paid out of taxation moneys. [More…]

• This improvement was indicated in October last year, lt was mentioned again more clearly by the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in March this year. [More…]

• As I understand it, there has been some communication between the doctors and the Minister for Health over a fairly long period of time. [More…]

• It is, 1 believe, based on a substitution of the Opposition’s health plan for that of the Government which this Bill so adequately expands. [More…]

• [ do not want to go into detail on the health scheme that the Opposition favours but wish to direct my comments to one aspect of the scheme which Senator McClelland supports. [More…]

• In his opening remarks Senator McClelland referred to the fact that payments by registered health insurance organisations meet only 13% of the total cost of health services in Australia of $1,1 00m per annum. [More…]

• Statement gives a very distorted picture of the role of the registered organisations and the Commonwealth in the financing of health services. [More…]

• When these two aspects of total health care - which, it must be remembered, cover among other things medicine and public health services - are looked at it is found that the fund benefits meet some 38% of the fees charged for treatment in approved hospitals while the Commonwealth meets a further 38%. [More…]

• Thus the health scheme meets some 76% of patients’ fees in approved hospitals and 63% of the cost of medical treatment by doctors. [More…]

• It has already been received by my office from the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) but I think it would be irregular for me to give it in reply in this debate as it is a question on notice. [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare; [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, refers to the Therapeutic Goods Act 1966, Act No. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is it proposed that a New South Wales contributor under the Government’s amended Health scheme will pay an additional IS cents a week more than, say, a contributor in Queensland. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• [12.44] - When the Senate rose last night 1 was replying during the second reading debate on this National Health Bill. [More…]

• Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, the Australian Council of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons, the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and the Society of General Practitioners, in an endeavour to solve the conflicting opinions within the medical profession on aspects of the health benefits plan and explore the possibility of adjustment to the plan based on agreement between various sections of the medical profession. [More…]

• The Minister advised these representatives that the Government was prepared to consider adjustments to the health benefits plan and within a framework - I stress that - which preserved the full interests of patients and the intention of the plan to provide both general practitioner and specialist treatment according to medical needs on the basis of the most financial help to the patient when it was most needed. [More…]

• The Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in this place, has read out information about dissensions and has mentioned the results of plebiscites. [More…]

• We are supposed to be able to read these amendments into a roneoed consolidation of the National Health Act up to 1965 with 4 sets of amendments which have not been consolidated. [More…]

• am sure ail honourable senators are interested in the national health scheme. [More…]

• I have discovered that iti the documents wc have- received there are references not only to the National Health Act but also to the Social Services Act. [More…]

• I want to register my protest at the cavalier manner in which the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has treated this Parliament. [More…]

• The way that Ministers such as the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) went to ride rough shod over Parliament is a disgrace to the Government. [More…]

• of section two of the National Health Act 1970’. [More…]

• The second item in relation to which health insurance coverage should bc extended concerns consultations by ophthalmologists where the patients are referred by optometrists. [More…]

• The Commonwealth has sought to remove discrimination by a provision in the National Health Act under which consultations with medical practitioners in consequence of which spectacle lenses are prescribed are not eligible for Commonwealth benefits. [More…]

• The Prime Minister and the Minister for Health have said time and again that no medical service where the common fee is charged will cost the patient more than $5. [More…]

• I know that the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in another place has said that members of the Ophthalmological Society waited on him - I think it was on 13th May - that they placed new information before him, to use his words, and that he would undertake to put the matter to the Government if he thought it warranted further consideration. [More…]

• As Senator McClelland has told us, the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has received further submissions from the ophthalmologists and is now considering them. [More…]

• I have no emotions whatsoever about this matter but I do recall the clarion call of the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) that we are doing the best for the people’. [More…]

• We are talking about the fact that at present when a general practitioner refers a person to an eye specialist he does so because he is worried about the health of the patient. [More…]

• I am satisfied that the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has made it quite clear that he will give serious consideration to the position of the ophthalmologists and to the anomalies which exist within this area. [More…]

• I propose to lend my support to the inclusion of ophthalmologists in the Commonwealth health scheme and to a clearing up of this anomaly in regard to glasses. [More…]

• If, as a result of his investigation of a patient’s eye condition the ophthalmologist with his skill and wisdom determines that the eye condition is such that it is necessary to prescribe spectacles, it is only half-baking the provisions of the national health scheme not to include a provision for a payment by the Commonwealth of the cost of the service provided by the ophthalmologist. [More…]

• A patient does not have to obtain spectacles although they have been prescribed by an ophthalmologist, but it would be better for his health and comfort to do so. [More…]

• The honourable senator was quite correct when he said that the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) received a deputation from the ophthalmologists. [More…]

• He advised them that if the new information results in a change in the present situation, which has proved to be a problem to the Government over many years, he will seek Government approval for the sponsoring of an appropriate amendment to the National Health Act when it is next amended. [More…]

• I believe it is a very important fact that he has given this undertaking to give further consideration and, if necessary, to seek the approval of the Government for the sponsoring of an appropriate amendment to the National Health Act when it is next amended. [More…]

• If, at the end of that consultation, spectacles are prescribed is it a fact, as now obtains, that the patient receives no benefit at all under the health scheme simply because part of the consultation results in the prescription of spectacles? [More…]

• I would like the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) who in this chamber represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) to explain the present situation. [More…]

• I refer to the statement by the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) that representations were made to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) by opthalmologists in regard to prescription of spectacles and that the Minister has been unable to take any action in regard to this National Health Bill because he has not had time to properly analyse and examine it. [More…]

• One comment I made in relation to the National Health Bill when 1 spoke on it previously was that there did appear to be some uneconomical provisions in the Bill. [More…]

• At this particular time when the Government is saying that it does not have sufficient finance to support all people’s health requirements which may be for dental, for optical, or for other medical problems which may be experienced, the Government is stating that it cannot support a proposition which leads to one particular sector of the community being able to prescribe glasses and attract a Commonwealth benefit. [More…]

• 1 just wish to pursue a little further, if I may, the matter which has been taking the attention of the Senate, namely, the position of ophthalmologists and optometrists in the health scheme. [More…]

• This will be done the next time an amendment to the National Health Act is made. [More…]

• If it seems- that is the information - to change the situation, which has proved a problem to the Government over many years, I have undertaken to take this question to the Government and, if the Government agrees, to sponsor an appropriate amendment next time the National Health Act is amended. [More…]

• I would have thought - and here I am at one, I think, with Senator McClelland - that if the purpose of this health scheme is to ensure that patients who have to undergo medical examination or receive medical advice should be able to look to a fund supplemented by Government assistance to enable them to defray the cost, why should those who go to eye doctors be excluded? [More…]

• I would not support the amendment at this time because I have taken this matter up with the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes). [More…]

• of the National Health Act says that the Minister for Health may disseminate information - I emphasise the next phrase - ‘relating to health or the prevention of disease’. [More…]

• On 4th March last the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) issued a long statement, at page 9 of which under the heading ‘Dissemination of Information on Fees and Benefits’ he said: [More…]

• Yesterday in another place the Minister for Health said in answer to a question asked of him that the matter has now been typeset but has not yet been printed, pending the passage of this legislation. [More…]

• The Opposition is concerned about the Government’s intent in applying the phrase which I emphasised and which I read earlier, namely, ‘relating to health’. [More…]

• We suggest that if the Government has no sinister motive regarding the dissemination of political propaganda in connection with the very vital national matter of health then certainly it could have no objection to this amendment. [More…]

• We arc very concerned” at the type of material that could well be circulated under the phrase ‘relating to health’. [More…]

• The phrase ‘relating to health’ is very wide. [More…]

• It could relate to anything coming within the purview of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• During or just prior to the 1963 election a document of high political content was circulated by some of the health funds. [More…]

• But assume that such a document were published again by one of the health funds just prior to an election, as the Opposition sees it the phrase ‘relating to health’ would enable the Minister to say that the document related to health and that therefore he intended to use the taxpayers’ money to inform people that the Government supported the document which had been issued by the health fund. [More…]

• The Opposition puts its proposed amendment on that philosophical basis, lt is an important matter because we say that the phrase relating to health’ could cover political propaganda in connection with health and we certainly do not move our proposed amendment lightly. [More…]

• In the field of health the Government has an obligation to tell the public what has been done and what progress has been made in the various sections of the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Minister may disseminate information relating to health or the prevention of disease. [More…]

• Let us take health as ‘a matter’, lt might properly be regarded as ‘a matter’. [More…]

• Health is not defined by the principal Act. [More…]

• Perhaps I am being unfair in using it as an example; but 1 hope thar by using it I have stressed the point I am making, namely, that when a matter is so wide that it comprehends a number of facets within its field, to impose a limitation of this character, particularly in the field of health and the prevention of disease, is to work a disservice and to act against the public interest rather than in favour of something quite desirable which I think Senator McClelland has as the basis of his approach. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: ls the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) prepared to distribute to each elector in Australia, at government expense, a copy of the Nimmo Committee report. [More…]

• If 4J million copies of that report were published and distributed as, according to the Minister for Health, the Government intends to distribute to the public information on the common fees and the operations of the National Health Act, 1 believe that the public would be equally informed as to the benefits or lack of benefits of a contributory scheme. [More…]

• But I am asking whether the Government is prepared to distribute to each householder in Australia a copy of the report of an independent committee set up by the Government to analyse its contributory health benefits scheme. [More…]

• If the Government wants to distribute to the public, in the form of information, literature that is related to health and limited to the prevention of disease, I have no quarrel at all with that. [More…]

• I believe that the people should be fully informed on matters of health and the prevention of disease. [More…]

• The Act states that the Minister may disseminate information relating to health or the prevention of disease. [More…]

• The information which he disseminates must be ‘relating’ to health, but relating’ to health could give him wide power although I would think that there was some restriction upon his power under the aspect of either health or the prevention of disease. [More…]

• The Minister has the right to disseminate information relating only to health and the prevention of disease. [More…]

• Senator McClelland justifies his amendment by pointing out that he knows of a publication - this was repeated by Senator Cant - which has been distributed for the purpose of justifying the National Health Bill. [More…]

• Therefore, if what the Government has done has not been designed to protect the health of the community but rather to tell the community how beneficial the new legislation will be, and if public money has been used for that purpose, the opposing party surely is entitled to a similar right to use public money. [More…]

• The proposal applies only when there is no alternative policy of an opposing party such as if there is medical reason or a health report that marihauna can be dangerous. [More…]

• We of the Opposition would not mind if the Minister for Health (Dr [More…]

• On the other hand, when there was a violent conflict in New South Wales between the Medical Benefits Fund and the Hospitals Contribution Fund and they were buying full page advertisements in the newspapers to put over their charms, the Minister for Health would not utter one word, and whenever anyone criticised what was going on between the Funds he always said: The choice is either this system or the system that operates in Britain and New Zealand’. [More…]

• Senator McClelland referred to the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, which is known as the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• Legislation concerning, the present health scheme has been in existence for 17 years. [More…]

• If this amendment were passed by the chamber it would seem that the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) would not be able to do so. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who in this chamber represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes), whether the Government will, when this legislation is being reviewed, include what I believe was omitted on this occasion through an oversight. [More…]

• I believe provision should be made in a Bill such as this for a wider scope of immunisation to be provided under the health scheme. [More…]

• Senator Dame ANNABELLE RANKIN (Queensland - Minister for Housing) [4.44] - As I understand it, the dog which has come back into our conversation would be affected by the Quarantine Act and not by the National Health Act. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) staled on 4th March, a general examination of arrangements for ancillary benefits is being made. [More…]

• Clause S seeks to amend the interpretation section of the National Health Act. [More…]

• There are references in clause 8 to prescribed medical services rendered by persons approved by the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• But I should like to inform the Senate that clause 8 of this Bill was included to give effect to the recommendations of the Nimmo Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, relating to certain services rendered by oral surgeons. [More…]

• At present there is a working party of the Department of Health and the Australian Dental Association examining this situation in detail and, I am informed, examining the particular details of the services which are appropriate. [More…]

• For instance, I take it, unless I am assured otherwise, that the DirectorGeneral of Health could approve of a legally qualified dental practitioner who has 1 years service and disapprove of another legally qualified dental practitioner who has 10 years service. [More…]

• Senator Dame ANNABELLE RANKIN (Queensland - Minister for Housing) [5.8] - This, of course, is one of the matters that 1 believe is being examined by the working party in the Department of Health and the Australian Dental Association. [More…]

• But 1 assure Senator Willesee that all of these matters are presently being examined by a working party of the Department of Health and the Australian Dental Association. [More…]

• These are being discussed further with the working party which, as I have informed the honourable senator, is composed of representatives of the Department of Health and the Australian Dental Association. [More…]

• I have informed the Committee also that this clause gives effect to a recommendation in the report of the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, which was the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• These items are matters of discussion for the working party composed of representatives of the Department of Health and the Australian Dental Association. [More…]

• They are to be approved by the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• Tt is because of that fact that the working party, consisting of representatives of the Australian Dental Association and the Department of Health, is determining what are believed to be the best services to be included. [More…]

• Perhaps 1 did not answer fully - I thought 1 did - Senator Greenwood’s question as to how the dentists are accepted by the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• They are the ones that it recommends to the Director-General of Health for his acceptance or otherwise. [More…]

• The whole basis of all this new area is presently under discussion and is being determined by this working party which consists of officers of the Department of Health and representatives of the Australian Dental Association. [More…]

• I emphasise those words - and that any variations in the tables should be related to an index acceptable to the medical profession, the Commonwealth Government and the health insurance organisations. [More…]

• We suggest that the Australian Medical Association when it considers that such an adjustment is necessary should provide the National Health Insurance Commission with full details of the basis of adjustment proposed, including particulars of the economic indicators used in calculating the adjustment and the manner in which they have been used. [More…]

• Provided the adjustment proposed is in conformity with the general movement of the economy and takes account of other developments affecting the income of doctors, the National Health Insurance Commission should negotiate a revised medical insurance table wilh the medical benefits funds. [More…]

• There you have 2 committees of inquiry - one, the Senate Select Committee recommending that the review be made periodically, and the other the Nimmo Committee suggesting that the matter be referred by the Austraiian Medical Association to the national health insurance commission which it proposed and which has not been established by this Bill. [More…]

• [5.44] - In opposing this amendment on behalf of the Government I use the same reasons which were used by the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in another place when he discussed this point. [More…]

• All I am saying is that they have been able to increase the fees charged for their services at a quicker rate than the Government has been prepared to amend the National Health Act to ensure that a reasonable scale of charges is imposed upon the patients of these professional people. [More…]

• lt seems to me that if the provision which is outlined in the amendment of Senator McClelland is not included in this Bill we will be in a very short period of time faced with the same situation as the Government was faced with when it appointed the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance - the Nimmo Committee - and the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs. [More…]

• The national health scheme had got out of hand and the Government - and I do not expect the members of the Government to be experts on all of these subjects - required advice on how the position could be rectified. [More…]

• Such a strike would completely disrupt the health services of Australia. [More…]

• Unless the Government is prepared to include in this legislation some form of escalation clause it is sowing the seeds of the destruction of the national health scheme. [More…]

• Unless the scheme is required to be adjusted from time to time it can quite easily get into the mess which the national health scheme has got into over the past couple of years. [More…]

• I expect there is a working party in the Department of Health. [More…]

• I know that the Prime Minister favoured 3 years but the Minister for Health objected because the Department did not want to have to increase continually its contribution. [More…]

• There are people with brains outside the Department of Health who think about these things. [More…]

• The Minister has persisted that the dentists concerned are to be dentists approved by the Director-General of Health for the purposes of the legislation, and the proviso still exists that the service to the patient must be rendered in the operating theatre of an approved hospital. [More…]

• I wonder how a patient attending a dentist will know, in these circumstances, whether or not that dentist has been approved by the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• They are requirements that should be provided for in any national health legislation. [More…]

• In all sincerity I point out to honourable senators that an amendment of this nature should be very carefully considered because in my opinion it introduces into the field of the so-called national health scheme or the medical benefits scheme quite a new phase. [More…]

• The adoption of Senator Turnbull’s amendment might be of benefit, or it might be of great harm to this proposed scheme because it would mean that part of the dental services performed at present would come under the National Health Act. [More…]

• As Senator Willesee has pointed out, the definition indicates that the approval of the Director-General of Health is necessary, for the purposes of this definition, in relation to whether a person is a legally qualified dentist or dental practitioner. [More…]

• Although he put a point of view he left a qualification out of the actual decision to be made by the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• The Director-General will, as has been explained by the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents here the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes), have the advantage of the views of the Australian Dental Association. [More…]

• I saw a difference between the argument he was putting and the argument Senator Willesee was putting that the Government should not put this power into the hands of the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• If this amendment is carried and ultimately accepted by the Government - because it is a request for an amendment - then the working committee which is functioning between the Australian Dental Association and the Commonwealth Department of Health will know that the Senate wants to extend further the provisions which are at present in the Bill before the Senate. [More…]

• It is in the interests of the Australian community and contributors to health funds. [More…]

• As I said before this follows the whole pattern of the health scheme. [More…]

• This will give the people within the community some rights under the National Health Act and that is all we are asking. [More…]

• If this amendment were carried there would be no waiting period for contributors to health insurance funds from the time when they entered the fund till the time when they became eligible to receive benefits from that fund. [More…]

• In short, the Opposition suggests that the health scheme should take into account all the health needs of the Australian community. [More…]

• If such a health scheme is worth its salt, any person who is sick is entitled to receive a benefit at any time that he is a member of the fund. [More…]

• This country is being served by a national health scheme on a contributory basis. [More…]

• While this Government remains in power, it appears that this will be the national health service. [More…]

• The Opposition believes that in a proper and effective extension of the health scheme section 19 as it stands at present should be repealed. [More…]

• We suggest that the present situation should be rectified while this national Parliament is giving consideration to a national health scheme. [More…]

• I am aware that the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs recommended that out-patient and in-patient services at public hospitals be incorporated in the health insurance system with payment of appropriate Commonwealth and fund medical benefits. [More…]

• The Nimmo Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry on Health Insurance made a similar recommendation. [More…]

• Section 19 of the National Health Act provides: [More…]

• We suggest that these amendments would further improve the national health scheme. [More…]

• Paragraph (c) refers to the power of the Minister for Health to determine how much of a payment made in settlement of a cl’aim under workers’ compensation or third party insurance is attributable to medical expenses. [More…]

• As I understood what the Minister said, she felt that the main ground of opposition to the amendment is or could be that it will require the Director-General of Health to make a payment of benefit in every case where an applicant asks for the benefit to oe paid and that applicant has a claim for compensation pending in the courts. [More…]

• If he fails in his claim, he belatedly receives the medical benefits, with the approval of the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• This proposed amendment stems from the philosophical attitude of the Labor movement towards voluntary health insurance and the assertion of the Commonwealth that a Commonwealth benefit is payable only to a contributor to a voluntary health insurance fund. [More…]

• If a person decides to join a fund, that is his own business, but everyone who pays taxes into the public purse is entitled to receive the amount of Commonwealth benefit that would be paid to a member of a voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• This is the system of so called voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• I am sorry, but I have to oppose this amendment because it cuts right through the roots of the voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I say quite strongly that it is completely at variance with the Government’s philosophy on which the national health scheme is based. [More…]

• The section of the Constitution that permits the provision of health benefits of this kind says that the Parliament shall have power to make laws for: [More…]

• We believe that a person should make a conscious choice as to whether he wishes to join a health benefits scheme and that this is his individual right. [More…]

• I enter this debate because of what has been said over the years, and subscribed to by the medical profession, about the Australian Labor Party’s health policy, namely, that the Labor Party intended, if it won government, to introduce a compulsory scheme. [More…]

• In this country there may be a few millionaires who have a choice, but the general Australian citizen has no choice but to belong to one of these funds if he is to receive adequate medical treatment in the event of suffering ill health. [More…]

• This debate is taking place on an amendment moved by Senator McClelland but apparently it has become a vehicle for an expression of the philosophy of the particular parties on their respective health schemes. [More…]

• The Government says that a person’s health should be regarded in the same way, as a matter of patient responsibility. [More…]

• If you pay your taxes government will give you all the Commonwealth benefits, all the health services, all the medical services, all the hospitalisation you require’. [More…]

• The Labor Party says: ‘Whether you like it or not, the Government will provide you with health services and you have to pay the taxes to pay for them. [More…]

• Of course, part of Labor’s scheme announced during die last election campaign was that taxes would be increased to pay for the health scheme. [More…]

• If health schemes develop, as inevitably they must, and become totally financed by the Government, the cost to the community will be enormous and so the cost to the taxpayer will be enormous. [More…]

• Surely it is sound government to induce people to insure for their own benefit in a health scheme. [More…]

• Let us not talk about coercion in the field of health. [More…]

• Senator Greenwood, as is the way with the Government, tries to make out - inferentially at least - that the whole of the health service of Australia is paid for by the premiums people pay to these insurance companies, health benefit funds, health societies, or whoever collect this money. [More…]

• It does not hesitate to go into the field of compulsion and say that the rest of the cost of the health service will be taken from taxation revenue. [More…]

• In its legislation the Government is saying quite deliberately that the wealthy shall pay less than the poor for health protection. [More…]

• People who are provident enough and responsible enough to provide for the emergency of ill health and hospitalisation should not be discouraged from joining a fund by any act of this Parliament. [More…]

• While dealing with friendly societies and the voluntary hospital and medical benefits scheme I think I should point out to Senator Mulvihill, who is continually saying that he contributes to a fund but he has not drawn anything from it, the the spirit which permeated the friendly societies was that the young who are blessed with good health should contribute towards aiding those who are not so fortunate. [More…]

• I think the words which were used by Senator Greenwood are most applicable to the attitude which I adopt in relation to the provision of a free health scheme and the placing of some responsibility on individuals to take an interest in their own welfare. [More…]

• There has been a dispute about compulsory membership of the present health scheme. [More…]

• During the course of his remarks Senator Gair referred to the people who have the capacity to contribute to the voluntary health insurance scheme but who decided not to do so, who take the risk on their own health and who have the financial capacity to be able to afford to take the risks. [More…]

• But let us take those people divorced from the ordinary humble members of the community who are not in a financial position, whatever may be the reason, to contribute to voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• If they can afford to take the risk so far as health insurance of themselves and their families is concerned they are paying taxation at a pretty high rate, much higher than the ordinary family man in the Australian community. [More…]

• He spoke about complete freedom of choice in a voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• But, of course, voluntary health insurance as understood by the Government refers to people and not to property. [More…]

• We believe that if this amendment is carried it will be of great assistance to a very large number of people in the Australian community who are entitled to receive some benefit from the Commonwealth even though they might not be members of voluntary health insurance funds. [More…]

• They became parties to the national health scheme. [More…]

• I could imagine occasions more appropriate for the discussion of party philosophies on health than the discussion of an amendment such as this. [More…]

• I merely point out that, although a very moving plea has been made by the Australian Labor Party for Commonwealth benefits to be available without contribution, when it moved its amendment to the second reading of the Bill, setting out what ALP policy was, it was said that the Opposition stood for a national health insurance scheme financed from graduating contributions. [More…]

• Its political philosophy is such that it wants a national health scheme. [More…]

• I believe that it is not asking too much of anybody to make a weekly contribution towards this health scheme for the protection and welfare of his family. [More…]

• Do not let honourable senators opposite deny that this happens, because in my own State of South Australia workers have refused to join a union - perhaps for the very reasons which the Opposition is putting forward this morning with regard to the health scheme - and the moment they have done so they have been blocked from employment in that area. [More…]

• It was also thought advisable that nominations be supplied by the Minister for Health for each State or Territory. [More…]

• Although the Opposition does not intend to move an amendment to this clause, we suggest to the Government that the State Departments of Health should be considered for inclusion in the Advisory Committees. [More…]

• We suggest that this matter be studied by the Government and that in any further consideration of Specialist Recognition Advisory Committees or Appeal Committees the Government should consider the inclusion of representatives of the State Departments of Health. [More…]

• His recommendation in that respect will be passed on to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes). [More…]

• 1 think he spoke about the State health departments. [More…]

• So it has been here in the administration of health benefits. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in another place said that since 1965 the fees payable under the pensioner medical service had been reviewed every 2 years on the basis of the economic factors involved. [More…]

• Minister for Health has said that because the agreement has been reviewed every 2 years it is satisfactory to him. [More…]

• What does disturb me is that Senator McClellend related a statement made by the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in another place that the problem of fees can be determined by mutual consent of the parties at any time they desire. [More…]

• If you want a dialogue that is is no review because when the Minister for Health and the Australian Medical Association have come together agreement has never been reached. [More…]

• In fact, my colleagues and I in the medical profession were much better off in the old days before the introduction of the national health scheme because, although we had bad debts of 30%, we adopted the old principle of slugging the rich to pay for the poor, which has always been accepted by the medical profession. [More…]

• I return to the point that the medical profession is not achieving anything at present by having reviews: It was only as a result of the courtesy of the Government that the AMA was able to have an interview - I do not know whether I should use that term - with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I notice that, when referring to the comments which the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) made in the other place, honourable senators have left out a few words. [More…]

• I draw the conclusion from what the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) has said concerning what has happened over the years that one of the real problems in the operation of the present health scheme is that medical fees are continually increasing. [More…]

• would solve a lot of the heavy inflationary problems which are causing the trouble with this health scheme. [More…]

• Presuming that the intention that is of its terms - they may have to be more precisely studies - one of the difficulties that has accompanied the presentation and passage of this Bill is that it is presented in an atmosphere of gradual deterioration from the point of view of availability to the public of health services under the principal Act over the years. [More…]

• That finally has resulted in the presentation of this complete health review embodied in the Bill. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has said - and the record must be as the Minister has said otherwise there would be a challenge to it - that the pensioner medical service is kept under continuous review. [More…]

• I say that with great respect to the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in this place. [More…]

• Senator Dame ANNABELLE RANKIN (Queensland - Minister for Housing) [3.29] -I shall take this matter up with the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes).I cannot make any promises as I do not know what can be clone, but I shall certainly put these suggestions before the Minister and see what can be done. [More…]

• In the last 2 days we have been assured repeatedly by the Government that the National Health Bill had to be passed before 1st lune. [More…]

• that we can continue to deal with the National Health Bill. [More…]

• There is another reason for opposing the motion, and that is that already the Press has reported a suggestion from the Government - J think it came from the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes)- that’ it is the Senate that is holding up this vital Bill, which supposedly .will benefit the people of Australia. [More…]

• We have put forward several amendments to the National Health Bill. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry, upon notice: in view of a recent press report headed Abattoir Inspectors Blamed for Meal Ban’, will the Minister take action to protect Commonwealth Meat Inspectors from being blamed for the results of an American lactic to use health measures toerect a barrier against the import of Australian mutton. [More…]

• In its most recently published report - that of March 1969- the NRAC concluded that the fall-out over Australia from the most recent series of French nuclear tests in the Pacific, like that from earlier French nuclear tests was of no significance as a hazard to the health of the Australian population. [More…]

• As far as further tests by the French are concernedthe same monitoring programmes and assessments will be undertaken but the NRAC can see no reasonto depart from its conclusions that the French nuclear weapons tests are unlikely to be of significance as hazard to the health of the Australian population. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has said in another place that he has had discussions with the AttorneyGeneral (Mr Hughes) in an endeavour to find some appropriate form of appeal to a court in a case where the committee has found that particular medical services provided for should not have been claimed. [More…]

• In replying on behalf of my colleague the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) whom I represent here, 1 inform the Committee that the Govenmcnt must oppose this amendment but it is sympathetic with the objective which is sought by the Opposition and will certainly, after it receives the report of the Administrative Review Committee, give further consideration to the question whether it is practicable to find a form of appeal to a court or. [More…]

• The Minister has been examining the question of an appeal against the reduction and disallowance of claims under the pensioner health medical service for some time and he has had many discussions with the Attorney-General (Mr Hughes) and the medical profession in an endeavour to find some appropriate form of appeal to a court in these cases. [More…]

• The appeal to a court against termination of a doctor’s agreement to participate in the pensioner medical service is provided in the National Health Act, but in very few cases is the agreement terminated. [More…]

• Where the evidence suggests that the case warrants investigation by a committee of inquiry the Commonwealth Director of Health, as delegate of the Director-General, refers the case to the committee. [More…]

• When replying earlier in this debate I said that the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) feels very strongly about the necessity not to damage the relationship between patients and their doctors. [More…]

• As the Minister said in reply to Senator Greenwood, the Administrative Review Committee that has been established by the Department to inquire into this and other matters has been sitting since September 1968. lt has been sitting longer than it took the Nimmo Committee to investigate hospital and health charges in Australia and to make its recommendations, lt has been sitting longer than the Senate select commit tee which was appointed to inquire into health and hospital costs in Australia sat. [More…]

• I would not expect the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) who in this chamber represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) to answer very easily the apparently simple question asked by Senator Byrne when this matter has plagued some of the courts here and overseas - in all parts of the British Commonwealth and in the United States of America - as to exactly what is involved in some of these propositions. [More…]

• The information I am endeavouring to obtain concerning the Administrative Review Committee is no: a matter for the Department of Health. [More…]

• In 1948 the patient was subjected to no means test and no charge, but when voluntary health insurance was introduced in 1952 the Commonwealth benefit became $1.20 for contributors who were insured for fund benefit of at least 60c a day. [More…]

• The difference between the hospital charge and the Commonwealth benefit has generally been borne by the contributor through the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• We believe it is in the interests of the health of the community generally. [More…]

• So, over the years since the introduction of the National Health Act Queensland has suffered considerably financially. [More…]

• This is entirely contrary to the Government’s philosophy thai the national health scheme should encourage voluntary insurance. [More…]

• I have said that the Government encourages health insurance. [More…]

• I have been stirred into participating in this debate by the remarks of the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in this chamber. [More…]

• The Bill will not result in the community receiving the type of health service to which it is entitled. [More…]

• Commonwealth’s Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance - the Nimmo Committee - shows that the Queensland Government meets 73.2% of the cost of hospitalisain that State. [More…]

• However, the attitude of the Minister for Housing is similar to the attitude adopted by the Minister for Health in the other place. [More…]

• One cannot help but be impressed with the report of the Nimmo Committee of Inquiry on Health Insurance. [More…]

• Payment of this benefit is not really part of the health insurance scheme, lt is a relic of the system which was followed in the late 1940s. [More…]

• I would counsel the Minister to accept the amendment and bring the Commonwealth health scheme into line with the recommendations contained in these 2 reports. [More…]

• of the National Health Act, which states: [More…]

• 1 can only reply, as 1 replied earlier, by stating that the Commonwealth feels that this is completely contrary to our philosophy that the national health scheme should encourage voluntary insurance, so that when a patient goes into a hospital and the hospital makes a charge, we pay a benefit to the fund to assist the patient to meet the hospital charge. [More…]

• We are encouraging voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• Undoubtedly it will in due course accept many of the propositions that are put forward in an excellent report but these recommendations affect very greatly that which the Government has put forward in an excellent National Health Bill and I feel that we should not be taking from now on just the prepositions that are put in the Committee’s report. [More…]

• They stated that the Commonwealth informed them that health’ was a State matter and that they should approach their State Government for assistance. [More…]

• This benefit has provided very valuable assistance to the parents of handicapped children and is considered to be adequate in the present circumstances and having regard to the Commonwealth’s overall commitments in the field of health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) had something to say on this matter on 4th March. [More…]

• Such a course would tighten this aspect of the Act with regard to organisations, but would have little practical effect having regard to the experience of the Department of Health over the years and the administration of the national health scheme. [More…]

• of Health to be confidential to the Minister? [More…]

• We think that unless the full facts of the affairs, finances, rules and conduct of the organisation are made available to the Director-General of Health the organisation should not bc registered. [More…]

• I think we are all concerned, in the light of what the Nimmo Committee said and in the light of what the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs said, about the need for firmer control over some of the activities of these health organisations. [More…]

• The Committee consists of the Commonwealth Actuary or a person appointed by him to act in his stead and 2 officers of the Department of Health appointed by the Director-General. [More…]

• We have before us a very dramatic and quite significant, change to the National Health Bill, lt brings into being a quite large area of change, and whether we like it or not. [More…]

• whatever happens in the early days of this concept - and 1 use that word for want of a better term - which is expressed in the Bill will place tremendous demands upon the Department of Health. [More…]

• If the Department of Health, the Minister for Health and their advisers had not had the authority to have discussions, to make arrangements and to adopt procedures, great hardship would have been experienced by the funds and, ultimately, by the subscribers to the funds. [More…]

• 1 again rise as a result of the contribution made to the debate by the Leader of the Government in the Senate (Senator Anderson), because I have some sympathy with him and with whoever has to administer the National Health Act if we spell out that everything has to be done by regulation. [More…]

• When one looks at the National Health Act one finds that an organisation, which is the body with which we are concerned in the amendment which is before the Committee, is defined as meaning a society, body or group of persons, whether corporate or unincorporate, which conducts a medical benefits or hospitals benefits fund. [More…]

• However, on the introduction of the new health benefits plan all existing organisations will have to apply for registration to operate from 1st January 1971. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee said, amongst other things: ‘The operation of the health insurance scheme is unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many’; ‘The benefits received by contributors are frequently much less than the cost of hospital and medical treatment”; ‘Contributions have increased to such an extent that they are beyond the capacity of some members of the community’: ‘The rules of many registered organisations, including the socalled special account rules, permit disallowance or rejection of claims for particular conditions’; The application of those rules has caused serious and widespread hardship’; ‘An unduly high proportion of contributions received by some organisations is absorbed in operating expenses’; and The level of reserves held by some organisations is unnecessarily high.’ [More…]

• Apart from the matter of the manner of administration of the health insurance funds, the Wedgwood Committee at paragraph 161 of its report had this to say about Commonwealth powers: [More…]

• With respect lo organisations within health insurance, the National Health Act contains certain provisions relating to these organisations (see sections 30, 74, 7 J, 76, 78, 79 and 82), but the Committee is concerned that the principal powers, to cancel or suspend the registration nf an organisation, have not been used. [More…]

• Mr J. L. Hayes, of the Commonwealth Department of Health, told the Committee that: [More…]

• National Health Act. [More…]

• But if it is a health fund why should not that information be available under the terms of the National Health Act? [More…]

• The whole basis of the health scheme is that the Government insists that a person has to belong to a fund to obtain this form of government benefit. [More…]

• In considering this amendment it is relevant, I believe, to keep in mind the various types of organisations that are registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• lt follows that the majority of organisations, and certainly all the larger ones, are to a greater or lesser extent subject to dual control, that is, by both the Commonwealth under the National Health Act and a particular State or States under the appropriate State legislation. [More…]

• That the reserves held by health insurance organisations should be limited to an amount equal to 3 months’ contribution income, in addition to provisions’, as clearly defined. [More…]

• That all reserves in excess of ‘provisions’ and an amount equal to 3 months’ contribution income, held by ‘open’ health insurance organisations, should be transferred to a special health insurance stabilisation account, established and controlled by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• I think it is also true that the Department of Health was somewhat concerned. [More…]

• The Nimmo Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry on Health Insurance also had condemnatory remarks to make about the management expenses of funds. [More…]

• It is for this reason that we recommend that new forms of control be conferred on the National Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• In this Bill there is no national health insurance commission being established or contemplated. [More…]

• [10.1] - Senator McClelland has referred to section 82q of the principal Act and and has told us how it relates specifically to the manner of assessing the eligibility of low income families for assistance with the costs of health insurance. [More…]

• Paragraph (e) to which the honourable senator has referred provides that certain forms of income are not to be excluded when calculating means as assessed of low income families for the purpose of assistance with the costs, of health insurance. [More…]

• The assistance with health insurance for low income families is directed to those groups in the community which are not otherwise assisted by way of pensions or allowances under the Social Services Act, the Repatriation Act or the Tuberculosis Act and by virtue of the payment of those pensions or allowances are usually eligible for medical, hospital and pharmaceutical care under the pensioner medical service. [More…]

• It is a basic concept of voluntary health insurance that the patient should make some small payment towards meeting the cost of medical services he receives. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in his statement of 4th March pointed out that the Government had already introduced a scheme for the provision of assistance to families on low incomes in obtaining health insurance cover. [More…]

• We believe that once it has been established that low income earners come within the categories of poverty or want they should not be charged for health protection for themselves or their dependants. [More…]

• We suggest that these people, perhaps more than anyone else in the community, need a comprehensive range of health services, both medical and hospital. [More…]

• Illnesses, both chronic and non-chronic, which present special problems, numbers of dependants and other similar considerations could be apparent justifications for proper variations of the pension principle in relation to health insurance subsidy applicants. [More…]

• The Committee went on to express the opinion that subsidised health services should be made available to those who apply for them on the basis of the preceding 12 months income period. [More…]

• The viability of a voluntary health insurance scheme depends on its being practicable for every person in the community to secure coverage under it. [More…]

• Therefore, as we read it the Nimmo Committee recommended that a person in this category with more than 2 children should be allowed for assessment purposes an additional $4 per week per child and would obtain health insurance coverage. [More…]

• I want to place before you certain matters regarding the Bill to amend the National Health Act at present being considered. [More…]

• The second point is that the proposed scheme, even if only a small number utilise it, involves the most complicated administrative procedures that could be worked out by any department, both for the registered organisations and the Department of Health. [More…]

• It is a basic concept of voluntary health insurance - I think it is necessary for me to stress this point - that the patient should make some small payment towards meeting the cost of the medical services he receives. [More…]

• I know that the Department of Health has nol read properly Parkinson’s law, but other people have. [More…]

• It is not a matter of concern to the Department of Health. [More…]

• 1 am very happy to bring the points which have been raised by Senator McManus to the notice of my colleague the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes). [More…]

• Honourable senators will understand that with this Bill I am representing the Minister for Health and 1 must bring these matters to his attention. [More…]

• I rise only because I heard Senator McClelland say earlier that this was a very complex piece of legislation, f seem to recall that one of the major complaints by the Nimmo Committee was that the whole of the health insurance scheme was so complex that people could not understand it. [More…]

• I do not know what it would cost if all persons under a family income of $48.50 were to have, in effect, their contributions to a health insurance scheme paid fully for them by the Government. [More…]

• As the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) who in this chamber represents the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes), said, this is the policy the Government has laid down. [More…]

• I sense that what we are concerned with here is a health scheme which is basically a voluntary insurance scheme, where the individual insures and as a result of what he obtains from his insurance Government assistance is attracted and he is thereby enabled to cover his hospital and medical costs. [More…]

• This provision is based on a voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• First of all, as I indicated earlier, this is not the millennium as far as the philosophy of the Labor movement on health insurance is concerned. [More…]

• Our amendments have been proposed having regard to the framework of the existing Government’s presentpolicy of voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• In our opinion, it certainly does not carry out the recommendations of the Nimmo Committee, as the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) suggested in his speech on 4th March. [More…]

• an officer, being a pharmacist, of the Commonwealth Department of Health appointed by the Director-General; [More…]

• We believe that it is a very vital and important committee, so far as the health and well-being of the Australian community are concerned. [More…]

• We believe that it is not right that the Committee should be, as it were, a secret society, unknown to the Parliament and to the members of the public but known only to officers of the Department of Health, to the Minister and lo the members of the Committee. [More…]

• This information has been requested, as I understand it, from time to time by way of quest ion: to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) in another place, and the Minister has stated that he refuses to make public the names of the members of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee. [More…]

• The present position is thai there is nothing in the National Health Act which Mates that the members of h: Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisors Committee should remain anonymous. [More…]

• This is solely a mailer for the Department of Health and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• But something happens to them when they get in touch with the Department of Health. [More…]

• In the course of its report the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs - the Wedgwood Committee - referred to the operation of this system which was described by the Commonwealth Department of Health in this way: [More…]

• I understand - I had to find this out for myself in regard to my own proposed amendment - that the reason why provision is made for Parliament to be notified is that if Parliament were not notified the Department of Health would be notified and the Department of Health would cover the whole thing with its own cloak of secrecy. [More…]

• A drug or medicinal preparation that was not a pharmaceutical benefit under the National Health Act 1953-1958 immediately before the commencement of this sub-section shall not be prescribed as a pharmaceutical benefit in accordance with section eighiy-five of this Act unless the Committee has recommended to the Minister that it be so prescribed. [More…]

• The names of men serving on health, industrial and commercial committees are known to the community at large, lt is true that pressures are exerted on those men. [More…]

• Who knows whether the pressures that would be applied io the members of the Committee will be to the advantage of the Committee, of the health services or of Australia generally? [More…]

• I do not think anybody would challenge me when I say that the recommendations of the Committee no doubt would be the exact basis ofthe decisions that the Minister for Health would make subsequently. [More…]

• The final reason 1 am going to give honourable senators is a serious one; it is that the list has never been referred to the antibiotics subcommittee of the National Health and Medical Research Council which the Government set up for this specific purpose. [More…]

• This statement has been made in this chamber bv a representative of the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) and it has been made also in the other place by th2 Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Government, is supposed to bc worrying about the expense of its health scheme. [More…]

• It is known throughout the country, except in the Department of Health, that it is very rare in general practice to do a sensitivity test in simple and pathogenic infections. [More…]

• But f would say to honourable senators that the Committee comprises the following persons: An officer of the Department of Health who is a pharmacist; six most eminent medical practitioners appointed by the Minister for Health from a panel of names submitted by the Australian Medical Association; a pharmaceutical chemist appointed by the Minister from a panel of 3 names submitted by the Pharmacy Guild of Australia; and a pharmacologist appointed by the Minister. [More…]

• In the case of this drug, the Minister for Health, being aware of the difficulties that could arise from the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee’s recommendation, appointed a select committee of eminent specialists in asthma to prepare (a) a booklet on Intal which has been made available to all medical practitioners; (b) an ‘application for authority to prescribe’ form; and (c) instructions for the guidance of Commonwealth Directors of Health in considering applications. [More…]

• While I am prepared to support the amendment I do not think we can let go unchallenged some of the remarks made by Senator Turnbull which I think at times reached the offensive stage when he referred to those in the Department of Health as possibly drop-outs from general practice. [More…]

• We are deciding here and now whether, when the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee has made a recommendation to the Minister for Health concerning putting drugs on or taking drugs off the list and the Minister has agreed with Committee’s recommendation, the names of the drugs and the reasons why they are being put on the list or taken off the list shall be tabled in order that the Senate may know the reasons. [More…]

• Obviously, we will then debate the reasons and decide whether the Senate assembled here in the national Parliament agrees that this drug or that drug should be taken off the list of drugs available under the national health scheme. [More…]

• In other words, the insertion of this amendment into the legislation will mean that the Senate will be setting itself up as the body which ultimately will decide whether a drug shall be available under the national health scheme. [More…]

• Finally I ask honourable senators not to make the Parliament the judge of what drugs shall be prescribed for the people of Australia under the national health scheme. [More…]

• Health and Medical Research Council made a recommendation to the Director-General that Lincomycin should not be made available as a benefit at that time. [More…]

• Committee of Inquiry for the State in which it is established, which shall consist of the Director, an officer of the Commonwealth Department of Health who is a pharmacist and four pharmaceutical chemists appointed by the Minister. [More…]

• In fact, all committees established by the National Health Act provide for appointments to be ‘at the Minister’s pleasure’. [More…]

• A further point is that these committees will comprise completely new representation in a field new to the National Health Act. [More…]

• Throughout the national health administration and other areas of administration which come under the Minister for Health the pattern is followed of an advisory committee making recommendations to the Minister or the Director-General. [More…]

• Examples of such advisory committees are the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee and the Commonwealth Health Insurance Council set up under the National Health Act, the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee set up under the Therapeutic Substances Act, the Tuberculosis Advisory Council set up under the Tuberculosis Act and the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• However, recognition under the National Health Act will not by any means depend solely on registration under State law and the Commonwealth’s criteria will, as necessary, be applied to medical practitioners who are not registered under State law. [More…]

• A further point is that in some States the list of specialties specified by the Commonwealth for the purposes of the National Health Act will be more extensive than the specialties in respect of which medical practitioners are registered under State law. [More…]

• lt is quite possible that in those States where specialists are registered the same representatives of the profession could serve on both the Slate Registration Boards and the Recognition Committees to be set up under the National Health Act. [More…]

• I have brought out the difference in aims between the State registration of specialists and the recognition of specialists under the National Health Act so that it can be appreciated that some flexibility by the Department is necessary where an advisory committee applies the specified criteria perhaps a little rigidly and does not recommend recognition of a medical practitioner who the Commonwealth feels it would be preferable to recognise. [More…]

• For example, in those States in which the State law provides for registration a few medical practitioners are accepted at present as specialists for the purposes of the National Health Act who are not registered as specialists by the State concerned. [More…]

• I heard her say that in the States where there is recognition of specialists laid down in Acts of Parliament the specialists approved by the medical boards in those States under the terms and conditions laid down by Parliament might not be registered in terms of the State requirement but might be acceptable for purposes of the National Health Act. [More…]

• In looking at these amendments we must remember that we are considering a completely new Bill and that the recognition committees will operate in a field which is new to the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) considers that the provision for the setting up of committees has advantages as it stands at present. [More…]

• The Minister will receive nominations from these bodies which, in fact, are essential to the Minister in the administration of the National Health Act of this nation. [More…]

• I think that the whole of the Health Act provides for appointments to certain committees. [More…]

• Cases may arise where doctors have been accepted as specialists for the purpose of the present National Health Act but for their own reasons the doctors concerned have not applied for recognition under the law of their own Slate and these cases would need to bc specially examined under the amended Act. [More…]

• I think that would be a case of a specialist who would be recognised under the National Health Act by the Commonwealth. [More…]

• So for the first time in the National Health Bill the professional status of optometrists has been recognised by granting to them a right of referral to ophthalmologists. [More…]

• The optometrists have pointed out that in countries like the United Kingdom, United States of America, Canada and some parts of Europe optometrical services rendered by legally qualified optometrists are an integral part of health care programmes carried out in those countries. [More…]

• I think we have reached the height of absurdity when, in the National Health Act, we condone the fetish that has grown so much in the United States of America and here. [More…]

• It also recognises that any proposal for new arrangements in relation to ancillary benefits’ must be considered in conjunction with the other proposals for an all-inclusive hospital fee system and the integration of hospital out-patient services into the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I want to make it quite clear that I believe that optometrists ought to be included, along with physiotherapists and those who provide other classes of services which are of a paramedical character, in a comprehensive health scheme. [More…]

• If anyone deserves to be included in the provisions of the national health scheme it is the physiotherapist. [More…]

• If the Committee is prepared to accept the fact that the services of optometrists should be included in the provisions of the National Health Act or the McClelland Health Act then there is no reason why the Committee should not be prepared to accept the inclusion of the services of physiotherapists. [More…]

• The inclusion of this provision in the national health scheme should receive the early consideration of the Government. [More…]

• I can see virtue in Senator Marriott’s idea and I suggest that when Senator McClelland’s National Health Bill goes to the House of Representatives it might be amended there, because in that place they will have time to put in a limit to the number of visits that will attract a benefit. [More…]

• But having gone past the normal finishing time of 11 o’clock - it is now 10 minutes to 12 - I think that if we can conclude consideration of this Bill within the next 10 or 15 minutes it would be in our interests and in the interests of all the people who ultimately will benefit from the National Health Bill. [More…]

• This session of the Parliament has reflected the Government’s desire to give to a wide variety of people in the lower income groups social service benefits, fringe health benefits and so on. [More…]

• 8, officers of the Department of Health have had discussions with members of the Senate Standing Committee on Regulations and Ordinances and amendments to these regulations have been made in Statutory Rules 1970. [More…]

• This industry is a key industry in the national health scheme, which has occupied this Senate for the last week. [More…]

• Yet we allow one of the key industries in our national health scheme to be in the hands of overseas monopolists. [More…]

• The- Standing Committee on Health and Welfare; [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare: [More…]

• We have had a good experience in the last few days when the Committee of the Senate discussed the National Health Bill. [More…]

• Constitutional and Home Affairs; the Standing Committee on Health. [More…]

• I was going on to say that yesterday and the day before as well as the previous week of the sitting the Senate debated the National Health Bill, which has involved all sorts of implications and ordeals. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In view of the allegations, made by the Chairman of the Australian Capital Territory Advisory Council, that the Department of Health deliberately misinterpreted Cabinet decisions and that this has finally resulted in the abandonment of plans for the Calvary Hospital in the Australian Capital Territory, will the Minister make a full statement on the matter to the Senate. [More…]

• The Department of Health cannot and does not vary the substance of Government commitments. [More…]

• Various alternatives within the Government’s agreed level of commitments were discussed between the Department of Health and the Little Company of Mary. [More…]

• The Department of Health could not, of course, vary the level of Government commitment. [More…]

• After planning had proceeded for another year, two factors were reported by the Department of Health to be causing concern. [More…]

• The design of the hospital was judged by both the Department of Works and the Department of Health to be uneconomic, largely because the services designed into it were apparently sufficient for close to a 300-bed rather than a 200-bed hospital. [More…]

• I refer to the National Health Bill and the Homes Savings Grant Bill, both of which were handled by the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin). [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she recalls the recent desperation which prompted nurses to demonstrate as a body to the Prime Minister here at [More…]

• When other States have been obtaining $2 a day per patient under the Commonwealth health benefits scheme, Queensland has been handed a mere SOc a day. [More…]

• 1,500 shares: and the Minister for Health, Dr Tooth, 1,200 shares. [More…]

• Then there is the Minister for Health, that much maligned gentleman in the Queensland Government who is a school teacher, who apparently has never taken a first aid course, and who has been attacked by a doctor who is a rank and file back bencher with an expert knowledge of the Queensland hospital system. [More…]

• No doubt the Minister for Health will need a pickmeup after this public assault which is being directed towards him. [More…]

• 1 ask a question of the Minster representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I do not think we can work efficiently for those hours or with due regard to the health of each one of us. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate is to authorise the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission to import and sell to the Commonwealth, for the purpose of immunisation campaigns, those vaccines referred to in section 9b of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Senator MULVIHILL (New South Wales) 1.3.51] - I enter this debate very briefly to direct to the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents in the Senate the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes), a few questions dealing with the second an. [More…]

• The Commission then claims reimbursement from the Department of Health for the vaccine supplied in accordance with a price that has been determined by the Minister under section 22 of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Act. [More…]

• I think that the history of national health schemes in Great Britain and New Zealand as well as the counterpart national health scheme in the United States of Amenca, known as Medicare, will show that constant high level guerilla warfare has existed between the authorities and drug companies concerning overcharging. [More…]

• Are there any occasions on which the Minister for Health has told some of these overseas drug companies that they are making a welter of their charges to the Australian public? [More…]

• The main point I make here is that, in relation to all this talk about participation by the people, if the Minister for Health would lay on the table occasionally instances of overcharging, the image that the big drug companies try lo create of companies bleeding for us all would be put in proper perspective. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Bill 1970 means a great deal in the field of health. [More…]

• These vaccines are referred to in section 9b of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Among the amendments to the National Health Act which were before the Senate earlier in the National Health Bill 1970 was a proposal to include rubella - german measles - vaccine in section 9b. [More…]

• During last year I had the pleasure of watching a film produced by the Australian dried fruits industry, lt was a most interesting film, lt demonstrated the important health factor contained in this product. [More…]

• Is it not a reflection on Commonwealth and State health authorities that a charge of uncleanliness is made against a section of our food producing industry? [More…]

• What steps are being taken by the Commonwealth health authorities to investigate the charge of uncleanliness in mutton for home consumption? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the Federal Government feel that it has a responsibility for certain health aspects of the Australian public or is the protection of the health of the Australian people a matter for Slate jurisdiction? [More…]

• Having regard to the rejection by America of supplies of meal from certain Australian abattoirs, is there not a great urgency resting with the Commonwealth Government to ensure that all edible foods which originate from abattoirs in this country are of a reasonable health standard? [More…]

• That, of course, will come on after we deal with the message, as the first item of business I propose will be the message relating to requested amendments to the National Health Bill. [More…]

• As honourable senators are well aware, the parliamentary procedures for dealing wilh requests and amendments made by the Senate to a single Bill - as is the case with the National Health Bill - provide for the requests only to be d:a!1 with by the other place as a first step. [More…]

• The first point 1 wish to stress is the need to have these requests and amendments viewed in their proper perspective, lt could be inferred that the relatively large number involved is a reflection of the unacceptability of the Bill - and therefore the new health benefits plan. [More…]

• Firstly, the basic principles of the health benefits plan as framed bv the Government and as contained in the Bill have remained unchanged. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) has already advised in the other place, the recommendations of the Nimmo Committee regarding hospital benefits had implications of such a far reaching nature that the Government is not in a position to make decisions on them at. [More…]

• The decisions of the Government are evidence of its determination to improve the health benefits plan in all its aspects as well as its wish to have this Bill passed speedily and given royal assent so that needless delay does not occur before increased benefits are payable to those in the community who incur expenses on medical treatment. [More…]

• The provision not to pay benefits for eye specialists in these cases was first included in the National Health Aci in 1953 as a result of strong objections by the optometrical profession to the proposal to pay Commonwealth benefits for sight-testing examinations if they were carried out by medical practitioners. [More…]

• As I indicated in my opening remarks, the Government is not prepared, nor is it reasonable to expect it to do so, to change a long standing policy of this kind without having an opportunity for investigation of the proposed change in detail along with questions of a similar nature, such as the provision generally of ancillary medical services under the health benefits plan. [More…]

• Who can decide objectively at this point of time whether benefits for patients who have- had spectacles prescribed should be provided before benefits for patients receiving other costly health services such as physiotherapy and home nursing. [More…]

• It is not only a question of whether the ophthalmologists get an advantage over the optometrists or the optometrists get an advantage over the ophthalmologists; it is a question of whether the people who are contributors to voluntary health insurance funds go to a person in these professions for a medical service and find they are excluded from health benefits when seeking such a service. [More…]

• It is very wrong that people who seek treatment for their eyes and are prescribed glasses, cannot claim the health benefit. [More…]

• As one who supported Senator McClelland’s proposed amendment, I indicate that the amendment foreshadowed by the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who represents the Minister for Health in this chamber, is acceptable to the Democratic Labor Party. [More…]

• Paragraph 433 of the Nimmo Committee report pointed out that a number of submissions were made to the Committee by persons who objected to being members of health insurance organisations on the grounds of religious conviction. [More…]

• • National Health Services (Sections 4-11).’ [More…]
• • National Health Services (Sections 9-11). [More…]

• The Act at present provides for low income families to be assisted with the costs of contributing for medical and hospital benefits and, as honourable senators are aware, the National Health Bill proposes extensions to this assistance. [More…]

• The National Health Act, however, provides for these forms of income to be included when calculating the ‘means as assessed’ for low income families. [More…]

• Means as assessed for the purposes of the National Health Act would then not include any income falling with the categories I have mentioned. [More…]

• A further relevant provision is in section 82u(l.)(b) of the National Health Act which excludes pensioners enrolled in the pensioner medical service from low income family assistance. [More…]

• The real point at issue is that the amendment would create anomalies by providing assistance with the cost of health insurance for some applicants whilst other applicants in similar financial situations would be denied assistance. [More…]

• In the latest figures of the World Health Organisation, Australia has an estimated 300,000 mentally retarded children. [More…]

• Much information could be made available to a Senate committee by governments, both Federal and State, for 1 believe the Minister has agreed to the setting up of an interdepartmental committee consisting of the Department of Social Services, the Department of Health and the Department of Labor and National Service, to survey this whole field. [More…]

• There is not a parent, mother or father to be - yes, grandparents - whose first thought does not centre on the newborn baby’s health, physical and mental; and so it will be until the end of time. [More…]

• It may be argued that this, as a health matter, is therefore one for the States. [More…]

• The New South Wales Minister for Health only recently appealed for joint Commonwealth and State responsibility in health matters. [More…]

• They would welcome this help and co-operation, as so recently announced by the New South Wales Minister for Health, and I am certain that goes for every [More…]

• Minister of Health throughout the Commonwealth. [More…]

• They wanted merely: An officer of the Commonwealth Education Department directed to investigate the best overseas methods of conveying some form of instruction to subnormal children; research through the Health Department into the causes of subnormal births; and a grant of 1,000 a year to enable the association to function Federally and a Commonwealth subsidy for capital expenditure on a pound-for-pound basis to erect centres and schools for the children to the limit of 10,000 in any one year. [More…]

• I give as examples the States Grants Mental Health Institution Bill 1964, which is partially relevant, and the Sheltered Employment (Assistance) Act 1967. [More…]

• In my attempts to obtain information in this matter 1 went to the Commonwealth Health Department and the Department of Health in New South Wales and in other States, and I am pleased to report that this was readily made available to me. [More…]

• A senior officer advised that this information was limited, no comprehensive figures being available, but he believed the Commonwealth Department of Health had made a study, though again this material was also limited. [More…]

• The committee should examine the needs of mentally retarded people in the fields of education, health, research, institutions, workshops, guidance clinics and staff training. [More…]

• I have directed a number of questions to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes). [More…]

• Indeed, 1 recall that in reply to the last question I asked on this matter the Minister for Health replied that the American drug administration had found it necessary to require companies which were selling their drug to print a 700-word pamphlet which was to be issued with the sale of the drug, so that the user of the drug would know the likely harmful effects which would follow from taking it. [More…]

• The other States have provided financial assistance to enable parents and Health Departments to co-operate in providing training centres and more recently to enable parents to provide schools staffed by Education Department teachers. [More…]

• The Government has already set up an interdepartmental committee comprising officers of the Departments of Social Services, Health, and Education and Science to survey the extent of handicapped children and the facilities available to them. [More…]

• Of course, this is an absurd limitation, for 2 reasons: The first is that, because of the nature of aircraft, the accident may well lead, as may a motor vehiole accident, to severe injuries, such as spinal injuries, where the damages may be very much in excess of $15,000 for medical and other expenses, which are not at the moment recoverable under our national health scheme. [More…]

• An honourable senator says that health was one, and I agree, but generally speaking they were not areas of hot political controversy. [More…]

• The proposition which has been put by Senator Gair now suggests that 2 standing committees be established - 1 on trade, industry and labour and 1 on health, welfare, education and science. [More…]

• Then, of course, there are the eleemosynary committees on health, welfare, education and science. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister rep resenting the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• All matters relating to vaccination procedures, particularly mass immunisation campaigns, of which the question of the use of single dose vials and disposable syringes is but one aspect, are currently under consideration by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• It will be necessary for messages to go to the other place in connection with the National Health Bill and the Bills relating to civil aviation. [More…]

• We press this amendment because section 35, as distinct from section 34, relates to the discretionary power of the Minister to terminate an agreement between the Department of Health and the medical practitioner as a result of a report by a medical committee of inquiry. [More…]

• It is thought that the use of regulations, as proposed by the Committee, is inappropriate and in lieu thereof the Minister for Health in another place moved a further amendment which is now before the Committee. [More…]

• Minister representing the Minister for Health seen a report that a significant section of general medical practitioners in New South Wales is contemplating raising its fees for surgery consultations and home visitations by as much as 10%? [More…]

• What action, if any, can the Government take to ensure that the most common fee, as set out in the schedules to the recent National Health Bill, is adhered to by general medical practitioners? [More…]

• If the Government is powerless lo do anything about any increase in medical fees, bearing in mind the increase in contributions that people will have to pay under the new Bill to medical and hospital insurance funds for health insurance purposes, will the Govern.ment take action to lift the amount of Commonwealth benefit to patients to ensure that the wide gulf between the refunds received and fees paid is not enlarged further? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How many people are receiving Commonwealth subsidised contributions to medical and hospital contributions to medical and hospital contribution funds as a result of amendments made in 1969 to the National Health Act. [More…]

• At the end of February, 1970, there were 7,561 medical members covering 16,555 persons, and 6.699 hospital members covering 14,703 persons, who were enrolled with funds for the benefits of the subsidised Medical Services Scheme provided as a result of amendments made in 1969 to the National Health Act. [More…]

• Has the Saigon Health Minister obtained a report on the number of abnormal births in areas where defoliant chemicals were used; if so, would the Minister seek to obtain a copy of any such report and make it available to Senators. [More…]

• Because of suggestions of a relationship between the use of defoliant chemicals and abnormal births in Vietnam, a survey is being made under the Vietnamese Ministry of Health to determine whether a detailed study is warranted. [More…]

• Did a health officer of the Department of the Interior in 1959, report that Yuendumu was the dirtiest and most ill-managed settlement he had ever visited. [More…]

• Did the Superintendent at Alice Springs Hospital support the health officer’s opinion and add ‘That in all my years as medical officer in Burma I. never encountered the filth and degradation that 1 encountered at Yuendumu’. [More…]

• A Health Inspector of the Department of Health visited Yuendumu in September 1.959 as one of the regular visits made to all settlements and missions to provide supporting services to the settlement and mission staffs. [More…]

• The Inspector’s report was forwarded to the Director of Social Welfare by the Director of Health for the Territory with the comment that the report indicated some improvement in hygiene might be effected with advantage. [More…]

• The comments attributed to the Superintendent of the Alice Springs Hospital do not appear in the reports received from the Director of Health. [More…]

• The following actions have been taken: - Additional positions of hygiene supervisor, supervisor family services, nursing sisters, a’nd assistant kitchen supervisor have been added to the settlement staff; - The Department of Health has provided additional Health Inspectors to service the settlements and mission stations; - a new kitchen/dining room unit, a home management centre and an infant welfare centre have been built; - 65 houses with an appropriate number of laundry, toilet and ablution blocks have been erected for Aboriginal families; - The hospital has been renovated and improved; - A substantially improved water supply has been installed; - A water-borne sewerage scheme for the settlement is scheduled for early construction and funds have been set aside for this purpose; - Health education is being stressed in the school and adult education programme; sisters of the Health Department are assisting with infant welfare and health education programmes; - A research project into the incidence of deaths amongst children at Yuendumu is being undertaken by the Australian National University and the Adelaide University in conjunction with the Welfare Branch of the Administration. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether he will take note of the remarks of Dr Strong, the Anglican Primate of Australia and Archbishop of Brisbane, on a number of public questions but in particular his remarks expressing disapproval of the campaign for much increased facilities for abortion. [More…]

• I direct the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health to an explanatory document used by a Sydney newspaper yesterday as background to an article on [he revised National Health Act. [More…]

• Is he prepared to have an independent doctor, paid for by the family, investigate the health, in a particular respect, of the Aircraftman? [More…]

• It is true thatI, as Leader of the Government in the Senate, where numbers are such a vital factor, have been acutely embarrassed, particularly in more recent times when we were dealing with the National Health Bill, which was a contentious issue and which was debated at some length in this chamber. [More…]

• This $70m, plus the many millions of dollars that will be needed to such things as the national health scheme that has recently been approved by this Parliament and to which I have no objection, will place an added burden on Commonwealth revenue. [More…]

• This is particularly so in the fields of education and health, in the provision of libraries, science blocks and other big contributions made by the Commonwealth - and rightly so, too. [More…]

• Even last week by obtaining an amendment to the health legislation we were able to provide Queensland with an additional $2m to assist the hospitals. [More…]

• MiTemporary Chairman, but the interjections that are being made would be better left unsaid, although an interjection from the Minister now and again would be appreciated because we are somewhat worried about the stale of his health. [More…]

• The two such Committees selected for first establishment shall be - The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare: and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade. [More…]

• Will the Minister probe the overall position, including that referred to in the third part of the question, mindful of my earlier exposure of the limited linguistic ability of sisters operating baby health centres in or adjacent to major migrant centres in Sydney? [More…]

• I understand that the New South Wales Department of Public Health has recognised this problem and has authorised a number of the larger hospitals to employ interpreters to assist in patient care. [More…]

• There is an ever increasing recognition by the community of the needs of non-English speaking migrants, and departmental staff assist in this regard by lecturing to community health nurses attending New South Wales Department of Public Health in-service training courses. [More…]

• The two such Committees selected for first establishment shall be - The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare; and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade. [More…]

• The two such Committees selected for first establishment shall be - the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare; and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade. [More…]

• The station will not provide any hazards to the health of those living in adjacent areas, nor to marine, animal or bird life. [More…]

• Health Services Report of Success’ and which points out that 100,000 telephone calls to this service have been made in West Berlin in the last 12 months, would the Postmaster-General consult with the Minister for Health and give consideration to introducing a similar system in Australia, whereby subscribers could call for information on such subjects as those in the system operating in Berlin, for example (a) early recognition of cancer, (b) diabetes, (c) child care, (d) poliomyelitis, (e) health tips for travellers, (f) diet for the elderly, (g) dental care, (h) the misuse of drugs, (i) tips for expectant mothers, (j) the noxious effect of nicotine, and (k) the dangers of left-over drugs in medicine cupboards. [More…]

• The Post Office is prepared to co-operate with the Department of Health, or any other interested body, in providing message services for the public. [More…]

• The Post Office is aware of the medical health hints service operating in several large cities throughout Western Germany. [More…]

• An approach will be made to the Department of Health to assess the feasibility of the Post Office providing a similar type of service. [More…]

• 1969, the NRAC concluded that the fallout from the then most recent French tests in the Pacific, like that from earlier French tests, was of no significance as a hazard to the health of the Australian population. [More…]

• In respect of the latest French tests, the NRAC can see no reason to depart from its conclusion that the overall programme of French nuclear tests in the Pacific is unlikely to be of significance as a hazard to the health ofthe Australian population. [More…]

• Continuous contamination to that average level of iodine 131 would not contribute a significant threat to the health of the population. [More…]

• The Health, Welfare and Science Committee considered various Bills, as did the Legal and Constitution Committee. [More…]

• First, he referred quite a number of questions to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• That is a matter which quite appropriately could be a specific reference to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The Chairman of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has to ascertain what primary and secondary poverty is. [More…]

• 3 relates to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matters [More…]

• If the American economy, with all its built in wealth acquired over hundreds of years and its tremendous economic capacity cannot cope with being involved in war as well as attending to urban problems - the problems of poverty, health and education - how much less can Australia afford to engage in war as well as to attend to those problems? [More…]

• Apart from the high priority increases in expenditure allowed for in the Budget, such as increased assistance to the States, which honourable senators will remember the Treasurer dealt with at length, increased expenditure on education, on social services, on repatriation and on health benefits, the Government was firmly of the resolve that something had to be done to provide taxation relief to the middle and lower income earners. [More…]

• The Senate dealt with this principle when discussing the question of payments for health insurance. [More…]

• If one person is paying 50c tax in the $1 the Government says: ‘At the end of the year we will remit to you half of what you pay so that protection for the health of your family will cost you S50 this year’. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry aware that the South Australian Egg Board has to transport some of its eggs to other States for the purpose of pulping - a very costly process - because its own pulping plant does not meet the required health standards? [More…]

• I am assured that at no stage has there been any indication of danger to health on the Atherton Tableland, nor is a danger expected to arise. [More…]

• Did the Superintendent of the Alice Springs Hospital report, in 1959, on health matters appertaining to Yuendumu Aboriginal Reserve. [More…]

• and (2) The medical officer who was Superintendent of the Alice Springs Hospital from April 1959 to 1960 states that as part of his contact and liaison work with Welfare Branch authorities in Alice Springs, he would have reported from time to time on health matters concerning residents of Yuendumu. [More…]

• The Health authorities state that there are several conditions and illnesses which have contributed more heavily than other conditions and illnesses to deaths during the period that the community has been settled at Yuendumu. [More…]

• This one senator sought to set down a programme for the Health and Welfare Committee which would take it 5 or 6 years to get through. [More…]

• Perhaps Senator Murphy would care to indicate how many months or how many years the references which he proposed to be made to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare would keep that Committee occupied. [More…]

• My figures are difficult to understand as I have written them down but the expenditure on social services, national health services, repatriation services and housing benefits are estimated to increase by SI 57m to $ 1,820m. [More…]

• A very important issue raised just after the last Federal election was held was that of health reform. [More…]

• Returning to health charges, I do not know how much longer we can continue with the present hospital charges. [More…]

• I am quoting the illustrious Liberal Minister for Health in New South Wales, Mr Jago, who is well known to Senator Ormonde. [More…]

• Another point which I made earlier that 1 wish to repeat is that whatever the Government may feel about the policy that the Australian Labor Party espoused at the last general election of a flat li per cent tax on incomes to provide a health coverage from the cradle to the grave it is a better proposal than the intermittent scheme which the Government has introduced. [More…]

• If one looks at the estimates of expenditure mentioned in the Budget Speech one finds a vast number of avenues of expenditure - payments to the Slates, defence, mental health institutions, home nursing services, education scholarships, assistance to industry, assistance to wool growers, advances for capital purposes and a host of other items that Senator Young expects the Leader of the Opposition here to deal with adequately and then pay enough attention to primary industry. [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health is supplementary to and more detailed than the one asked by Senator Lawrie a few moments ago. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health give me any information on the concern of the residents of Ballina at the cessation of the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia facilities in that town? [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - The problems of, and the provisions for assistance to, mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia. [More…]

• Today proposals will be submitted to deal with references to the Health and Welfare Standing Committee and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade. [More…]

• This will all be done in connection with the standing committee in any event as this is an aspect of health. [More…]

• Health and Welfare 405 was going to move from place to place necessarily and call witnesses from industry, and other fields of endeavour. [More…]

• I am asking that my amendment, which is in terms similar to an amendment of mine which was carried on 1 1th June last by 28 votes to 23 votes, will be endorsed by the Senate today, so that this will be the first matter referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, one of the committees which have been talked about so glibly and so graciously, as a matter of fact, over a long period of time. [More…]

• It has been claimed by a reliable authority that the latest figures of the World Health Organisation show that Australia could have up to an estimated 300,000 retarded children. [More…]

• This is our purpose in seeking to have this matter referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The information is not available at the present time from the Department of Health, the Department of Social Services or the Commonwealth Bureau of Census and Statistics. [More…]

• The fact that Senators are overburdened with Senate select committee work is sufficient reason to refer this matter to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare because it has been set up to inquire into matters of this nature. [More…]

• If a Senate select committee is set up to inquire into this matter its findings and recommendations may be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare anyway. [More…]

• For the reasons Senator Turnbull has just stated, I am of the view that the inquiry ought to be conducted by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Needless to say it is a disgrace that Aboriginals in every State of Australia, with the exception of Tasmania, require schools, jobs, health services and all the other things that every one of us with white skin expects as the norm. [More…]

• Mr Justice Nimmo, who was appointed by the Government to preside over an interdepartmental committee to inquire into voluntary health insurance in Australia, said a month or two ago that the evidence presented before him in that inquiry showed that at least 1 million Australians are living not only below the poverty line in Australia, but miserably below it. [More…]

• But the National Health Act introduced by the Government uses $42.50 a week as the minimum wage, because people receiving less than that weekly income are exluded from certain benefits of that legislation. [More…]

• The Government allowed this nation’s health scheme to get completely out of hand until the weight of numbers in the ballot box at the last general election forced it to stop proclaiming to the nation and to the world that Australia had the best health service in the world. [More…]

• Ministers really had to get their thinking caps on and patch up - indeed, it was a poor plastering job at that - the very unsound and crumbling world of voluntary health insurance in Australia. [More…]

• the Budget merely plugs holes in social services and makes no provision for a comprehensive national insurance scheme or for necessary aid for family life through better child endowment, maternity allowances, housing, health and education assistance; [More…]

• In the short time that I have I want to speak of the Department of Health services. [More…]

• When we find gross carelessness being exhibited by the Department of Health to such an extent that we can lay a charge of negligence against the Minister and his Department it is time that we brought the matter to the notice of the public. [More…]

• I do not mind the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) not having technical knowledge, which implies that he is run by his Department; he has to be. [More…]

• Therefore, practically speaking, the blame that I am laying at his door should be laid at the door of the DirectorGeneral of Health, Sir William Refshauge. [More…]

• When I raised this matter 2 years ago I asked Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin, who represents the Minister for Health in this place, a question concerning what were called Palm-N’-Turn containers. [More…]

• The figures that I am stating were given to me by the National Health aud Medical Research Council. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council figures show that there were 3,615 cases of poisoning during 1969, of which 40 per cent were due to the ingestion of tablets and capsules. [More…]

• This is plain stupidity on the part of the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Minister replied in writing and said that he viewed the matter with concern - so much concern that he did nothing for 2 years and passed the buck to the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I do not want the Minister representing the Minister for Health in this chamber to say that that is not the answer. [More…]

• That is what the Minister for Health said, so in saying that she would be restating exactly the answer that I have been given. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council, upon whom this matter was thrust, stated straight out that it recognised the need for increased education in the prevention of accidental poisoning and it commended the use of tablet containers which would not readily be opened by young children. [More…]

• One could well ask where he has been all this time, especially when matters of concern to the Australian public in regard to national health and hospital benefits were the vital issue. [More…]

• Where was the Director-General of Health? [More…]

• 1 have two other points in regard to the Health Department which 1 want to raise. [More…]

• 1 ask them to take the matter up with their own health committee and see whether something cannot be done. [More…]

• In the city of Canberra we have the Australian Capital Territory Health Services. [More…]

• This happens in quite a number of big cities throughout Australia where the Commonwealth Department of Health maintains public pathology services - I do not mean hospital pathology services - but very rarely in a capital city. [More…]

• 1 do not want to be bitter about this but in Canberra the DirectorGeneral of Health or any other departmental head on $22,000 a year can have free district nursing. [More…]

• The people receive it in health services and some of the education services. [More…]

• All the time there has been the same apathy, the same reluctance by the Department of Health to do anything because the greatest contributors to the Liberal Party funds are the tobacco companies. [More…]

• No-one can understand the workings of the Department of Health. [More…]

• Yet it is a greater cause of morbidity in the community than any aspirin, phenacetin or any other drug that the Department of Health starts to worry about., takes off the list and puts on again to try to pacify someone or other. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin) who represents the Minister for Health to tell us. [More…]

• I have received a letter from the Minister for Health which says that he has been discussing these matters time and again and that a sub-committee has been set up by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• However, the tobacco companies do not have to worry because the Department of Health is on their side. [More…]

• There should be a vote of no confidence in the Minister for Health over his handling of the affairs of his Department, lt is outrageous that for 2 years the Minister did nothing about the problem of children being poisoned with drugs and medicines to which they should not have had access, lt was only on 5th August 1970 that the Minister sent a memorandum to pharmacists about this matter. [More…]

• I do not want to start another attack on the Department of Health in connection with the prevention of disease but the fact is that the Department does very little about that problem. [More…]

• Perhaps I could leave that until a later occasion when I continue my tirade against the Department of Health. [More…]

• This year no less than SI, 820m is allocated for social services, health services, repatriation benefits and housing. [More…]

• in which the question is asked: Is the Australian society so sick that we must regard American negro Dick Gregory, a pacificist dissenter, as a threat to our national health? [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare is one to which the independent senator, Senator Turnbull, has been nominated. [More…]

• It is generally accepted that the building industry, like the motor vehicle industry, is a very good barometer of the economic health of the community. [More…]

• Deductions for a wife and child, superannuation, health costs and so on are worth far more, to those on a high income than to those on a low income. [More…]

• We come then to social services, health, repatriation and housing for which the Budget provides S 1,820m of the people’s money, an increase of SI 57m over last year. [More…]

• Nowadays we hear a great deal about air pollution, water pollution, transport difficulties, health and other such matters. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that a number of firms carrying on business on the Victorian side of the Murray River employ a large number of people who live in New South Wales, and that those people have deductions made from their wages for medical and hospital insurance at the contribution rate for New South Wales, which is about 75c a week instead of the Victorian rate of about 60c a week? [More…]

• Will the Minister investigate whether the refund entitlements of a number of people are being delayed pending determination of the matter by the Commonwealth Department of Health? [More…]

• Will she agree that if people are paying into a fund at a rate relevant to the most common fee charged for their State of residence they should be eligible to receive a refund related to that State’s most common fee and to their rate of health insurance contributions? [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of a statement made in another place that meat used in canned pet food is not subject to the same standards of inspection as is meat used for human consumption? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Leading economists say quite openly that our intake through immigration, added to our natural increase, while contributing to economic growth involves tremendous expenditure in the fields of education, housing, transport and health. [More…]

• The new Commonwealth-State financial agreement reached in Canberra in fane will enable Mr Askin to spend much more on health and hospital services as well as on eduction. [More…]

• Mr Justice Nimmo, in opening Salvation Army week last July, pointed out that during the health insurance inquiry of 1968 he had discovered that, apart from pensioners, 250,000 low income families, representing 1 million persons, were living below a miserably low poverty line. [More…]

• As far as I can see, an examination of the Budget in the light of the various welfare provisions and the expenditure involved in giving effect to, for example, the tapered means test introduced last year and the new health scheme which came in earlier this year reveals very real progress in the field of social welfare. [More…]

• The war machine is blocking our commitments in this country to proper housing and slum abolition, a proper allocation for education, a proper attitude towards health responsibilities and hospitals and proper safety precautions on our roads. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• the fund in the changeover to the payment of benefits under the new Health Benefits Plan effective from 1 July 1970, I am informed that the current delay is three to four weeks. [More…]

• the Budget merely plugs holes in social services and makes no provision for a comprehensive national insurance scheme or for necessary aid for family life through better child endowment, maternity allowances, housing, health and education assistance; [More…]

• The Committee found when it investigated the use of pesticides that to a certain extent a tug of war goes on sometimes between the Department of Health and the Australian Agricultural Council. [More…]

• The New South Wales Minister for Health was present on that occasion and he outlined a certain crash programme. [More…]

• But even at the State level - and this applies to a degree to the other States - the idea seems to be to compress all the protection from water pollution into the health ministry. [More…]

• The monitoring carried out in that area is under the control of a troika consisting of the State Department of Health, the New South Wales Maritime Services Board and the Atomic Energy Commission. [More…]

• The Minister for Health in the State of Victoria has overcome this problem by deciding to set up a telephone in Melbourne so that every person in the community can become a policeman; when a person sees an act of pollution in the Bay or in a waterway he can ring a central telephone number in the city of Melbourne. [More…]

• It reduces efficiency, lt adds tremendous costs to public health administration and things of that character. [More…]

• I am thinking now of the Water Resources Council, the CSIRO, health authorities and other bodies, all of which recommended that urgent steps be taken to establish some kind of national water authority. [More…]

• For example, we are involved in the National Health and Medical Research Council, which is studying detergents and other pollutants. [More…]

• But this is a Budget for consolidation and for the major adjustment of Health Benefits. [More…]

• This year our Welfare Programme concentrates on consolidating past gains and getting the new Health Scheme under way. [More…]

• To provide for a baby the food and care recommended by baby health centres costs about $4 a week. [More…]

• At its recent Federal conference the Australian Labor Party adopted a new national health and national superannuation scheme, involving abolition of the means test on age pensions, to put to the people of Australia at the next Federal elections. [More…]

• The national health scheme will provide free hospital treatment and medical, dental and chemist services based on a specified social services contribution, lt will be free of a means test. [More…]

• Millions of dollars have been spent in giving effect to the Government’s promises in regard to health. [More…]

• This year it has spent millions of dollars on reconstituting the health scheme. [More…]

• The first fellow has insured himself out of the pension field, yet bis income would not be very much more than a pensioner would get from his pension and what he can earn, if he has the health to earn something. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it correct that an interdepartmental committee on the environment, under the chairmanship of the Secretary, Department of Health, has been formed recently and that a working party is in the course of preparation of a report? [More…]

• That same year Commonwealth Government expenditure on major social service programmes, including health, repatriation and welfare, amounted to $1,500m and that for the States amounted to S860m - a total of $2,333m out of a total consolidated revenue of about $6,00Om. [More…]

• We could also include health and hospital benefits. [More…]

• I do not think that legislation could be implemented by governments which would keep many of the people to whom 1 have referred well clothed and housed and in good health and happiness. [More…]

• The fact that a person is living in misery or poverty may be partly a fault of our society, it may be partly a fault of the personality of the person concerned and it may be partly the responsibility of the Commonwealth and/or State government, but it is a problem to which the community as a whole and parliaments in genera) should give serious thought instead of saying to the Commonwealth Government: You do not pay enough pension each fortnight to give these people a happy, healthy, comfortable home life’. [More…]

• It is because of the reasons T have given, and the fact that the Government has increased its expenditure this financial year on health and education as well as in many other fields which are of interest to the Australian community, that I am prepared to say that this Bill to amend the Social Services Act is a satisfactory one. [More…]

• We would be saying to this capable, honourable tribunal: Take the running of the economy of this country into your own hands, spend what you like on social services, and then when you have told us what you are going to do we will tell the people what we can do, if anything, for the development of this country in relation to health, hospitals, education, defence and grants to the States.’ [More…]

• Such persons are in a more favourable position than many workers with young families and are in a position to meet the normal costs of health insurance, etc. [More…]

• I have also mentioned the measures in the health area, particularly the hospital, medical and pharmaceutical benefits and the subsidised medical services scheme which was introduced by this Government and which has done so much to alleviate health problems encountered by the aged, the sick and the infirm as well as the low income earners with young families - the people who are least able to cope with these problems. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - All aspects of Repatriation, including the operation of the Repatriation Act and of the War Service Land Settlement Agreements Act. [More…]

• One wonders how many of these disabled people would have been forced to live on this weekly amount had they not lost their health as a result of serving in our armed services. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 7 of the Australian International Health and Voluntary Health Insurance Organisation, entitled ‘Comment’, which lists several ways of utilising some of the massive financial reserves held by medical benefits funds, Have any such plans been implemented. [More…]

• Accordingly, where a medical fund holds excess reserves, these reserves will be utilised to the advantage of contributors during the early stages of the operation of the new Health Benefits Plan. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In view of the cholera epidemic that is spreading rapidly through several overseas countries, what additional precautions are being taken by the Department of Health to ensure that cholera is not introduced into Australia, particularly by persons entering this country by air or by illegal migrants coming into Australia along the thousands of miles of unguarded northern coast line. [More…]

• Australian quarantine officers examine reports received regularly from the World Health Organisation advising of countries currently infected with cholera. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The listing of a disease as ‘notifiable’ is the responsibility of the relevant State or Territory health authority. [More…]

• In 1965, the National Health and Medical Research Council recommended that a basic list of certain diseases should be uniformly adopted throughout Australia as notifiable. [More…]

• Thai there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - All aspects of Repatriation, including the operation of the Repatriation Act. [More…]

• by leave - Mr Deputy President, the intention of the Leader of the Opposition (Senator Murphy) is to short circuit the debate on the motion which is on the notice paper concerning reference of all aspects of repatriation to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - All aspects of repatriation, including the operation of the Repatriation Act and of the War Service Land Settlement Agreements Act. [More…]

• Eventually that person’s health deteriorates and no pension is any good at that stage. [More…]

• His wife was also getting on in years and neither of them enjoyed good health. [More…]

• For my part, I have no wish to lay claim to assistance by Repatriation, and the wives would be far better served, with corresponding benefit to the ex-servicemen themselves were we not expected to remain somehow in perfect health till we became widowed. [More…]

• one would think that as a matter of concession the Government would acknowledge cancer for repatriation purposes in cases where people have given so much of their health and their lives. [More…]

• This case concerns an exserviceman ‘ who is getting on in years and who has suffered from indifferent health. [More…]

• I make a final appeal that before this Bill passes through this chamber and comes into law the Government examine the amendment moved by Senator Bishop on behalf of the Opposition and also the motion on the notice paper which asks that there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare all aspects of repatriation, including the operation of the Repatriation Act and of the War Service Land Settlement Agreements Act. [More…]

• Even under the Government’s own health legislation, if anyone has an income less than $42.50 a week he does not have to insure; the Government will insure him under the voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I believe it is now very important that the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare . [More…]

• Minister for Health. [More…]

• On 5th June, nearly 4 months ago, I asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she was in a position to advise what action had been taken by the Government and the Commonwealth Department of Health to further Professor J. Bronstein’s treatment for diabetics which had been acclaimed in medical circles as a breakthrough and a better and safer treatment than insulin. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Education and Science seen a statement attributed to the New South Wales Minister for Health that whereas shortly after the second World War medical graduates from the University of Sydney were of the order of 300 a year, now, despite the increased population and increased expenditure on education, the number of graduates in medicine from the University has shrunk to about 200 a year? [More…]

• tallow and adopted a resolution from the Standing Committee on Agriculture that the new National Health and Medical Research Council Standards for dripping and edible tallow be adopted by allStates at the earliest opportunity. [More…]

• These new Standards are designed to ensure that the product is derived only from wholesome materials from healthy animals. [More…]

• States health authorities and have refused to co-operate with them. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: What criteria are laid down by the Department of Health in relation to granting or refusing to grant the additional subsidy of $3 a day payable by the Commonwealth to certain patients in registered nursing homes? [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that a number of electronic devices which would change and in fact revolutionise the lives of blind people have been discovered recently; that one device from England is termed an electronic eye and that another device demonstrated recently at Sydney Airport by a blind American girl enabled her to read? [More…]

• Can the Minister advise whether the Department of Health is making any investigation in this field to make possible this wonderful mechanism 10 the blind citizens in our community? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In view of the fact that, during 1969, at least 1,500 children under the age of five were taken to hospital with poisoning as the result of the ingestion of medical tablets and capsules, why are the Minister and the Department of Health so dilatory in taking any action which would have helped prevent these accidents, as this problem as first brought to their notice in September 1968. [More…]

• I completely reject the claim that my Department and I have been dilatory in this matter which, as the honourable senator is well aware, has been the subject of serious and responsible consideration by Health authorities in Australia and overseas. [More…]

• One such measure was the subject of a recent recommendation of the National Health and Medical Research Council and concerns safety closures for dispensed medicines. [More…]

• One way would be to reduce government expenditure on pensions, health, education or defence. [More…]

• I now ask the Minister repre senting the Minister for Health whether she has any further information on the matter. [More…]

• The conference held its inaugural meeting under the chairmanship of the DirectorGeneral of Health on 16th July 1970. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health assure the Senate that the Commonwealth Government is encouraging the States to make an all out effort to eradicate hydatids in both humans and animals, particularly having regard to the recent increase of this disease in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• The New South Wales Department of Public Health is currently conducting a health education programme on hydatid disease in areas surrounding the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health is cooperating with the State Department in this programme. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, lt follows Senator Mulvihills question about hydatids. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that permission has been granted to use kangaroo slaughtering facilities for this purpose mid that these are not subjected to strict health regulations? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Can the Minister assure the Senate that no infected parts of animals slaughtered at abattoirs in the Australian Capital Territory and in the Northern Territory, areas which are under the control of the Department of Health, find their way in end use by human consumption? [More…]

• If the Minister is unable to give a substantial answer to my question, will she seek a detailed reply from the Minister for Health? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The question of providing surgical equipment and special foods for diabetics as benefits under the National Health Act has been carefully considered hut it is not proposed, at this stage, to amend the Act in this direction. [More…]

• When is it going to charge the Department of Immigration and the Department of Health for the facilities provided for them at international airports? [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, although it has implications for the Minister representing the Minister for the Interior. [More…]

• However, it is already apparent that overall the fallout will be less than from the 1968 series of tests and I repeat that there is no reason to expect otherwise than that the National Radiation Advisory Committee will be able to reach the conclusion that there is no danger to health either for the population of Australia as a whole or for anybody living anywhere in Queensland. [More…]

• The annual rate of deposition of caesium il37 and strontium 90 is well below the value which the National Radiation Advisory Committee accepted in November 1965 as constituting no significant hazard to the health of the Australian population then or in the future. [More…]

• However, it is already apparent that overall fallout will be less than from the 1968 tests and there is no reason to expect otherwise than that the National Radiation Advisory , Committee will be able to reach the same conclusion as for the1968 tests, namely that the fallout is of no significance as a hazard to the health of the Australian population. [More…]

• There was also some interference with the Budget in relation to the health scheme when additional charges were imposed by amendments moved in this place and carried. [More…]

• The purpose of the Bill before the Senate is to extend the operation of the States Grants (Mental Health Institutions) Act 1964-1967 for a further period of 3 years from 1st July 1970 to 30th June 1973. [More…]

• Under the States Grants (Mental Health Institutions) Act 1964-1967, capital assistance grants have been provided to the States in respect of mental health institutions, on the basis of $1 from the Commonwealth for each $2 expended by the States. [More…]

• The 1964-1967 Act, which is being extended by this Bill, applies in respect of mental health institutions’ which are defined as being institutions ‘carried on exclusively or principally for the care and treatment of mentally ill or mentally defective persons’ and which are conducted by or are in receipt of maintenance grants from a State. [More…]

• Assistance is made available by the Commonwealth in connection with expenditure made for the acquisition of land and buildings to be used as mental health institutions, the construction and alteration of buildings used for this purpose and the acquisition of equipment for use in mental health institutions. [More…]

• There is no doubt that the States have derived great benefit over the past 15 years, as a result of the Commonwealth’s participation in this particular area of mental health, which has in turn enabled the States to provide greatly improved facilities for mental patients. [More…]

• However, the Government is aware that the various States are now placing more emphasis on expenditure on community mental health projects, such as early treatment psychiatric centres, day centres and hostels and on integrated services. [More…]

• It also recognises that the emphasis on capital expenditure in traditional mental health institutions is declining in favour of such projects, a large proportion of which qualify for Commonwealth assistance under the legislation which this Bill proposes to continue. [More…]

• The development by the States of community and integrated mental health services will be kept under observation by the Commonwealth so that at the end of the 3 year period, the Government will be in a position to consider what future role the Commonwealth should play in the mental health field. [More…]

• They have resulted from amendments to the Health Act which, at the instance of the Senate, were responsible for providing an additional $2m or so to Queensland for its public hospitals. [More…]

• The annual rate of deposition of caesium 137 and strontium 90 is well below the value which the National Radiation Advisory Committee accepted in November 1965 as constituting no significant hazard to the health of the Australian population then or in the future. [More…]

• I think it probably comes within the province of the Department of Health as well, but the Minister for the Interior can himself communicate with the Department of Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I acknowledge a letter from the Minister for Health which suggests that the Public Health Advisory Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council is considering a revision of standards, at least in relation to pet food. [More…]

• But I put it to the Minister that in this regard there is a much more important matter and that apparently moderate questions in this place do not alert health authorities to action. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and it touches on the same topic as that raised by Senator Webster. [More…]

• I should like to know - and I have no doubt that many others would like to know - whether all recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council in respect of primary products, including meat, have been carried out in their entirety. [More…]

• I would like to reiterate that the Public Health Advisory Committee . [More…]

• This was the committee to which Senator Murphy referred - of the National Health and Medical Research Council has considered the desirability or otherwise of introducing a uniform standard for canned pet foods, but these discussions have not reached any finality. [More…]

• I firmly believe - as the medical profession has indicated - that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• Was the Wattie Creek settlement subjected to close scrutiny by Health Department officers approximately 1 week ago. [More…]

• Why was the same close examination not carried out by Health officers at the Welfare Centre, where toilet facilities are obviously well below the standard of those at Wattie Creek. [More…]

• A Health Department team inspected Wattie Creek on 28th August. [More…]

• Inspections of facilities in connection with matters of public health are the responsibility of the Department of Health. [More…]

• These are constructed to meet Health Department requirements and include water closets and septic tanks. [More…]

• He can draw on the resources of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, the Department of Primary Industry, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Health, the Department of Trade and Industry and the Treasury which is the most important one, I suggest. [More…]

• The answer referred to is one which comes within the authority of the Ministerial Member for Public Health in the House of Assembly for Papua and New Guinea. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Education and Science seen a statement attributed to the New South Wales Minister for Health that whereas shortly after the second World War medical graduates from the University of Sydney were of the order of 300 a year, now, despite the increased population and increased expenditure on education, the number of graduates in medicine from the University has shrunk to about 200 a year? [More…]

• I have not seen the statement attributed to the New South Wales Minister for Health about the alleged decline in the number of medical graduates from the University of Sydney as mentioned by the honourable senator. [More…]

• I am a member of the Standing Committee on Health, Welfare and Repatriation. [More…]

• I know it is not the responsibility of the Minister for Housing who represents the Minister for Health in this chamber, but is the Minister for Health deliberately neglecting to furnish an answer to that question? [More…]

• Honourable senators also know the regulation provides that even though a book is prohibited under regulation 4a the Minister for Customs and Excise may approve any application to import such works provided a report has been received from the Chairman of the National Literature Board of Review or the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• Medical, Psychiatric and Sociological Works 1 3 to university researchers 10 to university lecturers 3 to medical practitioners 3 to psychologists 2 to public libraries 2 to teachers college lecturers 3 to ministers of religion 1 to the Institute of Technology, Western Australia 1 to the Mental Health Research Institute of New South Wales 1 to the Director of the Art Gallery of New South Wales 1 to an art critic 1 to an art collector 1 to an architect 1 to an author 1 to a Commonwealth instrumentality 1 to a publisher 1 to a model film set maker [More…]

• The calls for funds from universities, for roads, health, social services, defence and assistance to industry have increased greatly, not only in total but also per head of population. [More…]

• In some cases, such as with health benefits, we are now paying people’s bills out of Government revenue. [More…]

• They will go into competition with all the people in the metropolitan area for all the community services such as water supply, sewerage, roads, education and health services. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that in the last 5 years approximately 150 persons from South Australia, at great cost to themselves, have gone to Kassel, Germany, for oxygen therapy treatment for arteriosclerosis as given by Dr Moeller? [More…]

• It is not good from a health point of view. [More…]

• I agree that it would be sensible to sit on for another half hour or so on the last night if we can finish, but we should not sit long hours, lt does not do justice to the health of honourable senators to sit long hours, it is not efficient to do so and we are not discharging our obligations to the public if we do so. [More…]

• I could say that apart from housing the main expenditure through the States are in education, health and employment. [More…]

• In the health field, while we have made some contribution to the provision of more bricks and mortar in the States, the Office and the Commonwealth Department of Health have been primarily interested in helping the States to improve health services in the areas where Aboriginals are located, and to this end we are financing for a limited period the salaries and costs of community health nurses, public health officers and others in Aboriginal areas. [More…]

• The Department of Health and the Council for Aboriginal Affairs last December organised a workshop of Commonwealth and State health officers and persons engaged in Aboriginal health research in an attempt to pool knowledge about Aboriginal infant health and nutrition and much previously unpublished and uncorrelated information was brought together in this workshop. [More…]

• It is encouraging to be able to report that already some States are seeking financial support within our grants for health projects based on the recommendations of this workshop. [More…]

• The AttorneyGeneral (Mr Hughes), the Minister for the Interior (Mr Nixon) and the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) have all announced moves in the field oflaw reform. [More…]

• It is interesting to note that the pensioner medical service is listed as receiving $3.10 per capita, nursing home benefits 80c a week, miscellaneous health benefits 6c a week, personal care subsidy 4c a week, telephone, radio and television concessions 17c a week, and housing assistance 61c a week. [More…]

• The domestic allowance for a repatriation widow is$8; the mothers allowance is$6 or $4 depending on numbers and health of children under the social services scale. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health advise whether the Government is making any attempt to extend the pensioner health services to cover all injuries and illnesses affecting pensioners? [More…]

• ls the Minister aware that the present health services for pensioners do not include specialist treatment, treatment for numerous complaints, general anaesthetics operations and the setting of fractures? [More…]

• Will she do everything in her power to broaden the pensioner health services to overcome such extenuating circumstances? [More…]

• In this regard it is known that the State Health Departments are receiving the full co-operation of the wholesalers in reducing their stocks of these drugs to an acceptable level. [More…]

• Large quantities have been re-exported and further quantities have been destroyed under the supervision of officers of the State Health Departments. [More…]

• There is a consequent decline in their health and this ought to be a matter of very great concern to any man or woman with a sense of responsibility. [More…]

• I am informed that the authorities in the United States of America have shut off supplies from at least 27 Australian meatworks until they comply with United States health standards. [More…]

• While in some quarters this has been interpreted as an attempt by the United States to limit meat supplies from Australia and thus protect producers in that country - and indeed there may be some justification for this interpretation - I think there is ample evidence to support the United States action as a health precaution. [More…]

• It is in this topical context that I believe attention should be drawn to the health hazards inherent in our lack of supervision of the production of tallow for use in Australia in the manufacture of foodstuffs prepared for human consumption in Australia. [More…]

• In October 1968 the Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council recommended a new standard for dripping and edible tallows designed to ensure that the product is derived only from wholesome materials from healthy animals. [More…]

• Standards have been accepted by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• There must be considerable doubt in the minds of health authorities because of the new methods. [More…]

• This, of course, is subject to a health doubt because of the fact that residues, including condemned material, are included in the tallow source of supply. [More…]

• 692, which I asked of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That is the basically good health record of a man who obviously was admitted to the Navy, served for this lengthy period of time and until 196.1 showed no sign of the onset of the disease that eventually brought about his discharge from the Service. [More…]

• I wonder whether the Minister representing the Minister for Health is able to inform me of the present position. [More…]

• Would the Minister for Primary Industry deem it wise to promote immediate action between Federal authorities and all appropriate State government departments which are interested in the maintenance of the good health of the Australian community and also in the sustenance of a healthy meat producing industry, with the object of prohibiting all imports of synthetic meat and the manufacture of such products in this country? [More…]

• asked the Minis ter representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What work has been done in conjunction with the States to eliminate hydatids as a health threat to both man and beast. [More…]

• For many years State Departments of Health and of Agriculture have featured the control of hydatid disease in their extension service work. [More…]

• The New South Wales Department of Public Health is currently conducting a health education programme on hydatid disease in areas surrounding the A.C.T. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is it a correct procedure for a doctor, in a case where the provisions of the National Health Act would permit him to charge a fee of$3 for a consultation, to charge that fee when the service is merely to sign a repeat prescription even though he does not see the patient whose need for such repeats is a continuing one and a medical examination on each occasion is apparently unnecessary. [More…]

• Benefits are payable under the National Health Act in respect of ‘professional attendances’ on patients by doctors. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matterThe incidence, distribution and causes of primary and secondary poverty in Australia and the ad equacy of existing Commonwealth and State social welfare legislation. [More…]

• The purpose of this motion is to refer the problem to the appropriate committee - that committee being the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare - for consideration. [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has already had referred to it the problem of mentally and physically handicapped people and the question of repatriation. [More…]

• Mr Justice Nimmo, who headed the Government Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, came to the conclusion - I think everyone will recall his statement, which was widely publicised - that 1 million Australians were living below a miserably low poverty line. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• I do not know whether these remarks should be directed to the Department of Social Services or the Department of Health. [More…]

• This rate was equivalent to the “standard rate benefit’ then being paid to special account contributors ot registered health benefit organisations. [More…]

• The attitude of the Commonwealth Department of Health is that of assistance to the patient rather than the hospital, as they feel that hospital operation is a matter for consideration by State authorities, lt has reached the stage however, that hospitals must exercise their right to charge pensioner patients for all but the basic maintenance factors such as nursing care, meals and accommodation. [More…]

• The field of hospital operation and the increasingly important role that it plays in the maintenance of a desired health standard in the community should not become a subject for Commonwealth and State bartering but should be viewed with the correct focus on the needs and rights of the population in general. [More…]

• In accordance with the correspondence, at the first available opportunity on the Department of Health estimates I bring up the question and ask the Minister whether, in view of the possibility of the increasing inability of -hospitals to cater for pensioner medical -patients, some consideration should be given to some increase in this direction. [More…]

• I have had a number of people come to me and complain about the fact that persons have been admitted to these private nursing homes on a doctor’s certificate verifying the need for intensive care, have been accepted by the Commonwealth Department as being eligible because of the condition of their health for the additional subsidy, and after 3 or 6 months, without any examination by a medical practitioner, without any visit to the hospital by any member of the Department, correspondence has been received from the Department indicating that the subsidy is to be no longer paid. [More…]

• A Department of Health doctor has recently been through the private hospitals in Geelong with a tine tooth comb. [More…]

• We have written to the Prime Minister and spoken to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• When the Department of Health doctor came through here he saw one 95-year-old woman who was silting up reading a paper. [More…]

• But now the Department of Health docotor without any medical examination of our patients, has refused higher benefits for 2 of them. [More…]

• This seems to me to be a situation in which the Department is cutting its cloth io suit its budget rather than treating this matter with due consideration for the health of the people. [More…]

• Therefore I believe that it would be best if he were to give to the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) details of the specific cases which he has mentioned so that the Minister might look at those cases. [More…]

• The classification of patients as intensive nursing home care cases eligible to receive the supplementary benefit is undertaken on an individual basis by Department of Health medical officers. [More…]

• So, might I suggest again to the honourable senator that, if he has individual cases, he make details of them available to the Minister for Health so that they may be considered. [More…]

• That further consideration of the estimates of the Department of Health be postponed until a later hour. [More…]

• As some matrons have indicated to me, the health of such aged persons is deteriorating. [More…]

• Questions 1921 this year, following a meeting of the Agricultural Council, in which he referred to new standards of inspection which were required for dripping and edible tallow and which had been agreed to as necessary by the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia. [More…]

• Have the States agreed to adopt the recommendations and the new standards required by the National Health and Medical Research Council? [More…]

• For example, Mr Justice Nimmo conducted an inquiry into the existing health services; Mr Justice Sweeney conducted an inquiry into salaries paid in colleges of advanced education; Mr Justice Eggleston for many years has been connected with the Company Law Review Committee and, as 1 understand it, has not been occupied at all with Industrial Court activities. [More…]

• Of course there are always things to be achieved in the field of education and health and those other areas of social improvement, but all I am saying is that the Labor Party proposition as I have stated it seems to be one generally of futility and the Government achievement, as I have stated it, over the last 10 years is one of significant improvement. [More…]

• It is too important to be left in the area where the Minister would like to leave it by saying: ‘Oh, well, we have all sorts of demands in health and social services and education. [More…]

• When I last visited the Territory and saw the low quality of the water that was going into one of the reservoirs which was being constructed outside Port Moresby, and the high quality of the purified water that was going out of the reservoirs, I thought what a wonderful contribution was being made to the health and well being of the native people simply by the construction of public works of an essential fundamental nature. [More…]

• First of all, the Nimmo Committee was an interdepartmental committee that was established to inquire into voluntary health insurance in Australia at a time when the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs was sitting. [More…]

• References have been made to the Department of Defence, to the Department of Air and some to the Department of Health. [More…]

• see Dr Stewart, Department of Childrens Health) is hardly surprising. [More…]

• Not the least of these is the health of not only those Aboriginals on the reserves - their health is well below par - but those who are classified as the fringe dwellers. [More…]

• One only has to visit the areas in which the Aboriginals live to see the health problem. [More…]

• There is a major job to be clone in those parts of Australia to which I have referred in order to bring these people up to the health standards we require as normal. [More…]

• If the Minister thinks that $8 plus child endowment is enough to keep a family of five or six kiddies in proper health, I would ask her to draw up a diet chart showing what they are required to eat and how much they can purchase with this amount of money. [More…]

• First of all, we could improve the health of Aboriginal children. [More…]

• I remember an occasion when a little girl who worked for us was decked out by Mrs Gair and sent to a debutante ball where she was received by Mr W. M. Moore who was then Minister for Health and Home Affairs. [More…]

• I think we all agree that the basic needs are housing, health and education. [More…]

• He spoke of the need for housing and health requirements. [More…]

• Senator Keeffe also spoke about the problems of health of Aboriginals in Queensland. [More…]

• The Queensland programme for 1970-71 includes health education programmes on settlements and reserves. [More…]

• Assistance is also given in the field of health services. [More…]

• The services of community health nurses are being provided at Bourke, Moree, Dareton and Wilcannia. [More…]

• Subsidies are given to Bush Nursing, the Far West Children’s Health Scheme, the Western Shires Dental Scheme and to charitable organisations which are doing so much. [More…]

• For a long time the Government refused to seek outside aid even for health purposes. [More…]

• 1 am sure honourable senators will agree that in the future for development of all types, whether it be transport, health or other services, additional money must be found from somewhere. [More…]

• To some of them I wish good political health, but to all of them I wish good physical health, lt is early in the season but I ask you, Sir, to convey, on our behalf, the very best wishes for the festive season to those people who are employed in this place and to their wives, children and loved ones from whom we keep them away so very late at night. [More…]

• How many pilots of (A) Ansett Airlines of Australia and (B) Trans-Australia Airlines, during 1965, 1966, 1967, 1968 and 1969 (i) resigned, (ii) retired due to reaching retiring age; (iii) died while still employed; (iv) resigned or retired as a result of losing their licence due to ill health; and (v) were dismissed. [More…]

• The Board advised me that my instructions for restraint on establishment increases could benefit the health and soundness of administration in the Commonwealth Service, and it suggested that a limitation should be placed on the increase in Service employment. [More…]

• The first group of pensioners, and the ones about whom I am most concerned, are the aged people who, because of their advanced years and poor state of health, are unable to supplement their pensions. [More…]

• Because of advanced years and failing health these people experience great difficulty in securing suitable employment. [More…]

• Then there is the payment of the standard rate to certain married pensioners who have to live apart for health reasons. [More…]

• There are people with health needs and the Government is concerned with them. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing (he Minister for Health, ls it a fact that many pensioners previously eligible to hold a pensioner medical card have had this entitlement withdrawn as a result of the tapered means test which was introduced in the 1969 Budget? [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health noted a statement by Dr Lane, Director of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, that given additional funds, an antivenene for the venom of the funnel web spider could be found. [More…]

• asked the Minister representingthe Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: (.1) Did the Queensland Cabinet on the submission of the Premier, Mr Bjelke-Petersen, grant permission to graziers to slaughter droughtaffected sheep for dog food. [More…]

• (2)Has permission been granted to use kangaroo slaughtering facilities for this purpose which are not subject to stringent health supervision. [More…]

• Does the lack of stringent health supervision, by completing the chain of infection from sheep to dog to human, greatly facilitate the spread of the dreadful, insidious disease hydatids; if so, will the Minister take urgent steps to investigate and report on this possibility. [More…]

• In relation to (2) and (3), the Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• These categories cover the names of all medical benefits organisations, registered in New South Wales under the National Health Act, as at 1st October 1970. [More…]

• Commonwealth Bank Health Society, Sydney. [More…]

• New South Wales Teachers’ Federation Health Society, Sydney. [More…]

• The Commercial Banking Company Health Society, Sydney. [More…]

• Reserve Bank Health Society. [More…]

• We know from reading reports and listening to people who have knowledge of life in that country that the health programme has not been implemented either. [More…]

• Far from cutting down the contributions or telling them how the money should be used, as was suggested by my friend over here on the left who comes: from the right section, we ought to be increasing contributions in the 3 fields I have referred to, health, education and the overall administration. [More…]

• The House of Assembly now consists of 84 elected representatives and 10 nominated representatives.- Last July the Prime Minister made a significant’ statement in which he- said that legislative authority having been exercised with such credit to the local Assembly, we had come to the conclusionthat the responsibilities and authority of the local Administrator’s Executive Council should bc extended and that it should be responsible only to the indigenous elected members of that - Assembly, that it should take sole responsibility for educational matters, public health, tourism, cooperatives, -business advisory services, workers compensation, industrial training, posts and telegraphs and other matters, reserving to Australia responsibility in matters of external security, enforcement of law and order, the judiciary, defence and matters of that sort, I do not wish to repeat the complete statement of the position. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Treasurer, ls it a fact that State governments, acting on the recommendation of the National Health and Medical Research Council, are enforcing the secure installation of steel safes in pharmacies for the safekeeping of prescribed drugs? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In today’s Press the Minister for Health is reported as stating that the banning of cigarette advertising on television has had no effect in diminishing the smoking habit in the United States of America or the United Kingdom. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: (I.) [More…]

• I re-iterate my statements to Parliament on 4 March 1970 and my second reading speech on the introduction of the 1970 amendments to the National Health Act, that it is the Government’s firm policy that contribution rates will be set at a level which takes into consideration the reserves held by the health insurance organisations. [More…]

• Finally,I would add that the Government’s intention in the matter is reflected in section 73B (c) of the National Health Act introduced in 1970 which imposes a condition on all registered organisations requiring them to comply with any direction given by the Minister with regard to rates of contributions payable by contributors. [More…]

• Today I received from the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) an answer to a question on hospital and medical benefits funds. [More…]

• I am not opposing his right to receive better health facilities. [More…]

• I think it is wrong for the health and betterment of the country and I will be saying more on that point in connection with another subject in which I am vitally interested. [More…]

• Some of the rams sold have not become eligible for export because they have not met health or quarantine requirementsOne or two of them have died and two or three have been injured since the sale. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether it is a fact that garbage may be removed from an overseas vessel only by a person approved by the Commonwealth Director-General of Health and that the garbage must be disposed of as the DirectorGeneral directs? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the National Health Scheme running into difficulties because of the refusal of a section of the medical profession to work under the provisions of the scheme notwithstanding assurances given that they would do so when the Act was recently re-negotiated. [More…]

• In what areas have the doctors indicated they will not comply with the terms upon which the National Health Act was recently renegotiated and upon which its success depends. [More…]

• Health. [More…]

• It describes the facilities for settlement of Maltese citizens, lt records the rights they enjoy and the obligations they undertake in common with Australian citizens .and other citizens; it affirms that Maltese citizens resident in Australia will receive social service and health benefits which Australia provides to Australian citizens, and that both Governments will make efforts towards reaching areement on reciprocity in payment of each other’s corresponding social security benefits. [More…]

• The selection procedures provide for an assessment by Australian officers of the general suitability, health, character and the potential of the individual to settle here satisfactorily. [More…]

• Another interesting point is that for all these months we have had this matter before the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Only 2 of those committees were given immediate viability, they being the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade, to each of which references have been made. [More…]

• I could not imagine a more inappropriate time to bring forward this motion in Senator Murphy’s name or his motion to refer to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the introduction of a national superannuation scheme, lt would appear to me that prudence itself would dictate that both these matters be allowed to stand aside until a discussion of the President’s report. [More…]

• On 20th August last Senator Murphy gave notice of a motion to refer a matter to the only committee available at that time, the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I could tell honourable senators about John Logan, who is having a breakdown in his health because of the drastic methods which have been used to keep him apart from his wife and family over a period of years. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been directed to a report that a collection organised by various community service organisations in Launceston last weekend resulted in over 1000 lb of unwanted medical drugs being collected from homes in that area and that the drugs were subsequently buried? [More…]

• Since the advantages of this type of activity are so obvious, will the Minister suggest to the Minister for Health that he take steps to encourage similar unwanted’ medical drug collection drives in various parts of Australia with the object of collecting up from all the homes the maximum amount of unwanted drugs which at present are lying about in various places io those homes? [More…]

• They are employed in a very wide range of departments including the Departments of Customs and Excise, Interior, Army, Supply, Works, Health and Primary Industry. [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare; [More…]

• As I said earlier, we began our system of legislative and general purpose standing committees by appointing 2 committees, one in relation io health and welfare and the other in respect of primary and secondary industry and trade. [More…]

• I understand that the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare at present has a reference which it was given almost as soon as it was created and I have been informed by the Chairman of that Committee that it may well be that the reference will not be resolved before the end of this financial year. [More…]

• A number of references have been suggested to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade. [More…]

• If such a committee had before it a massive reference such as that on handicapped children which has been referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare - or the currently suggested reference on housing, or one concerning a national superannuation fund - either those massive references would have to be put aside under the pressure of intrusion of smaller matters, destroying the continuity of investigation and prejudicing the interest of the committee- [More…]

• Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the introduction of a national superannuation scheme and the methods of financing and operating such a scheme. [More…]

• Honourable senators will be aware that one of the standing committees in existence at the present time is the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• We have a number of witnesses coming to give evidence and in order to get the best value from membership, contribute to the ultimate findings and give account of the stewardship in relation to the matter which the Senate has referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, these documents have to be studied and cognisance taken of the material within them. [More…]

• I mention Henry Pietracci an official of the health and research union, and 1 am sure that some senators from Victoria would know Bill Nowak, a post-war migrant secretary of the Pastrycooks Union of Victoria. [More…]

• In studying this area we enter the field of the mental health of migrants. [More…]

• They open up not only the whole world of communication but also the flow of educational, social, vocational, health, cultural and mental benefits, and of course the benefits of citizenship. [More…]

• On behalf of the union I raised the matter with the Minister for Health (Dr Forbes). [More…]

• I appeal to the Minister for Housing (Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin), who in this chamber represents the Minister for Health, to do all she possibly can to ensure that the Northern Territory Administration and the Minister for Health seriously and sypmathetically consider the reasonable and just request made by the industrial organisation on behalf of the people. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the serious warning given by the New South Wales Director of Health Services that many poliomyelitis vaccines - including, I believe, Salk vaccine - wane or lose their potency over the years, and that unless further immunisation is effected poliomyelitis could again become a threat to the people of Australia, I ask the Minister, who realises the danger of this dread disease: What is the Commonwealth Department of Health doing, or what is it able to do, to ensure that Australian parents are made aware of the warning? [More…]

• Will the Commonwealth Department of Health advise the Stale Departments of Health of its willingness to engage in a publicity campaign through the Press, radio, television and public notices so- that all Australian parents can be made aware of the serious danger of poliomyelitis to their families? [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health advise now or obtain from the Department of Health advice on which domiciliary nursing services are available free to pensioners in each State? [More…]

• asked the Minis ter representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What coverage is given under our national health scheme where Turkish national custom requires circumcision at 8 years and not at birth to a male child born in Australia to migrant parents. [More…]

• Last year we had 3 estimates committees sitting at the one time, and of the Legislative and General Purpose Standing Committees referred to by Mr President already the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare and the Standing Committee on Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade are silting. [More…]

• This morning’s papers contained a statement by the Director of Health in New South Wales that the mercury content of fish, oysters, etc., in the estuaries of New South Wales is well below the standard now acknowledged to be safe by the [More…]

• Department of Health in New South Wales. [More…]

• • this is an area illustrating a vast scientific problem, a vast pollution and health problem. [More…]

• The real need is for committees to be able to ascertain what is involved in solving a problem such as that which I mentioned - the mercury level apparently caused by discharges from paper mills and so forth, which is a hazard to health. [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare is endeavouring to resolve some of the questions we have referred to it. [More…]

• On inquiring today I find that the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has asked 3 departments to give some report on the subject of extra finance to overcome the increasing crime in Australia. [More…]

• From today’s notice paper, at page 2254, we see that currently we have 2 legislative and general purpose standing committees - one on health and welfare and the other on primary and secondary industry and trade. [More…]

• Estimates Committee B covers those 2 subjects as well as the Department of Housing, the Department of Immigration, the Department of Health and the PostmasterGeneral’s Department. [More…]

• F have had some experience of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• That (with the exception of those Committees already established, namely, the Standing Committees on Health and Welfare and Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade) each Standing Committee consist of six (6) Senators, three to be appointed by the Leader of the Government in the Senate, two by the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate, and one by the Leader of the Australian Democratic Labor Parly or by any minority group or groups or independent or independents in the manner referred to in paragraphs (4.) [More…]

• (with the exception of (hose Committees already established, namely, the Standing Committees on Health and Welfare and Primary and Secondary Industry and Trade) . [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that more detailed tests just completed by the Victorian Department of Health are understood to confirm these tests and that the concentration of DDT in mothers’ milk could be up to 20 times more than the acceptable amount in cows’ milk? [More…]

• Minister for Health an accurate statement of the amount of DDT which has been detected in the milk mentioned by him. [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to a question asked earlier about DDT. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In 1968 the Conference of Commonwealth and State Health Ministers initiated action to effect a changeover from non-biodegradable to biodegradable detergents. [More…]

• Subsequently, the National Health and Medical Research Council negotiated a voluntary changeover with industry, to be effected by 31st December 1971. [More…]

• That the petitions relating to crime in Australia presented to the Senate on 28th October 1970 and 2nd November 1970 by Senator Cavanagh and referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on 3rd November 1970 be now transferred from the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare to the Standing Committee on Social Environment and that the latter Committee be empowered to take into consideration and further pursue any inquiries or actions already initiated by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in regard to the petitions. [More…]

• Its effect is to a lesser or greater degree dependent upon the economic health or health of the community, lt undermines the working efficiency of the community. [More…]

• At the time he was Minister for Health. [More…]

• by leave - Leaving politics aside, the Australian Labor Party would like to congratulate the new Ministers who have been appointed to the Ministry; in particular, the new Minister in this chamber, Senator Greenwood, who is now the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My Party hopes that the new Minister for Health will do well in his job. [More…]

• All I would say in conclusion is that there is a clear necessity for the Minister for Health to deal with this sick Government. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a report that tests carried out by the Melbourne scientific instrument firm of Varian Techtron Pty Ltd have shown that samples of canned tuna sold in Australia have shown a mercury content of up to 100 times the World Health Organisation recommended maximum level? [More…]

• Will the Minister take steps to ensure that these products are periodically tested and that the importation and sale of canned seafoods which constitute a danger to health are prohibited? [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health give a firm assurance to the Senate that in his discussions with the hospital benefits funds on their role in the face of rising hospital costs he will take steps lo ensure that the massive financial resources of the funds, which amount at present to $83m, are unlocked promptly lo provide higher benefits before subscribers to the funds are confronted with an increase in subscriptions as occurred in the case of subscribers to the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia which, like its counterpart the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia, has acquired massive cash reserves? [More…]

• As the honourable senator is aware, the National Health Act gives power to the Minister for Health to approve, and thereby to determine, the rates of benefits and contributions. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he will make a statement to the Senate, not now but at some convenient time, indicating the nature of heart disease as a public health problem in Australia, the number of persons affected by it and those likely to die from it, and the economic consequences to Australia of it? [More…]

• 1 ask also whether he will make a statement to the Senate indicating the attitude of the National Health and Medical Research Council and of the Commonwealth Department of Health as to whether poly-unsaturated margarine should be freely available to those who wish to have it as an alternative to buller for health reasons? [More…]

• In directing my question to the Minister for Health I refer to the answer he gave a few minutes ago to the Leader of the Opposition about making a statement on heart disease. [More…]

• At this very early stage in a ministerial career I would hesitate to embark upon making statements about kindergar-, tens because I have an early sense that kindergartens and matters related thereto may not be properly within the purview of the Department of Health. [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I remind him that on 18th February I asked the then Minister for Health a question concerning the banning of cigarette advertising on television and was given the stock reply of the tobacco industry. [More…]

• In referring to the then Minister for Health perhaps 1 should have referred to the Department of Health, because I addressed my question to the Minister who was then representing the then Minister for Health, f ask: Was the then Minister unaware that British, United States and Canadian reports have all stressed the need to ban cigarette advertising on television? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council has advocated the cessation of such advertising? [More…]

• Why would the former Minister for Health prefer to accept the twaddle of the tobacco industry rather than advice from his own National Health and Medical Research Council? [More…]

• I am equally sure that he would have been aware of the opinion expressed by the National Health and Medical Research Council, I think in 1 969. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health .aware that this month Australia will ,-be celebrating the second anniversary of the presentation of the Nimmo Committee report and the first anniversary of the promise of the former “Minister for Health to establish a national1 health insurance commission? [More…]

• Will the Minister give consideration to the composition and functions of the proposed health insurance commission as referred to by the former Minister for Health in a ministerial statement in March 1 970 and in answer to a question on notice in another place last October? [More…]

• What are the prospects of the Government’s marking either anniversary by introducing legislation for the establishment of a national health insurance commission which, as recent events indicate, is more urgently required now than ever before? [More…]

• We in the Senate then proposed the appointment of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• This degree of pollution is a day-by-day health hazard, lt calls for immediate action, not for more words, more guidelines, more reports. [More…]

• The Director of the Commonwealth Department of Health, or his representative. [More…]

• That the Petitions relating to crime in Australia, presented to the Senate on 28th October 1970 and 2nd November 1970 by Senator Cavanagh, and referred on 3rd November 1970 to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, be now transferred from the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare to the Standing Committee on Social Environment, and that the latter Committee be empowered to lake into consideration and further pursue any inquiries or action already initialed by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in regard lo the Petitions. [More…]

• The important step was taken on referring the petitions to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• It has happened that the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has not proceeded very far into this matter as it has been heavily engaged in considering other matters. [More…]

• I have spoken to the Chairman and 1 think to all members of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I am referring not only to the general hospitals that look after the health and welfare of the ordinary citizens -but also to the homes and hospitals for the aged and infirm. [More…]

• The present nursing home benefit of $2 per day or $5 daily for the relatively low percentage of those accepted by the Commonwealth Department of Health as intensive nursing care patients, is far from sufficient to cover the fee costs involved. [More…]

• I make a plea to the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) to take up with the Government as an immediate objective the making of an emergency grant to the Victorian Hospitals and Charities Commission, earmarked for providing the financial relief that is urgently needed by both the homes for the aged and infirm and the general hospitals. [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall that I raised this matter late last year during the debate on the estimates for the Department of Health. [More…]

• I was advised by the Minister representing the then Minister for Health that I should take up - specific cases in which 1 felt some injustice had been done. [More…]

• Health, and he has been able to examine it. [More…]

• I found that as part of his inquiries the then Minister for Health had sent a doctor from the Department of Health to Geelong to investigate this case. [More…]

• As far as I am concerned the word ‘they’ is in inverted commas, because there is noboty else who is able to look after this lady in her present slate of health. [More…]

• They may, in effect, end up like many of our aged people now and be dying before they can obtain the care so vital to their rehabilitation and their return to good health. [More…]

• I suggest to the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who in this Chamber represents the PostmasterGeneral (Sir Alan Hulme), that if such a challenge goes ahead the Government should immediately amend the Broadcasting and Television Act to write into the Act in clear and express terms provisions which will provide minimal standards for Australian dramatic, variety and documentary programmes. [More…]

• The first is that in a relatively short time I have endeavoured to come to grips with the many aspects of the health administration, and I am still in the process of doing so. [More…]

• There are many matters which, in their context, may have higher priorities; but I can assure the honourable senator that 1 will always regard health as of major importance and will seek to have it treated as such. [More…]

• I am sure that there have been occasions in the Senate when Senator Cavanagh has made claims upon the Government for the provision of finance for some matter other than health. [More…]

• I think that this is recognised by the provisions of the National Health Act under which these grants are administered. [More…]

• Section 57a of the National Health Act, if anyone is interested in looking to the source of this provision, indicates that applications for these grants shall be made by the proprietor of an approved nursing home, that application shall be made in a particular form and that it shall be supported by a certificate of a medical practitioner. [More…]

• My question to the Minister for Health is this: In recent years on a number of occasions the Government has attempted to improve the financial situation of patients in private nursing homes and homes for certain types of aged people. [More…]

• I thank Senator McManus for emphasising a point which is part of a general review which is being undertaken hy the Department and has been undertaken since the presentation of the report of the Committee of Inquiry on Health Insurance, commonly known as the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health in his capacity as Minister representing the Postmaster-General and also the AttorneyGeneral. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the difficult financial situation in which many privately owned and community directed hospitals find themselves in providing accommodation for pensioners? [More…]

• I do not think that even the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who in this chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen), would venture to suggest that there has not been very serious neglect in the past. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: Will the Minister advise the Senate as to the volume and cost of the various drugs which are consumed by the Australian public under the national health scheme? [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Federal Government, through the national health scheme, either subsidises or provides free a number of the aforementioned drugs? [More…]

• He will be aware that the National Health Act contains provisions relating to the drugs which are to be included in the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, the price at which they are to be supplied and generally the conditions on which they are to be supplied. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• On 17th February the previous Minister for Health claimed that banning cigarette advertising had no effect on the consumption of cigarettes. [More…]

• I do not recall the exact words of the then Minister for Health on 17th February, although I am aware that he made a statement along the lines to which the honourable senator has referred. [More…]

• I think it is important to look at precisely what the then Minister for Health said. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The question was directed to me in my capacity of Minister for Health and it is in that capacity that I reply. [More…]

• I think the first point I should make is that this report was commissioned by the Department of Health in conjunction with the Council for Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health, ls it a fact that age pensioners will be charged by the hospital funds 46c per week as against the sum of SI -80 per quarter which was charged previously for hospitalisation in other than public wards in hospitals? [More…]

• This lady came to Australia in 1959 under the auspices of the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Department of Health check the quality of major soft drink products; if not, why not. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health makes routine analyses of all forms of food, including soft drinks, in the Territories for which the Government is administratively responsible. [More…]

• In the States, these analyses are the responsibility of the relevant public health authority. [More…]

• Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson did not say anything about this other matter of a reference to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - The introduction of a national superannuation scheme and the methods of financing and operating such a scheme. [More…]

• Any country as wealthy as Australia should regard social welfare as essential, along with services such as health and housing. [More…]

• 1 therefore submit for the consideration of the Senate, and for its commendation, this motion that the matter be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• It is unusual for me to be speaking so soon after the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has introduced Ihe Bill. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has admitted grudgingly that the Government has decided that an increase in pensions is warranted to meet ‘the increase in the price of consumer goods but it has refused to make any adjustment to dependants’ allowances and has therefore deliberately reduced the living standards of many homes. [More…]

• I am pleased to note that the Minister for Health when introducing the Bill on behalf of the Minister for Social Services did not resort to that policy. [More…]

• It is our intention to refer to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare this question of all aspects of poverty in accordance with a motion yet to be resolved by the Senate. [More…]

• An investigation by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare - later we shall ask honourable senators to support a proposal for a reference to that Committee - would prove of benefit. [More…]

• How many of our people in need, in 99 per cent of cases through no fault of their own, because of ill health and misfortune, are calling upon the national purse to provide them with a livelihood? [More…]

• I refer to matters such as education, health, the States, the arts and a hundred and one other responsibilities, and finally the defence of this country. [More…]

• The provision to persons in particular need of such additional benefits and welfare services as may be necessary to maintain their real standard of living at an acceptable level including cooperation with State, Local Government and Regional authorities on these matters; and Commonwealth financial allocations and the establishment of administrative machinery to govern the standard which these Commonwealth finances should achieve to promote the development of regional health and welfare programmes. [More…]

• the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) the question was in these terms: ls every pensioner in Australia who has no supplementary income forced lo live at below subsistence level? [More…]

• The Minister for Social Services provided to the Minister for Health, who represents him in this chamber, the following answer to the first part of the question: ‘No.’ [More…]

• People who are entitled to repatriation benefits have been given’ all kinds of descriptions by the Government in the 5 years that I have been a’ senator, but never once has it adopted a humane attitude to these people whose health has suffered as a result of wounds received’ in battle. [More…]

• What did the present Minister for Health, who is now the representative of the Minister for Social Services, say when he presented this Bill? [More…]

• 1 support the Bill which, as the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) said, is to give effect to the announcement by the Prime Minister (Mr McMahon) on 15th March that an immediate increase would be granted in pensions now- being paid at maximum rates with some’ increases to certain other benefits. [More…]

• Government benefits include health services, pensions for aged people, invalids and widows, unemployment and sickness benefits, a rehabilitation service, maternity allowances and child endowment. [More…]

• Tn 1969-70. the Federal Government spent $ 1,327m on social and health services from the National Welfare Fund. [More…]

• All benefits, except repatriation and a few minor social and health benefits, arc a charge on the Fund, which is used only to finance the benefits, not the cost of their administration, nor the cost of any associated capital works. [More…]

• Finally, social welfare provided necessary supportive services to the development of health, housing, education, manpower training and employment as well as broad policies of rural development. [More…]

• That brings lo mind the strange situation that forced the Government to choose a member of the legal profession as the Minister responsible for the health portfolio. [More…]

• I do not .doubt that the Government was considerably embarrassed in the other place, as it is termed, by the fact that in the Opposition there were 5 doctors who placed the former Minister for Health, Dr Forbes, under pressure. [More…]

• In order to avoid further discomfiture, the health portfolio was sent over to the Senate. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has referred to reviews which are currently under discussion by the Government and as a result of which we might find during the Budget debates that the Government has again increased pensions by 50c. [More…]

• That there be referred lo the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - All aspects of Repatriation, including the operation of the Repatriation Act and of the War Service Land Settlement Agreements Act. [More…]

• 1 preface my question, addressed to the Minister for Health, by referring to question No. [More…]

• Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin, who formerly represented the Minister for Health in this chamber, will recall that an answer came back from the former Minister for Health but was mislaid. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that a comparatively small country district hospital such as the Angaston hospital in South Australia is incurring embarrassingly heavy losses, no less’ than $15,580 in the last 7 months, in providing for pensioner patients? [More…]

• Therefore, profits of Australian companies provide a major source of the revenues needed to finance social services, defence, rural reconstruction, education and health services. [More…]

• It means that the money allocated by the Government for education, health and the whole range of State services and public works will not go as far as it was intended to go at the time of allocation. [More…]

• One can only say in defence of the Government, as the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) did in his response that nobody, in Government or Opposition, can point the finger at the financial management of Australia during those years in trying to pinpoint the blame for this situation. [More…]

• While the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) was speaking I went outside the chamber and obtained interesting figures which show that there has been a grave deterioration. [More…]

• As stated in the House of Representatives Hansard of 31st March, the general Government expenditure on health and welfare expressed as a proportion of gross national product for the year 1968 - I take it they are the latest figures - is as follows: Europe-Denmark 20.48; Germany 17.95, Sweden 17.45, France 16.8. [More…]

• If one looks at the figure for the nation of which I and the Minister arc citizens, one finds that health and welfare expenditure represents the princely figure of 7.09 per cent of the gross national product. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The Commonwealth Government is interested because it has a national health scheme and the contributions which contributors to hospital and medical benefit funds make and the contributions which the Commonwealth Government makes by way of Commonwealth benefits are tied to the fees which doctors charge. [More…]

• • My question to the Minister for Health is on the lines of the question asked by Senator Willesee and refers to the decision of the Australian Medical Association to increase substantially fees for certain services. [More…]

• Health seen an article in’ the Press of yesterday’s date stating that piranha fish from the Amazon area of South America were being offered for sale in Sydney at $25 each? [More…]

• Will the : Minister for Health give an” assurance that before the Government accepts the increases -in fees for certain medical services as proposed by the Australian Medical Association a full statement will be made to the Parliament so Parliament can assess the justice of the AMA claims? [More…]

• The Government has a real interest because of the contributions it makes under the national health scheme and because of its concern that Australians should have available to them reasonably adequate medical services as and when they are required. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health and refer to his answer to a question asked earlier by Senator Sim and also to reported statements in this morning’s Press wherein Senator Greenwood is reported as having described the 15 per cent increase in doctors’ fees as roughly within bounds. [More…]

• In doing so will he have regard to the statements of the former Minister for Health and also of the occupant of the position of Prime Minister who have warned against the impact on the economy of this reported increase in doctors’ fees? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health in conflict with the proposals and policy of the Government to stop inflationary trends and also the Government’s criticism of trade union claims for increased wages? [More…]

• Health aware that the average income of general practitioners in Australia is $19,000 per annum? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The .level of fees and benefits for automated pathology tests is a matter which the Commonwealth Government will take into consideration, in regard to the amounts of fees shown in the schedules to the National Health Act, when more is known about the services which are provided and when information is provided by Medicheck to the Government. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: What, attention has been paid by the Department of Health to cutting down the cost of medical treatment, the prevention of disease and the preservation of health? [More…]

• I know from my short experience of the Department of Health that its officers are of first class quality and are conscious of the obligation not only to maintain the highest standards of public health in the areas for which they have a responsibility but also to ensure that services are provided with due regard to economy and the necessity to keep down public expenditure. [More…]

• Necessarily many public health facilities which are provided throughout Australia are provided by State governments. [More…]

• I think the honourable senator is aware that the National Health and Medical Research Council has had a very distinguished existence for about the last’ 30 years’ and has had under constant attention procedures of the type he has mentioned. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, concerns the reported proposal to increase medical fees in certain directions about which a number of questions have been addressed to him today. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I think it should be recognised that the common fee, which is the basis of the Government’s medical benefits scheme, is the fee which was commonly charged at the time when the National Health Act was brought into operation in the middle of 1970. [More…]

• If the doctor charges more than the common fee then the combined Commonwealth benefit and fund benefit under the insurance scheme will mean that the patient gap, which has to be borne by the patient, will be larger than that which is specified in the schedules of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health inquire into certain matters which have been raised by Mr Paddy Carroll, secretary of the major trade union in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that 62.5 per cent of presently marketed veterinary vaccines and 41.9 per cent of veterinary antibiotics tested by the National Biological Standards Laboratory failed to pass the tests of that Laboratory? [More…]

• Is he aware that these figures, published in Table 67 on page 150 of the annual report of the Commonwealth Department of Health for 1969-70, also showed that 54.5 per cent of veterinary products failed to pass tests for potency? [More…]

• I am also aware that the reasons why these vaccines and antibiotics failed to pass the tests are set out in the annual report of the Director-General of Health, lt is the Government’s policy not to publish the results of tests of the products of an individual manufacturer. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health read the report of the Senate Select Committee on Water Pollution? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The disease status of dogs in both Australia and New Zealand is very similar, and provided dogs come from the cattle tick-free areas of Australia they are freely admitted into New Zealand with Australian animal quarantine health certification. [More…]

• Therefore it is agreed that I, as mover of the motion, and the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who will be leading for the Government should speak for 20 minutes each and that other speakers correspondingly would speak for shorter periods. [More…]

• I invite him to contrast the present national Health scheme with the position in 1941, or even in 1950. [More…]

• Through the national health scheme families have a very real ability to insure so that they will be able to offset medical and hospital expenses, a safeguard that was not available when child endowment was introduced. [More…]

• I think the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) listed some of the things the Government has done to assist the family. [More…]

• The Government has introduced and increased the benefits under the health scheme. [More…]

• In defence of the Government the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) and Senator Buttfield referred to what had been done for the people of Australia and particularly for the parents. [More…]

• The first was raised by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who is frightened at what an increase in child endowment might cost. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) talked of taxation concessions to supplement child endowment. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In addressing my question to the Minister for Health I refer to the gentleman mentioned a little while ago by Senator Webster. [More…]

• Is the Minister prepared to make a statement now, or will he make a statement at some early time, in line with what I asked him on 30th March, that is, a statement indicating the nature of heart disease as a public health problem in Australia, the number of persons affected by it and likely to die from it, and the economic consequences to Australia of heart disease? [More…]

• Will the Minister make a statement in this place indicating the attitude of the National Health and Medical Research Council, and of his own Commonwealth Department of Health, on whether poly-unsaturated margarine should be freely available to those who wish to have it as an alternative to butter on the ground of health? [More…]

• The advisability of a statement being made by the Federal Minister for Health on a matter which is essentially a medical matter upon which there is some variation of medical opinion is a factor to be borne in mind. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry and the Minister for Health have evaded questions about restrictions on the use of poly-unsaturated margarine, will the Minister for Health advise the Senate whether these restrictions apply in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory and what are the barriers against the removal of any restrictions which may exist? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has recommended that: ‘dichlorvos when impregnated in plastic resin strips, containing 20 per cent orless dichlorvos’ be included in Schedule 5 of the Uniform Poisons Schedule. [More…]

• Expert committeesof the National Health and Medical Research Council continually review all pesticides. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a recent statement on the health hazards of cigarette smoking made by Professor Nossal, Director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research? [More…]

• In view of the statement, will the Minister reconsider his refusal to ban cigarette advertising and to have cigarette packets labelled with health warnings? [More…]

• I think it should be borne in mind that what those gentlemen say in the areas connecting cigarette smoking and health hazards has the greatest importance and significance. [More…]

• I think it is important that people who are prepared to engage in cigarette smoking should recognise the risks to their health which are involved. [More…]

• The fact that people, especially the young, feel strongly enough about public issues to want to proclaim their opinions publicly in the streets is something which should be applauded by those who care for the health of democracy, not whittled down further as is proposed by this Bill. [More…]

• These restrictions are essential in the interests of national freedom, national security, public safety and public order and even go as far as the safeguarding of public health and protecting the rights of others. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health a question. [More…]

• In view of the importance attached by the Minister to the proposal for general practitioners to increase their fees by 15 per cent, with its consequent effect not only on the cost to patients but also on the health insurance bodies and the Government health scheme, will the Minister, contemporaneously, have an inquiry made into chemists’ fees and prices which, without any publicity or attention by the Minister, have increased far above the percentage increase proposed by general medical practitioners? [More…]

• Honourable senators may recall that when the Senate was debating the National Health Bill last year it was told by the Department of Health, which on that occasion adopted its usual attitude, that nothing in the legislation could be altered. [More…]

• I cannot imagine why the Department was so immature in its thinking as to advise the then Minister for Health, as it did at that time, that the Drug Evaluation Committee could not give the reason to the drug company concerned because other drug companies would hear about it. [More…]

• A further example of the stupidity of such actions by the Department of Health is the fact that it does not have to give the reason to the competitors of the company concerned; all it has to do is say to the company which submits a drug for evaluation: ‘We have refused your drug on the following grounds’ and give the reasons to the company. [More…]

• That is probably why the Minister for Health interjected. [More…]

• They were the subject of heated discussion during the debate on the National Health Bill. [More…]

• Recently I asked a question, to which no answer was given, as to why the Government does not heed the advice of the National Health and Medical Research Council-its own committee. [More…]

• the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council have had to say! [More…]

• You could ensure that whenever there is a cigarette advertisement on television the tobacco companies provide equal time for health advertisement condemning the smoking of cigarettes. [More…]

• For years the Department of Health has told us that it will solve this problem by education. [More…]

• That was the answer I. was given 10 years ago when I first came to grips with a Minister for Health and he argued along those lines. [More…]

• I ask 2 more things in regard to smoking: Firstly, that the Government make sure that there is a label on every cigarette pack indicating that cigarette smoking is a danger to health; secondly, that the tar content ‘ be indicated on the cigarette pack. [More…]

• Those are 2 ways in which the Minister for Health can help. [More…]

• The final matter I wish to raise about the Department of Health concerns overseas visits by officers of the Department. [More…]

• I have not had time to go fully into the reply and will have to spend some time with the Department of Health. [More…]

• The documents I have show conclusively that if you want to travel you do not even have to be a member of Parliament; you need simply join the Department of Health. [More…]

• Already this financial year 34 members of the Department of Health have had trips abroad. [More…]

• This may encourage the Department of Health to spur its members on. [More…]

• Some of the reasons given by the Department of Health are absurd. [More…]

• But 1 do desire to reply to some of the matters to which he has referred in connection with the Department of Health. [More…]

• But he was urging that something be done along the lines of the publicity that attended his efforts with regard to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee during the debate on the National Health Bill last year. [More…]

• The second aspect that Senator Turnbull raised was concerned with the problems under our national health scheme in relation to the supply of spectacles and the preceding consultations which are given by ophthalmologists and optometrists. [More…]

• It is a fact that if a person goes to an ophthalmologist, who is a specialist eye doctor, and as a result of a consultation obtains spectacles, he will not be able to recover, under the medical benefits segment of the national health scheme, any proportion of the cost of that consultation. [More…]

• It does seem to be a paradox that under ahealth scheme which is designed, in its medical benefits segment, to ensure that the cost of the services of medical practitioners can be insured against there should be this exception. [More…]

• But I think it has been well established over the years that the reason for the exception - it has been in the National Health Act for a number of years - is that optometrists are engaged in the provision of spectacles and the performance of refractory work and it is largely to prevent the ophthalmologist from obtaining an advantage in a competitive field over the optometrist that this provision has been inserted. [More…]

• 1 accept Senator Turnbull’s statement, but I sense that a distinction needs to be recognised between the fact that there is a connection between cigarette smoking and lung cancer, heart disease and allied injuries to health, and the action which ought to be taken with regard to cutting down the risk that cigarette smokers undergo. [More…]

• Having made that fact known, and I do not believe that many Australians are unaware that they run the risk of injury to their health by smoking cigarettes, 1 believe it is up to the individual Australian to determine for himself what he will do. [More…]

• I sense, possibly following what Senator Rae is pointing to, that the main area in which activity should be undertaken is health education. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who represents in this . [More…]

• With his wonderful legal training, he documented his case into categories’ A, B, C and D. Even my young friend at the table, the Minister for Health, who has a very bright future in this game, will have some trouble in answering Senator James’ McClelland’s case. [More…]

• I hope that the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who represents the Attorney-General in this chamber, will, in replying to the debate, guide me on the full impact of this Bill. [More…]

• About a fortnight after that time, namely on 18th April of that year, the Government announced the appointment of a committee, now known as the Nimmo Committee, to review the health insurance scheme then in existence. [More…]

• Doubtlessly this explains why the Nimmo Committee was able to present its report to the then Minister for Health in March 1969 whereas the final report of the Senate Committee was not presented until June 1970. [More…]

• Yes, the health insurance report was presented by the Commonwealth Committee of inquiry in March 1969, but the final report of the Senate Committee was presented in June 1970, after the presentation to the Senate of an interim report by the Committee in September 1969, which was immediately prior to the holding of the latest federal general election. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee report is often referred to, discussed and debated in health circles. [More…]

• She did not spare herself for one moment and, as a result of the deliberations in which we took part, I came to have the highest personal regard for her and her desire to see the health standards of the Australian community improved.I said in June 1970, which is the last occasion on which this matter was debated before the Senate, that the report - the document which is now known as the senate Select Committee report on Health and Hospital Costs - should be referred to as the Wedgwood report in order to do justice to the work thatthat senator has done. [More…]

• The second observation I would like to make is that I hope the report will be very widely distributed, especially if the Government maintains its present policy in regard to voluntary health insurance, because the recommendations contained in the Wedgwood Committee’s report lay down an effective blueprint for the proper control of medical and health insurance funds in the best interests of the Australian public. [More…]

• Even if the Wedgwood Committee’s report is not taken heed of in general health circles throughout Australia as much as is the Nimmo Committee’s report it has not, certainly insofar as the Senate is concerned, fallen on deaf ears because the Senate itself has already taken notice of a recommendation in the Wedgwood Committee’s report. [More…]

• I refer to the Committee’s recommendation at page 88 of its report relating to the appointment of a standing committee on health. [More…]

• The complexities and human relevancies of the administration of health matters are such that the nation’s parliamentary representatives should keep themselves informed on them, and particularly senators, representing the States whose governments’ budgets are committed to heavy health expenditures. [More…]

• The existence of a standing committee of the Senate on health would serve a dual purpose - supervisory inquiry into the particular subject, in all its facets, and the opportunity for submission of views by, and discussions with, all interested persons and organisations, both professional and non-professional. [More…]

• Since the tabling of this report the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has been established in the interests of the Australian community. [More…]

• I believe that the report of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare relating to the problems of the physically and mentally handicapped will be of tremendous advantage to the public in that the report will enable the public’ to have a better understanding of this unfortunate section of the Australian community. [More…]

• The Committee had the very loyal and tremendous assistance of Mr Carroll, a senior officer of the Commonwealth Department of Health, as well as other officers of that Department. [More…]

• Because of the voluminous detail and the important matters contained in the pages of this report, 1 would strongly commend it to all honourable senators for their reading, particularly Senator Greenwood who has only recently become the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I suggest to him that if he reads in detail the terms of the report and ensures that all sections of it are implemented, he will be a very successful Minister for Health. [More…]

• I believe that the report had considerable bearing on the debate that ensued in Ais chamber last year - after the report had been brought down and tabled - on the National Health Bill. [More…]

• I should like to hear from the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen) in this place, whether it is illegal for a reduction in an appropriation to be made arbitrarily without first bringing in a Bill to the two chambers requesting that the amount to be appropriated in respect of certain items be decreased. [More…]

• -^ Has the Minister for Health seen a report that the New , South Wales. [More…]

• Branch of the Austraiian Medical Association has assured the New South Wales Minister for Health that the medical profession in New South Wales will not cease home visits, but that a group of doctors at Hurstville has placed a distance restriction of lj- miles radius of the surgery on such visits? [More…]

• In order to protect fully the rights of medical insurance fund contributors, will the Minister discuss with his counterpart in New South Wales - the New South Wales Minister for Health - and the Australian Medical Association this matter to ensure that all contributors to funds are not deprived of their right to receive home visits irrespective of the distance they might live, from a doctor’s surgery? [More…]

• statement made by the New South Wales Minister for Health^- I have seen Press reports, of it - indicates the concern of the State Government In regard to this matter which., primarily, is a State Government matter. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister for Health by referring to the earlier oral answer thatI received from him to the effect that he had no knowledge of any proposal to release portion of the Abbotsford Animal Quarantine Station to the Drummoyne Council for public reserve purposes. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of a statement this week by Dr Paul Nestel, a professorial fellow in the Department of Clinical Science at the Australian National University, about the association between the. [More…]

• I ask the Minister whether in view of this statement, following upon statements to the same effect made by prominent specialists in this matter, the Department of Health will make clear its position and enable further pressure to be exerted to remove the quotas preventing people from having ready access to those foods which will assist them on health grounds? [More…]

• My question also is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I think any means Which brings home tq’ the public the dangers and the risks involved to one’s health through smoking cigarettes ought to be undertaken. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether his attention was drawn recently to an article in the Manchester ‘Guardian’ which stated that 2 professors from the University of California at Los Angeles made a report to the National Heart Foundation of America which, it is suggested, may earn them the dairy industry’s next citizenship award. [More…]

• Following up the last question, and in view of my own difficulty and that of a great many people with the term ‘poly-unsaturated fats’, I ask: Can the Minister for Health indicate to the Senate what is the meaning of the expression or what is his interpretation of its meaning? [More…]

• The Designated Authority in the States is unable to give directions to a contractor to carry out work, as provided in section 97 of the Act, for the health, weir fare and safety of the work force. [More…]

• I received via the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) one answer which said that the Commonwealth had some sort of inner reservation about this matter. [More…]

• I am aware of the statement made yesterday by the Victorian Minister for Health, and I am also aware that in some States other than Victoria hospital charges were increased earlier this year. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, impinges slightly on his representation in this chamber of the Minister in Charge of Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to articles appearing in the Adelaide ‘Sunday Mail’ and in interstate newspapers which state that the Australian Medical Association has drawn up a secret plan which, if implemented, would cost the Government’ millions of dollars a year and that one newspaper has obtained a copy of the confidential report? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health consider the practice of doctors giving to children the empty containers of drugs used in immunisation injections and showing such children how to inject drugs? [More…]

• Will the psychologists of the Department of Health consider whether such gifts and knowledge, which permit young children to give imaginery injections to their playmates, could have encouraging effects on the use of damaging drug injections when such children reach adolescence? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that this year 4,000 persons will die and about 90,000 persons will be injured as a. result of motor accidents in Australia? [More…]

• I believe that it is very important to the effective functioning of the national health scheme that operates in this country that doctors should act responsibly and should endeavour to observe the common fee. [More…]

• If the common fee is not observed then the service which is available to patients will be less effective and of course the operation of the national health scheme, of which the doctors are an integral part, will be the less effective. [More…]

• My question, addressed to the Minister for Health, concerns the matter of advertising high powered motor cars and its relationship to casualties in the younger age group. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health recently conducted a survey to determine how many doctors are charging the most common fee for medical services? [More…]

• It is a fact, as I have said - and I reiterate it - that the way in which the doctors observe the common fees contributes, to the efficacy of our national health scheme. [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health recall that on 21st April I asked him a question about Groote Eylandt, in reply to which he said: [More…]

• -I ask the Minister for Health a further question. [More…]

• The honourable senator will appreciate that amendments to the National Health Act last year gave to the Minister for Health a general power of approval and a power to vary the decisions of these organisations. [More…]

• It is not considered that the Commission would be an appropriate organisation to prepare a report along the lines sought by the honourable senator particularly in relation to drugs available under the National Health Act that are not produced by the Commission itself. [More…]

• However, the terms of reference of the House of Representatives Select Committee appointed to enquire into and make recommendations on all aspects of the provision of and arrangements for the supply of pharmaceutical benefits under the National Health Act includes an examination of all factors contributing to the cost of the scheme. [More…]

• As a member of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare J concur with the remarks of the Chairman, Senator Dame Ivy Wedgwood, about the report presented today. [More…]

• I realise that the report will be placed under the very keen scrutiny of the Minister for Health, the Government and government departments, and many organisations which provide aid in many ways to the ill and infirm members of the community. [More…]

• I am extremely pleased that the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has been able to bring down what appears to be an extremely comprehensive report. [More…]

• I think that if honourable senators would address themselves to the question which has been raised by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who in this Chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen) they would see that the situation is not quite as simple as he says. [More…]

• I am not satisfied that the whole question is as the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who in this chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen) stated. [More…]

• I wish to add one further comment to what has been said by Senator James McClelland and to which the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has replied. [More…]

• I simply want to take the opportunity to ask the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), apropos of the first matter raised by Senator Murphy, whether perhaps Halsbury’s Laws of England’ are incorrect and whether he thinks that they do not accurately represent the law, because otherwise Senator Murphy has put forward a rather preposterous proposition. [More…]

• I think the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who in this chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen) has made it abundantly clear that the Opposition has failed completely to meet the graveman of this matter. [More…]

• Normally I would not have intervened in such a legal debate with my legal betters but T cannot resist replying to a reference made by the Minister for Health (Senator Grennwood) who is handling the Bill. [More…]

• I do not think it is necessary to answer the first part of Senator Murphy’s speech because it has been answered by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• The unheard of introduction is the introduction into the law of the Commonwealth of something which the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has said is something new so far as Commonwealth law is concerned. [More…]

• In view of the fact that the Minister for Health was apparently not joking on Tuesday when he supported the voluntary code of ethics for cigarette advertising on television will he answer the following question: Is not the prime object of the Department of Health the prevention of disease? [More…]

• What has the Department of Health done about the prevention of disease caused by smoking? [More…]

• However, I think it is unwise to attempt to categorise the activities of the Department of Health in the rather narrow way with which the honourable senator concerned himself. [More…]

• The Department has many functions which do include preventive health measures but primarily it administers the various pieces of legislation which are approved by the Parliament. [More…]

• Additionally, the Department has taken part in considerations of the National Health and Medical Research Council on questions of smoking and health generally. [More…]

• The Department has certain health education functions in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory and involved in this health education programme is the giving of information, particularly to school children, on the hazards involved to health in cigarette smoking. [More…]

• The honourable senator has also requested certain details about the expenditure of the Department He would be aware that the amount voted for expenditure by the Department of Health in the past year was $477m. [More…]

• Has the Minister seen reports of the forum organised by the Australian Postgraduate Federation in Medicine on the subject of Australia and the Asian Student’, in which Dr Bill McCarthy, who is the world health authority consultant on medical education, described medical courses pursued by Asian students in Australia as ‘inappropriate, inefficient and wasteful both of Asian talent and Australian money’? [More…]

• Without trying to diminish the serious situation these drugs pose in our society, it became very evident early in the inquiry that currently in Australia the major drug problem, so far as the health and welfare of the mass of the people are concerned, revolves round the abuse of the socially acceptable and legal drugs - alco hol and tobacco and the therapeutic substances - which in the majority of cases are either legally prescribed or purchased through legal sales outlets. [More…]

• Apart from this it is essential for the health of the industry that it should not be fully insulated from the effects of changes in demand as reflected in price. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has complained, as I understand it, that we of the Opposition did not speak long enough about the amendment moved by Senator James McClelland. [More…]

• When the Minister for Health was speaking, Senator Wheeldon interjected that the Minister did not understand the operation of clause 8 (4). [More…]

• At this stage I enter into the debate because of the remarks which were made earlier by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who in this chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen) when replying to Senator Murphy after a vote had been taken on an amendment which had been moved by my colleague Senator James McClelland. [More…]

• I was surprised that the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who in this chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen) in answering Senator Murphy and in travers ing the various statutory provisions dealing with trespass throughout the country should have missed a provision which is here in his own backyard. [More…]

• When the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who in this chamber represents the Attorney-General (Mr N. H. Bowen), is replying will he consider the law as I think it operates in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• I am afraid I am not satisfied by what the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has said insofar as I can see no explanation for the inclusion of the word ‘insulting’ in addition to the words ‘offensive’ or ‘threatening’. [More…]

• It will be recalled that before the suspension of the sitting for dinner I interjected to the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who in this chamber represents the Attorney- General (Mr N. H. Bowen) and who was then in charge of the Bill. [More…]

• The consent of the Attorney-General is required in the United Kingdom, for instance, in the Roman Catholic Relief Act 1829; the Public Health Act 1875; the Geneva Convention Act 1911; the Agricultural Credits Act 1928; the Public Order Act 1936 - I emphasise that Act because it has some relevance to this debate; the Public Utilities Street Works Act 1950; and the Rivers (Prevention of Pollution) Act 1951. [More…]

• In this instance we could congratulate the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who represents the AttorneyGeneral (Mr N. H. Bowen) for having the audacity to submit such a Bill to the Senate. [More…]

• I will read this sub-clause to honourable senators and let them judge for themselves whether the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) is right when he makes this reference to the colour of the car and the registration number. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Has he seen a report attributing a statement to the New South Wales Minister for Health that New South Wales public hospital fees will rise by up to 50 per cent next financial year unless the Commonwealth dramatically increases its aid? [More…]

• Will he discuss the serious hospital financial situation in New South Wales with the Minister for Health in that State? [More…]

• I have not seen the report which the honourable senator mentions as to a statement made by the New South Wales Minister for Health. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council, a body which has been in existence for a number of years, maintains continuing investigation and research into these problems. [More…]

• I know that this is a matter which generally will be under the attention of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• However the National Health and Medical Research Council contributes towards uniformity of foodleglislation in Australia through its recommendations on food standards. [More…]

• Implementation of these National Health and Medical Research Council recommendations is a matter for each State to determine, the Commonwealth’s legislative responsibility in this matter being restricted to the Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister seen a report that tests carried out by the Melbourne scientific instrument firm of Varian Techtron have shown that samples of canned tuna sold in Australia have shown a mercury content of up to 100 times the World Health Organisation’s recommended maximum level. [More…]

• Will the Minister take steps to ensure that these products are periodically tested and that the importation and sale of canned seafoods which constitute a danger to health are prohibited. [More…]

• The programme of testing in each State is determined by the health departments in that State. [More…]

• Expert committees of the National Health and Medical Research Council continue to keep the matter of food standards under review and through Council the Commonwealth makes recommendations to the States regarding uniformity of legislation with respect to food. [More…]

• I have had only a brief opportunity to peruse the statement by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• I am concerned that there is such a wide disparityin the amounts mentioned by the Minister for Health as being the expected increase in contributions to funds by contributors. [More…]

• I believe that the increase involved in this assessment by the Minister for Health will place far too great a. burden on people in receipt of comparatively low incomes, especially as there is likely to be a subsequent increase this year in the contributions that people will be expected to pay for hospital insurance. [More…]

• Until we have elected a government which will put into effect a national health insurance scheme the people of Australia will have to carry the burden of this Government. [More…]

• I should have hoped that in his statement the Minister would have given some consideration to making an announcement on whether the Government intended to proceed with the establishment of a national health insurance commission, as recommended by the Nimmo Committee and mentioned by his predecessor in March 1970. [More…]

• Great inconvenience and danger to health are being caused there. [More…]

• The doctor said that he was in good health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Naturally with a greater public appreciation of the values of the Government’s national health scheme there will be a greater utilisation of services. [More…]

• Minister for Health whether he has seen the statement by the Chief Executive Officer of Sydney Hospital that if the Commonwealth paid a full subsidy for pensioner patients the hospital would be able to meet present increased costs? [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How many breaches of health requirements in respect of the manufacture of soft drinks have been detected in the past 5 years in the territories for which the Commonwealth Government is administratively responsible; how many prosecutions were there as a result, and who were the offenders. [More…]

• During the past 3 years 15 complaints of infringements of health requirements in respect of the manufacture of soft drinks were reported in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the Federal Government under the National Health Scheme, supplying or in any way contributing to the purchase of any chemical product which has been proved a failure by tests carried out by the National Biological Standards Laboratory?If so, what are those products. [More…]

• The annual Report of the Director-General of Health contains a summary of all samples, including products on the Pharmaceutical Benefits List, tested by the National Biological Standards Laboratory during the previous year. [More…]

• Such failures which are considered to constitute a public health hazard, namely, safety, contamination or misidentification, sterility, potency or disintegration are removed from the Pharmaceutical Benefits List for a period of 12 months with relisting dependent upon prior satisfactory testing by the National [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is there any conclusive evidence known to the Minister or the Department of Health that the consumption of butter can add to the risk which the average citizen bears of incurring heart disease. [More…]

• In brief, they are: reduction in quality or variety of goods available; reduction in the number of retail outlets; increase in prices; danger to health, and, reduction in availability of after-sales services. [More…]

• This would not only guarantee peace in the world, but would also guarantee helping the people today who in many cases live without hope and for whose children little opportunity exists to be educated, fed, housed or given proper health services. [More…]

• He has held positions on the Printing Committee, the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Senate Select Committee on Road Safety, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Public Works and the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Costs and she is Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I hope that they enjoy good health. [More…]

• As time has gone on she seems to have been achieving more and more, certainly greater distinction in this chamber for her activities in connection with health and welfare which clearly have been of the utmost benefit to the whole nation. [More…]

• We thank you for your services in that capacity and as Chairman of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I wish all those honourable senators who are retiring good health. [More…]

• If one does not have health, then one does not have anything. [More…]

• I appreciate very much people like Senator Jim Toohey and Senator Clem Ridley whom we have not seen the best of in this chamber because they have had a great deal of ill health - very serious ill health. [More…]

• In that respect we all know of her great contribution to general welfare work, to health and to assistance to handicapped and disabled persons. [More…]

• I wish each and every one of you the best of health and I hope that your retirement will be a happy one and that at times you will come back and see the friends you have made while you have been members of the Senate. [More…]

• Today my health is immeasurably better than it was 2 or 3 years ago. [More…]

• I wish all pf you - not only those who are leaving the Senate but also those who are staying here - the greatest asset a man can have, that is, health. [More…]

• To those who are staying behind I say: ‘I wish you good health and good fortune’. [More…]

• My question which is directed to the Minister for Health, relates to the report of the Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse which was tabled in the Senate last week. [More…]

• implications are far reaching, will he give earnest consideration to establishing a special public relations section within the Department of Health to ensure that the whole question is kept actively before all sections and levels of Australian society thereby ensuring that the benefits of the Committee’s findings and its recommendations can be employed to the maximum extent possible for the good of the people of this country? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• have unfortunate effects on the national health scheme. [More…]

• We have stability assured for the next 2. years with regard to general practitioners’ consultations and home visits, and that, Australia wide,, is of tremendous value in the working out, of1 our national health scheme. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen the report of Professor Bryan Gandevia of the Division of Thoracic Medicine at Prince Henry Hospital about washing powders containing enzymes? [More…]

• Will the Department of Health examine this report with a view to implementing its recommendation that these washing powders should be labelled ‘Keep out of the reach of children’ because of the threat of respiratory trouble to allergy-prone children? [More…]

• The honourable senator will be aware that the National Health and Medical Research Council is an Australia-wide body which has representatives of both the Commonwealth and the State Departments of Health as its members. [More…]

• I will ensure that the subject matter which the honourable senator has mentioned is referred to the National Health and Medical Research Council for its examination. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• which have not yet been adopted in their entirety by all public health authorities have been included below. [More…]

• The Council recommended that steps be taken through State Departments of Health and other available avenues to obtain comprehensive information on pesticide residues on a wide range of foods. [More…]

• The Council recommended that the Commonwealth Department of Health and the State Departments of Health should co-operate to conduct a survey of pesticide residues in the local Australian .diet. [More…]

• The standard states that it shall not yield more than 60 per cent of reducing sugars (National Health and Medical Research Council standard states not less than 60 per cent). [More…]

• In the debate on the Budget for the last financial year - that is 1969-70 - I referred to its grave shortcomings in such crucial areas to the welfare of the Australian people as health, education, public works and services and national development. [More…]

• At that time, on behalf of the Opposition, I moved an amendment in these terms to the motion to take note of the Budget papers: and the Senate is of the opinion that the Budget is inadequate in that - (a) it increases taxation and health and housing costs for families; (b) it makes no considered and comprehensive approach to the needs of all schools; (c) it ignores the problems of capital cities and regional centres; (d) it defers further development projects and urgent rural measures; and (e) it neglects industries based on Australian natural resources and defence requirements. [More…]

• The Senate resolved to refer that matter to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The last person who should talk about social services is the new Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• His performance since he has become the Minister has been to agree to the increase in doctors’ fees which will in turn increase the charges to the poorer people of the community who, when in ill health at the very time they need assistance, find this added burden placed on their shoulders in the way of higher contribution charges to hospital and medical insurance funds. [More…]

• It has been stated quite categorically from time to time by the Government that when we come to the Budget session we will review all manner of payments, expenditures and services in the social services, repatriation, health and other government agency fields. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health and is supplementary to the question asked by my colleague Senator Mulvihill a few moments ago regarding the excessive profit being made by hospital and medical benefits funds. [More…]

• The honourable senator will be aware that when the amendments to the National Health Act v/ere passed last year very comprehensive power was given to the Minister for Health to supervise the operations of these funds and to approve the rates of contribution. [More…]

• Would the Minister for Health agree that nuclear medicine is one of the most important areas of modern medical practice, particularly in respect to up to date methods of diagnosis and surgery? [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to the statement of the Medical Director of the National Heart Foundation, South Australian Division, Dr Clifford C. Jungfer, reported in yesterday’s ‘Advertiser’ in Adelaide that there was no scientific proof that milk caused heart disease? [More…]

• When the National Health Act was introduced last year rates of contribution were fixed in the light of the fact that it had been reported by not only the Senate’s own committee on hospital and medical costs, which was presided over by Senator Dame Ivy Wedgwood, but also the Nimmo Committee that excessive funds were held. [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• On other occasions, particularly during the Budget session of this Parliament, the Labor Party will be moving other motions which will support a fairly large number of people in the Australian community both in relation to land rights and in relation to the questions of health, welfare and job opportunities. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he has seen the announcement by the Victorian Chief Secretary that from 1st June road accident injuries will be a ‘notifiable condition’ and that doctors will be obliged to report to the Health Department in detail on all injuries caused by road accidents. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of evidence given to the House of Representatives Select Committee on Pharmaceutical Benefits by Professor Burnstock of the University of Melbourne in which he claimed that during testing 2 blood pressure drugs have had adverse effects on animals and that one of these drugs has been withdrawn but that the other is in wide use? [More…]

• I wish to direct a question to the Minister for Health and I ask the indulgence of the Senate to make a brief prefatory statement to bring out the importance of this question. [More…]

• As so much discomfort, to say nothing of the loss of time in employment and other distress is caused by the common cold and influenza, will the Minister make a statement on behalf of the Department of Health, after consultation with the authorities of the Australian Medical Association, in order to encourage people to heed the advice of Dr Pauling on the subject of vitamin C? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he can inform the Parliament how many doctors in Australia are refusing to treat pensioner patients? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The survey for the December quarter of 1970 shows that the great majority of medical fees under the new health benefits plan were at, or below, the common fee levels. [More…]

• The survey of common fee observances was carried out by my Department using information supplied by health funds relating to around 2.9 million medical services for which benefit claims were made during the December quarter 1970. [More…]

• We are way behind in our endeavours to improve the general health of the community. [More…]

• I suggest that within the next few months there will be a scandal in that country regarding its pollution with certain types of insecticides which are damaging the health of the people in another way. [More…]

• The Bill provides that an exemption is not to be granted unless the tribunal is satisfied that the quality of the goods available for sale, or the varieties of the goods so available, would be substantially reduced to the detriment of the public as consumers or users of those goods; or the number of establishments in which the goods are sold would be substantially reduced to the public detriment; or the prices at which the goods are sold by retail would ultimately be increased to the detriment of the public; or that the goods would be sold under conditions likely to cause danger to the health of human beings or animals; or any necessary services provided in connection with or after the sale of the goods by retail would cease to be provided. [More…]

• the goods would be sold by retail under conditions likely to cause danger to the health of human beings or animals in consequence of their misuse; or [More…]

• I will be most anxious to hear the remarks of any honourable senator including the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) on the subject of retailer agreement in other countries. [More…]

• In his second reading speech the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) referred to the reason why certain provisions are in the Bill and said: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Minister for Health. [More…]

• I intended to ask not what the Government was doing but what the Department of Health was doing in relation to its area of direct responsibility - whether it be in Commonwealth Territories or in any other way within Commonwealth jurisdiction - to implement any of the recommendations of the Senate Select Committee on Water Pollution. [More…]

• as a basis for my observation and a question of the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• Let me state at the outset, Mr Temporary Chairman, that I am pleased that you have directed our attention to the fact that we are considering the clauses of the Bill in Committee and not making second reading speeches in which we can express our spleen and hatred, because I have never seen such an irresponsible attitude taken by a responsible Minister as was adopted by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) today when he was granted an extension of time in making his second reading speech and proceeded to direct a tirade of abuse against the trade union movement. [More…]

• If any question arises as to whether mere will be any dangers to health or necessary services, that is a specific ground for exemption if a person desires to apply for an exemption. [More…]

• In introducing the Seamen’s Compensation Bill, the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) said: [More…]

• I listened intently to the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) who represents the Minister for Social Services (Mr Wentworth) in this chamber, when he referred to the standing departmental committee. [More…]

• Senator Dame Ivy Wedgwood will support me to the full when I say that when the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare was inquiring into matters relating to mentally and physically handicapped people we found what I would call a lack of an even break for people who happened to be injured while working at a rural quarry, for example. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) said that representations had been received from the Council of Commonwealth Public Service Organisations, the Australian Council of Trade Unions and other sources and that a contribution towards the Bill in its present form had also been made by members of the Opposition in both the Senate and the other place. [More…]

• On this occasion we have been told by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) that the legislation has been revised and brought up to date. [More…]

• I thought that the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) expressed some surprise when Senator Cavanagh said that we did not have sufficient time to debate the matter fully. [More…]

• The first matter I want to raise, in answer to the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), who represents the Minister for Social Services (Mr Wentworth) in this chamber, relates to clause 1. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) to read what I said during the debate on the motion for the second reading of the Bill as this will save time. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to cases of insufficient labelling of packets of margarine in relation to the content of animal and vegetable fats? [More…]

• Is he aware that because of alleged misleading descriptions elderly people warned by their doctors to refrain from consuming certain fats are buying certain brands of margarine unaware that they are detrimental to their health? [More…]

• There is a body to which I have referred in this place, the National Health and Medical Research Council, which endeavours to promote uniform standards in this area throughout Australia, and I will ask that body to have a look at this question. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I remind the Minister that some time ago I asked him to inquire into the prices of pharmaceuticals outside the national health pharmacopoeia that are available to the public from chemists. [More…]

• I suggest, therefore, that after the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) has replied to questions already asked, we may take the Bill as a whole in order to allow Senator Bishop to ask questions about any clauses he may wish to query. [More…]

• In reply to this submission the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood), acknowledged that what I had said was the case and he undertook to put this general proposition before the Minister for Social Services (Mr Wentworth). [More…]

• By way of miti gation of the shortcomings which I had pointed out in this Bill, the Minister for Health said: [More…]

• I wish to draw to the attention of the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) a specific case and ask him whether special consideration may be given to it. [More…]

• I realise the problem concerning the time and I will conclude my contribution to this debate by making these points: I am not satisfied with the answers given by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• It could be that I misunderstood the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• I simply convey to the Minister that when the Health and Welfare Committee completed its report the key words of that report were ‘without prejudice to existing rights’. [More…]

• I rise to speak on the third reading of the Bill because of the arrogant and impetuous statements made by the Minister for Health (Senator Greenwood) in reply to the debate on the second reading. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) - Mr President, may I as Leader of the Government in the Senate and indeed, on behalf of all honourable senators, offer to you our congratulations on achievement of the high office that has been bestowed upon you? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) - I wish to inform honourable senators that His Excellency the Governor-General will be pleased to receive Mr President, and such honourable senators as desire to accompany him, in the Senate Opposition Party Room forthwith. [More…]

• Senator the Honourable Sir Kenneth Anderson has been appointed Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health will continue to be represented in the House by Dr Forbes and the AttorneyGeneral will be represented by Mr N. H. [More…]

• That the World Health Organisation confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• that the World Health Organisation confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• That the World Health Organisation confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• The card is presented to members of the Liberal Party with best wishes for a complete recovery and for continued good health to follow. [More…]

• The card states: 1 hope you return to the state of health displayed by Mr Leslie Bury, ex-Foreign Minister, from the muddle of Gorton to the chaos of McMahon. [More…]

• With ‘the world’s best health scheme’- [More…]

• The letter continues: for some reason needing major running repairs every year or so, it has had no fewer than 3 Health Ministers inside - yes, you’ve guessed it - 6 months. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the recent experiences of his predecessor in negotiations with the Hospital Contribution Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia on membership contribution rates and the subsequent comments by the New South Wales Minister for Health, Mr Jago, and myself that all funds should consult their members in such critical negotiations, will the Minister legislate for fund democracy which, in the case of those 2 funds, is non-existent? [More…]

• I was appointed Minister for Health on Bank Holiday and it took me a few days to discharge my responsibilities as Minister for Supply. [More…]

• I would have some reservations at the present time as to the legality of Commonwealth intervention in the matter but I will look at it - I will look at it iri the same light as I am going to look at other issues and questions associated with the Health portfolio. [More…]

• Mr President, undeterred by the Minister’s recent statement to Senator Mulvihill I ask the Minister for Health the following question: Is the Minister aware that a coroner, Mr Pascoe, was reported in the Melbourne Age’ of 4th August as criticising the system by which people obtained sleeping tablets and other tranquillisers and saying: [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that there are 72 questions directed to him and still unanswered on the notice papers of both chambers - more than for any other Minister? [More…]

• In addressing a question to the Minister for Health I refer to the patients’ contribution under the pharmaceutical benefits scheme which has been increased from 50c to $1 per prescription. [More…]

• Are not unionists interested in matters of health, or in tariffs which might affect their employment, or with education and pensions? [More…]

• In the field of health, which is bedevilling the Government, unless the Government can get on top of it and give to the Australian people the health programme they want, the question of the quality of life becomes a mere empty expression. [More…]

• The new Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has inherited this portfolio and he has inherited also, as I pointed out to him today, 72 questions on the notice paper - more than any other Minister has to contend with. [More…]

• Then he referred to various portfolios which changed and I think he referred to the portfolio of Minister for Health which I have assumed. [More…]

• If the resolving and the answering of those 72 outstanding questions were the limit of my problems I would be far more relieved because health - let us face it - is a most difficult and complex portfolio. [More…]

• It is proper to say that I have had a lifetime experience in some of the side issues of health at any rate, and if Health is a difficult portfolio - and all of us on both sides recognise it is - I think I have a responsibility as a senior Minister to accept the challenge and do what I believe to be right in the interests of government and the people of Australia. [More…]

• Since there was a reference to me and the Health portfolio all I say is that I am not unaware of the problems or the challenge which the acceptance of it will be both physically and mentally. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that the Canberra and Southern Districts Pharmacists Association has advised the public by way of newspaper advertisements that the increase from 50c to $1 in the patient contribution under the national health scheme will result in the removal of numerous items from the list of approved pharmaceutical benefits, including medicines widely used by the chronically ill. Can the Minister inform the Parliament of the truth or otherwise of the pharmacists’ statement? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Finally, I remind honourable senators that the annual accounts of registered organisations for the 1970-71 financial year and subsequent financial years will be laid before each House of the Parliament in accordance with section 76a of the National Health Act, which is the new provision that has been inserted in the Act. [More…]

• On 7th May of this year Senator Greenwood, the then Minister for Health, put down a statement in this place on medical fees and benefits. [More…]

• I propose to put down today a supplementary statement on health matters. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Department of Health have a classified list of pesticides with such gradings as general use’, ‘restricted use’ and ‘use by permit only’. [More…]

• However the National Health and Medical Research Council issues recommendations on pesticides with the object of attaining uniformity of classification among States. [More…]

• These committees consist of representatives of the State governments, the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Commonwealth Department of Primary Industry. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister seen the recent statement on the health hazards of smoking by Professor Nossal, the Director of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institution of Medical Research, which is also signed by four of his senior research colleagues; if so, will the Minister reconsider his decision not to ban cigarette advertising and lake action to have the labels of cigarette packets carry appropriate health hazard warnings or, will the Minister name those persons who supply him with contrary advice. [More…]

• I have seen the statement on the health hazards of smoking made recently by some membersof the staff of the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research. [More…]

• The Government regards smoking as a major health problem and aims to educate the public in these dangers rather than to completely ban cigarette advertising. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• This review encompasses the financial position; of all patients in all nursing homes approved under the National Health Act and, of course, has implications ‘ for the relatives of many such patients. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Are the drugs prescribed for mental illhealth extremely expensive and would the Minister agree that, in many instances, patients should be given ‘hope’ instead of ‘dope’, but that the health services available for the community support of the emotionally disturbed are so limited as to force dependence on medicines. [More…]

• Will the Minister review the whole structure of the National Health Scheme, which is inadequate, outmoded and highly selective, and concerned only with consumer cost rather than quality and universal availability. [More…]

• With regard to the provision of mental health services, this is basically a matter falling withinthe responsibility of State Governments. [More…]

• However, the Commonwealth does not provide substantial financial assistance to State Governments for the purpose of building and equipping mental health institutions. [More…]

• This assistance is provided under the provisions of the States Grants (Mental Health Institutions) Act 1964-1970. [More…]

• As the honourable Senator may be aware, the National Health Scheme has recently been the subject of two Committees of Inquiry, and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme is currently under investigation by a select Committee of the House of Representatives. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What action is the Department of Health taking to improve the situation of, (a) a falling dentisttopopulation ratio throughout Australia, and (b) a much less favourable provision of dental services in country regions than in metropolitan areas, in view of the results of the Department of Labour and National Service study of dental services in Australia. [More…]

• With the concurrence of honourable senators I incorporate in Hansard, on behalf of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), the following statement relating to hospital and medical fees and benefits: [More…]

• SIR KENNETH ANDERSON MINISTER FOR HEALTH [More…]

• In July 1970 the National Health Act was amended to give effect to a number of changes foreshadowed on 4 March of that year, when the then Minister for Health informed the Parliament of the Government’s decision to implement its new health benefits plan. [More…]

• This decision was influenced to a very large degree by the recommendations of the Commonwealth Committee of Enquiry that had been established under the chairmanship of Mr Justice Nimmo to inquire into all aspects of voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• The amendments to the Act incorporated the major recommendations of the Committee relating to medical benefits and the administration of the voluntary health insurance organisations. [More…]

• The purpose of this statement is to inform honourable senators of recent measures that the Government has taken, particularly in the field of hospital insurance, in pursuance of its policy of ensuring that contributors to health funds receive comprehensive coverage for reasonable rates of contribution. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee recommendations relating to hospitals are in two complementary groups - those which required for their implementation action by State Governments, and those which, being directed at hospital benefits, could be implemented in the context of overall changes in the Government’s health benefits plan, lt was seen by, the Government as essential that there be consultation and co-operation between the States and the Commonwealth to achieve the purpose of the Nimmo recommendations, namely, a closer relationship between public hospital fees and hospital benefit rebates. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5:25) - in reply - I would not like it to be thought that any discourtesy was being extended to Senator Byrne but it was my clear understanding that tonight we would be dealing with Orders of the Day. [More…]

• 2 dealing wilh the fourth report of the Standing Orders Committee and the adjourned debate on the motion by the Minister for Health that the Senate take note of the paper on the Australian forces in Vietnam. [More…]

• 1 address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The implementation of the Government’s policy on the use of excessive reserves is being done in a careful and responsible fashion and in a way that will not weaken the overall financial structure of the health funds. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is that organisation recognised as a bona fide organisation under the national health scheme? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONMy attention was drawn to an article that appeared in the weekend Press in relation to this matter and I sought some information on it I have been told by the Department of Health that the organisation known as Planned Financial Management is not a registered organisation under the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• It is not an organisation which comes within the terms and provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• 1 ask: Is the Minister aware that last year the United States Senate passed a Bill to outlaw cigarette advertising from radio and television and to strengthen health warnings on cigarette packets? [More…]

• Will the Government now recognise the immense power of advertising in promoting the use of a proven health hazard and take steps to impose a similar ban in Australia or will the great economic forces aligned against such a ban once again prove how much influence they exert on the Government? [More…]

• What understanding did the Minister for Health have with his predecessor, Senator Greenwood, about the effect of the report of the Waterhouse Committee on animal quarantine, with particular reference to dogs? [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Have pest strips containing the chemical Dichlorvos been reported as being dangerous to human health? [More…]

• Will the Minister, as a matter of urgency have the Department of Health conduct tests to ascertain whether the chemical is dangerous to both humans and domestic animals and, if it is, will he cause the pest strips to be withdrawn from the Australian market? [More…]

• Such reports have been published but no substantiated scientific evidence has been brought forward to point to any human health hazards associated with Dichlorvos pest strips when used as directed. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council which is an advisory body to the States and Commonwealth in matters of health, recommended in May 1969 that pest strips containing 20 per cent or less dichlorvos should be included in Schedule 5 of the Uniform Poisons Schedules. [More…]

• It so happens that I am the Minister for Health and that I have taken over a new and heavy responsibility. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONOn that subject let me refer quickly to the Department of Health. [More…]

• I have been told that the order of correspondence directed to the Minister for Health, as distinct from the Department of Health, runs to 5,000 or 6,000 communications a year. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, to whom I address my question, would be aware that the Commonwealth Government has announced that it will require warning labels to be placed on cigarette packets sold in its Territories when the State governments take the same action in their areas. [More…]

• As this is obviously a buckpassing exercise, I ask the new Minister for Health to consider reversing the sequence so that the Commonwealth will give a lead to the States in requiring warning labels to be placed on cigarette packets. [More…]

• Will the Minister - perhaps in his other capacity as Minister for Health - take appropriate clinical action to alleviate this political malaise by reminding the [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONAlthough the question was directed to me as Leader of Government in the Senate, as I am also Minister for Health perhaps I can be excused for continuing the medical analogy. [More…]

• 1 direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the light of recent answers that I have received from him about certain directives to hospital and medical benefits fund managements, is not a natural corollary to such action the creation of a health insurance commission, which was mooted by one of his predecessors, to ensure that the funds maintain the course that his colleague and former Minister for Health, Senator Greenwood, decreed? [More…]

• I am the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Senators also know that the regulation provides that even though a book is prohibited under regulation 4A the Minister for Customs and Excise may approve any application to import such works provided a report has been received from the Chairman of the National Literature Board of Review or the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• I have mentioned this time and time again with regard to the Department of Health. [More…]

• One only has to look at the Australian Capital Territory Health Commission which looks after a population of about 150.000 people in Canberra. [More…]

• Our health system, barely holding together from the repairs it received after the Nimmo inquiry and the Wedgwood report, does not fulfil the requirements of a modern industrialised society in the 1970s. [More…]

• If he does not enjoy good health he would not be able physically to get a job to enable him to supplement the pension up to the limit that is allowed. [More…]

• It was a mutual benefit society based on the old principle of the lodge system where the sick were aided by those who had been blessed with good health. [More…]

• At that time I was an ordinary Australian citizen recovering from ill health. [More…]

• To show what Ministers will do at times I point out that it was proposed that the national health scheme of this country be brought into existence by means of regulation. [More…]

• The Regulations and Ordinances Committee demanded of the then Minister, Sir Earle Page, that the national health scheme be introduced by substantive legislation. [More…]

• I ask honourable senators to imagine the national health scheme of this country being introduced by regulations. [More…]

• That the World Health Organisation Report (January 1970) confirms the above definition of chemical agents of warfare; [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen the statement by Australia’s distinguished Nobel Prize winner, Sir Macfarlane Burnet, to the effect that he is satisfied that research over 15 to 20 years has established a direct connection between cigarettes and lung cancer? [More…]

• The Department of Health has a very poor record in this. [More…]

• The Department of Health and the Federal Government have done nothing about it. [More…]

• The Anti-Cancer Council’s advertisements were submitted to the Department of Health for approval. [More…]

• I want to make it abundantly clear that the Department of Health deals only with the advertisements which have a medical content, lt has to approve only the ones which it considers to have a medical content. [More…]

• In approving of television scripts the Director-General of Health has to satisfy himself as to the medical accuracy of the content. [More…]

• For advertisements in particular he is guided by the programme standards of the Australian Broadcasting Control Board and the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• But I want to make the point in direct response to what Sir Macfarlane Burnet said that, insofar as health issues in advertising are concerned, the Department of Health has to approve only the advertisements which have a medical content. [More…]

• I wish to ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In April 1970 the Department of Health believed that anatensol, largactil and me.leril should be prescribed for pensioners whereas valium should not. [More…]

• My question, which I direct to the Minister for Health, follows on the question asked by Senator Turnbull a short while ago concerning the availability of special types of drugs for pensioners. [More…]

• One of the members of the Committee is a pharmacist appointed by the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• Six medical practitioners are appointed by the Minister for Health from a panel of 10 nominated by the Australian Medical Association. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• How is it possible for commercial stations to refuse to play anti-cigarette advertisements which represent only a drop in the bucket compared with propaganda bombardment used to advertise cigarettes which are a proven health hazard? [More…]

• As I said in response to questions yesterday and again this morning, the Department of Health has no control over the advertising of cigarettes on radio and television or in any other media. [More…]

• Under this Act the Director-General of Health has power only in relation to advertisements for talks on matters of health. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• We find that not only in relation to health but also in relation to immigration and social services there is frequent repetition of the same type of problem. [More…]

• I find that I can agree with little of the basis of the reasoning put forward by the Leader of the Government in the Senate, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), who said that as he now is in charge of the Department of Health his work load will be very greatly increased. [More…]

• It seems to me that the Leader of the Government in the Senate, well knowing the enormous volume of work that he had and that he had a portfolio which perhaps did not attract the great public interest that the Department of Health attracts, would have been in a better situation if he did not have the Health portfolio in his hands. [More…]

• I listened with great interest when the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth [More…]

• It does seem to me as one who has had no experience of these matters that the Health portfolio has tremendous responsibilities which involves a lot of work and a lot of contention. [More…]

• We are told that the Leader of the Government in the Senate must have assistance because he has the Health portfolio. [More…]

• His duties could be included in the Health portfolio, the Social Services portfolio or one of the other portfolios. [More…]

• I know it has been said before that the Leader of the Government in the Senate (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), who is also the Minister for Health, is greatly overworked. [More…]

• I am fully aware that there are many other important subjects warranting the attention of this Parliament, such as immigration, foreign affairs, health and education and I hope that at a later stage I will be given an opportunity to canvass them. [More…]

• If any honourable senator becomes health conscious and feels that he would like to jog around the parks of Canberra of a morning or to walk briskly somewhere, he pauses before endeavouring to do this because he feels that, on account of his age, if he rushes in he might not be up to it physically. [More…]

• I will be introducing this subject in this chamber on a later occasion - possibly when we are considering the estimates of the Department of Health - and I will be looking for some support from an honourable senator who, together with the Executive Adviser to the Brisbane City Council and myself, is a life member of the Queensland Sports Medicine Association. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health and is very closely related to the question asked by Senator Laucke. [More…]

• The question relates to health risks. [More…]

• Will the Minister investigate Professor Bloom’s claim that the present level of mercury allowable in Australian foods - 0.5 parts per million - should be reviewed in the light of the statement by the World Health Organisation that the level should be reduced drastically to 0.05 parts per million? [More…]

• Will the Minister take all steps available to initiate urgent action against this major health hazard and report as quickly as possible the views of his departmental experts on the implications of this new Tasmanian study? [More…]

• Apart altogether from the risk to the oyster industry, which I am sure we would all regret very much both from a commercial and a palatable point of view, I agree with Senator Poke that there is an element in this question which relates to the Department of Health. [More…]

• 1 direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This has created a definite health hazard to thousands of people in the Sydney area and it could cause a national disaster. [More…]

• My question Is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health noticed that when a contributor to a medical and hospital benefits fund fills in an application form for a refund he is required on every application to write in a considerable number of facts about himself and his family, every one of which is contained in the contributions book which must accompany the application? [More…]

• Australian airline scene provide that a smoke emission code similar to that imposed by the Department of Health in New Jersey, United States of America, on Eastern Airlines, which uses that type of aircraft extensively, will also apply in Australia? [More…]

• I desire to ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the health survey, to be carried out in Aboriginal communities and fringe settlements, begun. [More…]

• At the present time no specific survey into the health problems of Aborigines either on an Australiawide basis or in Aboriginal communities and fringe settlements is under consideration by the Department of Health and Office of Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• Much of the current thought on future planning stems from the many recommendations made at the Workshop on Health and Nutrition in Aboriginal children held in Sydney in December 1969 and which was attended by representatives of Universities, Public Health Departments and workers from welfare and social organisations. [More…]

• Commonwealth interest in this matter involves the funding of a number of research studies approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council and conducted by medically trained research workers. [More…]

• It is expected that these and similar future projects will substantially increase existing knowledge of problems associated with Aboriginal health and will also be of early and direct benefit to the Aborigines themselves. [More…]

• The more localised health problems of Aborigines are of course matters for the individual States and Territories. [More…]

• The Commonwealth provides funds each year to assist States to further their programmes for Aboriginal health through the Grants for Aboriginal advancement. [More…]

• Although there is at present no proposal for a wide-ranging survey, the Commonwealth Department of Health advises the Office of Aboriginal Affairs on matters relating to Aboriginal health and wherever possible implementation is advocated of the recommendations of the 1969 Workshop. [More…]

• What amounts have been spent on (a) housing (b) education, (c) health and (d) business loans/grants. [More…]

• $945,000 was spent on education (c)$643.000 was spent on health [More…]

• Has the health survey, to be carried out in Aboriginal communities and fringe settlements, begun. [More…]

• At the present time no specific survey Into the health problems of Aborigines either on an Australia-wide basis or in Aboriginal communities and fringe settlements is under consideration by the Department of Health and Office of Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• Much of the current thought on future planning stems from the many recommendations made at the Workshop on Health and Nutrition in Aboriginal children held in Sydney in December 1969 and which was attended by representatives of Universities, Public Health Departmentsand workers from welfare and social organisations [More…]

• Commonwealth interest in this matter involves the funding of a number of research studies approved by the National Health and Medical Research Council and conducted by medically trained research workers. [More…]

• It is expected that these and similar future projects will substantially increase existing knowledge of problems associated with Aboriginal health and will also be of early and direct benefit to the Aborigines themselves. [More…]

• The more localised health problems of Aborigines are of course matters for the individual States and Territories. [More…]

• The Commonwealth provides funds each year to assist States to further their programmes for Aboriginal health through the Grants for Aboriginal advancement. [More…]

• Although there is at present no proposal for a wideranging survey, the Commonwealth Department of Health advises the Office of Aboriginal Affairs on matters relating to Aboriginal health and wherever possible implementation is advocated of the recommendations of the 1969 Workshop. [More…]

• I would also like to mention that expenditure from the Aboriginal Advancement Trust Account on housing, health and, in particular, education in Queensland is to be increased by 28 per cent. [More…]

• I have taken up this matter with successive Ministers for Health and I certainly will be taking it up with the new Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) to try to get some kind of common sense into the system so that a medical card will be made available to all pensioners. [More…]

• Because they had been pensioners for many years they had not subscribed to a health insurance fund. [More…]

• Some people after paying health insurance contributions for many y/ears find that they are obliged to spend long periods under intensive care in nursing homes as distinct from hospitals. [More…]

• We shall negotiate with the health insurance funds to arrange for the payment of increased benefits, properly related to reasonable nursing home fees, for persons who have been regular contributors to health insurance funds and who need intensive home nursing care. [More…]

• He said that his Government would tackle the problem posed because many people after paying health insurance contributions for many years find that they are obliged to spend long periods under intensive care in nursing homes as distinct from hospitals and do not receive hospital benefits. [More…]

• Medical doctors from the Department of Health walk through aged persons nursing homes. [More…]

• No doctor comes from the Department of Health to conduct an examination. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Anderson) has said that their position is currently being examined. [More…]

• The thing that appals me more than anything when dealing with health matters is that the Government always demands that sick people have to pay for pharmaceuticals. [More…]

• The whole health scheme is breaking down because of this. [More…]

• The Government thus allows the wealthy man to pay only $50 a year for health insurance. [More…]

• A person paying taxation of 10c in the $1 will receive a reduction of only $10 in respect of the SI 00 he pays for health insurance. [More…]

• Yesterday I addressed a question to the Minister for Health and today I have a question supplementary to that question. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health advise whether there is a chair of geriatrics at .any university in Australia? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the statement made by a Brisbane pathologist when addressing the annual meeting in Sydney of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australia? [More…]

• Therefore it would seem to me that the complete responsibility in this matter rests with the State health authorities. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is he aware that yesterday the Minister for Customs and Excise, Mr Chipp, publicly endorsed smoking as a dangerous health hazard? [More…]

• As this is the first time a State or Federal Minister has condemned smoking in such unequivocal terms, will the Minister for Health urgently consult his Cabinet colleagues about imposing a ban on the television advertising of a product which is now recognised even by a Liberal Minister as a great health hazard? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONit is not quite accurate to say that this is the first occasion on which a Minister has made a fairly positive statement in relation to the possibility of smoking being a health hazard. [More…]

• In 1965 the then Minister for Health, Mr Swartz, made a statement outlining the medical evidence linking smoking and lung cancer. [More…]

• He said at the time that all responsible public health authorities in Australia were agreed that there was a proven relationship between cigarette smoking and lung cancer and that the problem was how a reduction in the incidence of the disease could be achieved without resorting to autocratic methods. [More…]

• Our colleague in the Senate, Senator Greenwood, who was my predecessor as Minister for Health, issued a Press release in May of this year which stated that the Government regarded smoking as .a major public health problem, that strong evidence supported this view but the Government’s aim was towards educating the public on smoking rather than advocating a complete banning of cigarette advertising. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has recommended that health education is probably the most effective way of attacking the smoking problem; warning labels should be included on cigarette packs, tar and nicotine content should be indicated and there should be restriction of advertising of cigarettes. [More…]

• The Council has also recommended that health education programmes in schools on the hazards associated with smoking should be extended. [More…]

• While I do not want to overoccupy the rostrum in replying to questions, it is such an important matter that I would like to go on to say that the Commonwealth has responsibilities for health education programmes in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory and these have been intensified in the A.C.T. [More…]

• following the formation of a separate health education section in the A.C.T. [More…]

• health services. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The suggestion was made that some of the funds allocated by the Commonwealth for the campaign against drug abuse should be applied to anti-smoking propaganda in the context of a health problem. [More…]

• It was a question on health. [More…]

• Now I direct a question to you, Mr President, because I intended to ask my question of the Minister assistant to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that since 1964 more than 170 sufferers from arteriosclerosis have been to Kassel in Germany for oxygen therapy treatment, as practised by Dr Moeller, at great expense to themselves? [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As the authority responsible for the provision of mental health services the State Government is entitled to make such a decision. [More…]

• On the expenditure side 70.6 per cent of all expenditure by this Government is on 3 items: Firstly, payments to or for the States; secondly, the social welfare items of health, social services and repatriation; and thirdly, defence. [More…]

• In addition, 23.2c in every $1 of expenditure goes to health, social services and repatriation, and 14.2c in every $1 goes to defence. [More…]

• In areas such as education and, in particular, health the lack of demarcation and the lack of our ability to say to the people: ‘This is a State responsibility but that is a Federal responsibility’, is a defect. [More…]

• I believe that profitability is a sign of health and a sign of progress in this community. [More…]

• This figure includes increased welfare services in the form of pensions, maternity allowances, child endowment, unemployment and sickness benefits, rehabilitation services, sheltered employment allowances, funeral benefits, deserted wives benefits, personal care subsidy, national health services, nursing home benefits, handicapped children’s benefits, payments to public hospitals for pensioners, homes savings grants and matters such as these. [More…]

• Both items are of special interest to me because they include considerable sums for Aboriginal advancement, mainly for special programmes of housing, health and education. [More…]

• Whilst I commend the Government for its awareness of the need for improved programmes of housing, health and education, I want to take this opportunity to point out that in common with all citizens, Aborigines of Australia are most certainly not looking for handouts. [More…]

• A government largely may determine how much it is prepared to spend in the public sector, in such areas as health, education, public works and defence, by the amount of the national income it is prepared to collect in taxation, either direct or indirect. [More…]

• But, as a result of that, all those countries are able to pay better social services and to provide more of their national income for education, health and hospitals than we are. [More…]

• We have seen evidence of the Government taking notice of the recommendations of such committees and implementing some of the recommendations, particularly with regard to national health. [More…]

• For this reason I ask the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) to give this matter his serious consideration. [More…]

• As I have said, following the decentralisation of people into the new towns that have arisen in these regions we already are faced with growing problems in the fields of health, education, town planning and so on. [More…]

• Attention should be directed immediately to the problems of health and education. [More…]

• I have consulted people in the trade union sector of the community such as Bill Nowak, Secretary of the Victorian Branch of the - Pastrycooks Union and Henry Pietracci, a senior official of the New South Wales Health and Research Union, the former being of Polish origin and the latter of Italian origin. [More…]

• I am very confident - I say this now as Minister for Health and not as Minister for Supply - that Project N will have a requirement and that it will prove to be a wonderful achievement on the part of the Australian aircraft industry. [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does his statement yesterday that the Government was reconsidering its promise to set up a national health insurance commission really mean that plans for such a commission have now been scrapped? [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, relates to the branding of cigarette packets. [More…]

• Is the intention of those who advocate the inclusion of a health warning on cigarette packets to deter people from smoking? [More…]

• Whilst fully appreciating the responsibility of health authorities to present existing medical opinion on important health subjects and whilst not challenging in any way the assertion that excessive smoking- [More…]

• However having regard to the medical view, which has been very clearly expressed, that there is a proven relationship between cigarette smoking and medical health, we should continue our efforts towards education as to the risks in the hope that people will become aware of them. [More…]

• I seek to ask a question of the Minister for Health and I will not request the assistance of the Assistant Minister, if he exists. [More…]

• Under the Broadcasting and Television Act all advertisements of a medical nature on television are subject to the approval of the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• The criteria used by my Department for censoring such advertisements are based on television programme standards land down by the Australian Broadcasting Control Board and, more particularly, a guide laid down by the National Health and Medical Research Council, which has recently been revised. [More…]

• The new National Health and Medical Research Council guide to advertising places heavier restrictions on the advertising of vitamins and pain killers, particularly in relation to certain claims of efficacy and safety. [More…]

• -Can the Minister for Health now indicate his attitude to a view expressed by the retiring president of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia that a more effective warning label should be placed on packets of aspirin and APC powders? [More…]

• I venture to say that 95 per cent of those who lost their health as a result of participation in war would probably be earning at least double that amount today. [More…]

• While 1 am uttering criticism in this field I must continue in this vein in relation to questions we have heard asked over the last week or two about cigarettes and the inability of the Minister for Health, the Department and the Government to face up to reality. [More…]

• I was shocked to hear the Minister for Health say this morning that he believed that there was some value in smoking as it relaxed part of one’s daily life. [More…]

• At the inception of the new national health scheme I spoke to the then Minister for Health about the refusal of doctors in some parts of Queensland to treat pensioner patients. [More…]

• I brought the evidence before the Department of Health and the Minister. [More…]

• Unfortunately a reply was not given then, and this - was one of the legacies of office which the incumbent Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) bad .to take over. [More…]

• With very great respect I suggest to the Minister for Health, who is in the chamber at the moment, that this man’s case ought to be looked at. [More…]

• Two or three days ago I asked whether the report of the World Health Organisation on the anti-malaria campaign, could be tabled in this Parliament. [More…]

• One would think that in the face of a charge such as that made by the World Health Organisation the Government would be willing to bring the report forward in a hurry, but I do not expect ever to see it. [More…]

• The World Health Organisation charged that a large part of anti-malaria campaign funds was wasted because of bad administration. [More…]

• Housing conditions, health conditions and job opportunities for Aboriginals are non-existent in so many areas. [More…]

• I wish him well, both in health and happiness and in the discharge of the high duties of his office. [More…]

• Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) might have misunderstood what I said. [More…]

• An officer of the Department of Health visited Dr Moeller’s clinic in Germany, but I feel that he did not spend enough time at the clinic to get a true picture of the treatment. [More…]

• I ask the Government to give further consideration to this matter because amputation has a psychological effect on people and has other harmful effects on their general state of health. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health should impose greater restriction on the content of TV and radio drug advertising. [More…]

• I have had letters, from the 2 Ministers concerned - the Minister for Customs and Excise and the Minister for Health - stating that the Committee’s report has been received and is being considered fully. [More…]

• I believe that if there is a risk to the life of the woman or the serious health of the woman or to the foetal life then, of course, some termination is justifiable. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of concern being expressed among boards of management of many hospitals throughout Australia relating to the inability of patients to be reimbursed through hospital benefit organisations for post-operative and out-patient treatment at hospitals? [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether the Government has completed its examination of section 19 of the National Health Act following the recommendation of the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance and if so what is the Government’s intention with regard to this matter? [More…]

• The Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance which was known as the Nimmo Committee, recommended that the Commonwealth and State governments work towards the integration of out-patient service into health insurance schemes. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• By way of preface I inform him that occupational therapy in convalescent homes has been projected by the Lions Club of Newmarket, Brisbane, and the activity has improved the general health and mental attitude of many inmates. [More…]

• Will the Minister investigate the possibility of this innovation becoming a permanent feature of our national health scheme? [More…]

• I do not think any of us would challenge the efficacy, under certain conditions, of occupational therapy as a very .important contribution to health. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the absence of a health insurance commission, does the Minister consider that he has ample top echelon officers to supervise adequately health and medical fund operations and to consider promptly innovations suggested by honourable senators? [More…]

• ls the Minister for Health aware of reports which have belatedly disclosed the dangers of the 1970 flu epidemic and the failure of antibiotics to cope with the plague? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health examine the performance of a slow sodium pill that has been used successfully by British footballers to combat heat exhaustion on tours of South America? [More…]

• askedthe Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has any research been conducted by the Department of Health into the breakdown of costs of maintaining and servicing a bed in public hospitals and private hospitals in Australia? [More…]

• My purpose in this statement is to correct misleading statements in news reports suggesting that recommendations on smoking and health have been suppressed by the Government. [More…]

• Specifically it has been alleged that the Commonwealth Director-General of Health, Sir William Refshauge, has reported to the Government recommendations of the World Health Organisation on smoking and health and that he and his Department have been ‘muzzled’ on this matter. [More…]

• The recommendations of the World Health Organisation on smoking and health have been widely published, and so too have been the recommendations of Australia’s own National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Sir William Refshauge did attend the 24th Assembly of the World Health Assembly in Geneva in May of this year and was, incidentally, elected President of the Assembly. [More…]

• The World Health Assembly did discuss the matter of smoking and health. [More…]

• This report, which I emphasise was prepared by Dr Candau, in his capacity of DirectorGeneral of WHO, was published, as was the fact that the World Health Assembly had endorsed its recommendations. [More…]

• Sir William Refshauge did, as a matter of routine on his return to Australia, report to the then Minister on the World Health Assembly. [More…]

• I would also emphasise that there is no secrecy about recommendations on smoking and health made by the National Health and Medical Research Council, whose role is to advise the Commonwealth and State governments on public health matters. [More…]

• In fact if honourable senators care to look at pages 116 and 117 of the annual report of the DirectorGeneral of Health tabled here today a few moments ago they will see recorded there the views of the NHMRC on smoking and health. [More…]

• To put this whole matter in perspective it should be understood that various recommendations on smoking and health have been made from time to time by both the World Health Organisation and the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• As the President of the 24th World Health Assembly and as the Chairman since 1960 of the National Health and Medical Research Council, Sir William Refshauge is associated with those recommendations. [More…]

• Sir William is, of course, also the permanent head of the Commonwealth Department of Health and, as is the situation with all senior public servants who advise Ministers, he acts in that capacity as a confidential adviser. [More…]

• I trust honourable senators will understand from what I have said the position of the Commonwealth Director-General of Health and that there has been no suppression by the Government of recommendations by public health advisory bodies. [More…]

• With the permission of the Senate I would now table the report of the DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organisation on the consequences of smoking, a WHO Press release reporting the resolutions of the 24th World Health Assembly on the matter of smoking and the report of the 68th Session of the National Health and Medical Research Council together with extracts of NHMRC recommendations. [More…]

• by leave- I think this matter has concerned all honourable senators on both sides of the chamber since 1963 or 1964 when the late Senator Wade was Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Australian Labor Party has had as its policy for some time that there should be complete prohibition of cigarettes and tobacco advertising on television and radio and also has made statements to the effect that there should be a prohibition of cigarette and tobacco advertising in all forms, coupled with a vigorous campaign to educate the public, especially young people, on the serious health hazards associated with cigarette and tobacco smoking. [More…]

• I think that what the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) said about Sir William Refshauge should be accepted. [More…]

• I do not suggest that there is any suppression on the part of the Government but J make a plea to the new Minister for Health to act in accordance with the recommendations made by our National Health and Medical Research Council and by the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• Assistance is given to families through the National Health Act where the family insurance rates for a family with children - however many children - are pegged at the rate applicable to a married couple without children; special assistance is also provided for handicapped children and children of pensioners - the latter being a matter which I shall deal with more fully in a moment. [More…]

• Social services, repatriation benefits, health services, housing and other welfare activities will involve this year an expenditure of S2,095m. [More…]

• The key promises of the Gorton Government - the establishment of a national health insurance ‘commission and a national film and television school - have been shelved. [More…]

• It was none other than the Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson. [More…]

• The Health Minister (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) announced yesterday that the decision to set up the health insurance commission was under consideration’. [More…]

• We see Government charges in such fields as health, education, defence and administration generally increasing at a very much faster rate than the rate of increase in costs in the private sector. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of this informed attack from within the medical profession, will the Government urgently review the present inadequate and piecemeal national health scheme which is rapidly putting medical services outside the financial reach of many- Australians? [More…]

• He was retired from his employment in the Post Office on health grounds and receives a disability pension. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a statement by Dr Smithurst, Senior Lecturer in Preventive Medicine at the Herston Medical School in Brisbane and a former director of Army health, that jet travel may facilitate the introduction of tropical diseases into Australia? [More…]

• Would the Minister inform the Senate whether the Department of Health shares Dr Smithurst’s view that a disease called malignant malaria may not be diagnosed by many doctors because they are unaware of the symptoms? [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council in 1967, 1968 and 1970 made recommendations concerning malaria. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that a number of hospitals for the aged have established day hospitals for the treatment of aged persons? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that stress induced or psychosomatic illnesses are reliably estimated now to represent up to 70 per cent of all illness treated by medical practitioners? [More…]

• Is he aware also that such illness is a significantly mounting burden of cost upon families, benefit funds and governments and could cripple any national health scheme? [More…]

• The report of a national morbidity survey which was published by the National Health and Medical Research Council in 1969 provides perhaps the most reliable instant figures available in Australia. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Parliament of the date on which the Department of Health carried out the last survey into doctors charging the most common fee? [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask a further ques tion of the Minister for Health who represents the Treasurer. [More…]

• How can a Minister for Health expect in a period of 3 months to understand the problems which face his Ministry? [More…]

• Yet this Government on 3 occasions, and for shorter periods, has imposed upon the Department of Health a different Minister. [More…]

• Yet honourable senators of the Democratic Labor Party have only to pick up the notice paper to see that the Australian Labor Party has already had this matter referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• That is why the Australian Labor Party has submitted it to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• question, which I address to the Minister for Health, refers to the report of his Department which he has just presented in Parliament. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister of Health. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Commonwealth Department of Health taken any steps to investigate the truth or otherwise of these reports? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONAs an adjunct to the Department of Health we have established the National Health and Medical Research Council to which matters of this nature may be referred. [More…]

• 1028 which concerns the health of the people of Australia. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health state, when I may expect a reply? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health investigate complaints of delays in the processing of ordinary workers compensation claims by employees of the Department of Health in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• I will have the question referred to the Department of Health. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• Social services, repatriation benefits, health services, housing and other welfare activities will involve this year an expenditure of $2,095m. [More…]

• The services which constitute the largest single item of Com:monwealth expenditure are social services, repatriation benefits, health services, housing and other welfare, activities. [More…]

• The removal of loneliness, the removal of insecurity, the establishment of facilities for their wellbeing and health and all such things are inevitably bound up with Budget ‘ decisions. [More…]

• Communities, be they church communities, local government communities or service clubs and things of that nature, have been encouraged to stand by their fellow citizens who are in some form of need so far as health or other matters are concerned. [More…]

• Society after society has received subsidies of varying kinds and has been provided with the opportunity of extending accommodation, health services and other forms of social service and care, whether it be in the spheres of Meals on Wheels or of counselling or of a wide range of social welfare. [More…]

• In 1938 there was a great deal of feeling about what was called a National Health and Pensions Insurance Bill. [More…]

• In each case it is a minority, in the same way as it is a minority of people who are addicted to drugs or something else which has a bad effect on their health. [More…]

• Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unempolyment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his control. [More…]

• Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and wellbeing of himself and of his family. [More…]

• I remember saying to a woman in those circumstances - she was a big, strong, buxom type of woman: ‘What is your state of health?’ [More…]

• Anyway, if a husband is 65 and his health is not good enough to enable him to look for another job, he is at least entitled to have the companionship, care and protection of his own wifi. [More…]

• However, if we turn to page 3403 of today’s notice paper we find that this very subject has been referred to the Health and Welfare Committee of the Senate. [More…]

• The Senate already has established a Health and Welfare Committee. [More…]

• They probably do not even realise that there is a Senate Health and Welfare Committee. [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister for Health, is further to the answer he gave to Mr Kennedy, the honourable member for Bendigo in the House of Representatives, on 16th September. [More…]

• Is it clear that of the 184,000 families which, as low income families, are eligible for assistance with health insurance only 13,000 have been approved by the Department of Social Ser-“ vices and that only about half of that small number have been protected fully by registering with a fund? [More…]

• In the light of of that, is it not clear that the system of national health insurance is breaking down completely or almost completely in regard to those low income persons and other persons in special categories whom it was supposed to assist? [More…]

• A question was asked of my predecessor in the other place and in the intervening period I became Minister for Health and subsequently issued the answer to the honourable member who asked the question. [More…]

• It is true that it has been alleged in the Press that, because only some 12,000 low income families had applied by 31st December 1970 for assistance under the subsidised health benefit plan, which was introduced on 1st January 1970, the plan had failed in its objectives. [More…]

• In the year ended 30th June 1971, 82,000 unemployment, sickness and special beneficiaries enrolled in health insurance funds, and in addition about 11,000 low income families and about 28,000 migrants became members. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether it is true that private hospitals and nursing homes are currently experiencing quite serious financial difficulties. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a comment by his colleague the Minister for Social Services relating to the possible establishment of additional assistance to institutions providing accommodation for the frail aged? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health received a communication from Mr W. A. McKenzie, Federal Secretary of the Friendly Societies Dispensaries Association of Australia, dated 21st September 1971, relative to the effect of the National Health Bill 1971 on the societies’ rebate systems for dispensing costs to its members? [More…]

• If so, will the Minister accede to the request of the federal executive of that Association for consultations with him before the National Health Bill passes through both Houses of the Parliament? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: ls it a fact that since the Western Australian Government ceased to make a lump sum payment to the Western Australian Branch of the Australian Medical Association, which helps to provide medical treatment for Aborigines in the south west of Western Australia, these Aborigines have been left with only the subsidised medical scheme of the Commonwealth Government to help them meet the cost of medical treatment? [More…]

• 1 recall receiving a communication on this subject from the Western Australian Minister for Health but would need to refresh my memory. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• If Senator Cavanagh turns to page 3440 of today’s notice paper he will find that this very subject has been referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, and that is why we seek to eliminate it from the Australian Labor Party’s amendment. [More…]

• We in the DLP believe that the Health and Welfare Committee ought to be given the courtesy of examining this reference. [More…]

• The Senate has already established the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Committee on Health and Welfare the incidence, distribution and causes of primary and secondary poverty in Australia and the adequacy of existing Commonwealth and State social welfare legislation. [More…]

• As I pointed out the other night also, already we have referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the introduction of a national superannuation scheme. [More…]

• It appears that war widows who are in great trouble as a result of health breakdowns are finding that, although they are entitled under certain circumstances to hospitalisation, once they become chronic patients the Repatriation Commission is, under the present legislation, wiping its hands of them. [More…]

• These men are apparently in good health and good condition and are able to play rounds of golf. [More…]

• ls the Minister for Health aware that under the present system of most common fees some specialists can be paid $100 for as little as 20 minutes work? [More…]

• The honourable senator has asked a question relating to the schedule of the Health Act which fixes specialist fees. [More…]

• The results of the monitoring programme to date indicate, in fact, that radiation doses to the Australian population from the fallout are less than those from fallout in Australia from the French tests of 1970 which the National Radiation Advisory Committee has reported as being no hazard to the health of the population. [More…]

• I refer to the question addressed to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) by Senator Poke on 7th September in regard to the health risks associated with the pollution of marine life by metals especially mercury. [More…]

• Officers of my Department and expert committees of the National Health and Medical Research Council will then consider these results. [More…]

• The Food and Agriculture Organisation and the World Health Organisation Report of the 1967 Joint Meeting of Experts on Pesticides Residues in Foods stated: [More…]

• That argument was taken up in recent years by the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• I do not know that anybody looks with any great respect on the statement by Lord Boyd Orr, World Health Organisation’s first chairman, that one third of the population of the world was dying from starvation. [More…]

• The World Health Organisation now suggests that a large section of the population of the world is suffering from malnutrition. [More…]

• There is no simple dietary, requirement and even the amounts of different foods required to prevent crippling disease or produce optimum health are very imprecisely known. [More…]

• As is borne out by the increasing cost of health services in this country, we have added a whole series of illnesses that were not known in the past. [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health agree that ambulance services throughout Australia, such as the St John’s [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to a statement made by Mr P. Giles, Secretary of the Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association of Victoria, that up to 40 Victorian private nursing homes would close by the end of October because of increasing costs and empty beds which are not occupied because of these costs? [More…]

• I think that the Minister for Health earlier gave an indication of the knowledge and awareness of the Government as to the problems facing a number of homes in which aged persons are cared for, and- [More…]

• 6 standing in my name and concerning social service transferability, and ask for an assurance that this motion be given speedy transmission to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The question is directed to a combination of the portfolios of Immigration, Social Services and Health. [More…]

• Senator Mulvihill asked me for an assurance that a motion of his dealing with the transfer of social service entitlements be transmitted to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The Government has not received any official estimate of deaths which have or might occur among refugee children through malnutrition, but the DirectorGeneral of India’s Health Services, Dr J. [More…]

• That is why the Senate has referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the possible introduction of a national superannuation scheme and the methods of financing and operating it. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.1) - in reply - I do not think there would be very much, if anything, that has been said by either the Leader of the Opposition (Senator Murphy) or the Deputy Leader of the Opposition (Senator Willesee) with which I or anyone else in this chamber would disagree in broad principle. [More…]

• lt could be committed in a whole series of circumstances relating to the health of the person. [More…]

• There is also the type of situation, referred to by the Minister for Works (Senator Wright), the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) and others, in which there are crimes which the community regards with horror and about which society must sense that its own sanctions and rules demand that they be stamped with society’s abhorrence. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that some hospitals have a policy of demanding payment from a patient before he gains admittance? [More…]

• Is this further evidence of the way in which the national health scheme is breaking down? [More…]

• What is the attitude of the Department of Health to such a practice? [More…]

• How does the Minister for Health reconcile the views expressed over the weekend by the Australian Optometrical Association and the Australian Standards Association about the inferior quality of some imported sun glasses with views expressed last year by Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin, who then represented the Minister for Health in this place, implying that the States were on the verge of adopting a manufacturing standard code devised by the Australian Standards Association? [More…]

• I cannot recall the question or the statement made by Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin when she represented the Minister for Health in this place last year, as the honourable senator says. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health inform the Senate of the full facts pertaining to the purchase of a motel at Alice Springs as announced by him on 30th September and reported in the Mel bourne ‘Age’ on 1st October? [More…]

• States have their priorities with regard to their health services, their education programme, their welfare, and all of those other matters which are State responsibilities and which the direct taxing power will enable them to de:ermine in their own way. [More…]

• I am sure that in each State similar priorities in the matters of education, health and social welfare will benefit directly from this increased revenue which comes directly to them for their determination. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.40) - in reply - Honourable senators who have taken part in this debate have indicated the views of the Government, the Opposition and the Australian Democratic Labor Party. [More…]

• However, I do want to correct the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) on a few details. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.12) - I think Senator Cavanagh has made the point that he wants to make. [More…]

• I am having a fairly difficult battle with the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) because of his previous experience as a land agent. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.23) - First of all, 1 will deal with the honourable senator’s very colourful question in ‘ relation to a company being wound-up. [More…]

• Senator’ Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.34) -I feel bound to admit that I have had some difficulty following the complete patternof the honourable senator’s comments. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has replied that he cannot answer my point but that I should accept his assurance that there is no conflict. [More…]

• The Government has not received any official estimate of deaths which have or might occur among refugee children through malnutrition, but the Director-General of India’s Health Services, Dr J. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• ls the Minister for Health now in a position to give me any information on standards of sunglasses in the face of fears expressed by the Australian Standards Association that certain imported sunglasses do not meet the desired standard? [More…]

• The honourable senator may not ask a question of the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health. [More…]

• 1 will not allow a question to be addressed to Senator Marriott, who is the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health. [More…]

• For instance, he visits the Department of Health every morning and oversees, on my behalf, certain sections of the mail. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the heavy losses incurred by hospitals arising from accommodation provided by them for age pensioners? [More…]

• 1 direct to the Minister for Health a question which follows a question I asked yesterday in which I asked for details pertaining to the purchase of a motel at Alice Springs from Ansett Transport Industries. [More…]

• The honourable senator should be asking the Minister for Health a question. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Ltd in a statement made on 8th September 1971, claim that there is no scientific proof that cigarette smoking is a dangerous health hazard, and does the Minister agree that this statement is false. [More…]

• Ltd was reported as having made a statement to a newspaper claiming that there is no scientific proof that cigarette smoking is a dangerous health hazard. [More…]

• The Government, having regard to the medical view which has been clearly expressed that there is a proven relationship between cigarette smoking and medical health, has recognised that smoking is a health problem. [More…]

• There has always been a concern that the nation’s health could bc affected by the use of pesticides. [More…]

• There is also the fairly pervading influence of the Commonwealth Department of Health, and in a position yet to be evolved in these areas there is the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment, Aborigines and the Arts. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• By way of preface I refer to principles enunciated by him in a letter to Dr Martin on participation in the national health scheme. [More…]

• 1 now ask the Minister whether he thinks the time is overdue to attend to the pleas from the New South Wales Minister for Health, Mr Jago, rank and file members of the Victorian Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and myself that provision be made in the rules of the Hospitals Contribution Fund and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia for members to be consulted on all major policy decisions involving fund rates and the distribution of fund reserves? [More…]

• First of all, it involves the application of funds with the background of the Nimmo report and the aspect of Government decisions in relation to the Health Act consequent upon movement in the funds and variations in the Health Act is a very sensitive question in relation to the inherent rights and responsibilities of organisations. [More…]

• Having regard to the health of humans and the environment generally, is it a fact that the pesticide malathion would be the best choice but that because of its higher cost its use has been rejected by all agencies other than the Victorian Government? [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - The petition presented to the Senate on 15th September 1971 by Senator Mulvihill concerning the transfer of social service entitlements. [More…]

• After the words ‘Standing Committee on Health and Welfare’, insert the words ‘for its information’. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) - I move: [More…]

• The law of the Territory relating to mentally ill persons is continued in the Lunacy Act 1898 of New South Wales, the Insane Persons and Inebriates (Committal and Detention) Ordinance 1936-1937, and the Mental Health Ordinance 1962. [More…]

• The provision to be made for the treatment of mentally ill persons is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) and any amendment of the law in this field will depend on the development of psychiatric services which is currently progressing. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health advise the Senate whether legislation will be introduced, and if so at what date, to implement the election promises of the previous Prime Minister at the 1969 general election and the 1970 Senate election that the aged chronically ill who are confined to nursing homes will receive health insurance benefits beyond the period of 3 months now operative? [More…]

• I refer particularly to those people who have paid into health insurance organisations all their lives. [More…]

• It refers to a newspaper article about migrant health which appeared over the weekend, as far as I can judge. [More…]

• The Royal Children’s Hospital has confirmed that its views on the matter were enclosed entirely in its correspondence with the Minister and it has accepted the Minister’s assurance that everything possible was done to maintain the standard of health of children of those migrants. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health now indicate his attitude to the clamour from sections of Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and Medical Benefits Fund of Australia members seeking greater rank and file participation in fund policy decisions? [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, refers to the Minister’s Press release of Sth October wherein he said that contributors to hospital insurance funds in [More…]

• Has the World Health Organization criti- cised the campaign and said that most of the money has been wasted because of poor field work and lack of interest among administrators. [More…]

• Can a copy of the relevant section of the World Health Organization’s report be made available to the Parliament [More…]

• The matter referred to is one which falls within the authority of the Ministerial Member for Public Health in the House of Assembly for Papua New Guinea. [More…]

• The Administrator on the advice on the Ministerial Member for Public Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Following a request from the Papua New Guinea Administration for expert advice, the United Nations Development Programme arranged through the World Health Organization for two consultants (a Malariologist and an Economist) to visit Papua New Guinea to report and make recommendations on the anti-malaria campaign. [More…]

• The general health of the people has improved and their economic progress accelerated. [More…]

• A copy of the World Health Organization’s Report is being placed in the Parliamentary Library. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Victorias Hospital Benefits Association committed contributors’ funds to the newly formed Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia? [More…]

• Is this new association a political organisation whose aim is to wage a political campaign against the introduction of a government-sponsored national health scheme? [More…]

• What is the general position regarding the right of health funds to commit contributors’ moneys to political organisations? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did the then Minister, in a Press statement on 28th June 1971, state that figures taken out by the Department of Health indicate that during the December quarter of 1970, 75 per cent of all general practitioner services in New South Wales were at or below common fee levels? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• On what date did the Department of Health carry out the last survey of medical practitioners who charge the most common fee. [More…]

• Results for the quarters ended 31st December 1970 and 31st March 1971 are given on page 142 of the 1970- 1971 Annual Report of the Director-General of Health, which was tabled recently. [More…]

• NATIONAL HEALTH BILL 1971 (No. [More…]

• The purpose of the Bill before the Senate is, firstly, to provide for an increase in the patient benefit for ordinary nursing home care from $2.00 a day to $3.50 a day; secondly, to give effect to the Government’s Budget proposals in relation to the contribution payable by the patient for pharmaceutical benefits; thirdly to incorporate into the schedules of the National Health Act variations made to certain items of those Schedules during 1971 by Regulations. [More…]

• The nursing home benefits made available by the Commonwealth Government apply to patients accommodated in nursing homes approved for such purposes under the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• However, the contribution payable by persons eligible for assistance under the subsidised health benefits plan will be maintained at 50c. [More…]

• The drugs and medicinal preparations made available as pharmaceutical benefits are determined by the Minister for Health on the advice of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee established under section 101 of the National Health Act. [More…]

• As honourable senators are aware, pharmaceutical benefits are the most expensive component of the Government’s overall health benefits plan. [More…]

• It is not proposed that these benefits be deleted from the schedule of benefits, as the Government recognises that such items should be retained and made available for the use of pensioners and persons eligible for assistance under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• The present provisions of the National Health Act relating to the treatment of chronic diseases or conditions will also continue to apply. [More…]

• As I have already mentioned, persons eligible for assistance under the subsidised health benefits plan will not have to meet the increase of 50c for national health prescriptions. [More…]

• This decision is in keeping with the Government’s policy under the health benefits plan to assist where possible those special groups in the community to meet the cost of medical care. [More…]

• The subsidised health benefits plan, which has been in existence since January 1970, provides assistance in meeting the cost of medical and hospital treatment to persons receiving unemployment, sickness and special social service benefits, migrants during their first 2 months in Australia and low income families. [More…]

• It is essential therefore that persons who believe they are entitled to subsidised pharmaceutical benefits, should make application to the Department of Social Services or, in the case of migrants, to the Department of Health as soon as the changes become effective. [More…]

• The third purpose of the Bill is to incorporate into the schedules to the National Health Act variations made to those schedules by the National Health (Variations of Benefits) Regulations in accordance with section 13a of that Act This section provides that a table in a medical benefit schedule to the Act may be varied by regulation. [More…]

• This particular section was inserted by amendment to the Act in 1970, as part of the reconstruction of the medical benefits segment of the new health benefits plan. [More…]

• The National Health (Variation of Benefits) (No. [More…]

• The National Health (Variation of Benefits) (No. [More…]

• These amendments from April 1971 resulted from recommendations of the Medical Benefits Schedule Advisory Committee which is a body appointed by the Minister for Health to consider and recommend changes in the benefits schedules. [More…]

• The Committee consists of representatives of the Australian Medical Association, the registered medical benefits organisations and the Department of Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health advise the Senate of the amount of subsidy paid to each State National Fitness Council during 1970 under the Commonwealth scheme which offers $66,000 for capital assistance on a $1 for $2 basis for the redevelopment of old camps and the acquisition of new sites? [More…]

• Again 1 invite his attention to the figures in the annual report of the Department of Health, appearing in table 25 on page 1 39. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.19) - The information I have is that, for the purposes of the subsidised health benefit plan, certain people are grouped and a distinction is made between the various classes of beneficiaries. [More…]

• That, In short, is the philosophical ground on which the Opposition asserts the doctrine that all members of the community, irrespective of their position or income, should be entitled to all possible assistance available to overcome their illness and get them restored to good health again. [More…]

• During the course of his second reading speech the Minister went on to say that the pharmaceutical benefit scheme is the most expensive component of the Government’s overall health benefits plan. [More…]

• At page 35 of the annual report of the Commonwealth Department of Health, the following very salient paragraph appears in relation to the cost of pharmaceutical benefits: [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.32) - I agree with Senator Douglas McClelland that there is a philosophical difference between the Government’s point of view, which found expression when this Bill was first introduced, and the view expressed by Senator Douglas McClelland on behalf of the Opposition. [More…]

• It is true that it is to an extent under the administrative control of the Department of Health but only in a limited way because it is a statutory authority. [More…]

• Despite the desire of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) to obtain a vote on this matter prior tothe suspension of sitting I could not let go unchallenged his criticism of Senator Douglas McClelland’s statement about the possibility of over-prescription of drugs by the medical profession. [More…]

• An earlier Bill, the National Health Bill, was presented to the House of Representatives on 16th September. [More…]

• Certainly if that Bill of 16th September had been before this chamber and not been withdrawn, as it was in another place, the Opposition would have been strongly opposing the measure because, on philosophical grounds, the Labor movement believes that those who are sick are those who are most in need and therefore it is the general responsibility of the whole community, through the government, to assist them to meet the financial cost of the medicines prescribed for them by medical practitioners to get them restored to good health and working once again. [More…]

• On 5th October the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) read to the Senate a statement that the Government recognised that the recent steep increases in running costs of nursing homes have placed many in an extremely difficult financial position and that, therefore, as an interim measure the Government had decided to increase nursing home benefits. [More…]

• Other amendments will put the case of the Opposition so far as health generally is concerned. [More…]

• I hope that the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), who is now at the table, will give very close. [More…]

• On the subject of responsibility for the provision of nursing homes for elderly citizens it is interesting to note that on 7th October at a meeting of Senate Estimates Committee A the Minister for Health admitted that whilst the Commonwealth had not erected any nursing homes within the Australian Capital Territory in its own right - although I should add in fairness that the Commonwealth met two-thirds of the total construction cost of Morling Lodge which belongs to a charitable organisation - it apparently now is considering such a proposal. [More…]

• As reported at page 15 of the Hansard report of 7th October of the Estimates Committee A hearing, I asked the Minister for Health: [More…]

• Table 25 of the recent report of the Commonwealth Department of Health includes some very interesting figures. [More…]

• I invite honourable senators to keep in mind the figures I cited earlier; that is the membership of 22,255 under the subsidised medical scheme and the total estimated coverage of 54,854 and the statements made when the scheme was introduced in the National Health Bill last year. [More…]

• According to the second reading speech of the then Minister for Health it was estimated that 84,000 families and 271,000 persons would be eligible for assistance under the scheme. [More…]

• That is the figure stated in the annual report of the Department of Health. [More…]

• Prior to the suspension of the sitting I was putting the Opposition’s case in support of an amendment it has moved to the motion for the second reading of the National Health Bill. [More…]

• The total membership figure of 22,255 which appears in the records of the annual report of the Department of Health has to be compared with the total estimated coverage of 54,854. [More…]

• Frankly, when I penned the table set out in the annual report of the Department of Health, I found it incredible to believe that in the Class A category only 2,268 persons were registered under the subsidised medical scheme in New South Wales and 553 in Victoria. [More…]

• When the Government introduced an amendment to the National Health Act in 1970 it said that its new plan was founded on a list of the most common fees that were established throughout the whole range of medical services. [More…]

• One has only to look at table 32 of the annual report of the Department of Health to see that, as at last March, the level of observance of the most common fee by medical practitioners throughout the whole of Australia amounted to an average of only about 75 per cent. [More…]

• During the course of a ministerial statement on 7th May on medical fees and benefits the then Minister for Health, Senator Greenwood, said: [More…]

• As shown in the annual report of the Commonwealth Department of Health there is in fact only about a 75 per cent observance. [More…]

• The more necessary and acceptable advertising of the benefits to be obtained from health insurance, directed mainly at the noninsured and under-insured, is considered by the Committee to be more the function of the Commonwealth Government within whose responsibility the successful operation .and extension of the voluntary health insurance scheme largely falls, and State governments, -who have a direct interest in the promotion and development of the scheme. [More…]

• Until the Government implements the recommendations of the Wedgwood Committee, a Senate select committee that was specifically set up by the Parliament to inquire into all aspects of health and medical costs, and until the Government implements that section of the Nimmo Committee’s report which recommended the establishment of a national health insurance commission, there surely will continue to be a wasteful use of funds by this multiplicity of health organisations. [More…]

• True it is that the amount payable for prescriptions by persons receiving assistance under the subsidised health insurance scheme will be maintained at 50c. [More…]

• I would have thought it would have been prudent for the Government to have awaited the outcome of the deliberations and the recommendations of that House of Representatives select committee before rushing through quite an imposing additional burden on those who require prescriptions for medicines in order to restore them to good health once again. [More…]

• Evidence indicates that drug manufacturers do attempt to minimise costs of production, particularly when influenced by some degree of critical supervision by the Commonwealth Department of Health, and it is apparent that constant awareness of the necessity to do so is essential. [More…]

• I believe that the officers of the Commonwealth Department of Health do a pretty good job in the negotiations which they must necessarily conduct with pharmaceutical companies. [More…]

• In other words over twice as much was spent on advertising pharmaceuticals throughout Australia as was saved by the Commonwealth Department of Health in its negotiations wilh drug companies last financial year. [More…]

• From recollection, I read in the Annual Report of the Director-General of Health that in the September quarter of 1969 doctors prescribing had increased by some 34 per cent over the comparable quarter of the previous year. [More…]

• Health is of vital concern to the Australian people, lt cannot be allowed to be dealt with lightly. [More…]

• All aspects of the subject must be given close and detailed consideration by the Parliament not only because the health of the Australian people at all times must be and must remain paramount but also because of the ever-increasing costs with which the Australian people appear to be faced. [More…]

• We believe that our amendment expresses in words a great deal of that which is wrong with the present Government’s health scheme which is completely different to that advocated by the Labor movement. [More…]

• I rise to speak in support of the National Health Bill 1971 and some of the aspects which are contained in it. [More…]

• The nursing homes covered by this provision are those which are approved under the National Health Act. [More…]

• 1 am sure that it is one that has not been disregarded by the Government, as might have been suggested, but it is one which is part of a Government programme consistently to improve health services throughout Australia. [More…]

• The other provisions of this Bill with regard to pharmaceutical benefits cover those persons who are in the subsidised health benefits plan and, with this part of the health service in mind, I wish to make a few comments. [More…]

• The subsidised health benefits plan is a scheme to assist needy groups with medical and hospital expenses. [More…]

• The beneficiaries under this scheme claim medical and hospital benefits for the treatment of themselves and eligible dependents without payment or with part payment only of health insurance contributions. [More…]

• This is known as the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• I refer, first, to persons in receipt of unemployment, sickness and special benefits under Part VII of the Social Services Act; secondly, to migrants during the first 2 months after their arrival in Australia; and, thirdly, to low income families which have been defined in section 82u of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Certain dependants of these eligible persons also are able to receive benefits under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• They could perhaps work closely with the Commonwealth Department of Health to advise these people specifically of the benefits which are so readily available to them under the provisions of the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• I am hoping that the publicity arrangements of the Department which were disclosed to me will result in a greater recognition of what is available and that the opportunity will be taken by people to receive the health benefits which have been provided within the national health scheme. [More…]

• Persons with a subsidised health benefit entitlement will obtain pharmaceutical benefits in much the same way as do beneficiaries under the pensioner medical service. [More…]

• It will bc recognised that this benefit under the subsidised health benefits scheme is designed specifically to assist in the prescription of pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• We must realise the enormous cost to the Government of pharmaceutical benefits provided under the national health scheme. [More…]

• Under the provisions of the National Health Act, where a contributor incurs medical expenses for a medical service rendered by a medical practitioner the Commonwealth medical benefit is payable in respect of that service. [More…]

• There is no requirement in the Act that the medical service must be medically necessary for the health or well-being of the patient to qualify for the benefit. [More…]

• Because this matter has attracted some public discussion quite recently I feel that the provisions of the National Health Act should be clearly described at this stage. [More…]

• So medical benefits for cosmetic surgery apply, provided that those areas which I have described are within the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Because the provisions to which I have referred apply under the Health Act, I would assume that cosmetic surgery is regarded as being part of the medical service. [More…]

• In what I have been saying about the provisions of this Bill I have been itemising the very great benefits which are increasing under the voluntary health scheme which was introduced some years ago by the Government. [More…]

• I am sure that, as I have been speaking of the increased benefits in these new provisions, we are showing that there is a Government aim to provide adequate health services. [More…]

• There is a Government aim to improve the facilities within the realms of the voluntary health scheme which we have in operation. [More…]

• I support the National Health Bill 1971. [More…]

• Suffice to say that the amendment was drawn up after a very close examination of the legislation that we are debating and the problems that face people under the present Government policy relating to medical and health benefits. [More…]

• The two cases are part of a dossier the Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association is compiling for the State Health Minister, Mr Rossiter. [More…]

• The executive director of the Brotherhood of St Laurence, Mr David Scott, said the increases highlighted the need for a complete review of health services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) probably is disturbed, too, about the administration of this aspect of the scheme. [More…]

• Many letters are written, many cases are put forward and many applications are made to the Department of Health for the additional intensive care subsidy. [More…]

• I hope that we can move on to the introduction of an adequate and proper system of health care, particularly for the aged sick. [More…]

• As I see the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• The second is to increase from 50c to Si the charge made for prescriptions written under the national health scheme. [More…]

• If the people have a national health scheme, they have to pay for it. [More…]

• We of the Opposition welcome the opportunity to speak on this measure, not for what it contains as much as to form an assessment of whether we have the best national health system, so called, or whether we should look elsewhere to emulate other successful systems. [More…]

• It was geared to the Blue Cross health insurance system operating then in the United States of America. [More…]

• I do not think it is sufficient for the President of the United States or the Prime Minister of Australia to say that because a national health system costs $Xm it is the best. [More…]

• In Europe today, irrespective of the type of government in power, on balance, the national health systems are much more comprehensive than our own. [More…]

• It contains provision for specialist treatment, hospital services, private practice and health research. [More…]

• Under the Scott and Deeble system these people would contribute to a national health scheme11/2 per cent of their income. [More…]

• This would build up funds from which the costs of the health scheme would be drawn. [More…]

• The Minister for Health argues that the present system is better than any other system, but there is no financial advantage to be gained from it. [More…]

• I know that if Senator Withers were present he would listen to me very carefully and then claim that I was whingeing if I were to say that when, after 14 years of good health, I had to go into a hospital 1 did not make a profit. [More…]

• I once heard Senator Greenwood, when Minister for Health, stand up in his lofty ivory tower and say that people are making a profit out of membership of these funds. [More…]

• Then on 14th September I asked the present Minister for Health what had become of this document. [More…]

• I got an idea from what was said by Mr Jago, the New South Wales Minister for Health, and Senator Greenwood, that they were far from happy about what was going to happen. [More…]

• The Minister for Health recently gave me a very lengthy answer on health insurance organisations. [More…]

• What I object to is that in a previous answer given to me the Minister for Health said that the funds - I am talking about both the HCF and the MBF in New South Wales - had reserves of something like S30m stacked away. [More…]

• The Minister for Health told me that there is member representation on the MBF in Victoria and the HCF in New South Wales. [More…]

• A natural corollary to the criticism that I am advancing at present has been put forward by Senator Douglas McClelland, namely, that there should be a health insurance commission to police these things. [More…]

• I believe that they should have the democratic right to suggest to their leaders’ that when they confer with the Minister for Health they - should advocate that instead of feeding in S4m a year the fund should feed in SI Om a year and not increase the contribution rates for the next 3 years. [More…]

• The figures that I have in relation to the extensiveness of medical health coverage more than prove what was set out in the 1971 immigration planning report. [More…]

• The report of the Nimmo Committee dealt with the question of the employer deducting health insurance contributions from wages. [More…]

• I think Senator Douglas McClelland, along with myself, was a member of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which was looking at the problems of physically and mentally handicapped children. [More…]

• Senator Dame Ivy Wedgwood who is an outstanding authority in Victoria in this field said to me on many occasions that she knew that the funds wanted to do this but somehow they were strangled by the existing National Health Act. [More…]

• But I say to him respectfully that I feel that quite a number of these matters have accumulated since he took over the Health portfolio and I suggest that he should appoint a hospital insurance commission to do the day to day work that I have suggested. [More…]

• I have a high regard for the officers of the Department of Health. [More…]

• American health system. [More…]

• But J believe that if the Government gave encouragement to the laboratories in relation to health drugs for human beings as it does in relation to drugs for animals it would do 2 things. [More…]

• I have asked that the report of the Director-General of Health should give the names of drug firms that have over-charged but it never has. [More…]

• With this across the board system, if we were given more detail in health reports such as which firms were dealt with for false advertising and who gypped the general public we would have a higher concept of business ethics. [More…]

• This is a particular cancer in the Health Act. [More…]

• I know that Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson is a very kindly man but I think he could leave a very strong reputation as a Health Minister if he were to take on a number of these issues and, by implementing to the full the Nimmo Report, expose some of these lurk activities of the drug companies. [More…]

• As honourable senators know the National Health Bill is in several distinct parts. [More…]

• One part concerns the increase of benefits paid to nursing home patients; another part increases the patient’s contribution for the prescription of a pharmaceutical benefit; another part refers to the friendly societies dispensaries and their members; another part refers to the substantial health benefits plan and a further part to amendments to medical services and the Commonwealth benefits which are payable. [More…]

• I think that the Annual Report of the DirectorGeneral of Health shows that the average cost of medicine in a lot of prescriptions is a little over $2. [More…]

• Then, as a result of representations, the Minister for Health and the Department of Health agreed that the designation of the drug should be broadened to cover the illness from which this man suffered. [More…]

• This is the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• Those eligible to receive benefits under the scheme are persons in receipt of unemployment, sickness and special benefits under Part VII of the Social Services Act; immigrants during the first 2 months after entry to Australia, and such immigrants must be the holders of entry permits not being temporary entry permits in force under the Migration Act; and low income families as defined in section 82u of the National Health Act. [More…]

• I rise to indicate the attitude of the Australian Democratic Labor Party to the National Health Bill 1971 (No. [More…]

• At the outset I say that the view of my Party is that the Government is to be commended for its decision to withdraw the National Health Bill 1971 and to introduce the Bill which we are now considering in lieu of the withdrawn Bill. [More…]

• I think that, in no mean measure, this action can be attributed to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• Senator Douglas McClelland, who led for the Opposition, but more particularly other speakers and significantly Senator Mulvihill covered the whole spectrum of health and social services in the Commonwealth. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that the estimates for the Department of Health were considered by an Estimates Committee a few days ago. [More…]

• These were not necessarily matters of health. [More…]

• This is the task that I, as Minister for Health - perhaps as a junior Minister for Health, since I have held this portfolio since the beginning of August only - have to undertake, with all the goodwill, help and co-operation I can get, so that we can improve the position in nursing homes and submit a plan to the Government for its concurrence. [More…]

• Ultimately a national health Bill will come before the Parliament and it will then be subject to scrutiny. [More…]

• I repeat that it is impossible for me to respond to all the points that have been raised in relation to the national health scheme, given the very great tolerance that honourable senators enjoy in a second reading debate. [More…]

• This drug had been condemned by the World Health Organisation 5 years before the advertisement appeared in the ‘New Ethics’ journal which was circulated to medical practitioners throughout Australia in 1962. [More…]

• Yet 5 years after this recommendation from the world’s greatest health authority on the dangers of this drug, it was still being promoted in Australia. [More…]

• If any government in England dared to interfere with the British national health scheme it would suffer annihilation at any election. [More…]

• As I was saying, the Labor movement believes that if a person is sick, no matter who he may be or what his income may be, he is entitled to all the treatment he can receive to restore him to good health and to get him back to work earlier so that the Australian community can reap the value of his productivity. [More…]

• Be that as it may, let me say this in relation to the argument that Senator Cavanagh has been putting: Because this increase will impose a very heavy burden on a great number of wage and salary earners, having regard to the half empty bottles in their medicine chests it could well be that the health of a large section of the community will suffer because the worker on a limited income and with family responsibilities, rather than seeing a doctor after having a recurrence of an illness that he had 2 years ago, might well decide to use the contents of that half empty bottle. [More…]

• I believe that if this Government continues acting in this way in regard to health it will be defeated at the next election. [More…]

• As I see the clause, regulations may be made between the date of the royal assent and the date on which the legislation comes into operation, as fixed by proclamation, relating to the definition of the appropriate maximum amount’ in section 84 of the National Health Act as if clause 4, which is the interpretation clause, had in fact come into operation; but the regulations so made will not come into operation before the date which is fixed by proclamation. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.31) - I think there was some misunderstanding in Senator Douglas McClelland’s mind about the rates. [More…]

• Clause 4 would enable the manner in which benefits are to be supplied to persons eligible for assistance under the subsidised health benefit plan to be similarly detailed. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Secondly, will he ensure by cooperation with the States, with whom the basic responsibility lies, that the State health authorities and the Commonwealth are thoroughly vigilant in their regular inspections of all such nursing homes so as to ensure the highest possible standards of care and treatment? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Has any hospital benefits association been investing on the speculative market? [More…]

• Does the Government exercise any control over the investment of moneys by health funds? [More…]

• I am not aware of the methods of investment of the reserves of the health funds. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that recent changes to the national health scheme affecting the hospital and medical benefit entitlements of many insured pensioners are causing great confusion and hardship? [More…]

• 1 direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Surveillance entails attendance at an office of the Department of Health or at a specific place to be seen by a doctor for a period of up to 14 days, usually at second daily intervals. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• MEDICAL BENEFITS Senator POKE- Can the Minister for Health inform the Senate when an item number will be designated under the Commonwealth schedule of medical benefits for the service of venipuncture? [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister for Health, relates to reports of statements made in Melbourne by officers of a Victorian association for the retarded and the Australian Association for the Mentally Retarded which, among other things, referred to the waiting lists for places in education department schools. [More…]

• I ask: Has the Minister noted the recommendation of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in its report on handicapped people in Australia that a national advisory council be established to co-ordinate services and facilities for handicapped people? [More…]

• As a further recommendation was that the members of such a council should be appointed by the Minister for Health, will he say whether he has given this matter his attention and, if he has not, whether he will give consideration to such an appointment so that some early studies may be made of this difficult and complex matter? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that the Department of Health has been repeatedly advised by the National Health and Medical Research Council that measures should be taken to encourage the increased use of low tar cigarettes as against high tar cigarettes? [More…]

• Was this code announced by Senator Greenwood, when Minister for Health, on 3rd May last after discussions between State and Commonwealth health authorities, the Australian Broadcasting Control Board, cigarette manufacturers and broadcasting and television services? [More…]

• My understanding, reached before I became Minister for Health, is that the advertisement was ruled out because it was pitched, not as a general advertisement against smoking in terms of the anti-cancer group, but directly to a particular company and one type of cigarette. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• What liaison have officers of the Department of Health with United States health authorities who are experimenting with a form of pill to replace the traditional needle as a key weapon in vaccination? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did the then Minister, in a press statement on 28th June 1971 state that figures taken out by the Department of Health indicate that during the December quarters of 1970, 75 per cent of all general practitioner services in New South Wales were at or below common fee levels. [More…]

• Were similar figures taken out by the Department of Health for the March and June quarters of 1971; if so. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Have any figures been taken out by the Department of Health for the December quarter of 1970 and the March and June quarters of 1971 to indicate the percentage of all specialist medical fees that were at or below the common fee levels in each of the various States; if so, what are the respective percentages. [More…]

• The above details relate to items 9 to 18 covering referred specialist and consultant physician consultations and items in the First Schedule to the National Health Act with the symbol ‘S’ The symbol ‘S’ denotes that the item covers ‘the service specified in the item when rendered by a specialist in the practice of his specialty to a patient who has been referred to him’. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What procedure does the Department of Health employ to monitor information from overseas about health hazards from commercial products. [More…]

• What liaison exists between the Department of Health and those State agencies responsible for labelling controls on potentially hazardous substances. [More…]

• National Health and Medical Research Council is the main avenue through which liaison is effected. [More…]

• In addition, the Public Health Branch of my Department maintains a continuous liaison with Stale Departments of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Why have no details of the Government’s subsidised health scheme been published in ethnic group newspapers. [More…]

• Details of the subsidised health benefits scheme have been published in ethnic group newspapers. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to a statement made to a Court in New South Wales, in support of a drug addict, to the effect that a gaol sentence would be a slow death for the victim; if so, and as the Report of the Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse in Australia strongly supports this point of view, what action has been taken by the Department of Health to implement those recommendations of the Committee which deal withthe treatment, rather than imprisonment, of drug addicts. [More…]

• The Senate Committee’s recommendations are at present under consideration by the National Standing Control Committee on Drugs of Dependence and the Mental Health Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• If more consideration were given to the safety features in the design of motor cars and roads as well as to the health, knowledge and sobriety of drivers we would be going a long way towards taking the burden off the insurance companies because the fewer accidents there are the less lighter will be the burden on the insurance companies and, for that matter, the holders of insurance policies. [More…]

• The fifth report of the Joint Food and Agricultural Organisation/ World Health Organisation Expert Committee on Brucellosis points out that brucellosis is a world wide problem. [More…]

• The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations and the World Health Organisation joint report recommends further research in this field. [More…]

• I remind the Minister for Air (Senator Drake-Brockman) that by way of question I indicated that among the many threats to the export of beef from this country to the United States of America there was the added threat of brucellosis, because the information coming from the United States indicates that brucellosis is almost completely under control there and Australia could face an added restriction by the American health authorities against the export of our meat. [More…]

• When there is some matter on which the Prime Minister’s intervention is sought, the first thing he does is to call upon the advice available to him, whether it be from the Department of Health, which is my own Department, the Department of Immigration or any other department. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Services or to the Minister for Health if the matter is more appropriate to his portfolio. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I give the ‘Sydney’ a clean bill of health in the problem under survey. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, relates to the acquisition of the Mount Gillen Motel at Alice Springs by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Basically the problems of Aboriginal health in the southern region of the Northern Territory stem from the environmental conditions under which the Aboriginals live. [More…]

• In the preventive held I am pleased to be able to inform the Senate that my Department is expanding its rural health programme to increase the number of visits to cattle stations, settlements and missions. [More…]

• Reference in the article to a reduction in the number of health visits to cattle stations does noi reflect the present position. [More…]

• The centre will supplement the intensified rural health programme now being conducted from Alice Springs and should have a considerable impact on the whole picture of Aboriginal child health in that area. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the suggestion by Professor Levine, a recognised world authority on diabetes, that Australia should set up a national public testing programme for diabetes because the number of people with diabetes was growing and population testing was crucial in the fight against this disease? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The system is considered necessary because of the large number of services introduced with the new Health Benefits Plan which attract benefits at the higher specialist rates. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister heed the call of the Chairman of the Government Members’ Health Committee, Mr D. J. Hamer, M.P., who yesterday advocated a total ban on all forms of cigarette advertising? [More…]

• The answer to the honourable senator’s question is as follows: (1)I have noted the views of the Chairman of the Government Members’ Health Committee in relation to the banning of cigarette advertising. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Director-General of Health submitted a report to the Government on the World Health Organisation recommendations on smoking? [More…]

• If so, will the Minister publish the report as requested by the Australian Council on Smoking and Health? [More…]

• What has the Government done to implement the World Health Organisation recommendations? [More…]

• The Director-General of Health has drawn my attention to the recommendations of the World Health Organisation on smoking. [More…]

• These recommendations are very similar to the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council, which have been studied by the Government. [More…]

• The recommendations contained in the World Health Organisation’s report are mainly concerned with the areas of health education on smoking; warning labels on cigarette packets; restrictions on the contents of cigarette smoke; and other recommendations regarding taxation measures in respect of tobacco. [More…]

• In the mainland Territories, the Commonwealth has intensified health education programmes to discourage smoking, and is co-operating with the education authorities in developing effective health education programmes in the health aspects of smoking. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister received any report concerning the methods by which the recommendations of the World Health Organization, in regard to smoking and health, may be implemented? [More…]

• When will the Government implement the legislative recommendations of the World Health Organization, and are there any recommendations which the Government will not implement? [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister table correspondence between the Western Australian Branch of the Australian Medical Association and the Department of Health on this matter? [More…]

• and (2) Aborigines who are members of low income families or who are in receipt of unemployment sickness er special benefits arc eligible for this assistance under the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan. [More…]

• In this connection it must be recognised that the Plan is aimed at assisting necessitous grou/s with the costs of health insurance and is not aimed at relieving States or doctors of responsibilities which they previously carried. [More…]

• Provision will be made on the form to enable a responsible person, such as a hospital secretary, or doctor, to complete, on behalf of someone incapable of completing the official application form, the necessary administrative steps in applying for assistance under the Plan and in enrolling in the health insurance fund. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does he agree that there is a strong feeling in Australia that the Australian resources, particularly the mineral resources, ought to be exploited in the interests of the people of Australia in order that our poverty problem may be overcome and that decent health, education and social services are provided for our people? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health share my concern at a statement by a spokesman for the Australian Medical Association that tests of drugs and new hospital techniques are being carried out on dying patients and that in fact patients are being kept alive for this purpose? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health this question: Has the Deputy Director-General of Health recommended that to deter unnecessary use of drugs pensioners should pay a fee for pharmaceutical benefits? [More…]

• T have been informed that, as it appeared, it rather attributed to the Deputy DirectorGeneral of Health some comments which were in fact views expressed by a member of the House of Representatives Select Committee on Pharmaceutical Benefits, before which Committee the Deputy Director-General was giving evidence. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform me whether he has had sufficient time to collect his thoughts regarding my question about the central sterilising unit for the proposed Australian Capital Territory central hospital services complex? [More…]

• The proposal to establish this unit is in accordance with the Llewellyn-Davies report on the future development of health services in the Australian Capital Territory and has been explained in detail to representatives of the Australian Capital Territory branch of the Australian Medical Association. [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health recognise that sport and physical recreation represent an increasingly important dimension in our national life? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I think the honourable senator has made a judgment which is not quite accurate in relation to the whole national health scheme. [More…]

• Certain aspects of the last National Health Bill introduced became effective from 1st November. [More…]

• One cannot make a broad sweep and say that the National Health Bill came into effect from 1st November. [More…]

• That part of the question has been added to a plethora of other things to make it seem that the national health scheme was in a state of disarray. [More…]

• On doing so, and provided they are not in serious ill health otherwise and are not known to be of bad character, they are permitted to enter and remain with resident status. [More…]

• The Leader of the Government in the Senate, the Minister for Health Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has done his best to make what he could of a bad job. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health investigated the complaints of New South Wales country hospitals as exemplified by the plight of the Bourke District Hospital which contends that it is financially embarrassed by the slowness with which the Hospitals Contribution Fund processes benefit claims in comparison with other funds in New South Wales? [More…]

• Tn addressing a question to the Minister for Health I ask him to recall that he supported the suggestion that there was a danger to the health of the community in mercury poisoning. [More…]

• Will his Department carry out a survey to ascertain how much mercury is imported, who uses mercury in industrial processes and whether any of the mercury which is used escapes to the environment and so enters the food chains in a manner which leads to a danger to the health of the community as a whole? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As I mentioned yesterday, the National Health and Medical Research Council has already laid down guidelines for doctors engaged in medical research generally. [More…]

• I am pleased to add that it is a condition applied to all medical researchers awarded National Health and Medical Research Council grants that they undertake to observe all the Council’s guidelines on this matter. [More…]

• ls the Minister for Health aware that the Pharmacy Guild of Australia is organising a petition objecting to the 100 per cent increase in patient contributions for national health prescriptions because, as the Federal President of the Guild says, the scheme has been introduced prematurely and areas of anomaly and confusion exist? [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• It should be noted that institutions approved as hospitals for the purposes of the National Health Act are mainly intended to cater for short-term patients in the acute illness stage who require relatively frequent attention by medical practitioners. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The implementation or otherwise of the recommendation of the National Health and Medical Research Council on this subject is a matter for decision by the individual States. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (2.32) - in reply - I rise to close the cognate debate on these 2 motions. [More…]

• They included Bills relating to budgetary matters such as social services, repatriation, national service and national health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health had time to study an article in the Australian ‘Financial Review’ referring to the sterling work of the Royal Flying Doctor Service? [More…]

• Why has the Australian Country Party’s national secretariat sent a questionnaire to more than 50,000 members of the Country Party asking their opinions on topics from abortion, militant unionism and migration to the health of the coalition? [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to the recommendations of the South Australian branch of the Australian Medical Association concerning smoking and health, particularly the recommendation to abolish all forms of cigarette advertising and the recommendation to print health warnings on all cigarette packets? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health noticed the reports of the most recent public relations extravaganza performed by the Leader of the Opposition in Adelaide when he outlined the policy of the Australian Labor Party concerning national health? [More…]

• Can the Minister give an estimate of the approximate cost of these proposals, and state whether it is possible to provide free hospitalisation and a free dental scheme for school children and to establish one health commission to replace the existing health funds, at a cost per taxpayer of 1.3 per cent of taxable income? [More…]

• The report of the Opposition’s proposal in the health field certainly has received my attention, mainly on account of the very point raised by the honourable senator. [More…]

• The various proposals of the Opposition cover a wide range of other health matters and consequently involve considerable additional expenditure apart from the Si 68m per annum which I have mentioned already. [More…]

• For example, Senator Jessop has referred to the Opposition’s proposal in relation to dental health, as presented by Dr R. T. Gun. [More…]

• All in all the Opposition’s proposals in the health field involve costs which place them far beyond the bounds of practicability. [More…]

• My question to the Minister for Health follows from the question asked by Senator Jessop. [More…]

• In making an assessment of the figures just mentioned by the Minister did his Department take into consideration the saving in cost of administering the 114 medical and hospital insurance schemes which are now in existence by the establishment of one scheme administered by a national health insurance commission, which was recommended by the Health Insurance Committee of Inquiry, known as the ‘Nimmo Committee’, and which a former Minister for Health undertook to implement? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he is aware of a statement made by the Postmaster-General in another place on 6th October in which he said: [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the inadequate medical facilities available at Wave Hill and Delissaville Aboriginal welfare settlements in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• Will the Minister visit all Aboriginal welfare settlements in the Northern Territory at an early date to acquaint himself at first hand with existing health problems? [More…]

• Most settlements with nursing facilities in the Northern Territory are not within the administration of the Department of Health, but that of the Welfare Section of the Department of the Interior. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (3.53) - in reply - I do not walk away from what Senator Devitt has said. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the reports that the mercury level in canned tuna sold in Australia is 10 times the permissible level? [More…]

• Will he resist any attempt to increase the permissible level of mercury to allow such contaminated products to escape the health regulations? [More…]

• If there are health regulations, it is axiomatic that there would be no attempt to allow any escaping from the regulations unless it was proven and established, not on any capricious judgment of a Minister for [More…]

• Health or lay people- [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health but it could have Treasury implications as well. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• When will the Government implement the promises made by the former Prime Minister, Mr Gorton, which were contained in 2 successive election policy speeches, that aged persons who became chronically ill would be able to receive some benefits from health insurance organisations or medical benefit societies of which, in many cases, they had been members for most of their lives? [More…]

• I do not know whether I should direct my question to the Minister for Health or to the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry. [More…]

• I refer the Minister for Health to his answer to a question yesterday on the cost of the Australian Labor Party’s proposals on health. [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that in contrast to the positive proposals of the Australian Labor movement his government, despite 22 years in office, has not yet developed a comprehensive health scheme which embraces the dental health of all members of the Australian community, particularly the younger generation? [More…]

• We all know, particularly in terms of health insurance, that whether you are very healthy or very unhealthy certain things happen to your teeth at certain times of your life, and this is a fact of life. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has there been any noticeable increase in applications for health insurance from families on low incomes and eligible migrants since the investigations by the [More…]

• Department of Health on publicity proposals were initiated some 3 months ago? [More…]

• I direct the attention of the Minister for Health to a statement made this morning in Sydney by Mr W. Parr, lecturer in charge of courses for teachers of the deaf at the Sydney Technical College, in which he contrasted the overall subsidy planned for hearing aids provided in Scandinavia, Holland and the United Kingdom with the comparatively little or nothing that is provided in Australia. [More…]

• Why has the Australian Country Party’s national secretariat sent a questionnaire to more than 50,000 members asking their opinions on topics ranging from abortion, militant unionism and migration to the health of the coalition? [More…]

• This Government has been deprived of the revenues it would need to provide social services, education and health benefits, if it were so minded. [More…]

• -(New South Wales - Minister for Health) (10.18) - I thank the Senate for its general approach to the cognate debate on the Income Tax Bill 1971 and the Income Tax Assessment Bill (No. [More…]

• The area of commercial activity, and the freedom of the Commission to act in that area, are severely limited by the restriction to biologicals and the dependence upon revenue from products whose prices are fixed under the National Health Scheme. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) represents in the Senate the Treasurer (Mr Snedden). [More…]

• 1 ask the Minister for Health this question: Are oysters from the Georges River in Sydney brought to Canberra for consumption? [More…]

• Does the Department of Health carry out tests in this regard? [More…]

• What I referred to as a State matter is not the bringing of the oysters to Canberra but the question of the wholesomeness of the oysters from a health point of view. [More…]

• 1 repeat, however, that if oysters grown in Botany Bay or the Hawkesbury River or anywhere else in New South Wales are infected to the extent that they become dangerous to health that would be primarily a matter for the New South Wales Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, follows a question asked of him by Senator Willesee. [More…]

• Will he not only confer with the Minister for Health in New South Wales about the matter of the Georges River oysters, but also ask his Department to investigate the contamination of all rivers and esturaries in Australia and, where necessary, take any action which will protect the oyster market, the livelihood of the oyster growers and also the export value of the industry to Australia? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Was that company informed by the Department of Health that the former Minister for Health, acting upon the recommendation of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee, had approved the inclusion of the drug in the schedule of benefits as from 1st August? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the criticism voiced in the annual report of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories about the restrictions placed on its operations which are leading to rapidly declining profits? [More…]

• It seems strange that, in these years when, with the advance in medicine and the advance in many other respects, persons of advanced age are able to enjoy health and to exercise their mental and physical vigour more than those in other years were, we are seeking to impose limits that we did not impose before. [More…]

• It has been referred to in the second reading speech of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, relates to the report of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on mentally and physically, handicapped persons in Australia that was tabled in this chamber on 5th May of this year, which is over 6 months ago. [More…]

• It is equally true that a critical examination of the report is being made in the Department of Health insofar as its contents relate to the Department’s activities. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a recent newspaper report of a speech by the New South Wales Minister for Health in which the New South Wales Minister is reported to have criticised the level of Commonwealth capital expenditure on Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory hospitals compared with New South Wales capital expenditure on public hospitals. [More…]

• I think it was a report of a speech by the New South Wales Minister for Health at the opening of a hospital or a health centre atQueenscliffe. [More…]

• Having demonstrably, I hope, given the faulty basis on which the comparison of the New South Wales Minister for Health was made, I mention that it has been reported that the New South Wales Government proposes to incur - I have no doubt quite worthily - capital expenditure of approximately$86m on a single institution, namely, the proposed 1,100 bed [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of recent criticisms of the paucity of the financial provision made by the Federal Government towards the cost of the work of the National Heart Foundation on coronary heart disease? [More…]

• The functions ofthe National Health and Medical Research Council include the making of recommendations for Commonwealth expenditure on grants for medical research. [More…]

• The awareness in the National Health and Medical Research Councl of the needfor research in the cardio-vascular field is well illustrated by the fact that in 1971 alone it has recommended for that purpose grants totalling about$220,000. [More…]

• Apart from indirect assistance by way of taxation concessions for donations and by National Health and Medical Research Council grantsto individuals or to groups of researchers in the cardio-vascular field, the Government made a special direct grant of $50,000 to the National Heart Foundation in 1969. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of a snide practice employed by the National Employers’ Mutual General Insurance Association which covers a large segment of workers’ compensation insurance in the rubber industry in New South Wales, by which it seeks to pressure members of the Rubber Workers Union who are contributors to the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia to claim for hernia hospitalisation and similar industrial accidents from the Hospitals Contribution Fund and in effect to transfer the industrial insurance liability from the National Employers’ Mutual General Insurance Association to the entire Hospitals Contribution Fund structure? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that South Australian Youth Clubs Incorporated is the headquarters for 70 open youth clubs which operate in that State and cater for 12,000 young people? [More…]

• Will he give urgent consideration to providing additional finance, either through the National Fitness Council or in some other way, to assist not only this organisation which is in a desperate plight but also other similar institutions throughout Australia that are providing such worthwhile healthy facilities for the youth of Australia? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that tobacco companies are blatantly evading the voluntary code on cigarette advertising and that sponsored events by them such as the Craven filter champion kick test and the Wills Masters golf tournament are being used as a means of showing cigarette advertising on television on Sundays contrary to the code? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, of which Senator Buttfield is the chairman, has before it a reference dealing with all aspects of repatriation. [More…]

• For example, a report has been presented by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in relation to mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I remind the Minister for Health that the week before last I asked him whether he would give consideration to requesting hospital and medical contribution funds to accept aseligible dependants of contributors full time students under the age of 25 years, bearing in mind amendments recently made to the taxation law which extended allowable deductions to include full time students under that age. [More…]

• lt is true that on 9th November Senator Douglas McClelland asked me whether consideration would be given to extending the terms of membership of health insurance funds to include as dependants of contributors full time students up to the age of 25 years. [More…]

• On 10th November I advised the honourable senator and other honourable senators that already the age limit was 24 years and that the question of extending this limit would receive full consideration at the next meeting of the Commonwealth Health Insurance Council. [More…]

• action will be taken by my Depart ment to instruct all health insurance funds to take the necessary action to amend their rules accordingly so that full time students up to the age of 25 years will be in the dependant category. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the reported criticism of mass chest X-rays by Mr J. C. Villforth, Director of the United States Federal Bureau of Radiological Health. [More…]

• I ask: What research into the dangers of such X-rays has the Commonwealth Department of Health carried out? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In addition to expressing our disapproval of the Government’s involvement of young Australians in this war - kids who have been pulled out of their jobs against their will and sent to this horrible, filthy, dirty war - we have consistently deplored in this Parliament and elsewhere the paucity of repatriation payments made to young men, and in some cases to their dependants, who have been called upon to make the supreme sacrifice or who have been maimed, wounded or whose health has been impaired for the rest of their days because of the demands placed upon them by this conservative Government. [More…]

• The poverty line in the Government’s subsidised health services scheme is $42.50 a week. [More…]

• If any man is receiving a mere $42.50 a week he is considered to be on the poverty line and is entitled under this Government’s health legislation to receive completely subsidised medical services. [More…]

• But that is because instead of wanting to throw money away we advocate spending greater amounts of Government money on things such as health, education and, as we were advocating today, social services. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health any evidence that the increase in Commonwealth assistance to nursing homes for the aged has been of little help to aged persons as most nursing homes have adopted the policy of increasing their charges by an amount at least equal to the increase in the Commonwealth assistance? [More…]

• I will do so primarily through the State governments and the State health departments concerned, which have basic responsibilities in relation to nursing homes. [More…]

• Representations were made to me as the Minister for Health by not only Government supporters and people in the community but indeed by many members of the Parliament who sit on the opposite side of the chamber to myself and who were concerned about the claims which were being made to them that many nursing homes had either put up their fees or were in the process of doing so. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is planned to invite about 30 senior journalists from various sections of the media to attend the seminar along with representatives of Commonwealth and State authorities engaged in health education programmes concerned with drug abuse. [More…]

• The Department of Health is not directly involved in this way in drug detection. [More…]

• A list of the Commonwealth authorities the States may not tax was incorporated in Hansard by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) during his second reading speech. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of claims by the American consumer advocate Ralph Nader that the commonly used chemical hexachlorophene has caused brain damage in tests on rats? [More…]

• Will the Minister seek immediate advice from the Department of Health as to whether a parallel hazard may exist in Australia? [More…]

• Before calling on the Minister for Health to answer that question, I think I should say that it is a question of some dubiousness. [More…]

• When I do respond to that question it will be on the basis of advice I get from the experts in the Departmentof Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The word investigation’ seems to me to be dangerous because in response to a question some time ago I said I would inquire about something and I was horrified to read in one newspaper next day that the Minister for Health was going to have an inquiry - an expression which has an altogether different connotation. [More…]

• According to the Deputy DirectorGeneral of Health the next most dangerous drug of abuse is tobacco. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that the small amount of money made available by the Federal Government for medical research in this country leaves university research departments and teaching hospitals with a perpetual feeling of uncertainty about where their finances are coming from and that the heads of these departments have difficulty in recruiting and retaining talented senior staff? [More…]

• Indeed the National Health and Medical Research Council awards fellowships known as the C. J. Martin Travelling Fellowships specifically for overseas study.It is interesting to note that of the 40 such fellowships awarded to date only 4 of the research workers involved have not yet returned to Australia to continue their academic studies in Australia. [More…]

• Finally, I must stress that the National Health and Medical Research Council, through which Commonwealth expenditure on medical research is channelled, has always allocated the bulk of these funds to projects by individuals or groups of researchers rather than to projects of a capital expenditure nature. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that until the increase in New South Wales hospital fees last August the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia Ltd was refunding up to $4.20 on private outpatient theatre fees in respect of doctors using a theatre for a minor operation which could not be done in a surgery but which did not need inpatient admission, and that some refunds were made by the Medical Benefits Fund on this score between 1st August and 8th November? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that more than 70 per cent of general practitioner services at Mackay, more than 72 per cent of such services at Townsville, more than 81 per cent at Cairns and more than 60 per cent at Southport, are charged for at above the common fee rate? [More…]

• If so, what steps does the Minister propose to increase benefits for members of voluntary health insurance groups in those areas so that the common fee will have some realistic meaning for them? [More…]

• The common fee concept is an integral part of a health scheme which is incorporated by an Act of Parliament. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In fact, the purpose of the referral system by which a patient is referred by a general practitioner to a specialist is to preserve the situation of the general practitioner in any national health scheme. [More…]

• They are an essential pan of our health scheme. [More…]

• The Act which provides a national health scheme is so drafted, mid has been given approval by this Government, to protect general practitioners and ensure that they remain essential ib the health and welfare of the people of Australia. [More…]

• -I remember the honourable senator asking a question of the Minister for Health in this place about that matter andI was tempted to rise then but for the stricture you, Mr President, had placed on me not to volunteer information. [More…]

• I understood the honourable senator’s questions in the Estimates Committee, to the Minister for Health and to me today. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he is aware that the Queensland branch of the Manchester Unity Independent Order of Oddfellows Friendly Society has claimed that that lodge is now virtually a government department operating under a type of nationalised control and that the fund is now no longer voluntary in the true sense of the word. [More…]

• As these criticisms come from a prominent organisation closely associated with the present system of health insurance and as they strike at the very heart of the Government’s alleged philosophy behind its health insurance scheme, will the Minister explain why the Government has dropped the concept of voluntary insurance? [More…]

• asked the Minister or Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What action is being recommended to the appropriate authorities by the Department of Health? [More…]

• Will the Minister resist any attempt to increase the permissible level of mercury in foodstuffs, which would allow certain mercury contaminated products to evade the requirements of health regulations? [More…]

• My Department has ensured that the appro priate State authorities have been advised of the National Health and Medical Research Council’s recommendation to the effect that the permitted level of mercury in fish should be 0.5 parts per million. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What progress has been made by the National Health and Medical Research Council in its deliberations on poisons. [More…]

• and (3) The National Health and Medical Research Council, at its 47th Session in May 1959, recommended: [More…]

• Information received from the Tasmanian Department of Health Services indicates that the Bill giving effect to these recommendations may be introduced into the Tasmanian Parliament in the near future. [More…]

• In the Australian Capital Territory the existing legislation substantially gives effect to the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• At present the Government is being called upon to provide huge sums for defence, health and transport - you name it, more money is wanted for it. [More…]

• One should be able to bring in political questions - if honourable senators want a true expression of it - on matters of importance and matters of policy in relation to the Department of Health, the AttorneyGeneral’s Department Or any department. [More…]

• with 2 committees meeting at the one time, as no person can be in 2 places at once this means that if an honourable senator is interested in housing and in health and the Estimates Committees dealing with those matters are meeting at the same time, he is denied the opportunity of attending one of the committees. [More…]

• Many people write to honourable senators and ask questions about health, civil aviation, defence, the Air Force and other matters and we are required to ask questions at meetings of the Estimates Committees. [More…]

• I know that at present (here is certain heat within the community about the health aspects of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• But it was suggested also that a person who had wanted to attend the Committee’s inquiry into the estimates on housing and the Committee’s inquiry into the estimates on health could not do so. [More…]

• I have looked at the records of the committees and found that it was a bad example to choose because the day when the health estimates were being examined the Committee which was looking at housing was not sitting and there was undoubtedly ability for anyone who had an interest in those twin fields to attend the Committees. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• ls the Minister for Health aware that there is widespread dissatisfaction among general medical practitioners over the differential rebate system under the common fee concept which results in specialists receiving greater monetary reward than general practitioners for similar services, although patients pay the same amount in either case? [More…]

• In view of the rising need in the interests of public health for diminution of the discharge of carbon monoxide from motor vehicle exhausts, particularly in metropolitan areas where intense traffic density occurs, will he ask the Treasurer to give early consideration to exemption from sales tax of anti-pollution devices available for incorporation in motor vehicle engines? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• During the debate on the National Health Bill 1970 I suggested and requested that a White Paper be prepared relating to all the considerations governing the question of medical benefits in relation to the services of opthalmologists and optometrists, and .he prescribing and supply of spectacles. [More…]

• But I certainly shall give consideration to the points which were dealt with in the debate on the National Health Bill 1970. [More…]

• The major concern put to the Committee, in evidence, related to health hazards. [More…]

• The normal use of the waters in question being for pastoral and agricultural purposes and for recreational activities such as boating, fishing and swimming, the Committee considers that the marginal increase in the pollution load is not currently a health danger. [More…]

• When the estimates for the Commonwealth Department of Health were before the relevant Committee, the permanent head of that Department, Sir William Refshauge, came here with his advisory officers. [More…]

• I think that undoubtedly and unquestionably because of his presence here a much better understanding was created in the Parliament of the problems of the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• National Service and the Department of’ Health. [More…]

• I refer to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which has before it a petition concerning the transfer of social service entitlements and also the Standing Committee on Education, Science and the Arts which has had the question of education needs in Australia referred to it by way of 3 petitions. [More…]

• Assisted passages are refused for all sorts of reasons - character, health, occupational need and so on. [More…]

• The situation at the moment is that the Government is bringing in so many migrants that it cannot fina employment for them, it cannot provide education facilities for their children, it cannot provide housing for them and it cannot provide health and hospital services for them. [More…]

• You have all attempted to take an Enoch Powell attitude - an attitude for which even he was rebuked by his own Prime Minister, Edward Health - which has a fear complex as its basis. [More…]

• Migrants coming to Australia are frequently warned by the Government supported by the Minister and Senator Wood not to go to Queensland because of its hillbilly Government which makes no provision for jobs, housing, education or health services. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) - I ask leave to have incorporated in Hansard a statement made in the other place today by the Prime Minister (Mr McMahon) relating to a Commonwealth offer to the States of financial assistance for the relief of non-metropolitan unemployment. [More…]

• As the health of the rural industries concerned improves, this will contribute over time to alleviating non-metropolitan unemployment. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it not a true summation of the situation to say of the national health scheme in its present form that its provisions are now so detailed, complex and imprecise as to be almost incomprehensible to the Government, the Opposition, the medical profession and the long suffering Australian public? [More…]

• It is a scheme which provides insurance in respect of many aspects which have never before been included in a health proposition. [More…]

• What reply can the Minister for Health give to the strong criticism in the official journal of the General Practitioners Society of his indifference to the problems of general practitioners? [More…]

• Does the Minister agree with the President of the Society in his comment that general practitioners are frustrated and angry about the present health scheme? [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, relates to the system of referring patients from local general practitioners to medical specialists. [More…]

• Is it not therefore imperative to the future health and correct medical treatment of the patient that referrals be made to specialists by general practitioners so that ail relevant case history data is brought to the attention of such specialists in order that the patient is viewed and treated as a whole person and not as some impersonalised gall bladder or sinusitis? [More…]

• On 2 occasions in the last 2 weeks in reply to questions asked by honourable senators, I have made it abundantly clear categorically and without reservation that as far as I am concerned, as the Commonwealth Minister for Health, the general practiioner is the keystone of our system of medical care. [More…]

• I direct my question also to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In addition lo ihe amounts which it is intended to apply to housing, health, education, employment and vocational training and .similar purposes through the States grants, it is proposed to apply $3,850,000 to the continuation by the Department of Education and Science of the study and secondary grants schemes and $173,000 to smaller projects, particularly in health and education, through Commonwealth departments. [More…]

• Thus of the total budgetary provision in the Aboriginal Advancement Trust Account for 1971-72 of $l4.35m, no less than 13,223,000 will be devoted primarily to efforts in the fields of housing, health, education and employment and vocational training. [More…]

• Funds for health work provided through the Trust Account arc making possible an improvement of rural health services in areas of Aboriginal population. [More…]

• The development of programmes of health education and preventive medicine by professional and sub-professional people should progressively reduce the pressure on the curative services provided in hospitals in Ihe major centres. [More…]

• In the Northern Territory the Department of Health will, on the basis of funds provided from the Trust Account, establish mobile health facilities for the substantial Aboriginal communities in the Borroloola and Timber Creek areas: and. [More…]

• by agreement with the Western Australian authorities, will provide health and medical services for ihe Aboriginal community al the small mining camp at Wingellina in Central Australia. [More…]

• Notwithstanding past and present efforts the health status of Aborigines remains a cause for concern particularly in respect of infant mortality and malnutrition. [More…]

• The problems will not easily be overcome, for they require the improvement of living conditions and Ihe extension of medical and health knowledge and understanding amongst Aboriginal parents, including increased voluntary use of family planning techniques. [More…]

• There is a Clean Air Committee of the Department of Health. [More…]

• I think it was Mr Finch, who was Secretary for Health in an earlier United States Administration, who indicated very forcibly that a time will come when an industry virtually will have to be told to close down if it is an extreme polluter of the atmosphere. [More…]

• In addition, the National Health and Medical Research Council has established an Air Pollution Control Reference Sub-committee with terms of reference to inquire into and advice on ambient [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) and his Department have been giving consideration to other recommendations of the Senate Select Committee. [More…]

• But within all this there is continuous consultation with all the executive departments which have some responsibility for the care of lbs environment, including the Department of National Development, CSIRO and the Department of Health. [More…]

• Then we were informed that this method of procedure had been determined apparently at a secret meeting between the Leader of the Government in the Senate, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), and the Leader of the Opposition. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Nimmo report and the Senate select committee report on hospital and health costs each recommended that reserves of health insurance funds should be limited to 3 months contribution income? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health confer with his colleague, the Minister for Education and Science, to consider the desirability of establishing a faculty of general practice or family medicine in all medical schools with the aim of uplifting the standing of this form of medical practice and of halting the serious drift away from it? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister may recall that I asked as to the whereabouts of the document shortly after his appointment to the position of Minister for Health. [More…]

• The honourable senator is referring to a document that was handed to the former Minister for Health, and also to supplementary information given to me. [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Honourable sentors will be aware that these recent Press reports arose out of a letter to the Medical Journal of Australia from a Dr Nicholas Ribush, who is presently employed by the Queensland Department of Health. [More…]

• As far as this letter is concerned, I feel that I need do no more than refer to a statement made yesterday in the Queensland Parliament by the Queensland Minister for Health, Mr Tooth, and to a statement in yesterday’s ‘Canberra Times’ attributed to the Chairman of the Victorian Faculty of the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. [More…]

• As Commonwealth Minister for Health, I positively do not share the views of Dr Ribush and the Australian Labor Party member concerned. [More…]

• Furthermore, the New South Wales Minister for Health yesterday said in the State Parliament that he had no doubt of the highly dangerous effects of the use of marihuana, and he described as ‘regrettable’ the fact that persons such as members of Parliament should support its use. [More…]

• As I understand from evidence given to the Senate Select Committee on Water Pollution, there is a tripartite observation group consisting of the Atomic Energy Commission people, officers of the New South Wales Department of Health and, I think, officers of the New South Wales :Maritime Services Board keeping an eye on what is happening at Lucas Heights. [More…]

• With few exceptions the health facilities are understaffed. [More…]

• I believe that they come under the estimates of the Department of the Interior and not those of the Department of Health. [More…]

• One of the concerns of those who work in the hospitals on the mission stations in the Territory is that they do not get the grading that they would get if they were employed by the Department of Health. [More…]

• In regard to matters in the health area, the staffing is on the basis of consultation with the Department of Health and the Public Service Board. [More…]

• But the members of the staff are helped from lime to time by Department of Health sisters. [More…]

• The total expenditure under the health and health services programme which is designed to improve the facilities is $1,629,000. [More…]

• While the Department of Works may be responsible for the construction of the medical centres I shall refer to I think that the design of the facilities should be the responsibility of the Department of Health. [More…]

• Senator McLaren spoke about Department of Health matters in general as they affect the Department of the Interior. [More…]

• I know that the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare - on which I think Senator Fitzgerald served - accepted evidence from repatriation officials in relation to the Repatriation Department’s activities. [More…]

• I propose to direct a couple of small requests to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) who is now at the table. [More…]

• We must treat like with like, and if the head of the Department of Air or the Department of Health, for example, gets a salary in recognition of being a head of a department, no matter what his salary is. [More…]

• While lesser salaries are paid to the officers of the Parliament there is a degrading of the Parliament which reflects not only on our officials but also on every member of the Parliament, who is receiving his just deserts, because the Parliament is not considered to be as important as, say, the Department of Health or the Department of Air. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (10.29) - I wish to respond to the points raised by Senator Cavanagh. [More…]

• I wish to continue this debate because I gained no satisfaction from what the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) just told me. [More…]

• If we look in the Health Act we see the words: ‘If in the opinion of the Secretary of the Department’ or ‘If in the opinion of the Director-General of Health’. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (10.44) - I would not challenge the sincerity of Senator Cavanagh in the points that he has put forward. [More…]

• As an example, take the Department of Health which has an expenditure of some $475m; and it is only one of 27 departments. [More…]

• I am answerable now to the Parliament in regard to the procedures of the Department of Health. [More…]

• I make the point that the salary of SI 9.500 plus a $1,000 allowance is received by other First Division officers such as the Secretary to the Department of Air, the Comptroller-General of Customs and Excise, the Secretary to the Department of Health and so on and it is still about $2,000 less than the salary that Mr Odgers will now receive. [More…]

• I want to re-emphasise the area where the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) said that I was not so convincing as perhaps I was in another area. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (10.57) - Senator Georges was a member of Estimates Committee A. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Do such oysters contain bacteria which may cause typhoid or hepatitis due to sewage pollution of the GeorgesRiver, and does the Department of Health lest such oysters in this regard. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What consideration has been given by the Department of Health to the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare relevant to the problems of the physically and mentally handicapped. [More…]

• An inter-departmental committee has been formed to consider the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The Committee consists of representatives of- the Department of Health (which provides the Chairman); the Department of Social Services: the Department of Labour and National Service; the Repatriation Department; the Department of Education and Science; the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet; the Treasury; the Department of the Interior; and the Public Service Board. [More…]

• Although the second reading speech of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) on this Bill was very lengthy, I think I can summarise the purpose of this Bill by saying that it relates basically to the agreement which was reached this year at one of the very famous meetings about which we hear so much, namely, the meetings between the Prime Minister and the Premiers of the States. [More…]

• Senator Marriott, an Assistant Minister, has nothing to do with the Senate with the exception of playing understudy to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• If honourable senators consider the situation in Australia today, as evidenced by the second reading speech of the Minister for Health, they will see just how completely incongruous is the financial situation today in Australia. [More…]

• There does not appear to mc in this analysis to be anybody from the Department of Health in South Australia at the hearings before the Grants Commission. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that people who suffer from alopecia caused by certain medical conditions are unable to claim, as a tax deduction, the considerable expense incurred in the provision of a wig? [More…]

• I am sure that everybody in this place can spell and pronounce that name, particularly the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) and previous Ministers for Health. [More…]

• He was the judge who carried out the inquiry on behalf of the Department of Health and the Minister some time ago. [More…]

• I support the Bill because when I look at what has been done in the past 3 years particularly by the Federal Government I find that there has been a gradual increase in the amount of money allocated to the States to cover such important areas as housing, health, education, employment, social work and various other projects throughout Australia. [More…]

• There are many other problems associated with housing, health and education. [More…]

• Amongst them were medical experts from the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• The Commonwealth has the power under its health legislation to deal with drugs in its Territories. [More…]

• Breaches of the Customs laws governing prohibited imports could involve offences under the State Health Acts when narcotics or one of the drugs stated are involved. [More…]

• The Government shows no consideration for the health of the community. [More…]

• However, at the interstate conference of health organisations attended by the various government health directors, only the Australian Capital Territory and Queensland adopted the unanimous recommendation that these drugs should be obtainable only by prescription. [More…]

• I am condemning the consideration of commercial interests coming before the health and welfare of the community. [More…]

• In a Press statement released by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) on 21st November 1971, the Minister stated: . [More…]

• We should seek to deal with the drug problem not through a Customs Act but rather through a Health Act. [More…]

• These are certainly problems worthy of consideration, but they are health problems. [More…]

• The Government accepts the view of the World Health Organisation and the United Nations that this drug should be controlled. [More…]

• His concern for the drug problem and the health of the community is such that the catching of a plane is more important than the welfare of those who are dependent upon drugs today. [More…]

• But if action cannot be taken under this measure by dealing with a substance as a prohibited import, it can be taken under one of the health Acts or the health regulations, in which case a person could be charged with being in possession of a substance which is a narcotic or prohibited drug. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• and (2) The extent to which D. J. Moran Managements Pty Ltd operate or have interests in nursing homes approved under the National Health Act for the payment of Commonwealth nursing home benefit is not know within my Department. [More…]

• asked the Minis ter for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What is the membership and function of the Federal Health Insurance Council. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Health Insurance Council consists of - [More…]

• The Director-General of Health as Chairman. [More…]

• Six representatives of the State Associations of Registered Health Benefits Organisations. [More…]

• Five other persons appointed by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The members of the Council are appointed by, the Minister for Health and hold office at his pleasure. [More…]

• The functions of the Council, which is constituted under the National Health Act, are to advise the Minister for Health on matters relating to the Medical and Hospital Benefits schemes and to recommend means by which improvements in methods and standards may be effected. [More…]

• Will the Government give considerationto the financing of more home help facilities to assist mothers who, for health or other good reasons, need assistance to keep children in the home? [More…]

• I address a ques tion to the Leader of the Government in his capacity as Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the failure of general practitioners to observe the common fee is putting an undue burden on the sick and causing a further breakdown of the Government’s health scheme? [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, follows the one directed to him by Senator Murphy. [More…]

• Will the Minister give an undertaking that in any future such discussions he will insist, in view of the excessive reserves held by the health insurance companies, that there be no increases in contributions to the funds to offset the cost of any increase in health benefit refunds which might be being considered to meet the non-observance of the most common fee by general practitioners? [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Senate how much money the Federal Government has outlaid in advertising and explaining to the public the complex operation of the national health scheme and the means by which people with the greatest need, and to whom the scheme purports to be directed, can best avail themselves of the help that is available to them? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONI am not clear whether the honourable senator was referring to a particular Act or to the generality of the National Health Act. [More…]

• If he was referring to a particular Act and if he will let me know the Act to which he was referring, I will seek to get that information also in relation to expenditure in publicising the National Health Act or the Act that he had in mind. [More…]

• As we all know, there have been subsequent Acts which have a bearing on the whole question of national health. [More…]

• I wish to ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister inform me whether there is a limit to the accumulated revenue allowable to health funds registered under the National Health Act? [More…]

• The first part of the question asked by Senator Jessop is whether there is a limit on the accumulated revenue allowable to health funds. [More…]

• Under the National Health Act there are 2 categories of funds, namely, the restricted membership funds and what are known as the other funds. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that a survey conducted in 1971 into the physical fitness of State secondary school students revealed such a poor standard of fitness that the Department of Health withheld publication of the results? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health satisfied that all hospital medical superintendents are fully aware of Australia’s quarantine laws, mindful of the action of Dr J. [More…]

• I am not aware of whether all medical superintendents of all hospitals know the provisions of the National Health Act or, to narrow it down, the schedules to it. [More…]

• I feel bound to point out that from time to time during my reasonably short tenure as Minister for Health I have had brought to my attention cases where certain people have been led to believe that some of their ailments or treatment come within the schedule for fund purposes. [More…]

• The Minister said that the water supply to Wattie Creek would be connected in the interests of the health of the community as soon as funds became available. [More…]

• As Phyt option ora cinnamomi is a soil organism, it is unlikely that it can be controlled by any direct method of attack over extensive areas of forest, and the prevention of damage by this fungus will probably be a matter of preserving the general health of tree and other crops. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales Minister for Health) (10.40) - I do not want to say a great deal. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the 1969 Nimmo Committee on health insurance conducted a detailed investigation into this aspect? [More…]

• Secondly, the National Health and Medical Research Council, which has been established by the Commonwealth, has established an air pollution control reference sub-committee with the terms of reference to inquire into and advise on ambient air quality standards and emission standards for air pollutants. [More…]

• Tn addition to that activity, which is clearly with the co-operation of the States, the Minister for Health initiated action shortly after the report of the Committe had been presented and his action has been considered by representatives of other departments. [More…]

• 1 ask the Minister for Health: ls it a fact that action has been taken to arrange a seminar to discuss a recommendation made by the Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse concerning reporting in the news media in relation to drugs? [More…]

• 1 preface my question to the Minister for Health by reminding him that yesterday I asked him about the Government’s concern at the failure of an overwhelming number of general practitioners in New South Wales to observe the most common fee. [More…]

• T ask the Minister for Health whether it is a fact that there is a time lag of about 2 weeks between the subjection of a patient’s claim to a health insurance fund means test and the time when insurance is granted. [More…]

• Does the Minister acknowledge that this situation can lead to hidden costs which are quite considerable even in the case of those people protected by the subsidised health scheme? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen an article in the ‘Sydney Morning Herald’ of 21st February in which the Australian Labor Party shadow Minister for Health, Mr Hayden, criticises the Government’s health scheme and explains the Opposition’s alternative proposals? [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister for Health, is couched in similar terms to the question asked by Senator Guilfoyle. [More…]

• Will the Minister confirm or deny reports that the existing rates of marginal taxation relief on health insurance funds mean that the effective cost of subscribing to the present top scale hospital and medical benefits table at family rates, which amounts to nearly $120 a year, is only slightly more than $90 for the person earning $3,000 a year and, by contrast to show the total injustice, only about $52 for the person earning $12,000 a year? [More…]

• Again, something in relation to the health scheme has been taken out of context. [More…]

• lt is pretty easy to pick a section of the community in isolation and to build a story loaded with emotional implications around it in relation to variations in the taxation and health scales. [More…]

• Tn fairness, when I make my criticism I will do it under my own name, I will seek to have it published and I will do it in my position as Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health examined in recent times English newspapers carrying advertisements warning of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking? [More…]

• As it is not Government policy to warn the public of the dangers of cigarette smoking or to prohibit all advertising of cigarettes, will the Minister undertake to have his Government compel all cigarette manufacturers at least to add a warning note to all their advertisements to the effect that smoking may be injurious to health? [More…]

• I should imagine that excessive consumption of alcohol would be injurious to the health of people. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health, ls it a fact that complexity and confusion have arisen in the operation and use of the national health scheme because the Government has failed to supply free hospital services to needy people who almost inevitably turn to outpatients treatment rather than to private medical treatment? [More…]

• 1 desire to ask the Minister for Health a question arising out of a question he was asked on drug advertising. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health made any recommendations to the Government on this particular matter? [More…]

• I am not sure whether I am the person to whom this question should be directed appropriately or whether it should be directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will undertake to ascertain whether the Minister for the Environment, Aborigines and the Arts, whom 1 represent, or the Minister for Health is the appropriate Minister and I shall supply an answer to the honourable senator. [More…]

• Perhaps 1 might repeat the question for the benefit of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The question now directed to the Minister for Health is this: The Aborigines camped outside Parliament House have aired as one of their legitimate grievances the heavy death rate for Aboriginal infants. [More…]

• I ask a supplementary question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The State Department of Health arranged for the population to be immunised with ‘gammaglobulin’ and a thorough inspection made of all Public Health facilities and particularly to matters relating to critical aspects of personal hygiene. [More…]

• In carrying out this relief he may call upon all manner of organisations such as the Corps of Engineers, the Bureau of Public Roads, and the public health services. [More…]

• In the event of disaster, committees are established within the 13 Inspectorates by the senior police officer and planning is carried out in advance by these committees which consist of men from essential services such as works, health services, fire services and so on. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) may correct me if 1 am wrong, but as 1 understand the position he has said each time that it is understood that if an application is made in due course the Commonwealth will provide money on the basis of how much is provided by the State. [More…]

• Emergency Preparedness and the Office of Civil Defence in connection with hurricanes such as Camille involved everything from the debris clearance, emergency public health measures, treatment of the injured in emergency welfare services, through such complex situations as the provision of post disaster employment, the redevelopment of local businesses and industries, and provision of credit with respect to their immediate needs. [More…]

• Even the Commonwealth Department of Health can quickly call to meet its demand special services, for instance, in the field of drugs or medical aid. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (9.42) - by leave - It has always been my understanding that in terms of motions, the order of Government business was the prerogative of the Leader of the Government. [More…]

• On the reserves they are learning useful skills in a training scheme which pays them a training allowance and they are benefiting from a better diet, health services and education for their children. [More…]

• If a significant report were made in the field of health and welfare, that probably should be referred to the relevant committee if to do so would assist the Senate in its discussion of the matter. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to the anomalies and (he inequities in the health services of this country, particularly as they arise through the fact that contributions to health insurance funds are not set on a progressive scale which takes income into account but are set at a flat rate? [More…]

• The rates of contribution are set out in various Bills complementary to the National Health Bill. [More…]

• In directing my question to the Minister for Health T refer to the United States committee which recently reported on the drug marihuana. [More…]

• My question, addressed to the Minister for Health, relates to an article in a ‘Technical Information Bulletin’ of the Department of Health relating to cerebral atrophy in young cannabis smokers. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONIt is a ‘Technical Information Bulletin’ issued by the Department of Health and is dated February 1972. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health been advised that ‘Woroni’, a magazine published in the Australian Capital Territory, carries an advertisement for contraceptives? [More…]

• My question, which I direct to the Minister for Health, is further to the question asked by Senator Keeffe about the Pharmacy Ordinance of the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONThe World Health Organisation is an integral part of the United Nations. [More…]

• In May 1968 the World Health Organisation recognised the importance of family planning to some member nations and in the wider context of general health, lt carried a resolution on the subject, as the honourable senator has pointed out. [More…]

• It is also true that the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Australian body, at its 72nd session in May J971 re-affirmed its recommendation of the 68lh session that family planning facilities should be made readily available. [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Have plans for the formation of a national health insurance commission been abandoned, in view of a statement by the Minister on 8th September 1971 in which he intimated that the Government was reconsidering its promise to establish the commission. [More…]

• The Government does not intend to implement the recommendation of the Nimmo Committee that a national health insurance commission be established. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister take immediate action to have published a list of the tar and other chemical contents of cigarettes which are harmful to health? [More…]

• and (2) The Government’s present policy is directed mainly towards the education of young persons in the health hazards of smoking. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Department of Health been repeatedly advised by the National Health and Medical Research Council that measures should be taken to encourage the use of low-tar cigarettes as against high-tar cigarettes. [More…]

• Was the code announced by the former Minister for Health on 3rd May 1971. after discussions between Commonwealth and State health authorities, the Australian Broadcasting Control Board, broadcasting and television services and cigarette manufacturers. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has recommended that cigarette packets should bear labels indicating the tar and nicotine yield”, of the cigarettes. [More…]

• We are aware that the British Government is in dire straits wilh the expenses of its health scheme, as is the United States Administration. [More…]

• I would have expected that, if central hospital services complexes were of very great economy, they certainly would have been adopted in England, where health costs are so acute and where they would have been able to be put under very close study in comparison with the 2 central services complexes operating !n Scotland. [More…]

• By this means, Cockburn Sound’s ecological health is being watched carefully. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) said in his second reading speech that this Bill continues the Government’s policy of preventing local or overseas interest from acquiring large shareholdings in banks incorporated in Australia. [More…]

• I must say, to follow up that statement, that the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on which I am serving has treated the references to it in a non-party political way. [More…]

• That matter has been referred to the Health and Welfare Committee. [More…]

• The Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare inquired into the problem of the mentally and physically handicapped in this country. [More…]

• In March, at the age of 44, he was appointed Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has your attention been drawn to a circulated list of members of the McMahon Ministry which shows as Assistant Ministers 5 members of another place and one member of this place, namely, Senator Marriott, who is listed as being the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health and Leader of the Government in the Senate? [More…]

• to provide information that would form a basis for local action to mitigate the undesirable effects of ecological changes on human health, agricultural and pastoral production, and the environment generally, with particular reference to conservation and pollution. [More…]

• lt seems reasonable to predict that human health effects, with the relatively small populations likely to live in the area and the high standards of hygiene and health services to be expected, are not likely to be as serious as in more populous regions typical of the tropica. [More…]

• This is not to say that no human health problems will occur, and Professor Stanley and his associates have been carrying out surveillance of human health and other studies for a number of years and have the support of the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Research Grants Committee for continuing these studies. [More…]

• Indeed, an examination of the history of not only the dairying industry but also most other primary industries will reveal that the economic health of those industries 12 months ahead is unknown. [More…]

• I think it will be a very healthy time for the dairy farmers. [More…]

• It could bc said that the dairying industry is one of our primary industries which has no problems insofar as its economic health in the near future is concerned. [More…]

• It is interesting to note that the States will now have the right to place restrictions on the sale of a particular product which contains components which are decided by a State as not being in the good health of the community. [More…]

• But I think that it should be pointed out time and time again that no Australian products have such great health and food value for the Australian public as those produced by the dairying industry. [More…]

• Thai there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter - The prevailing provisions of facilities, accommodation, health and other services for aged persons; and [More…]

• In answer to a question 1 placed on notice since then, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has informed me that as a result of the presentation of that report a special committee of officers of the Department of Health, the Department of Social Services, the Department of Labour and National Service and the [More…]

• Minister for Health would be the first person to agree, if he were present in the chamber, that there is an insufficient number of these places. [More…]

• At the last meeting of the estimates committee which dealt with the estimates of the Commonwealth Department of Health I think the Minister said that the Commonwealth was considering engaging in the construction of homes for the aged. [More…]

• To indicate the paucity of the arrangements which exist for the elderly pioneers of this country one has to refer only to figures set out in the reports of the Commonwealth Department of Health and the Commonwealth Department of Social Services. [More…]

• In a submission to the Committee from the Victorian Council of Social Service and the Australian Association of Social Workers in January 1968 it was suggested that the present health scheme arrangements and social service arrangements are useless to the chronically ill of all ages. [More…]

• Guide to National Health Benefits 1966) extends only to medical, hospital and pharmaceutical treatment Though this could give the impression of the pensioner medical service protecting pensioners and their dependants against all needs, it does not extend to nursing home care for the chronically ill. [More…]

• It is inhumane and incredible that, although the Commonwealth fixes its own poverty line at about $45 a week insofar as the subsidy for the voluntary health insurance scheme is concerned it expects pensioners, particularly those who rely on their pensions, to eke out an existence on $ 1 7-odd a week. [More…]

• The Opposition believes that it is in the interests of not only the aged people in our community but indeed Australia itself, having regard to its reputation, that there should be a thorough inquiry into the provision of facilities and accommodation as well as health and other services for the aged persons in our community. [More…]

• The Opposition believes that the elderly people of Australia - the people who did so much in former years to make Australia what it is today and who have lived through 2 world wars and one depression - should be assisted as much as is humanly possible by government so that they can enjoy healthy, active and useful lives in the Australian community. [More…]

• It is for that reason that I have, on behalf of the Opposition, moved that this matter be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare for its consideration. [More…]

• The fundamental thing that divides the Opposition side of the chamber from this side is the difference of belief as between federalism and unification - whether or not central power can do things better in relation to education, health or anything else. [More…]

• Does anyone doubt that hospitals and health are important, that housing is important or that justice is important? [More…]

• Incidentally, if honourable senators opposite want me to pay a tribute to a living Labor man, I pay a tribute to Mr Sheahan, who in my judgment did a good job as Minister for Health in New South Wales. [More…]

• Returning to the concept of uniformity, let me refer to the health situation. [More…]

• The vested interests in the health field say that the present system is the best one. [More…]

• One of the reasons why we members of the Labor Parly are agitating for a more egalitarian health system is that we believe that geography should not be an impediment to receiving health services. [More…]

• The inference was that, whatever schemes we are suggesting in the fields of urban development, health and social services, there has to be some limitation on how far we can go. [More…]

• Forgetting about what the Labor Party wants to do, it amazes me that in 1971, with all the rich minerals that have come out of the ground particularly in Senator Withers’s State, we cannot get a health scheme which is at least equal to the health schemes in Britain, New Zealand or the Scandanavian countries. [More…]

• Tory governments have not interfered to any degree with the British health scheme. [More…]

• Honourable senators opposite might say that these men are getting 80 per cent back from the health fund. [More…]

• A lot of the health funds do not pay 80 per cent of the bill. [More…]

• British governments have dealt with the various drug companies which were overcharging under the national health scheme. [More…]

• Unfortunately this is the second occasion on which it has raised the question of fees in an absurd, irresponsible and preposterous manner without any due consideration for the people of Australia, and 1 point out here that I am not worried about the health scheme. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether the Australian Society for Medical Research has alleged that because of lack of funds at least 20 top medical research scientists have been forced to leave Australia during the last 3 years. [More…]

• Does he accept the Society’s contention that the real figure for grants handed out through the National Health and Medical Research Council is $2.25m? [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to a statement by the Secretary of the General Practitioners Society, Dr Arnold, that his Society has received legal advice that arbitration on general practitioner home visits and surgery consultations is not constitutional? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health currently investigating allegations of improper use of funds of subscribers to certain hospital benefits organisations? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: For how long does he intend tolerating the defiance of a minority of Sydney hospitals which reject the concept approved by the Commonwealth Department of Health and the major hospital insurance funds that in computing hospital costs the day of admission and that of discharge count as one day? [More…]

• All government hospitals in New South Wales are under the jurisdiction of the NSW Hospitals Commission which, in turn, is responsible to the State Minister for Health. [More…]

• If the honourable senator likes to send me particulars of the matter I will raise it with the NSW Minister for Health and get him to respond. [More…]

• When the Minister for Health makes a statement this day on arrangements for the appointment of an arbitrator to hear evidence in relation to the determination of a common fee for the medical profession, will he indicate whether it is the intention of the Government to instruct its officers to oppose any increase, just as it did when it opposed wage increases for workers during the 1972 national wage case? [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health recollect the Leader of the Opposition in the other place on 28th August 1969 pointing out that voluntary health insurance is cheaper for higher income groups than for low and moderate income groups? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health and it follows a question I posed on 23rd February to which I have had an answer.I now ask the Minister the following question: Would it he physically possible to treat the footwear of all persons entering Australia from known foot and mouth disease countries to prevent the possible spread of that, disease into this country? [More…]

• J now ask the Leader of the Government whether he will allow the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health who opened the seminar to make a statement to the Senate on how he defused certain things that happened there and why this was necessary, so that I may clarify in my own mind whether 1 am, in fact, an unwise person who opens his mouth and swallows everything he reads. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that he has indicated to representatives of the Pharmacy Guild of Australia that a survey of chemists’ earnings must be made before any review of fees for dispensing under the national health scheme will be made? [More…]

• Can the Minister indicate to the Parliament what other professions and/or institutions servicing the national health scheme have had similar surveys made of their earnings before their fees were fixed or increased? [More…]

• I hope the Minister for Health does not think that I am giving him a dose of medicine, butI have another question for him. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been directed to references in yesterday’s Melbourne Herald’ and today’s ‘Australian’ and Canberra Times’ to an intensive search being made across the United Kingdom for the balance of a batch of intravenous fluid - a 5 per cent dextrose solution - believed to be contaminated following the death of 5 people in a Plymouth hospital who were given this fluid as liquid food? [More…]

• Senaor McAuliffe does not knock the 47ic in each dollar of profit made that goes into social services, health, housing, roads and bridges. [More…]

• One of its recommendations - believe me, that committee was not loaded with trade unionists or members of the Australian Labor Party - drew a glaring contrast between the situation of a husband, his wife and 2 children in Western Europe and that of a similar group in Australia so far as health coverage was concerned. [More…]

• The crunch of the matter was that in Western Europe their payment under the national welfare scheme for health coverage was based on a percentage of what was earned. [More…]

• If we want the maximum coverage under our so-called national health system, a person receiving more than $150 a week and a person receiving only $75 a week both have to pay the same weekly premiums to a health insurance fund. [More…]

• However, I rise with the concurrence of my Leader, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• Yesterday Senator McLaren posed a question to the Minister for Health regarding the news media drug seminar that was held in Canberra on 26th and 27th February. [More…]

• The Department of Health took up this recommendation but it was found that the Newspaper Council could not speak for all the various news media in Australia and, after negotiations, at the suggestion of the news media the seminar was arranged. [More…]

• Some 78 people representing the media, health and medical authorities and drug educationists assembled in Canberra. [More…]

• I was greatly assisted by senior members of the Commonwealth Department of Health who were present. [More…]

• It is hoped that by responsible reporting and the fullest co-operation between the media, the drug educationalists and the Department of Health, the people of Australia will be given through the news media the best information possible in the fight against the drug menace in Australia. [More…]

• I would like to say a few words in connection with the explanation that the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health (Senator Marriott) has so kindly given to the Senate tonight. [More…]

• When I was not allowed to ask that question of Senator Marriott I directed my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I was told by the President that there was no-one in the chamber representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I close by saying again that 1 am grateful to Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson for allowing Senator Marriott as Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health to answer tonight part of the question I posed last Thursday and in the last 2 or 3 days. [More…]

• The suggestion that Senator Marriott was in some way gagged and the gag was removed is I think unfair not only to him but also to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• Yet, 23 years later, in our country of great national wealth and abundance it is to the nation’s shame that many thousands of our people live in a state of being inconsistent with the dignity and worth of the human person - languishing in poverty and want, neglect and the lack of proper care necessary for their health and well-being. [More…]

• Completely free health services to cover all needs of social service pensioners - hospitalisation, chronic and long-term illness, fractures, anaesthetics, specialist, pharmaceutical, hearing aids, dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody, surgical aids and any other appliances. [More…]

• Ten per cent of Commonwealth revenue to local government for general activities which now include social welfare, health, conservation and other community needs. [More…]

• Firstly, cables are to be sent - some have been sent already- to the World Health Organisation and to the health authorities in other countries, . [More…]

• Secondly, the health authorities in all Australian States have already been notified of the Committee’s report. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Actually, the first part of it relates to his portfolio of Health and the other part is asked of him in his capacity as Minister representing the Treasurer. [More…]

• I ask the Minister whether his Department will take steps to ensure that water supplies in the Northern Territory are not a danger to public health? [More…]

• Is’ the Minister for Health aware that Dr MacDonald said on television last night that he regarded the judge appointed to inquire into the common fee as being an adjudicator rather than an arbitrator? [More…]

• The Government and the Federal Council of the AMA agree that unless there is a significant observance of the most common fee the present voluntary health scheme cannot survive. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• By way of preface I refer to an answer which the Minister gave yesterday in which he contended that the question of hospitals in the respective States compiling their costing charges was a matter for the State Ministers for Health. [More…]

• I now ask the Minister: If on an earlier occasion he or his predecessor, Senator Greenwood, conferred with the various hospital fund administrators and the New South Wales Minister for Health before hospital fund charges were revised, does it not appear rather loose that certain hospitals in a State can ignore the agreement that was obviously made by the Commonwealth Minister for Health, the State Minister for Health and the funds concerned? [More…]

• However, I do not want to reflect upon my relations with State Ministers for Health and State governments in this field, because there is a high degree of co-operation. [More…]

• Indeed, last Thursday and Friday I attended a conference of Health Ministers where all political persuasions were represented. [More…]

• A high degree of cooperation is being given by Ministers for Health all over the Commonwealth. [More…]

• • I ask the Minister for Health: Do I take it that the arbitration . [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If somebody pinched my bike, I would say that that person was on the road to good health because he would be a cyclist in the future. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I make it abundantly clear that I completely confirmed the action taken by the Department of Health and agreed to it, not so much because of the strangles but because of the possibility that behind the complaint some other notifiable disease could be lurking. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health tell the Senate whether the placing of warning labels on packets containing proprietary headache powders or tablets has reduced consumption? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health noted that the Chairman of the Mental Health Authority in Victoria recently presented to the State Parliament the most scathing report in history pointing to the inadequacy of mental health services and the near bankruptcy which in the near future will cause many private institutions in this field to close their doors? [More…]

• Minister arrange at the earliest possible date for the Senate to debate the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the provision of suitable help for mentally handicapped persons - a report for which, we all know, Senator Fitzgerald deserves a lot of credit - because there is grave concern among interested bodies lest this important matter be forgotten? [More…]

• The matters which relate particularly to Victoria should be directed to the Victorian Minister for Health and I commend that course to the honourable senator if he wishes to do so. [More…]

• That argument is not necessarily peculiar to the health problem. [More…]

• The matter of the Commonwealth’s contributions in this field was raised at the recent Conference of Commonwealth and State Ministers for Health which I attended about a fortnight ago. [More…]

• I suggest that the question be referred to the State authorities through the Victorian Minister for Health. [More…]

• I preface my question, which I direct to the Minister for Health, by reminding the Minister that since 1961 chemists have received an increase of less than 6 per cent for dispensing prescriptions under the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. [More…]

• Will the Minister inform the Parliament why additional fees have not been granted and why chemists have not been granted the same percentage increase as doctors since the national health scheme was introduced? [More…]

• All I can say at this point in time is that, as Minister for Health, I am in communication with the Guild. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Minister for Health is supplementary to the one I asked a few moments ago. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Victorian Benefits Association committed contributors’ funds to the newly-formed Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia. [More…]

• Is this new association a political organisation whose aim is to wage a political campaign against the introduction of a governmentsponsored universal health scheme. [More…]

• What is the general position regarding the right of health funds to commit contributor’s funds to political organisations. [More…]

• I have been informed that this Association pays an annual subscription of $300 to the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia. [More…]

• The stated objects of the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia are: [More…]

• To provide an Association for the purpose of considering matters affecting organisations registered under Part VI of the National Health Act 1953-1970, as amended from time to time, with special reference to the interests of contributors. [More…]

• To foster and promote the principles, practice, development and philosophy of voluntary health insurance as the best method of financing the costs of health care. [More…]

• The economic health of all business undoubtedly will vary from year to year, certainly in line with the decisions of managements in relation to their companies’ affairs. [More…]

• Firstly, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), who is in charge of the debate on this Bill today, had either the fortune or misfortune to have to reply on at least three or four occasions to my demands in 1972 for this; allowance to be restored. [More…]

• The Minister for Health will recall the words Mead time’ being used in October of last year. [More…]

• country was dependent almost entirely on its agricultural production for its good economic health. [More…]

• We see a situation where today we are dependent upon primary production for about 50 to 55 per cent of our economic health. [More…]

• If a situation existed in Australia today as applied 15 or 20 years ago whereby we were so absolutely dependent on rural income for our economic health, we would have been in grave danger when we ran into the wool depression which has been with this country for the last 2 or 3 years. [More…]

• But the attitude that has been engendered to a great extent in manufacturing industries by the policies of the Government in a climate of economic good health in Australia by the protection that it has been able to achieve has enabled us to develop to an extent that surely today we are proud of the export rate that is being achieved by secondary industries. [More…]

• But something is creeping into the Tariff Board which I believe is having a direct influence on the economic health of the Australian community. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to reports that the Pharmacy Guild of Australia is to recommend to chemists a 33 per cent increase in profit mark-up on prescriptions not covered by the national health scheme? [More…]

• As I indicated here as late as yesterday, I am having discussions with the Pharmacy Guild in relation to matters linked with the National Health Act. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the fact that the National Health and Medical Research Council in October 1971 considered that there was inadequate evidence that group vaccination had had any significant influence on the incidence of influenza or in providing significant protection for the individual, and that the benefits of immunisation against influenza were doubtful, why has the Government not prevented its own organisation, the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, from advertising suggestively to the contrary? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen the criticism by the President of the National Heart Foundation of the Commonwealth Government’s reluctance to contribute to the Foundation’s research programme? [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• What were the assurances that the Senate was advised of on 7th May last year by the then Minister for Health, and given by the Australian Medical Association, that were to mean stability in the main general practitioner service fees for the next 2 years? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health studied the remarks made by Dr Malcolm Lane Brown, a clinical research fellow at the Harvard Medical School who is attending the International Cancer Conference, that many sun barrier lotions are completely useless? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If this is so, would not this be a positive inducement to over-hospitalisation in an effort to provide health insurance benefits for the patients? [More…]

• The implication has been made that health insurance benefits are not given in certain circumstances to people receiving treatment as outpatients. [More…]

• My question also is directed to the Minister for Health and it concerns something which I mentioned towards the end of last year. [More…]

• I have just been handed a document from the Department of Health referring to the National Health and Medical Research Council, which states: [More…]

• Grants from the Medical Research Endowment Fund totalling $2,2*1,883 were recommended for the support of 253 medical research projects ($1,946,681), SO Medical and Dental Postgraduate Research Scholarships ($297,925); and 5 Public Health Travelling Fellowships ($71,277). [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that a dependent student above 16 years of age in receipt of a Commonwealth Teachers Training Scholarship of approximately $16 a week is not covered by his parents’ health insurance at the family rate, nor is he covered by the subsidised health insurance scheme? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether the Government, as told to the Senate on 5th May last year, by a process of discussion and persuasion saved medical patients additional costs. [More…]

• Will the Government be represented before the inquiry on medical fees, which is not a judicial tribunal which prohibits discussion, and will the Government use discussion and persuasion to prevent increases in fees, thus reducing the amount saved by medical patients last year because of the action of the previous Minister for Health? [More…]

• In desperation I ask a further question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As Minister for Health, I would not be in a position to respond to item No. [More…]

• However, I should like to make a few remarks on the Bill, not for the purpose of canvassing other matters in regard toquotas and so on that were brought forward in the debate on the Bill in another place but to bring before the Senate points which were made by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) in his second reading speech. [More…]

• I have no doubt that there is an explanation why this rate has been stabilised at the same interest rate which was being paid 12 months ago and that the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), who in this chamber represents the Treasurer (Mr Snedden), will give us the answer when he responds to the second reading debate. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.22) - Paragraphs 13 and 14 of the report of the Standing Orders Committee read: [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.26) - . [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.30)- The Standing Orders Committee reported on this matter as follows: [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.37) - I hold the same view as Senator Cavanagh holds to a degree. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (5.40) - in regard to standing order 390, the Standing Orders Committee considered the suggestion that it was advantageous to have formulated a code of rules relating to the fundamental rights of witnesses. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - ‘Minister for Health) - by leave - I wonder whether I could intercede to suggest that we report progress so that we can clarify the situation in regard to the motion moved by Senator Cavanagh this afternoon. [More…]

• The Government sees the maintenance of a viable alternative system of schools, with assurances of continuing financial support, as essential to the health and vigour of Australian education generally. [More…]

• We are referring the question to the Privileges Committee because, on the argument presented by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) in introducing the motion for the adoption of this recommendation, the Standing Orders Committee considered that there was more legal talent among the membership of the Privileges Committee than there was among members of the Standing Orders Committee. [More…]

• I have been uneasy about evidence that has been presented to the Committee of which I am privileged to be a member, that is, the Legislative Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Perhaps their state of health would be better. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that an infant under 10 days of age who is an in-patient of a hospital at the same time as its mother is an in-patient attracts no health insurance benefit for this hospitalisation? [More…]

• The general purposes of the Bills were outlined in the Senate last night in the second reading speeches made by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• If what is claimed by the Minister for Health in his second reading speech on the independent schools Bill is true, that is, that it is impossible to assess the needs, one can only wonder how on earth an assessment was made to arrive at the amount of $6.66m which is to be allocated under the capital assis’ance Bill because the Minister for Health claimed in that respect that there was an assessment of needs. [More…]

• One can search the Bills and one can search the second reading speeches of the Minister for Health on the Bills to determine how these amounts were arrived at, but I challenge anyone to say how they were arrived at. [More…]

• So, I say to you, Mr President, that education stands with health, help for the aged, and welfare in a similar principle; it is a principle that I completely uphold. [More…]

• I wish to underline the value of the per capita grant which is referred to in the Bill and in the second reading speech of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) suggested that in some way expenditure of finance is involved in this motion. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It refers to the report from the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia. [More…]

• However, I feel sure that he is well aware of the representations that are made from time to time to both the Minister lor Health and the Minister for Customs and Excise in order that Australia may bs kept free of diseases. [More…]

• In view of the appointment of Mr Justice Kerr as Chief Justice of New South Wales, will the Minister for Health advise whether there will be lack of continuity in the New [More…]

• I, as Minister for Health, was involved at short notice and had to do certain things. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that at least one nursing home in Brisbane requires inmates who are living permanently in the home and who are temporarily transferred to hospital for treatment to pay $3.50 a day in addition to the regular weekly payment for each day that they are hospitalised? [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to an article which appeared in the ‘Sydney Morning Herald’ last Friday relating to the expressed intention of at least 2 Canadian artificial breeding centres to export cattle semen to Australia by March 1973 following the relaxation in mid February of the embargo on such imports? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health about the horses that were put into quarantine just west of Sydney. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to a report that, of 30 railway track maintenance workers in Sweden using chemical defoliants to clear vegetation from rail tracks, 5 have died - 4 of them from cancer - and a sixth is in a critical cancer condition? [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Health, upon* notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What progress has been made by the interdepartmental committee that has been formed to consider the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in its Report on Mentally and Physically Handicapped Persons in Australia. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Was the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health correctly reported in ‘The Courier’ of 2nd March 1972 as suggesting that the reporting of court cases concerning drugs and drug thefts should be restricted? [More…]

• If so, was he stating Government policy in his capacity as Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health? [More…]

• At the Seminar on ‘Drugs and the Mass Media’ conducted by the Department of Health, Senator Marriott referred to the fact that the Senate Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse had suggested consideration of the provisions of the New Zealand Narcotics Act of 1970. [More…]

• Citizens of Commonwealth countries including citizens of India who are of European descent require no prior authority to proceed to Australia and are admissible on arrival provided they appear to be of sound health, of good character and are unlikely to become a charge on State funds. [More…]

• Yet, 23 years later, in our country of great national wealth and abundance it is to the nation’s shame that many thousands of our people live in a state of being inconsistent with the dignity and worth of the human person - languishing in poverty and want, neglect and the lack of proper care necessary for their health and well-being. [More…]

• Completely free health services to cover all needs of social service pensioners - hospitalisation, chronic and long-term illness, fractures, anaesthetics, specialist, pharmaceutical, hearing aids, dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody, surgical aids and any other appliances. [More…]

• Ten per cent of Commonwealth revenue to local government for general activities which now include social welfare, health conservation and other community needs. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• By way of brief preface, I state that on 2nd December 1971 in answer to a question of mine he said that he would give consideration to the points raise.d in the debate on the National Health Bill in 1970 relating to medical benefits for the services of ophthalmologists and optometrists and the prescribing and supply of spectacles. [More…]

• As to whether the Minister will take any steps in this sphere to make available physical education programmes, I remind the honourable senator that, a few weeks ago, I think he asked a similar question of my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to an article appearing in the ‘Age’ of 5 th April 1972 directed to the Federal Council for the Advancement of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders which states that venereal disease is widespread among Aborigines of the Northern Territory? [More…]

• In addition, direct reporting from laboratories to the Department of Health of all positive tests is now required. [More…]

• In the field of health education a specialist has been appointed whose duties include the exploration of ways in which the Aboriginal’s knowledge of the dangers of venereal disease can be increased. [More…]

• Health education pamphlets are issued in several Aboriginal languages and free treatment is available. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The responsibility for restricting the use of hexachlorophene is vested mainly in the various State health departments by the inclusion of hexachlorophene in the appropriate poisons schedules of the States. [More…]

• Accordingly, the Poisons Schedules SubCommittee of the National Health and Medical Research Council is to consider the Committee’s recommendations. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health noted the action of the New Zealand Agricultural Chemicals Board which has imposed restrictions on the weed killer 2, 4, S-T because it has been associated with deformities in new born babies? [More…]

• As I understand the situation reference was made to a statement by the National Health and Medical Research Council in April 1970. [More…]

• Insofar as the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory are concerned the authorities responsible for the control of catchment areas in respect of public water supplies have been informed of the statement by the National Health and Medical Research Council with particular reference to the advice on water contamination. [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health accept that there has been an increasing incidence in the number of cases of bends and other medical problems frequently leading to death which have resulted from the growing practice of deep underwater diving with the use of currently available equipment? [More…]

• Insofar as the Department of Health is concerned, I would need to be briefed about the matter. [More…]

• He must meet the necessary health and physical fitness standards as determined by the Commissioner and be a fit and proper person to be an officer. [More…]

• I rose tonight to bring a matter to the notice of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• Poverty knows no colour bar and there are, no doubt, many non-Aborigines who are in need of financial assistance for housing, education and health services as are the vast majority of Aborigines. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen allegations by Father David Robarts, former hospital advisory board chairman, that senior Department of Health officials sitting on the Northern Territory health inquiry in Alice Springs were intimidating witnesses? [More…]

• In one paper there is a most disgraceful reference, if I may say so, which says that Department of Health officials are like the Mafia. [More…]

• I should add that a statement was made on 7th April this year by the Commonwealth Director of Health at Darwin. [More…]

• To suggest that there has been intimidation of witnesses or to suggest, as one newspaper did, that health officials were like the Mafia, is a reflection on the board of inquiry. [More…]

• I should like to make it abundantly clear also that the article in the Press this morning mentioned a complaint against the Department of Health because it had not notified people in the Alice Springs area about the inquiry. [More…]

• The Department of Health is not the convenor of the inquiry; it is an inquiry which is being conducted at the instigation of the Legislative Council of the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The Department of Health has concurred in the inquiry being held and, of course, has given its support. [More…]

• The report mentions also that he blamed the Darwin senior health officials who had 3 or 4 weeks notice of the inquiry and who should have circulated the hearing dates. [More…]

• I repeat that the Health Department was not the instigator of this inquiry. [More…]

• r-I ask the Minister for Health: Has the survey by his Department at Wollongong of the overall effectiveness of the subsidised medical service yet been completed? [More…]

• If so, is the Minister able to provide the Senate with figures showing the number of people who are receiving subsidised health service membership compared with the numbers at Wollongong who are eligible for such assistance but have not availed themselves of it? [More…]

• I formally ask the Minister for Health the question I directed to him previously about the effectiveness of the subsidised medical service investigation at Wollongong. [More…]

• Such persons included social workers, employers, doctors, chemists, health fund officials, hospital administrators and members of migrant bodies. [More…]

• The purpose of the campaign is to guage the effects of intensive publicity on the level of participation in the subsidised health benefits plan in a particular area with a view to the introduction of similar measures in other parts of Australia. [More…]

• My Department, mindful of the problems migrants are having in understanding the subsidised health benefits plan, is currently arranging the production of explanatory pamphlets in 10 different languages. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health any information on a visi.1 here by Dr Tatsuzo Kasugai of Japan during which he demonstrated an instrument - I understand it is known as the fibre-optic gastroscope - which has revolutionised the early detection of cancer and other stomach complaints? [More…]

• The Minister for Health will recall that during last session I asked him a question concerning the establishment of a Chair of Geriatrics at an Australian university. [More…]

• In presenting this report, I believe that as Chairman of the Committee I should mention some of the important factors that were basic to the Committee’s deliberations on the 2 petitions seeking co-operation and financial assistance for crime prevention which were referred originally to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, and were later transferred to the Standing Committee on Social Environment. [More…]

• We have pointed out in our report that the text of the petitions had already been referred by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare to appropriate Commonwealth Ministers including the Prime Minister (Mr McMahon) for comment. [More…]

• British subjects of European descent do not require visas to travel to Australia and on arrival are permitted entry without restriction if in sound health and not adversely known. [More…]

• British subjects of European descent do not require visas to travel to Australia and on arrival are permitted entry without restriction if in sound health and not adversely known. [More…]

• The Senate Standing Committee on Social Environment had not been established when the petitions were presented and they were referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, from which committee they came to the Senate Standing Committee on Social Environment. [More…]

• In his second., reading speech the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) said that the . [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen the reported findings of the General Accounting Office in the United States of America that the Division of Biologic Standards in that country permitted 32 substances, including some influenza vaccines, to be marketed although they were virtually useless and some may have been actually dangerous? [More…]

• Where vaccines, whether imported or manufactured in Australia, are supplied under the national health scheme a regular sampling and testing programme is carried out. [More…]

• The same conditions apply to other biological products, such as antibiotics and insulin, when supplied under the national health scheme. [More…]

• carried out in collaboration with State health authorities under relevant State legislation. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health heard reports of the appearance last night of the Australian Labor Party shadow Minister for Health, Mr Hayden, on the television programme ‘Monday Conference’? [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether Mr Hayden’s allegations that the Government estimates of the ALP health proposals are inflated and that the Government costing of the existing health scheme reflects a low estimate are correct? [More…]

• So far as it is possible to be certain of what the Labor Party’s health policy is, I suggest that on television last night Mr Hayden made further promises, even though they were only tentative promises in prospect of the Labor Party forming a government, that would add up to a considerable additional amount, almost equal to the sum of $168m to which I referred earlier. [More…]

• He talked also about day hospitals, community health centres and paramedical services, all of which have yet to be costed. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a report in the ‘Australian’ of 15th April with regard to the Australian Optometrical Association? [More…]

• This report states that there is discrimination against optometrists by health insurance funds. [More…]

• I ask the Minister to advise whether the provisions of the National Health Act do discriminate against allied professions such as optometry. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health made application to the Australian Broadcasting Commission to appear on a programme such as ‘Monday Conference’ in order that he may have an opportunity to refute publicly the claims of Mr Hayden and to submit himself, as Mr Hayden submitted himself, to crossexamination on the subject of national health by experts on the subject? [More…]

• My question arises from your letter to me dated 28th March which in part informed me that the Department of Health aerial medical service in the Northern Territory could be called upon to evacuate patients between Katherine and Darwin, if necessary. [More…]

• That is to say, the Council asserted that iodine 131 would not endanger health, provided the dose accumulated by children over a period of a year in consuming milk did not exceed 840 millirad. [More…]

• These doses are very small when compared to the National Radiation Advisory Committee guide level of 840 millirad, which, for a year of continuous exposure, would not endanger the health of the population. [More…]

• The levels of nuclear fallout in Australia - both old and new - are very low indeed and do not constitute a hazard to health. [More…]

• The International Commission on Radiological Protection has undertaken detailed study and has adopted a level of concentration of plutonium 238 in the environment to which the general population could be exposed continuously without significantly endangering its health. [More…]

• The current concentrations of plutonium 238 in the Australian environment, which are generally representative of the southern hemisphere are between one ten thousandth and one thousandth of the International Commission on Radiological Protection levels and can in no way be considered a hazard to health. [More…]

• I would welcome the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) informing the Senate as to whether in fact he will be obliged to comply with the existing section. [More…]

• 1 was interested in the introductory remarks of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) when he said: [More…]

• The previous, speaker, Senator Lillico, quoted the second reading speech of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), which told us that the purpose of the Bill was to take section 28 of the Conciliation and Arbitration Act and apply it to public servants, and that this had become necessary as the wave of industrial unrest has spread throughout the Public Service in recent years. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), in his second reading speech, said: [More…]

• He had a wife who was not in the best of health. [More…]

• Nol so long ago a man who cannot drive was put on to relieve the attendant - a man up in years who is not in good health. [More…]

• In Western Europe or even Eastern Europe, we find that in many ways the fringe benefits for health coverage in those countries means that there is not the erosion of wages that occurs in Australia today. [More…]

• I repeat that the other causes of inflation of wages include insufficient national health coverage. [More…]

• They have instituted these fringe benefits in relation to health coverage. [More…]

• At that time I was quite worried how his health would be from that day on. [More…]

• She is very active and has kept members of the Executive informed of Charles Lamp’s health over the past few months. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health read in today’s Press that an eminent scientist has stated that cigarette smoking as practised in Australia is responsible for between 95 and 98 per cent of primary lung cancer? [More…]

• Without necessarily agreeing with the totality of the judgment made, I should say that this is a world health problem. [More…]

• I believe it is accepted the world over, by the World Health Organisation and by people in the hierarchy of medicine, that there is a distinct causal link between lung cancer and cigarette smoking. [More…]

• As honourable senators know, certain States of the Commonwealth have passed legislation to require health warning labels on cigarette packets. [More…]

• J would like to ask the Minister for Health a question concerning children at risk in poisoning cases, is he aware that children between the age of 1 and 5 years are those most at risk from accidental poisoning? [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Parliament of the names and qualifications of the current members of the Australian Drug Evaluation Commitee? [More…]

• If one wished to be faced with problems about spelling one might become the Minister for Health, who is faced with many hundreds of different biological and chemical terms. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it correct, as reported, that the name of a drug which may be linked with deformities in babies is to be withheld by the Commonwealth Department of Health? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports in the United States of America was reconstituted late in 1970 to include members with a professional competency in physical fitness? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - ‘Minister for Health) (10.29) - in reply - The situation is that when the Senate introduced these committees we said that we would not in any way cut across the assembling of the Senate, question time or the process of presenting documents. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) in his second reading speech said that the purpose of the Bill is to make provisions in a similar manner to the provisions contained in section 28 of the Conciliation and Arbitration Act for the Public Service arbitration tribunal to deal with what are termed ‘industrial situations’. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) whether he will take appropriate steps to have an immediate inspection carried out at the particular hotel. [More…]

• I have no doubt that people in the Commonwealth Department of Health are highly qualified to carry out an analysis of it with a minimum of delay. [More…]

• In directing my question to the Minister for Health I draw his attention to a statement made by United States sources that the radiation risk from mobile chest X-ray units is causing growing concern in the United States. [More…]

• The American College of Radiology has joined other health agencies calling for an end to the use of these units. [More…]

• I would like to continue my series of questions directed to the Minister for Health dealing with safety containers. [More…]

• Secondly, does not the Department of Health employ a permanent head on a salary of $22,000 a year who should be able to think in 4 years of some solution to to this problem? [More…]

• Is there any reason why the problem cannot be solved tomorrow by the Minister for Health by altering the regulation under the National Health Act and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Act to make it compulsory for all tablets to be dispensed in safety containers? [More…]

• What the honourable senator asked me yesterday was, in fact, based on something he read from a Department of Health journal. [More…]

• I direct attention to Orders of the Day 16, Health and Welfare Committee - Report on Mentally and Physically Handicapped Persons; 17, Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse - Select Committee - Report; 33, Off-shore Petroleum Resources - Select Committee - Report; and 39, Health and Welfare Committee - Proposed Reference of Matter. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Government in the general election of 1969 and the Senate election of 1970 said that it would negotiate with the health insurance funds regarding the payment of increased benefits for nursing home patients who have been regular contributors to health insurance funds. [More…]

• (The document read as follows): On 18th April 1972 in reply to a question from Senator Guilfoyle, concerning the optometrical services and the provisions of the National Health Act, I undertook to provide additional information on this subject. [More…]

• Section 4(4) of the National Health Act specifically precludes the payment of Commonwealth benefit for a professional attendance at which an examination of the patient’s eyes is made in consequence of which spectacle lenses are prescribed. [More…]

• This problem was considered by the Commonwealth Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance which acknowledged that special problems arise under the medical benefits scheme because spectacle lenses are prescribed by both ophthalmologists and optometrists. [More…]

• While the Committee considered the relevant provision in the National Health Act to be unsatisfactory in that it penalised patients of ophthalmologists as compared with the patients of other medical practitioners, it was unable to suggest a more satisfactory means of achieving the result sought. [More…]

• Honourable senators may recall that when the National Health Bill was debated in the Senate in June 1970 several amendments were proposed. [More…]

• One amendment proposed a change to section 4(4) of the National Health Act to remove the restriction against the payment of benefits where an examination of a patient’s eyes by a medical practitioner resulted in the prescription of spectacle lenses. [More…]

• Dr Forbes, then Minister for Health, indicated that the Government was not prepared to accept the 2 amendments. [More…]

• These measures which were incor porated in the 1970 amendment to the National Health Act, removed the necessity for patients of optometrists to seek referral to an ophthalmologist through a general practitioner in order to qualify for medical benefits at the higher specialist referred rate. [More…]

• In view of the fact that the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) did not give a satisfactory reply when closing the second reading debate, I think we need to consider whether we should accept a clause which permits the Bill to come into operation at all. [More…]

• I had hoped that we would have raised this very real problem of the absence of reply by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), to the questions raised by various speakers from this side of the chamber. [More…]

• Tn short, as the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) stated in his second reading speech: [More…]

• If the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) had heard my second reading speech he would know that, to my mind, the important difference between this definition and the definition of ‘industrial dispute’ in the Conciliation and Arbitration Act is that in the Conciliation and Arbitration Act an industrial dispute must be a dispute relating to an industrial matter. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (12.39) - The view of my advisers is that the Public Service Arbitration Act is the only means by which industrial disputes in the Public Service can be dealt with, and the Conciliation and Arbitration Act does not apply because of the existence of a special Act dealing with public servants. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (12.44) - Perhaps I could clear up this matter before the suspension of the sitting. [More…]

• The second reading speech of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) indicates that this affects only officers or employees of Commonwealth departments or instrumentalities. [More…]

• I think it may have been raised when the Minister for Health Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, was present. [More…]

• Prior to the suspension of the sitting I asked the Minister for Health whether, the Minister for Labour and National Service having advised the Arbitrator of an industrial situation, some employees in those circumstances might be stood down. [More…]

• 1 ask the Minister for Health another question in my continuing series of questions about the accidental poisoning of children due to the use of unsafe containers for tablets. [More…]

• I was not Minister for Health in late 1970 but I understand that through the agencies of the National Health and Medical Research Council a special communication was sent to all pharmacists commending to them certain action in relation to this risk and in relation to the use of safety containers. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health say how long it is since the Commonwealth Department of Health carried out a survey into the nutritional needs of the people of this country? [More…]

• Has the Commonwealth Department of Health ever investigated whether people on low incomes are financially capable of buying the food they need, from a health point of view? [More…]

• As the honourable senator knows, the time that I have held the portfolio of Minister for Health would not allow me off the cuff to give the history of investigations which may or may not have taken place in the Department of Health in relation to the overall question of the nutritional standards of some 13 million people in the community. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to the Minister’s announcement reported in Monday’s newspapers that the Federal Government has decided to require the inclusion of a health warning in all cigarette advertising on radio and television and that it will finance a national education programme against smoking, directed particularly at young people. [More…]

• The whole statement was in regard to the implications of the hazards to health of smoking and it must be read in that context. [More…]

• The Press statement indicated, first, the Government’s intention ‘to implement a national health education programme directed towards young people’. [More…]

• The second point made in the statement was that the Commonwealth would ‘seek uniform State and Commonwealth action on health labelling of cigarette packages’. [More…]

• The third point was ‘to require all cigarette advertising on radio and television to include a health warning’. [More…]

• It is now my responsibility, as Minister for Health, to implement, without undue delay, the principles that the Government has adopted. [More…]

• 1 am happy to be able to say - I have issued a further Press statement indicating this - that there is to be a meeting of Ministers for Health in Sydney next Tuesday al which we will be discussing in particular at least the second point of this programme relating to the uniform labelling of cigarettes with a health warning. [More…]

• I also will be giving the States an indication of the health education programme directed to the young and I will be seeking the cooperation of the States in relation to this matter. [More…]

• I refer to health warnings in radio and television advertising. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether he is aware that the Director of Health in the Northern Territory recently gave evidence before the Senate Standing Committee on Social Environment to the effect that the situation in relation to Aboriginal health in the Northern Territory was not improving. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the inability of the States to reach agreement on the health dangers of cigarette smoking, will the Minister consult with his Cabinet colleagues with a view to investigating the possibility of introducing Commonwealth laws banning all advertising associated with cigarettes and other tobacco products? [More…]

• Alternatively, are not such questions referred to the Department of Health for appropriate processing? [More…]

• My statement dealt with the labelling of cigarette packages with a health warning. [More…]

• I have indicated that we propose to intercede and use our power to insist upon a health warning. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is an article headed ‘Wined, Dined to What Purpose’, published in The Courier of 2nd March 1972 reporting that last weekend the Department of Health arranged for 60 journalists, doctors and health officers to fly to Canberra, correct; if so, (a) were these visitors provided with transport from the airport in Commonwealth cars, over night accommodation, meals and drinks, (b) was the estimated cost $10,000, and (c) did the Seminar, as also reported in The Courier, develop into a verbal conflict between public servants and journalists. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has this been done to keep a large number of items on the National Health Prescribed Lists while these items are actually priced by the manufacturer at less than$1. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (12.15) in reply - Yes. [More…]

• For example, research of high scientific merit is supported financially through the Australian Research Grants Committee; industrial research and innovation are assisted through the Industrial Research and Development Grants Board, and scientific work in the fields of medicine and health services is supported through the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Nor is it intended that the Committee’s activities extend into fields of medical research which are the responsibility of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.20) - I will be happy to withdraw my motion. [More…]

• Yet, 23 years later, in our country of great national wealth and abundance it is to the nation’s shame that many thousands of our people live in a state of being inconsistent with the dignity and worth of the human person - languishing in poverty and want, neglect and the lack of proper care necessary for their health and well-being. [More…]

• Completely free health services to cover all needs of social service pensioners - hospitalisation, chronic and long-term illness, fractures, anaesthetics, specialist, pharmaceutical, hearing aids, dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody, surgical aids and any other appliances. [More…]

• Ten per cent of Commonwealth revenue to local government for general activities which now include social welfare, health, conservation and other community needs. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health enlighten Australian dog owners on the policy to be followed by his [More…]

• The return of the dog will be contingent on the availability of adequate health and other certification. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (10.8) - in reply - This is a difficult area; I do not gainsay that. [More…]

• That, statement was made by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) in his second reading speech. [More…]

• However, the Queensland Council of National Health Benefit Organizations at a recent meeting recommended to its member organisations that they should consider the introduction of an ancillary fund benefit of $10.00 for a theatre fee incurred by an outpatient for treatment received at an approved hospital. [More…]

• I am not aware that disagreement exists between the States concerning health dangers associated with cigarette smoking. [More…]

• 1 understand that State Health Ministers have repeatedly acknowledged authoritative medical evidence linking smoking with many diseases. [More…]

• There has been a number of discussions on this subject at Conferences of Commonwealth and State Health Ministers over the last decade. [More…]

• On 23rd April 1972 in a Press statement on the health hazards of cigarette smoking I announced decisions taken by the Government to combat this problem. [More…]

• The Government has decided to implement a national health education programme directed towards young people and to seek uniform State and Commonwealth action on the health labelling of cigarette packages. [More…]

• The Government will also require that all cigarette advertising on radio and television include a health warning. [More…]

• The Government will make amounts of up to $500,000 available for each of the next 3 years for a national health education programme. [More…]

• The whole purpose of the presentation of petitions appears to me to -be completely futile unless they are referred for investigation to, say, the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare if they involve social service matters or to another standing committee if they involve other matters. [More…]

• Yet, 23 years later, in our country of great national wealth and abundance it is to the nation’s shame that many thousands of our people live in a slate of being inconsistent with the dignity and worth of the human person - languishing in poverty and want, neglect and the lack of proper care necessary for their health and well-being. [More…]

• Completely free health services to cover all needs of social service pensioners - hospitalisation, chronic and long-term illness, fractures, anaesthetics, specialist, pharmaceutical, hearing aids, dental, optical, physiotherapy, chiropody surgical aids and any other appliances. [More…]

• 10% of Commonwealth revenue to local government for general activities which now include social welfare, health, conservation and other community needs. [More…]

• That the petition relating to social services presented to the Senate by Senator Turnbull this day be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that there is great concern and alarm among physical education experts because surveys show that Australian school children are the unfittest in the world and that they are becoming less fit each year? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health whether a recent requirement has been introduced in Great Britain that bottles of tablets prescribed by medical practitioners must bear labels stating their contents. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (4.3) - There has to be management in this place. [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Parliament why librium capsules which are prescribed for many age pensioners have been taken off the free medicine list? [More…]

• I can understand the Minister for Health being pretty touchy about this matter. [More…]

• No matter how much the Commonwealth may boast, per medium of the second reading speeches made by the Minister for Health when presenting these 2 Bills, saying that these provisions are adequate, I would point out that a decision today by a wage fixing authority in Victoria has made the provisions for Victoria for 1971-72 completely inadequate. [More…]

• In concluding his second reading speech on the States Grants Bill the Minister for Health gave us such pearls of wisdom as this: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• However, of prime consideration is the prevention of poisons which is essentially a matter for health education. [More…]

• In 1970 the Director-General of Health wrote to all approved chemists drawing attention to the fact that there are tablet containers available that cannot readily be opened by any child and that these containers come within the allowance provided by the Commonwealth for reimbursement of container costs in so far as pharmaceutical benefit prescriptions are concerned. [More…]

• The matter of poison containers was considered by the Poisons Schedule Subcommittee of the National Health and Medical Research Council at a meeting in March this year. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Of course, Tasmania had a change of government at the critical time when I convened a meeting of Health Ministers. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Leader of the Government in his capacity as Minister for Health. [More…]

• This is an interesting question but I am not certain that it comes within my portfolio as Minister for Health. [More…]

• By inference the honourable senator is suggesting that there must be a health hazard when people get their fingers dirty with a dark stain. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the implementation of the agreement between the Minister’s Department and major health and medical funds to ensure that fund reserves are pegged are such reserves monitored quarterly or half yearly to see that the agreement entered into by the funds is strictly adhered to? [More…]

• That there should be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter: The petitions presented to the Senate on 10th May 1972 by Senator Turnbull and other senators relating to social services. [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and. [More…]

• One must remember also that the forerunner to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, whose report is now under consideration, was the select committee which was established by the Senate to inquire into medical and hospital costs. [More…]

• At 10 public hearings the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare took evidence from 45 witnesses, lt received over 70 written submissions. [More…]

• To see little children in institutions because of their mental retardation, the suffering of those who had been injured in industrial accidents or motor car accidents and their great desire to regain good health and to be rehabilitated in our society and the elderly invalids and their problems made me, and I am sure everyone else, realise that the greatest asset one can possibly possess is good health. [More…]

• The greater the number of people who are rehabilitated and the greater the number of people who can receive training to enable them to take a proper place in society, the greater will be the easing on our national health costs and our social service payments, and the greater will be the taxation revenue that will flow to the Commonwealth. [More…]

• Towards the end of last year I asked the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), who is now at the table, what action was being taken by the Government to implement the recommendations contained in the report of the Standing Committee. [More…]

• I think that within the Department of Health or the Department of Social Services a special section should be established to deal immediately with the problems of these voluntary organisations which handle in the main the difficulties experienced by mentally and physically handicapped people. [More…]

• On 20th April Senator Dame Nancy Buttfield, who is now the Chairman of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, asked the Minister about the implementation of recommendations in reports of standing committees. [More…]

• I was a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Weifare which, under the chairmanship of Dame Ivy Wedgwood, inquired into and reported upon the problems of physically and mentally handicapped people.. [More…]

• This is that a division of rehabilitation be established within the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• As we present members of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare move about the States in connection with our inquiry into repatriation,, we are visiting rehabilitation centres. [More…]

• I think it is appropriate to remind honourable senators at the outset that the Senate in its wisdom on 2nd September 1970, having established a number of legislative and general purpose standing committees, decided to refer to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare an important matter, namely: [More…]

• The report went on to say that funds should be made available for the States through the Commonwealth Department of Health to finance the surveys. [More…]

• The Committee recommended that a Division of Rehabilitation be established within the Commonweath Department of Health. [More…]

• The Australian Democratic Labor Party congratulates the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on its report to the Senate. [More…]

• In reading the report 1 was somewhat taken with the statement that 95 per cent of children born in Victoria were taken to baby health centres. [More…]

• The sheer physical facts of geography probably prevent many people who would otherwise take babies to baby health centres from attending. [More…]

• But even 5 per cent of the children in Victoria are not regularly taken to baby health centres. [More…]

• 1 notice that the report states that this would usually show itself - that is in those cases where babies are not having some form of supervision such as at a baby health centre - within 2 years. [More…]

• Yet, in Victoria where 5 per cent of the children do not attend public health centres there would not be 5 per cent on whose behalf child endowment is not collected. [More…]

• After all it would be no sacrifice for those who decide not to take their children to a public health centre or who are discouraged from doing so because they live a long distance away from one to make sure that a complete medical examination is made of their children 3 or 6 months after they are born or at a particular time at which the medical profession considers it is possible for any of the abnormalities to which I have been referring to be diagnosed. [More…]

• So I hope that the response of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) today, and the Government’s response in the future, to this report which we are discussing this afternoon will be sympathetic and will show that there is a genuine endeavour to implement as many of the recommendations as is possible, if not in detail then at least in spirit, and if not in complete fashion then at least in part, with a pointer towards eventual implementation in the future. [More…]

• The report before the Senate was brought down by the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which conducted an inquiry into mentally and physically handicapped people in Australia. [More…]

• I refer to direct grants of finance, the provision of its own health and welfare services and the provision of long term loans to enable voluntary organisations to undertake wider, more intensive, more efficient and more effective work. [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall from their reading of the report that domiciliary nurses, or people who are engaged in domiciliary nursing, form part of what we call the community health team in which the general practitioner provides the essential continuity to the health care for each individual and family whilst domiciliary nurses operating from either a hospital or a community based service ensure that specialised nursing is available in the home when necessary. [More…]

• We strongly recommend that visiting nursing services, providing not only health supervision but also demonstrations and nursing care, should be designed to help all persons who have a disability, to help them adapt to the limitations which have been imposed upon them and to enable them to live among their families and friends rather than to find their way into some impersonal institution. [More…]

• In doing so, I equally join with them in paying tribute to the former chairman of the Committee, Dame Ivy Wedgwood, for the dedication that she exhibited right through the hearings by the Senate Select Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, the Minister for Health, is to follow me in this debate. [More…]

• I believe it is unfortunate that at times, not necessarily in the field of health - honourable senators know that I have been hammering for uniform firearms control - we find that some States are more aware of their responsibilities than others. [More…]

• If the Minister for Health looks through the list of people who testified - he will have to make the appointments - I think he will find a nucleus of people who could give excellent service in advising the Government on the subsequent implementation of the majority of the recommendations. [More…]

• The report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare is, without challenge, a magnificent report. [More…]

• Health, I intervened. [More…]

• In some form or other there is a recommendation relating to each of them, with perhaps greater emphasis on the Departments of Social Services and Health. [More…]

• I think all honourable senators would agree that if it is possible to carry out such a survey it will be a most effective start line in any consideration of rehabilitation or health. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health has a great task in co-ordinating and bringing forward recommendations to the Government. [More…]

• Recommendation 83 is that a Division of Rehabilitation be established with the Commonwealth Department of Health and the following recommendation is that a national advisory council for the handicapped be established. [More…]

• They have referred to the various wings of the problem, with particular emphasis on handicapped and retarded children, social services, health, education and so on. [More…]

• The Committee recognised this problem and suggested as a solution to it that, if possible, the co-ordination of knowledge and activities should be done through a division of rehabilitation within the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• All I say is that, with the best good will in the world, I, as Minister for Health, and the Government will do everything to give maximum consideration to this report and will do whatever can be done to bring into being, if not all the recommendations, at least some and as many as possible in the fullness of time. [More…]

• Senator MURPHY (New South WalesLeader of the Opposition)’ - We are all grateful to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare for the admirable report which it has presented to the Senate on a subject of great importance to the whole community and of special importance to persons who are physically or mentally handicapped and those associated with them. [More…]

• (8.5) - This proposed reference to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare was moved on 2nd November 1970. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matters - The incidence, distribution and causes of primary and secondary poverty in Australia and the adequacy of existing Commonwealth and State social welfare legislation. [More…]

• Today the Senate dealt with a report from the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I put it to the Senate that to refer another matter to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare is striking a blow at - perhaps destroying - the very work that these various committees do. [More…]

• I now deal with the references that are being considered already by the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Health and Welfare has before it already and which its members are working on may not be presented to the Senate before it adjourns at the end of the Budget session. [More…]

• The motion seeks to refer the matter of poverty to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• As this is a matter of acute urgency, I think that not only would that course be inappropriate but rather it would defeat the purpose of the inquiry if the matter were to be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in these circumstances. [More…]

• Health and Welfare but I am sure that it would be happy to have a representative on it if he had the time to spare to devote to these important matters. [More…]

• One of the references we have made to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare could well include an investigation into poverty in the community. [More…]

• When we established that Committee which sat in public, the Government established its own private committee on health insurance which we now know as the Nimmo Committee. [More…]

• In recent times, the Senate decided to refer to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare for inquiry and report all aspects of repatriation. [More…]

• But, as soon as the Senate referred that matter to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, the Government established a private inquiry into the repatriation system to be presided over by His Honour, Mr Justice Toose. [More…]

• Classic examples have been given tonight of the repatriation and national superannuation inquiries which are listed for reference to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has been asked to perform several tasks. [More…]

• All of these matters are concerned in some way with health or welfare. [More…]

• Because of the desire of the Methodist Church in Adelaide to have 150 copies for 150 students who are undergoing a study course at that Church, I made representation to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• The Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health, Senator Marriott, who was Chairman of the Committee, arranged to make available free of charge to that organisation 25 copies. [More…]

• It was condemned by the Department of Health in Western Australia and by Dr Bartholomew in Victoria. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has not adopted the Committee’s recommendation but has announced that the Commonwealth wilt act to enforce the printing of a warning on cigarette packets, and the broadcasting and televising of a similar warning. [More…]

• We are to warn people that cigarette smoking is a danger to health. [More…]

• It seems that a secondary consideration is the health of the people of Australia. [More…]

• The stage is reached at which public health is a secondary consideration. [More…]

• We are told that, at the age of 25, most persons who in their youth took drugs - be those drugs alcohol, heroin or certain other drugs, including drugs of addiction, which have not had a detrimental effect upon their health - find that they have solved the problems that forced them into drug taking and discontinue the habit. [More…]

• He realises that he is going too far and that his over-indulgence is breaking up his family or impairing his health. [More…]

• Dr Patricia Kincaid Smith of the Melbourne Hospital, who is internationally renowned as an authority on kidney complaints, points out that throughout Australia people are being kept alive at terrific cost on kidney machines, waiting for someone to be killed so that they may get a healthy kidney by transplant. [More…]

• The drug houses have launched big publicity campaigns to induce the Australian public to swallow their analgesics, though they will ruin their health. [More…]

• On previous occasions in this chamber I have said that drug companies have advertised as harmless and relief-giving products drugs that 3 years before were condemned by international health authorities as harmful to health. [More…]

• There are an inducement to the chemist to push the product on to the people to the detriment of their health. [More…]

• The Committee received evidence about a Victorian country doctor who was given a sales talk by a drug company detailer about the health-giving properties of a particular drug and its ability to cure certain complaints. [More…]

• That is the position of health services in Australia today. [More…]

• We are even told that it is necessary for good health to take vitamin tablets. [More…]

• The suggestion has been that a warning be placed on the packet - which no-one will read - that there is a danger to health from the particular cigarettes. [More…]

• In his second reading speech the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) said: [More…]

• I hope that the people of Queensland will take note of those remarks, particularly in view of the statement made by the shadow minister for health in the Labor Party in which he talked of introducing a particular type of free hospital scheme which, as I understand it, would cost the people of Queensland between 50c and 70c extra from their pay envelopes for something which they enjoy already and to which Senator Georges seemed to object in some of the statements that he made this evening. [More…]

• To return to the Bill, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) informed the Senate that the purpose of this Bill was to authorise the payment to the Queensland Government of $9m in the current financial year. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Leader of the Government in his capacity as Minister for Health. [More…]

• A child health unit for Aborigines has recently been established at Mt Gillen. [More…]

• Infant welfare sisters are doing all within their power to bring about this change in attitude of the mother to the health of her children. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question which is directed to the Minister for Health relates to Aborigines and medical services. [More…]

• Are any specific provisions made by the Government to ensure that Aborigines are not deprived of medical services through inability to pay contributions to the health funds and are the benefits available under the subsidised health benefits plan made widely known to the Aborigines? [More…]

• In fairness to Senator Guilfoyle, I would need to have the second side of the question, which relates to Aboriginal participation in health schemes, referred for advice. [More…]

• (4.7) - Mr Deputy President, for the information of honourable senators I lay on the table the report of the inquiry into the fees to be adopted for general practitioner medical services in New South Wales - items 1 and 4 - for the purpose of the National Health Act. [More…]

• On 8th March 1972 I announced the establishment of an inquiry into the fees to be adopted for general practitioner medical services in New South Wales - items 1 and 4 - for the purpose of the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Opposition thanks the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) for introducing this report promptly. [More…]

• Yet, when 1 asked a question on the matter this afternoon I did not get a civil reply from the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• The members of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare have made me welcome. [More…]

• My question which follows an earlier question asked by Senator Murphy is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that if the concept of the most common fee is not adhered to more rigidly in the future than it has been in the past the whole future of the Government’s voluntary health insurance scheme will be in great jeopardy? [More…]

• Yesterday I asked the Minister for Health a question about health services for Aborigines and he said that he would respond to the question today. [More…]

• I now restate my question: Are any specific provisions made by the Government to ensure that Aborigines are not deprived of medical services through inability to pay contributions to the health funds, and are the benefits available under the subsidised health benefits plan made widely known to Aboriginals? [More…]

• Provision is made under it for examination by medical officers of the Department of Health of workers who are subject to this risk. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 76a of the National Health Act 1953-1971,I present the First Annual Report by the DirectorGeneral of Health on the operations of the registered medical benefits organisations and the registered hospital benefits organisations for the year ended 30th June 1971. [More…]

• I was interested to read an article by Dr Margaret Wallner, a qualified medical practitioner who is attached to the university health service of the Australian [More…]

• To show the seriousness of this matter let me return to the article by Dr Wallner, who is attached to the university health service at the Australian National University. [More…]

• She was informed that the Student Health Service at the California University which sees 500 students a day now treats as many students with that disease as it treats for the common cold. [More…]

• I understand that the National Standing Control Committee on Drugs of Dependence, which includes representatives of the Commonwealth and State departments of Health, has the matter in hand and that a considerable amount of money has been allocated for the purpose of education. [More…]

• Some have passed into operation through the Department of Health. [More…]

• It is unusual for a committee to reach such a conclusion after outlining so clearly the health hazard that these drugs present to the community, especially to people in the lower income bracket and women of middle age and over. [More…]

• The report states that the cannabis-type drugs have not been proved to be addictive, as analgesics are; to be dangerous to health, as analgesics are; or to constitute a way of life for a large segment of our population, as analgesics do. [More…]

• We know it is a major cause of road fatalities, serious crime, marriage breakdown, and is extremely dangerous to health. [More…]

• No greater example of this is found than in Victoria where in Gippsland and up into the areas of the Murray River we find that towns in various aspects of production, service industries and retailing are devoted to the good health of the dairy industry. [More…]

• There are too many fields for the sale of this wonderful health product for anyone to tell us that we must look to confining the product. [More…]

• Probably cheese would be better for their health. [More…]

• The position now is that the children whose school lunches were then prepared, perhaps more with the idea of keeping them alive than of lifting their standard of health, have now grown to be the purchasers in Japan. [More…]

• I feel that I have a right to speak on a health matter, if I wish to do so, but I have never been given the opportunity- [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (9.20) - in reply - I moved this motion, and I tried hard to do so in an atmosphere of restraint. [More…]

• On the National Health Bill - I cannot think of any subject which would attract more speakers - the average time was 25 minutes. [More…]

• Has the notice of the Minister for Health been drawn to the latest statement made by the Leader of the Opposition in another place in which he states that the Australian Labor Party health scheme would be administered by a single health fund and that under the ALP plan people would be charged a levy of 1.3 per cent of taxable income? [More…]

• Did the Minister also notice that the ALP undertakes to provide families whose taxable income is less than $1,700 with free health cover? [More…]

• Will the Minister also respond to the reference made by Mr Whitlam to the effect that some 10 per cent of people are not in a voluntary health fund? [More…]

• I respond to the question by pointing out that whilst the Leader of the Opposition in another place seems to make great play of his proposal that families with a taxable income of less than $1,700 a year would receive free health care, he conveniently overlooks the fact that this Government provides free health care to people whose income is less than $2,417, not $1,700. [More…]

• As a further addition there is the State of Queensland to which Senator Gair referred a short time ago, where there is only 50 per cent application of the health scheme. [More…]

• All in all, about 93 per cent of the population are covered; they are principally people who have joined health insurance funds and their dependants. [More…]

• This is a magnificent achievement and a recognition by Australians of the worth of the concept of health insurance to cover hospital and medical benefits. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question to the Minister for Health is supplementary to the question asked of him by Senator Jessop. [More…]

• I ask whether the 1.35 per cent compulsory levy referred to in the published document of the Australian Labor Party on its future health policy will be tax deductible. [More…]

• Is the present voluntary contribution to health funds tax deductible? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Why has the Government decided to change and shorten the health warning that is to be a part of radio and television advertisements for cigarettes by reducing the length of the warning from 5 to 3 seconds and weakening the force of the warning statement? [More…]

• Will the Minister state which is the most important - the need to warn about the health hazard of cigarettes, which kill 10,000 Australians a year, or the partial economic welfare of rural broadcasting stations? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the Minister for Health recall his predecessor in the Senate stating on 7th May last year that the rates of contribution to hospital and medical benefit funds had been set at that time to enable a reduction of excessive reserves? [More…]

• The purpose of this Bill is to require licensees of commercial radio and television stations to arrange that every advertisement on radio or television for cigarettes or cigarette tobacco is followed immediately by an announcement warning of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• The relationship of cigarette smoking with pulmonary and cardiovascular disease, including lung cancer, heart disease, chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is accepted beyond doubt by major international and Australian medical organisations, including the World Health Organisation and the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• With cigarette smoking so widely indulged in throughout Australia the health hazard presents a public health problem of such a dimension as to impose a significant social cost on the community both in resources and money. [More…]

• In deciding on a programme of action which will contribute effectively to alleviation of the problem without, at the same time, unduly trespassing on people’s personal liberty of choice the Government has decided that its proper role is that of taking steps available to it to ensure that all people are fully and properly informed of the dangers to their health of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• It is this Government’s view that the most effective contribution to the problem is a concerted programme by both the Commonwealth and the States to educate and inform the population, particularly young people of the danger of the health hazards of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• The Government therefore has decided on 3 immediate measures: Firstly, to conduct through the Commonwealth Department of Health, in association with the States, an education programme aimed at informing the public of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• The Commonwealth will provide $500,000 a year for 3 years commencing on 1st July 1972 for this purpose; secondly, to legislate within the Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory to require health warning labels on cigarette packets; and thirdly, to legislate to require warning announcements on radio and television immediately after cigarette advertisements. [More…]

• Medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• I wish to inform the Senate that the Minister for Health and Leader of the Government in the Senate, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, is leaving Australia tomorrow to have discussions with health authorities in Europe, the United Kingdom and North Africa. [More…]

• During his absence the Minister for Immigration, Dr Forbes, will be Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• In this chamber I shall represent the Prime Minister; the Minister for Works, Senator Wright, will represent the Minister for Defence; the Minister for Civil Aviation, Senator Cotton, will represent the Acting Treasurer, and the Attorney-General, Senator Greenwood, will represent the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• That the petition be referred to the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health whether he is aware that on the radio programme ‘AM’ this morning Mr Russell, President of the Pharmaceutical Guild of Australia, registered some concern about the projected intention of supermarkets to sell pharmaceutical products, particularly so far as it concerns the sale of analgesics. [More…]

• I feel that I am not in a position to commit the Acting Minister for Health, whom I represent in this place. [More…]

• Doubtless he would wish to consult the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The issue has been before the National Health and Medical Research Council on a number of occasions, and various suggestions have been aired as to what steps might be taken. [More…]

• I think the general pattern of Commonwealth and State Health Ministers* conferences in the general area in which the honourable senator asked his question has been to rely upon the decisions of the National Health and Medical Research Council, it being an expert body representative of the Commonwealth and the States and it being well equipped to make the necessary decisions. [More…]

• Insofar as competition in involved, where there is no problem of injury to health I think we can allow the ordinary processes to take their course. [More…]

• If there is a need to maintain public health, I think the National Health and Medical Research Council would be well acquainted with what has to be done. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of an outbreak of scabies among Aboriginal children on the Purfleet Reserve; if so, will the Minister take appropriate action to have Common wealth funds made available to improve housing on this reserve and thus assist to improve the general health of children living there. [More…]

• When the scabies outbreak occurred it was investigated immediately by the Deputy Medical Officer of Health from the Newcastle Health District Office of the New South Wales Health Department. [More…]

• According to Government statistics made available only this week by the Commonwealth Department of Health, the membership of the organisation in New South Wales as at 30th June 1971 - this is as recent a statistic as we can get - was 712,717. [More…]

• Improved working conditions, social services, health, education, housing and a host of other things are the concern of the trade unions as the organised strength of the lower and middle income groups. [More…]

• Vehicle emissions also concern the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Environment Council. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Acting Minister for Health been drawn to a recent report by the General Practitioners Society that the proposals of the Australia Labor Party for a health scheme represented slick thinking by its shadow Minister for Health, Mr W. Hayden? [More…]

• I think that all Australians would recognise that the health plan of the Labor Party would subordinate the doctors to a regimentation which may or may not have constitutional basis in a way that the Government’s plan does not. [More…]

• On top of this at the present time the Leader of the Government in the Senate, who is the Minister for Health and who represents the Prime Minister, the Minister for Defence and the Treasurer in this place, is overseas and his work load has fallen onto the shoulders of the 4 remaining Ministers in this place. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health aware that the Victorian Nursing Council has announced a new curriculum, accepted by the Victorian Government, involving the increase of classroom hours from 400 to 1,600, an increase of 300 per cent7 Is the Minister aware that the private hospital schools of nursing in Victoria are at the Mercy Hospital, Bethesda, the Sacred Heart and Epworth Hospitals of Melbourne and St John of God Hospital, Ballarat? [More…]

• As to whether the solution is a matter of financial assistance from the Commonwealth to be undertaken through the CommonwealthState Health Ministers conference or whether if financial assistance is involved it is a matter for general State administration to be e fleeted by approaches directly to the Prime Minister, 1 am unable to say. [More…]

• Having regard lo the problem which the honourable senator has raised, I will arrange for the Acting Minister for Health to be appraised of the honourable senator’s question and his concern as soon as possible with a view to my colleague taking such action as he considers appropriate. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate, while not confined to migrants, is the latest of a series of measures introduced by this Government to assist migrants who have need of Australian social security in their widowhood, ill health or old age. [More…]

• If he feels that there is some danger one can talk until one is blue in the face and one can threaten the demise of the union but he is the person who may have his health impaired. [More…]

• Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Was the above question transmitted to the Department of Health for appropriate processing. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It was considered that a more satisfactory reply could be given upon completion of the Government’s recent review of the whole subject of smoking and health. [More…]

• Venereal disease is making an alarming comeback as a major health hazard in our community, lt is doing this all over the Western world. [More…]

• The purpose of the Bill is to require licensees of commercial television and broadcasting stations to ensure that every advertisement on radio and television for cigarettes or cigarette tobacco is followed immediately by a 3-second announcement warning of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• At end of motion add - ‘, but the Senate is of the opinion that the Bill should ban all cigarette and tobacco advertising by commercial broadcasting and television stations and the Commonwealth should undertake a vigorous advertising campaign through broadcasting and television to educate the public, especially young people, on the serious health hazards associated with cigarettes and tobacco’. [More…]

• The President of the Australian Medical Association, Dr R. H. Macdonald, was reported to have attacked what he said was the ‘watering down’ of health warnings accompanying advertisements for cigarettes on radio and television. [More…]

• The original wording of the warning was: ‘The National Health and Medical Research Council warns that smoking is dangerous to ‘health’. [More…]

• Parliament changed this to:’ ‘Medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard’. [More…]

• The committee has drawn my attention to the watering down of the proposed health warning, and I agree with the committee that the change is to be deplored’, he said. [More…]

• Dr Macdonald said that to remove the name of the National Health and Medical Research Council and replace it with a vague and anonymous phrase ‘medical authorities’ was a weakening of the message. [More…]

• The use of the words “health hazard” instead of “dangerous to health” also reduces the impact of the message’, he said. [More…]

• When the Government introduced the legislation on 10th May it was intended that there would be a 5 seconds warning announcement stating: The National Health and Medical Research Council warns that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health’. [More…]

• During the Committee stage of the Bill in the other place the Postmaster-General (Sir Alan Hulme) circulated an amendment which would have reduced the 5 seconds warning to 4 seconds and would have made it read: The Australian Government warns that smoking is a health hazard’. [More…]

• After that amendment had been circulated by the Postmaster-General, a Government back bencher circulated another amendment requiring a message of 3 seconds duration stating: ‘Medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard’. [More…]

• So we are now to have the ignominious situation under this legislation in which for cigarettes and cigarette tobacco there is to be a 3-second statement that medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard - smoking, not cigarette smoking or cigarette tobacco smoking. [More…]

• However, for advertisements relating to cigar smoking and pipe smoking, even though apparently the Government considers that medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard, no warning is to be given, as I read the legislation, on commercial television or radio. [More…]

• coupled with a vigorous campaign to educate the public, especially young people, on the serious health hazards associated with cigarettes and tobacco. [More…]

• This Government apparently intends to counter that type of expenditure by providing a mere $500,000 a year for 3 years- in other words, $1,500,000 over 3 years - compared with $30m over 3 years spent by the tobacco companies, for the purpose of conducting, in association with the States, a so-called education programme, aimed at informing the public of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• said that very careful consideration would have to be given before the Board as a single agency of the Commonwealth could take action on its own initiative outside the general context of health policy on this matter. [More…]

• Obviously this was agreed to only because of public concern, and of medical concern, and as a result of medical knowledge that was being passed on to the public about the evidence that cigarette smoking and cigarette tobacco smoking was dangerous, to health. [More…]

• It was a code agreed to by those 2 groups after a request was made to them by both the Commonwealth and State, health authorities. [More…]

• That voluntary code operated, ineffectually, from 1966 until last year when the Minister now at the 1 table, Senator Greenwood, the Attorney-General, was the Minister for Health.. On 3rd May 1971 Senator Greenwood, in a ministerial statement indicated how ineffectual the 1966 voluntary code was, for on that day he announced a revised code in his capacity as Minister for Health. [More…]

• On 20th March this year the Federal Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) issued a Press statement saying that the Australian Health Ministers, during their meeting in Queensland earlier that month, had given consideration to the whole question of cigarette advertising but that no finality had been reached. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, in his Press statement of 24th April said that he hoped to convene a meeting of Commonwealth and State Health Ministers on 2nd May. [More…]

• He said that at that meeting, among other things, he would give a general outline of the Commonwealth Government’s plans for a national health programme against cigarette smoking. [More…]

• I have not seen the details of the actual educational campaign which is intended other than what is contained in the Minister’s second reading speech, which merely glosses over the effect of the educational campaign, and a statement which appeared in the Minister’s Press statement of 23rd April which stated that the Government had decided, among other things, to implement a national health educational programme directed towards young people. [More…]

• I do not know whether the details of the actual educational campaign have been given to the State Health Ministers. [More…]

• If this is so I would think it is more a matter for the Department of Health. [More…]

• I do not favour the use of revenue procedures to encourage or discourage something which relates directly to the health of the community. [More…]

• I do so on the grounds that we are seeking tonight, by this legislation, essentially to provide to the public a warning that the excess ingestion of tobacco products can be dangerous to health, that this is our responsibility as a Parliament and that the banning of advertising in itself is not the answer. [More…]

• However, where we are of the belief or where there is scientific proof that there is an element of danger, a health risk, we do 2 things. [More…]

• I ask the Opposition: Is it its policy to ban only the advertising of tobacco or is it its policy to ban all parallel products which are health hazards if consumed in excess? [More…]

• If we are to approach the question of chemicals which can through excess ingestion damage health we should be consistent in our approach. [More…]

• If it is felt at a conference of State and Federal Health Ministers that the extension of the warning should go to magazine and newspaper advertising then by a consortium of Federal and State Ministers that extension can properly be made. [More…]

• Some time ago in the Senate, by way of question and by way of speech, 1 suggested to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) that the right approach to this and other subjects allied to it was that we should undertake major research into causation, that prevention or prophylaxis in this situation is considerably more important than cure. [More…]

• HEALTH CAMPAIGNS [More…]

• The development of public health and industrial medicine campaigns by the Commonwealth Department of Health in co-operation with the States. [More…]

• The Government seems to concentrate on health campaigns in schools and various educational groups. [More…]

• Prohibition of cigarette and tobacco advertising in all forms coupled with a vigorous campaign to educate the public, especially young people, on the serious health hazards associated with cigarettes and tobacco. [More…]

• I take it from the fact that the Commonwealth will provide $500,000 a year for 3 years for an education programme aimed at informing the public of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking that the Government is not prepared to accept a complete ban on cigarette advertising. [More…]

• If the Government .were prepared to spend money on advertising warnings on television and radio on the programmes on which cigarettes are advertised and if the health authorities were prepared to publish the truth as to the results of the research that has been carried out on the dangers and hazards of cigarette smoking, the effect would be the same.’ [More…]

• The 2 principle reasons for the Government’s resistance to pressure from the National Health and Medical Research Council and spokesmen for non-Government medical bodies wishing to see cigarette advertising restricted are the number of Country Party seats that could be affected by antagonising tobacco growers and the strength of the tobacco lobby within the Liberal Party. [More…]

• This lobby brings effective pressure to bear on members representing their areas for a particular reason, and I believe that it is not in the interests of the health of the community. [More…]

• Irrespective of the health needs of the community the tobacco companies - taken as a group or individually - are determined to resist any legislation that might limit their operations. [More…]

• I point out that it does not matter to which party these ex-members of Parliament belong; such a situation should not be permitted especially in this area which concerns the health of the whole community. [More…]

• In evidence given before the Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse the Deputy Director-General of Health, in answer to a question, said clearly that cigarette smoking was the greatest cause of morbidity and death in the community. [More…]

• The health of the individual in the community is at risk. [More…]

• There is a substance which is more dangerous to the health of Aborigines than cigarettes. [More…]

• I do not debate the subject of the extent to which smoking may be deleterious to one’s health. [More…]

• I do not want to become the oldest but it is very gratifying to have had good health, and good company and the wonderful experience of seeing the Senate revitalised the way it has been to reach its proper status as an effective, purposeful and worthwhile chamber. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health whether he agrees with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia that the wider distribution of minor analgesics - aspirin-type medicines - through supermarkets from next month constitutes a risk to public health? [More…]

• I am quite sure that the National Health and Medical Research Council will have this problem under review at its periodic meetings. [More…]

• leave out “Medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• ”’, insert ‘“The National Health and Medical Research Council warns that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health.” [More…]

• The Opposition’s amendment is to the effect that the warning should read: The National Health and Medical Research Council warns that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health’. [More…]

• It proposed an amendment to the effect that the warning should read: ‘The Australian Government warns that smoking is a health hazard’. [More…]

• After that proposed amendment had been circulated, a back bench supporter of the Government moved for the insertion of the wording that is in the Bill at the present time, namely, that medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• Indeed, our argument is supported by the President of the Australian Medical Association, Dr Macdonald, who as recently as last Monday, 29th May, said that the AMA had recently set up a committee in Victoria to study proposals to increase the number of non-smokers, that the committee had drawn to his attention the watering down of the proposed health warning, and that he had replied: T agree with the committee that the change is to be deplored’. [More…]

• Although this legislation relates to cigarette and cigarette tobacco advertising the warning as it now appears states that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• In a Press statement he issued on 23rd April, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) used the word ‘dangers’ and not ‘hazards’. [More…]

• We believe that all the evidence shows that cigarette and tobacco smoking is dangerous to health. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has expressed that attitude. [More…]

• It is a coincidence - a happy coincidence for me - that on 1st June of this year I should rise to speak briefly on warning people of the health hazards of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• I am celebrating my first year, after 30-odd years of smoking, of not having smoked a cigarette and I have enjoyed the best health I have had since I enlisted in the Second World War. [More…]

• Except for some members of the national Parliament, some medical authorities and some Ministers in the State governments, very few people in Australia in reality know what is the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• But the very words used indicate that it is a government instrumentality, the establishment, saying that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• I do not know whether any good will flow from this legislation, but if it does I believe that more good will flow from it if the legislation is left as proposed, namely, that medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• I believe that is the only good that will flow from this legislation, which is an attempt by the Government to take the advice of the medical profession to try to help the people of Australia give away or cut down their smoking of a drug that is harmful to health. [More…]

• Because of that evidence he became aware that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health - not hazardous, but dangerous to health. [More…]

• If a message saying that cigatette smoking is dangerous to health is flashed across a television screen, the person who reaches for his cigarette packet because he sees a cigarette advertisement at that moment on television will think again. [More…]

• Cigarette smoking is dangerous to health, and the Minister himself, by the details and figures that he has given, supports this claim. [More…]

• It is dangerous to health - not hazardous to health. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council warns that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health. [More…]

• Perhaps we could substitute the words medical authorities’ for the words National Health and Medical Research Council’, but to my mind the most important consideration is whether we should use the word ‘hazardous’ or ‘dangerous’. [More…]

• My doctor would not operate because of the state of my health, caused, he said, through excessive smoking. [More…]

• I think the Government has included in the Bill a weak and watered down version of what the National Health and Medical Research Council wanted. [More…]

• From our point of view, as a Government, if we think that something is a danger to the health of the people, it is our duty to convey the message to the people in as simple terms as possible. [More…]

• It says that the National Health and Medical Research Council warns that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health. [More…]

• ‘They’ are the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• He feels that reference to the National Health and Medical Research Council would make people think of big brother or the Government, which people would resent. [More…]

• I believe that we should use the simple terms National Health and Medical Research Council’. [More…]

• The reference to ‘health’ and medical’ will convey to the average person that somebody of authority is speaking. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council is a body which really knows what it is talking about. [More…]

• I think that to say in a positive, direct way that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health will convey a lot more meaning to people than to use the phrase which the Government has proposed. [More…]

• The Government started off with the expression which the Labor Party now wants to put back in, namely ‘The National Health and Medical Research Council warns that cigarette smoking is dangerous to health’. [More…]

• The Government eventually discarded those words for shorter words which it felt were more emphatic - ‘Medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard’. [More…]

• You could have the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Government, or medical authorities. [More…]

• The Government’s thinking, on reflection and after there had been opportunity for discussion within the Government, was that the National Health and Medical Research Council, eminent and distinguished as it is, is not an organisation which is known, I would have thought, to most Australians. [More…]

• Most of them might ask, if they were confronted with an announcement mentioning the National Health and Medical Research Council, what is that body. [More…]

• Whether we use the warning Smoking is a health hazard’ or ‘Cigarette smoking is dangerous to health’, medical authorities throughout the world have different slants on this question and place their emphases in different ways. [More…]

• The impact of the words ‘Smoking is a health hazard’ is just as effective as that of ‘Cigarette smoking is a danger to health’, and probably just as accurate. [More…]

• I would suggest that on the screen appear the warning “cigarette smoking is dangerous to health’ or, alternatively, ‘If you want to die smoke cigarettes’ and nothing else. [More…]

• But I really feel - if I had time I would move an amendment - that the warning should not contain any reference to health authorities and that if the simple statement Cigarette smoking is dangerous to health’ appeared on the screen then people would have time to read it. [More…]

• I remind honourable senators that the subject matter of the debate is the proposed action to require certain warnings to be given on television and radio broadcasting, in some such form as ‘medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard’, at the same time as advertisements for cigarettes are broadcast. [More…]

• As I mentioned to you earlier this month, along with 116 other radio station Managers in Australia, I am extremely alarmed at the government’s intention to enact legislation to force radio and television commercials for cigarettes, to carry a health warning. [More…]

• We believe it wrong to attack a product which your government believes to be a health hazard, through its advertising, whilst it is still quite legal to manufacture and sell the product without any restriction. [More…]

• We appreciate the reason for your concern for the health of the young people in the community, but even after this legislation comes into effect, it will still be possible to purchase cigarettes in milk bars, supermarkets and school shops, as it has always been. [More…]

• If the officers of the Health Department are so convinced that cigarette smoking is dangerous, then why do not they have the courage to ban the manufacture and sale of cigarettes? [More…]

• This is all rather ironical when you consider that this same Health Department has asked the mass media in Australia to help them (voluntarily) with the increasing problems of drug abuse in Australia. [More…]

• I quote the Deputy Director General of Health, Dr L. J. Wienholt- ‘We have failed to stop it and we need your help’, and ‘we plead with you to help us before it is too late’. [More…]

• 1 believe a very important principle is at stake, because if this legislation goes through, then the way will be clear for the government to enact similar legislation in respect of any product, any minority group might consider to be a health hazard in some form or other. [More…]

• It may sound ridiculous but it would be possible to present a convincing argument, supporting the banning of electricity as a health hazard in homes. [More…]

• Further to that, if this legislation is passed, then the group who consider that dairy products cause heart disease could ask for similar legislation, and so on for cars, to which many deaths among young people can be attributed, to alcohol, which, with some people, can lead to alcoholism which is a health hazard. [More…]

• If’ one is in doubt about whether it is justified to require the health warning to be given in this way, which amounts to a near ban on television and radio advertising, how much greater doubt would one have as to the advisability of a complete ban of all advertising? [More…]

• Whatever we can do to stop people smoking will be of great advantage to their general health. [More…]

• They are brave words when a person is in good health, but when those people have realised what has happened to them as a result of smoking they have been very miserable. [More…]

• I believe that if we in this Parliament can do anything to reduce smoking or to stop people from smoking we will be doing something of a worthwhile nature so far as their health is concerned. [More…]

• Medical authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• The second step was to legislate within the Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory to require health warning labels on cigarette packets. [More…]

• The third step was to conduct, through the Commonwealth Department of Health in association with the States, an education programme aimed at informing the public of the dangers to health of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• I suggest to the Chamber that this ought to be one of the objectives of all legislation - to create in the minds of people whom it affects a sense of obligation to take heed for their own health, their own safety, their own future, their own security and their own advancement and not to leave it to government to impose by laws, certain prohibitions. [More…]

• What is the basic situation in regard to the connection between smoking and health? [More…]

• The highest authority to which one could go in this area would be the Assembly of the World Health Organisation which in 1971 in a resolution on the health consequences of smoking expressed in a preamble the following words: [More…]

• The relationship of cigarette smoking with pulmonary and cardiovascular disease, including lung cancer, ischaemic heart disease, chronic bronchitis and emphysema is accepted beyond doubt by all major medical organisations with public health responsibilities. [More…]

• In saying that I am not seeking to qualify the opinion of the medical experts and the studies which have indicated that there is a very real association between cigarette smoking and health. [More…]

• My experience, in the short time that I was Minister for Health, led me to believe that in those countries in which there was a ban on television or radio advertising there had been no appreciable drop in consumption and there had been, in some cases, a continuing increase in the rate of consumption. [More…]

• The real point in sending out the message is to bring home the fact that there is a risk to health and that people ought to be aware of it. [More…]

• Speaking from what is perhaps a selfish Australian standpoint, the system of reciprocal agreements would be ideal if the Government were prepared to enter into similar rranngements with respect to health services. [More…]

• Unfortunately, as honourable senators are well aware, that cannot be done because to a large extent in Australia our health benefits scheme is orientated towards private enterprise. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How many items are there on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme which require the authority of the Director-General of Health before they can be prescribed. [More…]

• Why is it considered necessary in the case of these drugs for an authority to be issued by the Director-General of Health before it can be made available under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme to a patient. [More…]

• In the Schedule of Pharmaceutical Benefits there are 90 items representing the various forms and strengths of 55 different drugs for which the written authority of the Director-General of Health is required before they can be prescribed as benefits. [More…]

• The Committee was set up, under section 101 of the National Health Act, to advise the Minister on the listing of drugs and medicinal preparations as pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Are general practitioners allowed by the Department of Health to add a mileage allowance to the fee they charge under the Pensioner Medical Service where the distance exceeds a certain mileage; if so, what is the rate of the allowance and the distance involved when such allowance becomes payable. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That the state of Aboriginal rights, health, infant mortality, life expectancy, education, training, employment, ownership, movement and democratic political advancement of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Peoples everywhere in Australia is unequal compared with people of European origin, whether migrating to or bom in Australia; and this constitutes a challenge to the Australian people on grounds of racial discrimination, racism and even forms of genocide; [More…]

• Lt is true that I was away on health matters and found the task very strenuous and exhausting, but in every country that 1 visited, when I, as every honourable senator does if he is proud of his country, told people that we in Australia have an unemployment figure which runs between 1.4 per cent and 1.7 or 1.8 per cent of the work force, most of them would not believe me. [More…]

• My question to the Minister for Health relates to the mercury content of fish. [More…]

• In view of the recent decision of the State Government of Victoria to ban the sale of school shark more than 28 inches in length, has the Minister any information to provide with regard to the recommendation of the National Health and Medical Research Council that a safe level of mercury content in fish is .5 parts per million? [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council at its 74th session in May of this year recommended a level of 0.5 parts per million for mercury in fish, which is the same as the guideline adopted ‘by the United States of America. [More…]

• J ask the Minister for Health: When will the proposed warning that smoking is a health hazard be required to appear on cigarette packets? [More…]

• As Minister for Health I did have discussions with Health Ministers from the States in order to get a uniform date for the introduction of the labelling of cigarette packets. [More…]

• I imagine that it belongs to the Minister for Health but the next closest subject happens to be Shipping and Transport soI shall look after the matter.I shall see whatI can find out for the honourable senator. [More…]

• If I decline to respond to the other questions which the honourable senator has asked it is because, firstly, they are not within my particular knowledge, not being within my own ministerial responsibility, and, secondly, because I recall that yesterday the Minister for Health who is responsible for the substance of what the honourable senator asked replied to a question which I think gave much of the information he is now seeking. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the formula devised by his predecessor and the New South Wales Minister for Health pegging contribution fund reserves, is the Minister completely satisfied that the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia in Sydney is entitled to spend $4m on a new business headquarters in that city? [More…]

• I will be asking the indulgence of the Senate after question time - I have conferred with the Leader of the Opposition and the Leader of the Democratic Labor Party - to allow me to make a ministerial statement out of the order shown on the business paper, which will advert to some aspects of the health insurance funds. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health received any proposals from the National Health and Medical Research [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONI will seek some information from my Department on this question which is linked with the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I am not fully briefed on the matter and, as honourable senators know, I always forbear from giving kerbstone opinions on matters of health without first getting the facts. [More…]

• Since its responsibility is to consider the effects of ionizing radiation, including those which might arise from fallout from nuclear explosions, the membership of the Committee is biased towards the biological sciences - genetics, public health, experimental pathology, radio-biology - but also includes several physical scientists with particular expertise in the nuclear sciences. [More…]

• In part of its evaluation of the hazards to health of the 1971 French tests, the National Radiation Advisory Committee followed a practice, adopted by the United Nations Scientific Committee on the Effects of Atomic Radiation, namely that of comparing the radiation doses from nuclear weapon tests with the doses inevitably received by the community from natural background radiation. [More…]

• However, I believe that it is important to reassure the Australian population that on the basis of the best independent advice available and contrary to some alarmist views fallout from the French tests to date does not constitute a hazard to the health of the Australian population. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• adverse effects on physical health from the long term use of the drug has not been satisfactorily demonstrated, [More…]

• He also made it clear that ‘it is imperative that we should know more of the long-term effects on health of the continued, chronic administration of the drug.’ [More…]

• Prior to 1st April 1972, when the ‘Special Authority’ requirement for Intal was discontinued, and replaced by the normal application for authority to prescribe, the application was made by the patient’s medical practitioner to the DirectorGeneral of Health or his delegate on a special form (Form PB10a). [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In view of the fact that the National Health and Medical Research Council, in October 1971, considered that there was inadequate evidence that group vaccination has had any significant influence on the incidence in influenza or significant protection on the individual, and that the benefits from immunisation against influenza are doubtful, why has the Government not prevented its own organisation, the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, from advertising suggestively to the contrary. [More…]

• The views of the National Health and Medical Research Council as expressed at its SeventyThird Session in October 1971 were largely con cerned with the value of organised and officially sponsored mass vaccination programmes against influenza. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is it a fact that a dependent student above 16 years of age, in receipt of a Commonwealth Teachers Training Scholarship of about 16 dollars per week, is not covered by his parents health Insurance at the family rate nor is he covered by the Subsidised Health Insurance Scheme; if so, (a) does this mean that this person has to fully cover himself out of the Commonwealth Scholarship Allowance, and (b) does the Minister propose any action to overcome this situation. [More…]

• A dependent student in receipt of a Commonwealth Teaching Service Scholarship may be covered by his parents’ health insurance provided the student is: [More…]

• Although the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan is not specifically designed to provide direct assistance to dependent students, such a student could be covered if he were a member of a low income family which has qualified for the benefits. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: Which organisations in the community will be represented by the 42 young people, representing all States, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory, at the National Youth Seminar being held in Canberra from 12th to 14th May 1972. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Education and Science seen reports of statements by Dr Charles Williams, the head of the University of Sydney counselling service, that hundreds of thousands of dollars are being spent on health and counselling services to prevent students cracking up under pressure and, further, that sums spent in this way are rising each year? [More…]

• However, there are always some students who have adjustment difficulties of varying magnitude and in an attempt to overcome these difficulties, most universities have set up counselling and health services. [More…]

• The apparent increase in the number affected may not mean that there is a greater propensity for students to experience transitional difficulties but rather that the growth of counselling and health services has resulted in more students seeking assistance than was formerly the case. [More…]

• The Australian Universities Commission is aware of the pressures faced by students and is likely to comment on the provision of counselling and health services in its Fifth Report. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is it true that an unmarried full-time student between the ages of 21 and 25, who is not earning a taxable income and whose parent or parents receive a pension, must pay full medical benefits contributions to be completely covered; whereas students of parents earning a normal income are fully covered by their parents contribution until they reach their 25th birthday; if so, (a) why is it that students in the circumstances described in the first instance, are offered no assistance by the subsidised Health Benefits Plan because they do not constitute a family unit, and (b) will the Minister act with some degree of urgency to extend the age limit from 21 to 25 for the students allowance of pensioner parents in order to eliminate this gross injustice. [More…]

• The conditions of membership of health insurance organisations provide that a contribution at the family rate covers for benefits student dependants up to 25 years of age. [More…]

• The Subsidised Health Benefits Plan does not provide assistance to single persons in the low income category unless they are in receipt of an unemployment, sickness or special benefit under the provisions of the Social Services Act. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How long is it since the Department of Health carried out a survey into the nutritional needs of Australians. [More…]

• Has the Department ever investigated whether people on low incomes are financially capable of buying the food they need, from a health point of view, or are many suffering from malnutrition. [More…]

• The Department of Health conducted a Commonwealth-wide food consumption survey in 1944. [More…]

• The activities of the Nutrition section of the Department of Health are currently related to certain nutritional problems in Aborigines. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Mr President, I desire to inform the Senate that the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) was admitted to the Canberra Community Hospital today with a flu-like condition and that he will be in hospital for a few days. [More…]

• Will the Minister tell me what attention has been paid to the health aspects of imposing such conditions on persons who have to fly in extremely cramped conditions and for a great number of hours under circumstances which are extremely trying even when people have a choice of getting off the aircraft and staying at various points of the journey? [More…]

• If not, will there be some investigation into it in view of the fact that it concerns a great number of travellers who, because of the great disparity in fares, will be forced, virtually for reasons of economy, to undertake those journeys even though they prefer to travel in circumstances of more comfort and apparent health? [More…]

• At end of motion add ‘and that the medical, social environmental, and legal aspects of the report and recommendations of the Committee be referred to the Standing Committees on Health and Welfare, Social Environment and Constitutional and Legal Affairs, respectively, and that these 3 Committees be authorised to undertake the continuing oversight of those aspects and to recommend from time to time what further measures might be taken to implement the recommendations or to overcome the problems revealed in the report’. [More…]

• I do not know whose fault it is but surely the Commonwealth and the States should have meetings of Ministers for Health. [More…]

• That was a bit too much for the Department of Health to work out. [More…]

• From time to time in this chamber I have repeated the number of children who die each week because of the lack of action taken by the Department of Health in providing proper containers. [More…]

• I remember Senator Wade was the Minister for Health then. [More…]

• We will hear what has been done when the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health makes his speech. [More…]

• Because the tobacco companies are the greatest supporters of the Liberal Party, and probably the Labor Party as well - they give to both and at a time when they think there is to be a change of government they give very freely to the Oppositionboth the Government and the Opposition have fought the issue of prohibiting the very things that we have been advocating that the Government should do from a health point of view in regard to tabacco smoking. [More…]

• The Department of Health and the National Health and Medical Research Council have reported on the matter. [More…]

• The Department of Health has a most peculiar attitude to pharmaceutical companies. [More…]

• I hope - and I understand - that we will hear from the Assistant Minister Assisting the Minister for Health as to the number of recommendations which have been put into effect. [More…]

• He ridiculed the Health Department because prescriptions for sleeping tablets had been reduced from 50 a time to 25 a time. [More…]

• I believe that whatever we do in labelling and providing health warnings - both moves have my blessing - will be the merest palliative because the human being imbibes these things from deeper motives than those we will alter by advertising. [More…]

• No matter how we might argue on either side of this table about a national health scheme, that national health scheme will fail and we will do harm to man if we merely finance a system which brings more and more people with stress crippling diseases into the waiting rooms of general practitioners. [More…]

• I realise that it is a permanent standing committee, that it has an education programme in conjunction with the Department of Health and the State bodies and that it has been a source of preparation of literature, films and the sorts of releases that form part of a basic education programme; yet 1 wonder whether the structure of that standing committee enables it to encompass all the recommendations made in this report to the Senate on drugs. [More…]

• The report expresses the hope that there will be established a national education council, representative of the Commonwealth and the States, and that its membership will be drawn from a variety of disciplines, including education, medicine, social health, the legal profession, social workers and youth leaders. [More…]

• Our report has been both widely received and acclaimed overseas in universities and by leaders of the World Health Organisation, and by many academics and medical experts and other professional people in this country. [More…]

• To those various governments it was a report for action by the health authorities, education authorities, social welfare authorities and law enforcement authorities. [More…]

• For the Commonwealth Government, in addition to the Department of Health, the Department of Customs and Excise is deeply concerned with it. [More…]

• Since I was privileged to be Chairman of that Committee and since I am now privileged to hold the position of Assistant Minister to the Minister for Health, I am called upon to visit the States and to address various seminars on the subject of drugs and the misuse of drugs in Australia. [More…]

• This is not a health problem and it is not altogether a government problem; it is a social problem and it is a problem that leaders in the social field and educational field should be considering. [More…]

• In other words, the human personality or lack of personality - the human make-up - is more liable to cause an above average, healthy person to become dependent on a drug than is the drug itself. [More…]

• As a result committees have been set up in several of the States - in other States they are being formed - on which the news media and the health authorities, governmental or private, are able to get together and talk about drug education through the media and drug reporting in the media. [More…]

• But I am informed that a report prepared by the Mental Health Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council is currently under study by Commonwealth and State Departments of Health in preparation of a review by a conference of Commonwealth and State Ministers in relation to this matter. [More…]

• As a result of the Committee’s report a senior specialist to advise on problems associated with drug dependence took up duty with the Commonwealth Department of Health in December 1971. [More…]

• I know that his services both as a guide and counsellor .on aspects of the problem of drug dependence have had a valuable part to play in the Commonwealth Department of Health and I believe his goodwill has flowed throughout the Commonwealth. [More…]

• We hope that they will soon be with us again in renewed good health. [More…]

• I wish to inform the Senate that the Minister for Health and the Leader of the Government in the Senate, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, is still in hospital and is not expected to resume duty until 11th September. [More…]

• During his absence the Minister for Immigration, Dr Forbes, will be Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Attorney-General, Senator Greenwood, will represent the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• Those senators who have already spoken in this debate have in many instances referred to specific recommendations made by the Committee and approximately 8 months ago my colleagues the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) and the Minister for Customs and Excise circulated an information paper to all members of Parliament detailing action being taken on the report. [More…]

• I regret that, through ill health, he is not here today. [More…]

• I was interested in the remarks of the Assistant Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Senator Marriott) about his opposition to a daylight service to Tasmania. [More…]

• Having spent all my working life involved in a food industry, know that food is subject to departmental health inspections from the moment it leaves the farm or, in the case of dain farms, prior to leaving the farm. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry aware that a cheese factory in New South Wales was prevented by the Department of Health from manufacturing parmesan cheese, which is made from unpasteurised milk? [More…]

• As pasteurisation kills the bacteria necessary to curd this cheese, it follows that imported cheese could be equally dangerous to human health. [More…]

• If the inquiry reveals that the product comes from infected areas, will the Commonwealth ban such imports in order to protect the health of the people and the future of the Australian dairy herds? [More…]

• I do not think it is altogether appropriate to equate the need in the legal area to something approaching a national health scheme, but 1 do believe that justice should be available to everybody and that it should not be denied because of lack of means to assert rights before the courts. [More…]

• I suppose this is fairly understandable when we realise that probably the worst victim of all is the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson), in respect of whom it is perhaps a case of the physician being unable to cure himself. [More…]

• Such a programme would have been a direct assault on the high level of unemployment and, incidentally, a contribution to those neglected twins - health and education. [More…]

• Where is the review of health insurance in this Budget? [More…]

• With adherence by doctors to the common fee continually declining and with some of the large health funds accumulating reserves against the wish of the Government and beyond the control of their contributors, where are the proposals for a new and equitable health scheme that will bring medical and hospital treatment to the ordinary citizen at a reasonable cost? [More…]

• I equally believed - I believe it now- that’ the 1970s would be years of what I call ‘ domestic expansion when we would be able to do something more for the general well being of the people within this country in the fields of taxation, health, hospitals, housing, education, roads, railways1 - all those things that mean something to them. [More…]

• At end of motion add - but the Senate condemns the Budget because it fails to define adequate economic and social goals for Australia; and in particular because it provides no programme for restoring full employment, no means of checking the costs and prices of goods and land, no framework for improving the standards of education, health, welfare and public transport and no national plan for our capital cities and regional centres’. [More…]

• We have an education system, both government and non-government, which is creaking at the seams; health services which literally cause most people to fear the economic consequences of sickness; a pension scheme which ensures a poverty standard for a million of our elderly citizens; and a country being ravaged by overseas investors, as well as many other great issues. [More…]

• The social welfare aspects in general will be amplified by many subsequent speakers, as I said earlier, and I want to talk for a short time about some of the health pro-, posals in this Budget. [More…]

• This Budget contains new initiatives in health matters, in particular in connection with the nursing home benefits. [More…]

• There is( a proposal to spend some $592m on health services, which is an increase of almost $66m over what was provided at this time last year. [More…]

• These health proposals give many new comforts to aged people who are receiving care permanently in nursing homes. [More…]

• The statement of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) on 16th August gave the Senate many details of the Treasurer’s announcement of the new proposals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health had a personal concern about this matter for many months prior to the formulation of the Budget. [More…]

• These payments were made without the patient being required to register as a health insurance contributor. [More…]

• It is proposed to establish an independent nursing homes fees review committee to review the appeals of nursing home proprietors with the Department of Health when new fees are established. [More…]

• This nursing homes fees review committee will be the sort of body which will negotiate between the nursing homes and the Commonwealth Department of Health to ensure that there is not simply a handing on of an increase either in a pension or in a health benefit to a nursing home proprietor without some review being undertaken by a responsible body. [More…]

• In sensitive terms it has provided many new initiatives in social welfare and health proposals. [More…]

• Was it the fisheries section of the Department of Primary Industry which alerted the Victorian Government to this health hazard? [More…]

• I did seek some information on this matter which is along the lines that the Victorian investigations to date show that school shark above a certain size and age may have a mercury content above the permissible level recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the relatively high medical and efficiency standards applied by the Department of Health and the Commonwealth Public Service Board restrict Commonwealth employment as an avenue of useful work for handicapped persons and that these standards do not apply in respect of private employment? [More…]

• Earlier this year the Centre for Research into Aboriginal Affairs held an Aboriginal health services seminar at the Monash University. [More…]

• In any programme of health care the integrity of the Aboriginal people is crucial, therefore every attempt must be made to foster a sense of solidarity, and dignity so that Aboriginal identity can be preserved and promoted. [More…]

• That health programmes be planned in consultation with the Aboriginal communities they are designed to serve, over the entire cultural, linguistic and economic range of such communities throughout Australia, and carried out through the people themselves and their community leaders. [More…]

• The current disastrous health situation is a byproduct of the complexity and diversity of an Aboriginal society under the pressure of European society. [More…]

• It is a total community problem and not primarily one of individual health. [More…]

• A strategy to meet this problem requires a comprehensive approach including a drastic improvement in education, housing and economic opportunity as well as health services. [More…]

• That community-based health education and preventive medicine, in close harmony with the provision of medical treatment, be the keystone of such health programmes. [More…]

• There should be a programme of orientation to and education about Aboriginal life and culture, including language courses where possible, presented essentially by Aborigines, for all personnel involved with Aborigines through health services. [More…]

• It is the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health, Senator Marriott. [More…]

• I refer now to the health field. [More…]

• Yesterday I asked what I thought was a reasonable question and the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health said: ‘Put it on notice’. [More…]

• I might as well expand on the field of health now because it is a very important area. [More…]

• The arguments relate to the preventive side as well as the curative side of the health field. [More…]

• Whether we use tobacco in small or large amounts, in the long run it must have a bad effect on our health. [More…]

• I regret that the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) is not here and I’m sorry that he is ill. [More…]

• In 1970, I asked the then Minister for Health for certain figures in relation to nuclear fall-out. [More…]

• Although the daily measurements can immediately confirm that the level of radioactivity in fall-out is far below what is considered to be of significance as a health hazard - and this is the case for the whole of Australia - it is only after all the data from a series of tests have been collected and analysed that it is possible to draw firm and meaningful conclusions. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) will come in here and say that the funds have spent all their reserves helping to subsidise people in nursing homes. [More…]

• The reason why I and other members of the Opposition have no confidence is that when we turn to the detailed inquiry that was conducted by Mr Justice Nimmo we find that among his recommendations was the proposal that the whole concept of health insurance should be transferred from the Commonwealth Department of Health to a national health insurance commission of 5 members. [More…]

• We are talking about what is happening in the national health field. [More…]

• The Labor Party’s attitude on national health is that a percentage of wages should be contributed to meet these needs. [More…]

• If the Government introduced a clear-cut national health scheme, the people would not find themselves in no-man’s land now because they have insufficient coverage under the present national health scheme. [More…]

• As young men they went out as patrol officers, health officers and agriculturists into the various parts of the Territory. [More…]

• Department of Health The Parliament [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I understand that that report or other reports have also been seen by officers of the Department of Health and that they are currently being investigated. [More…]

• Nevertheless, the Department of Health has initiated urgent inquiries and appropriate action will be considered when the essential details are available. [More…]

• I am not aware of the particular fact to which the honourable senator referred as to the action of the United States Government nor am I sure whether the Minister for Health is aware of it. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Firstly, has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the reference by the Government of Victoria to the National Health and Medical Research Council of the question of the standards set for mercury in fish? [More…]

• I am aware only of Press reports that the Governments of Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania have questioned the allowable levels of mercury in sea foods and that they want a meeting of the National Health and Research Council to reconsider the levels which were fixed by the Council not very long ago. [More…]

• Whether or not the National Health and Medical Research Council will, in the light of new representations, vary the decision which it recently made I am unable to say. [More…]

• I support the amendment which has been moved by the Opposition, which seeks the condemnation of the Budget by the Senate because it fails to define adequate economic and social goals for Australia and in particular because it provides no programme for restoring full employment, no means of checking the costs and prices of goods and land, no framework for improving the standards of education, health, welfare and public transport and no national plan for our capital cities and regional centres. [More…]

• The way to handle this situation is to give them indirect support in the form of concessions relating to health services and transport and a roof over their head. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the concern expressed by the paramedical professions that their patients are unable to attract the Commonwealth benefit under the existing national health scheme? [More…]

• That is the whole core of our health scheme in this area. [More…]

• Commonwealth medical benefits are available only in respect of those professional services which are listed in the various schedules to the National Health Act. [More…]

• In 1972-73 Commonwealth expenditure on health from the National Welfare Fund is estimated to be $592m - that is the Government’s contribution - which represents an increase of about $65m over the amount expended in 1971-72. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health whether it is a fact that doctors in 5 country areas of New South Wales are refusing to work under the pensioner medical scheme and carry out government medical officer services. [More…]

• Has the Minister seen a statement attributed to the New South Wales DirectorGeneral of Health that the doctors have achieved medical monopolies in the 5 centres by a loose federation or a more structured arrangement of group practices and that they are also refusing to perform Commonwealth medical duties of examining repatriation patients and applicants for pensions? [More…]

• What action is being taken by the Commonwealth Department of Health to ensure that pensioners, repatriation patients and people who are members of family health insurance schemes are not being penalised by this selfish attitude on the part of such medical practitioners? [More…]

• I suggest that he put his question on the notice paper so that the Minister for Health or, until he returns, the Acting Minister for Health, can examine the matters and give the honourable senator a proper answer. [More…]

• I know from experience during the short time when I was Minister for Health that this situation arose in a New South Wales country area. [More…]

• Has the Acting Minister for Health seen a report of a speech made yesterday in the New South Wales Parliament claiming that most breakfast foods have no nutritional value whatsoever and that the manufacturers were engaged in what was described as artificial advertising? [More…]

• I understand that, in the opinion of officers of the Department of Health, it would not be correct to say that most breakfast foods have no nutritional value whatever. [More…]

• ‘the Senate condemns the Budget because it fails to define adequate economic and social goals for Australia; and in particular because it provides no programming for restoring full employment, no means of checking the costs, the prices of goods and land, no framework for improving the standards of education, health, welfare and public transport and no national plan for our capita] cities and regional centres’. [More…]

• This 80 per cent failure has been demonstrated in relation to the subsidised health benefits scheme for low income earners. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, gave the Senate some 2 weeks ago a very detailed explanation of the new arrangements. [More…]

• Indeed, if honourable senators want anything more than that I invite them to turn to the Fabian Society lecture delivered by their Leader - or is he - Mr Whitlam only a few days ago when he said, laying down a blue print of nationalisation that the major act of nationalisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor Government in the next term will be the establishment of a single health fund administered by a health insurance commissioner. [More…]

• Private hospitals and private nursing homes are irrelevant to the Labor Parly’s concept of a national health scheme . [More…]

• I make it quite clear that the Labor Party has said categorically that it is out to nationalise the health schemes, it is out to destroy the private nursing homes and private hospitals. [More…]

• He said: ‘Private hospitals and private nursing homes are irrelevant to the Labor Party’s concept of a national health scheme . [More…]

• He said ‘A national health scheme’. [More…]

• Australia has supported the application by Bangladesh for admission to the agencies of the United Nations including the International Monetary Fund, the Internationa] Labour Organisation and the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse its Chairman, the Assistant Minister to the Minister for Health and Leader of the Government in the Senate, Senator Marriott, has been invited and will attend the 30th International Congress on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence to be held in Amsterdam from 4th to 9th September. [More…]

• Whilst overseas he will visit Geneva for talks with officials of the World Health Organisation and members of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs. [More…]

• With reference to the phasing out of nonbiodegradable detergents, our design programme indicates that the voluntary switch to biodegradable detergents taken by the manufacturers following discussion with the health authorities is taking place and there is a noticeable falling off in the detergent levels in the river. [More…]

• The major concern expressed to the Committee was in respect of health hazards. [More…]

• The normal use of the waters in question being for pastoral and agricultural purposes and for recreational activities such as boating, fishing and swimming, the Committee considers that the marginal increase in the pollution load is not currently a health danger. [More…]

• The reason is that the stated policy of the Labor Party is to nationalise the health scheme, to nationalise private hospitals and private nursing homes, to destroy independent hospitals, to destroy private hospitals, to destroy private nursing homes and to provide in their place - with public money that should be used to build schools, roads, other hospitals, bridges and facilities for water supplies - not one additional bed in a hospital but just a monument to socialism,I shall quote a statement by Mr Whitlam on this subject. [More…]

• The major act of nationalisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor government in the next term will be, therefore, the establishment of a single health fund administered by a health insurance commission. [More…]

• medical and hospital schemes and replace them with one giant scheme will mean that the people of Australia will get an infinitely poorer health service at a much greater cost to them. [More…]

• -In 1969 the Labor Party said that it would apply a levy on income tax of 1.25 per cent to finance its health scheme. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committe said, in the teeth of what the Labor Party said, that the independent health funds are good and cheap. [More…]

• The sum of $100-odd also will have to be paid for health purposes. [More…]

• Carrick suggested that we should be prepared to debate with him or other Government speakers matters relating to health, unemployment, taxation, social services and the wide spectrum of affairs with which he dealt. [More…]

• I want to get on to the subject of health. [More…]

• I am getting sick and tired of standing up here year after year for 10 years complaining about the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• We have no Minister representing the Minister for Health in this chamber at present. [More…]

• But I presume that the Minister for Health (Sir Kenneth Anderson) will be able to read and he might be able to pick up my remarks. [More…]

• Yes, the Minister for Health is sick, the Assistant Minister is in Geneva and the Acting Minister for the Acting Minister is outside. [More…]

• I am just pointing out that we do not have anyone interested in the Department of Health sitting here. [More…]

• I want to criticise the Department of Health because there is no doubt that it is a pretty horrendous type of Department. [More…]

• That is why I think it is time that a bit of common sense was talked between the doctors and the Government rather than have this attitude: If you do not toe the line we will crack the whips at you and you will not be able to allow your patients to have any benefits under the National Health Act. [More…]

• I think that in the last few months 5 doctors in Canberra have just closed their surgery doors and joined the Department of Health. [More…]

• But the moment it comes to health policy the Government decides exactly what it is going to allow people to charge to sell their goods. [More…]

• Yet Government senators are the people who prefer to allow an officer from the Commonwealth Department of Health, who probably has not been in practice for 10, 20 or 30 years, to decide what treatment a patient should have. [More…]

• When the National Health Bill was before this Parliament 2 years ago the Senate carried an amendment making it compulsory for the Pharmaceutical Benefits [More…]

• On each occasion the Department of Health said that it could not disclose the names of the members of the Committee. [More…]

• It just could not be envisaged by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Then of its own accord the Department of Health said: ‘Yes, we will tell you the names of the members of the Committee.’ [More…]

• It is in relation to this Committee that the Minister for Health will get up and say: ‘Its members comprise very well known and very senior people in the profession that no one dare criticise them.’ [More…]

• That Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson be granted leave of absence for 2 weeks on account of ill health. [More…]

• Both Sydney and Melbourne termimals are designed to handle mass flows of passengers and new processing techniques have been adopted with excellent results and with the full cooperation of customs, health and immigration authorities. [More…]

• The Department of Civil Aviation in conjunction with the other authorities - customs, health, immigration and the airlines - is reviewing the problems shown up last Sunday in an endeavour to ensure that if this happens again passengers will move through the terminal without so much delay. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Department of Health assure the Senate that it will resist any attempt to lift the permissible level of mercury contamination in fish or other foodstuffs? [More…]

• Will the Department give the necessary information to those who seek to lift the permissible level so that they may be impressed with the threat that is posed to the health of the community? [More…]

• I have read in the newspapers that problems have arisen in some States and that a request has been made, I understand by the Australian Fisheries Council to the National Health and Medical Research Council, for the latter Council to reconsider the permissible limit which exists at present. [More…]

• The request was made to that Council because the State legislation seeks to give effect to the recommendations of a body which for almost 40 years has accepted in relation to the public health of this country a role whereby the States defer to it in relation to the type of public health legislation which, generally speaking, they enact. [More…]

• Whether the National Health and Medical Research Council will reconsider the matter in the way which the Australian Fisheries Council has asked depends upon the consideration of the many distinguished people who comprise that Council. [More…]

• In the national context, a shorter working week must be set against the wishes of most people for improvements in social services, housing, education, health, and other services of a practical kind affecting the individual and the community. [More…]

• I was talking about our paranoic Department of Health which has only one factor in mind - how to make more regulations and how to impede general practitioners. [More…]

• The unfortunate thing is that most of the doctors in the Department of Health have a chip on their shoulders about general practitioners. [More…]

• as I have said previously, once they work for the Government they become rather constipated mentally in the same way as do the public servants who work in the Department of Health. [More…]

• I have pointed out the number of errors they make in regard to pharmaceutical drugs, but I want to raise this question again because when the Senate was debating the National Health Bill it insisted that the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee should make known its reasons for refusing to place a drug on the pharmaceutical benefits list. [More…]

• When the Department of Health is asked to do this it says: ‘It cannot be done’. [More…]

• When this question was raised previously the Department of Health had the stupidity - I am sorry to say that is the only word for it - to say: Oh, you cannot make them give the reason because one of the competitors might find out what it is all about’. [More…]

• The Attorney-General (Senator Greenwood) who, in this chamber, represents the Acting Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) is not present in the chamber, but I hope that somebody will raise this matter with the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• Let us have some clarity of the position and let us hear some commonsense about this matter instead of the nonsensical utterances that we hear from the Department of Health. [More…]

• Now I want to refer to 2 other matters which concern the Department of Health and then 1 might let the Department off the hook. [More…]

• The Department says: ‘We are looking after the health of the Australian people, so we will spray the aircraft’. [More…]

• When it has been suggested to the Department of Health that the hostesses could do it in Australia the Department has said: ‘No, they cannot be trusted to do it’. [More…]

• The Department of Health waves the big stick and says: ‘We are protecting your health. [More…]

• When this question is raised with the Australian Department of Health, hands are raised in horror. [More…]

• Honourable senators may have read a statement in the Press the other day - it is one which the Department of Health backs - that an increase has taken place in the level of smallpox in the world. [More…]

• Yet the Department of Health requires those in these categories to enter quarantine for 10 days. [More…]

• The Department of Health admits directly that it will accept a person who has come from America- [More…]

• As is pointed out in England and Geneva, these people can be traced and in a special case such as the one mentioned by the honourable senator the person concerned could be asked to report each day to an officer of the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Australian Department of Health releases people from the need to be vaccinated for smallpox if they come from America. [More…]

• But the Minister for Health listens to the stupid people in the Department of Health who say this cannot be done. [More…]

• I wish to move now from the subject of the Department of Health lest I be accused of a paranoia about that Department. [More…]

• The whole of his speech that I have heard this evening has been a denigration of, first, the Department of Health, then the Prime Minister (Mr McMahon) and then one thing after another. [More…]

• It is common knowledge that the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has for the last 2 years been diligent in examining both particular and general aspects of social welfare in Australia. [More…]

• Just to refresh the memory of honourable senators who are present, I want to read the amendment moved by Senator Wriedt: but the Senate condemns the Budget because it fails to define adequate economic and social goals for Australia; and in particular because it provides no programme for restoring full employment, no means of checking the costs and prices of goods and land, no framework for improving the standards of education, health, welfare and public transport and no national plan for our capital cities and regional centres. [More…]

• but the Senate condemns the Budget because it fails to define adequate economic and social goals for Australia; and in particular because it provides … no framework for improving the standards of education, health, welfare . [More…]

• It provides for the establishment of child care centres, for increases in homes savings grants, for new facilities for the care of the aged, for travel assistance for unemployed persons, for Aboriginal advancement, for enormous increases in the housing, health and education programmes for Aboriginals, for improvement in the estate duty situation and, of course, for a very widespread education programme. [More…]

• Was a cheese factory in New South Wales prevented by the State Department of Health from manufacturing parmesan fancy cheese from unpasteurised milk. [More…]

• Is it a fact that pasteurisation kills bacteria necessary to curd parmesan cheese and that imports of this cheese made from unpasteurised milk could be dangerous to human health. [More…]

• If the answer to (3) is in the affirmative, will the Commonwealth ban such imports so as to protect the health of people, and the future of the dairying industry in Australia. [More…]

• The Department understands that the New South Wales authorities have adopted a recommendation of the National Health and Medical Research Council which permits cheeses to be held for a period of 90 days in storage at a specified temperature as an alternative to the pasturisation of the milk used for their manufacture. [More…]

• There is no evidence that parmesan cheese made from unpasteurised milk is dangerous to human health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Finally, when can the Parliament expect to receive the report of the National Health and Medical Research Council on the chemists’ submissions on these matters? [More…]

• It is a matter in which the Commonwealth for its part and the States also will be relying upon the report of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I do not know when the report of the National Health and Medical Research Council will be available. [More…]

• I think that Senator Byrne in raising this matter referred to the inquiry that the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare held into the problems of the physically and mentally handicapped. [More…]

• I wish to ask the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health a question regarding the current concern over the high mercury levels found in shark caught off the southern coast of Australia. [More…]

• Indeed, I am not sure whether knowledge of such research activities would necessarily come within the province of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• However, I will arrange for the honourable senator’s query to be addressed to the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• The treatment facilities sometimes are in separate institutions or may otherwise be obtained as part of the general treatment available at mental health facilities. [More…]

• If I had had anything to do with it the Aboriginal embassy would have been moved purely for health reasons. [More…]

• The basic things for which they were looking were land rights in accordance with their requirements, better health, education, employment and housing facilities for themselves and for their people. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Minister accept the Society’s contention that ‘the real figure for grants handed out through the National Health and Medical Research Council is $2.25m [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 7m in grants from the Medical Research Endowment Fund, on recommendations by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• 1 will convey to the Acting Minister for Health the question which was asked and, if he desires to add to my answer, I am sure that he will supply further information. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present the annual report of the Director-General of Health on the activities of the Commonwealth Department of Health for the year ended 30th June 1972. [More…]

• As a result, according to surveys carried out by the Department of Health, many aged people who had no real need for medical supervision have been admitted to nursing homes. [More…]

• This Bill represents only one part of the comprehensive measures being undertaken by the government in this session through both the Department of .Social Services and the Department of Health to improve the health and welfare position of aged people. [More…]

• As I mentioned earlier, this Bill is but one of a number of measures being introduced by the Government to improve the health and welfare of the aged in our community. [More…]

• Take the Repatriation Commission and the repatriation reference of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the cause of the delay due to one of the conclusions having upset Health officials because it shows that Australian school children are among the most unfit in the world? [More…]

• The findings and recommendations included in the report are under active consideration by the Council, which is the body established under the National Fitness Act of 1941 to advise the Minister for Health on matters concerning national fitness. [More…]

• As to the balance of his question, I suggest that he should place the question on notice so that the Acting Minister for Health can give him a speedy reply. [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health, follows the one asked by Senator McAuliffe. [More…]

• Consideration has to be given to it not only by the National Fitness Council but also by the Department of Health. [More…]

• However, I shall refer his comments and question to the Acting Minister for Health for his further consideration. [More…]

• Honourable senators also know the regulation provides that even though a book is prohibited under regulation 4A the Minister may approve any application to import such works provided a report has been received from the Chairman of the National Literature Board of Review or the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• They created no health hazards. [More…]

• Another area of protest concerns the health of Aborigines throughout Australia, particularly the health of Aboriginal children. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health many months ago said that it would investigate his system of providing vitamin C for young Aboriginal children to see whether this would overcome some of their health deficiencies. [More…]

• But we are still awaiting that report, Perhaps it will be treated in the same way as reports from some other notable doctors who have sought to make worthwhile contributions in the health field. [More…]

• If their recommendations or their methods of treatment are considered to be a little unorthodox, the tendency on the part of successive Ministers for Health in this Government has been to ignore any reports made along those lines. [More…]

• One has only to visit Aboriginal reserves in New South Wales, Queensland, the Northern Territory or Western Australia to see the deficiencies in the health of little Aboriginal children under 5 years of age. [More…]

• There will be a different attitude to the problems of health, unemployment, freedom and right of expression. [More…]

• But it is not fed sufficiently to ensure that its health will be normal. [More…]

• I say that the medical men of the Department of Health in the Northern Territory today, who are collating the evidence, are able to fulfil a requirement by slowing the high infant mortality rate through finding out why it is so high. [More…]

• This body of 9 people was under the chairmanship of the Director-General of Health, or his Deputy, another representative from the Department of Health, a Government representative and a representative of each of the 6 States. [More…]

• He has recently returned to Queensland after spending 8 months al the Department of Health of the University of Wisconsin in the United States. [More…]

• If good planning and studies in depth are not made in this regard, the health of the whole community could be in jeopardy as a result of this leisure crisis. [More…]

• I have some sympathy with the Government because some of the findings of Dr Willee’s survey have shocked health officials. [More…]

• While we are highlighting these facts we forget about the general wellbeing and the health of the average person in the community who may not have the ability to become a champion but who wishes to compete. [More…]

• I hope the Acting Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) will take heed of the suggestions I have made regarding the upgrading of the Commonwealth Council for National Fitness and bringing it into line with the President’s Physical Fitness and Sports Council in the United States of America. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Government now take action to adopt the proposals of the Australian Medical Association with regard to smoking and health, in view of the strong criticism by the Association of the Government’s refusal to ban cigarette advertising, and take other steps to alert the community to the clear health danger inherent in smoking. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• After a detailed review of the situation the Government has decided to implement a national health education programme and has sought uniform State and Commonwealth action requiring the inclusion of a health warning on cigarette packages. [More…]

• The Commonwealth will make amounts of up to $500,000 a year available for the next 3 years for a national health education programme against smoking, directed particularly towards young people. [More…]

• This is an educational campaign which will use televiion, radio and other media to warn of the health hazards associated with smoking. [More…]

• I am informed that legislation requiring health warnings on cigarette packages will come into effect in Victoria and Western Australia on 1st January 1973, and it is hoped that similar legislation will come into effect in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory on the same date. [More…]

• In addition, the Broadcasting and Television Act has been amended to require that all cigarette advertisements on radio and television be followed by a health warning. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How many people in nursing homes are receiving assistance under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• However, 1 should mention thatthe National Health and Medical Research Council, which is an advisory body to the Commonwealth and the States, is considering submissions relating to this matter which have been made by certain organisations including the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am sure that the Commonwealth Council for National Fitness and the Acting Minister for Health, as well as the Minister for Health, will do all they can to ensure the fitness of the nation. [More…]

• My question is to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• A national seminar on Aboriginal health services held in May this year made many recommendations. [More…]

• As the Minister is sure to ask for further information, will he ask the Acting Minister for Health to issue a White Paper or statement of the Government’s proposals so that those who are interested in the subject may be informed? [More…]

• T have been informed by the Acting Minister for Health that he fully recognises the problem of ill health and high infant mortality in the Aboriginal population and that at every level activity in tackling this problem is being stepped up. [More…]

• These measures include health education, immunisation and other preventive programmes, improved hospital and allied facilities, and consultation with other authorities concerned. [More…]

• In addition to those the report of the board of inquiry into the health services of the Northern Territory has been submitted to the Administrator of the Territory. [More…]

• After consideration by the Legislative Council of that Terrtiory its findings will be studied carefully by the Department of Health. [More…]

• It is rather interesting to refer to the current criticisms that have been made by Government spokesmen against the shadow Minister for Health, the honourable member for Oxley, Mr Hayden, who is the Labor Party spokesman on these mailers when he has indicated his proposition, which has been endorsed by the Labor Party and which will be part of its policy and to see the similarity with the thinking in the early years of the Liberal Party. [More…]

• I refer, for instance, to the national health scheme and the advantages which that provides such as free treatment in public hospitals for pensioners. [More…]

• Most persons who participated in World War II now have reached early to late middle age, and an increasing number of them, particularly those engaged in manual occupations, are not able, because of their physical or general health disabilities, to work a full week. [More…]

• Then, when the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare had repatriation referred to it for investigation - I might say that it is not doing a bad job - the Government decided that it would appoint Mr Justice Toose to carry out an independent investigation. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the fol lowing answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Under the National Health Act, Commonwealth benefits are payable for medical and hospital expenses incurred during the temporary absence in Papua New Guinea of an Australian resident who is a member of a registered medical or hospital benefits organisation. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Government repudiate the action of the Western Australian division of the Liberal Party in sending a letter to general practitioners asking then to condemn Labor Party health proposals to their patients? [More…]

• Will the Minister support the comments which were made last night by the President of the Australian Medical Association who strongly criticised th* Western Australian Liberals for their action and agreed that Labor’s health proposals did not constitute nationalisation of the medical profession? [More…]

• But having regard to what the Labor Party has promised and to Mr Whitlam’s statement that the first major act of nationalisation will be in this area of health, I cannot understand why the Labor Party wants to run away from what its leader says. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health, relates to health services for Aborigines. [More…]

• I ask: Has the Government received the recommendations from the seminar and, if so, can the Minister supply any information as to Government reaction to the specific recommendation that a national advisory body be set up, including Aboriginal, Government and nongovernment members, to advise Federal and State authorities on the formulation, establishment and assessment of programmes for Aboriginal health advancement? [More…]

• Health education, immunisation and other preventive programmes have been undertaken. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the voluntary code on the advertising of cigarettes to which the Department of Health is a signatory prohibit the appearance in television advertising of any person under 25 years of age who is smoking? [More…]

• The advertisements that have been put out under the authority of the Department of Health are clearly directed towards deterring young people from smoking. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health whether it is a fact that it costs taxpayers in excess of $40,000 to train each medical graduate in an Australian university. [More…]

• Successive Ministers of Health have stated often that the general practitioner is the corner stone of the Government’s health scheme. [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health follows the reply by the Minister to the question asked by Senator Willesee with regard to an advertisement depicting a child smoking a cigarette. [More…]

• I am sure that Senator Guilfoyle appreciates that I am the Minister in the Senate representing the Acting Minister for Health while the Minister for Health is recovering from an illness. [More…]

• I do not know what the future programme of advertisements will be, except that there is, as Senator Guilfoyle has stated, a $500,000 programme over a period of 3 years designed to publicise as effectively as possible and as part of a health education programme the dangers of smoking. [More…]

• I shall convey the honourable senator’s question to the Acting Minister for Health for such reply as he may give or as Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson may give when he comes back. [More…]

• Naturally one assumes that during this session a Bill will be introduced to amend the National Health Act in order to provide for the new arrangements for patients requiring home nursing care which are to take effect from 1st January of next year and the domiciliary care benefits which will commence from 1st March 1973. [More…]

• The number of legislative measures relating to these aspects of health and welfare are creating great confusion in the minds of the people. [More…]

• There is the home nursing legislation, which comes within the purview of the Commonwealth Department of Health, and the Aged Persons Homes Act and the Aged Persons Hostels Act, all of which are inter-related, the latter 2 not coming within the purview of the Commonwealth Department of Health but within the ambit of the Department of Social Services. [More…]

• Because the Aged Persons Homes Act will come into force on the first day after the Bill receives the royal assent, which I should think would be in the very near future, and having regard also to the fact that the Minister has said that departmental surveys show that many aged people who have no real need for medical supervision have been admitted to nursing homes - the reliable estimate that he cited during his second reading speech on the legislation was 25 per cent or about 12,000 - it seems to me that the Government should have introduced the amendments to the National Health Act before this legislation was introduced in order to make effective its policy on home nursing care. [More…]

• I should have thought that the proposed amendments to the National Health Act in relation to home nursing care and domiciliary services should have been presented to the Parliament before this legislation. [More…]

• I think Senator Gair was probably directing his attention to the home nursing legislation which is to be enacted under the National Health Act. [More…]

• I believe that an inquiry should be conducted by the Commonwealth Department of Social Services or the Commonwealth Department of Health into the reasons for the vast differential in the charges in the various States. [More…]

• Because of the difficulty brought about by variations between the Department of Health and the Department of Social Services, I think the time is long overdue when the Government should consider how the various measures relating to the welfare of Australia’s elderly citizens can be consolidated. [More…]

• The Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, known as the Nimmo Committee, had something to say on this subject at page 57 of its report which was presented in March 1969. [More…]

• Whatever inquiries amd discussions are necessary before other nursing home problems are dealt with, there seems no reason why steps cannot be taken immediately to end the confusion and misunderstandings which occur because the expression ‘hospital’ means one thing to Commonwealth authorities and health insurance organisations, and something different to some Slate authorities. [More…]

• We have found that there has been a general inability, particularly where ill health intervenes to cope with the problem of the magnitude that it has become because of the increasing numbers of people who now survive through to this age group. [More…]

• There might be argument as to the responsibility of the Department of Social Services and the Department of Health as is borne out by the dialogue which ensued between Senator Douglas McClelland and the Attorney-General (Senator Greenwood). [More…]

• If one studies the second reading speech of the Attorney-General who in this chamber represents the Acting Minister for Health (Dr Forbes) and if one looks at the terms of the Bill one sees the recurring phrases ‘the Director-General shall’ or ‘the Director-General will’. [More…]

• This prompts me to ask the Minister, who under the existing machinery is responsible for a multitude of health problems, whether the DirectorGeneral can be as mobile and available as to provide these added services. [More…]

• In a comparison between the European concept of the nation and health and the United States concept I lean to the European and British set-up. [More…]

• I digress for a moment to point out to people who bleat about how much more can be done by the children of aged persons - I am indebted to Dr Klugman, a learned medico in the other place - that since 1955 family contributions to national health has virtually trebled. [More…]

• If we consolidate some of the functions of the Department of Social Services with others which are the responsibility of the Department of Health and place them under the supervision of a health insurance commission as proposed by the Nimmo report I think we would be dealing with the matter in a much more effective fashion. [More…]

• Many of us know what happens when we vent a complaint to the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• I am sorry that the Assistant Minister assisting the Minister for Health, Senator Marriott, is not here. [More…]

• In fact, there is a legend - it may not be a legend - that when Senator Greenwood was Minister for Health he was signing 6,000 to 8,000 letters a week. [More…]

• This expenditure would not be a debit to social service costs and health services. [More…]

• We all know that the field of health services is expanding. [More…]

• A long while ago when Senator Greenwood was Minister for Health or even in the time of his predecessor I suggested that if we did not want to follow completely the Nimmo recommendations then we should look at the position in central Europe, in Belgium and Holland. [More…]

• I think, being forced to recognise that today social welfare involves much more than materia] aid for those who happen to be in need, whether in terms of age or health. [More…]

• I recall from the short time when I was Minister for Health reading estimates which suggested that approximately 25 per cent of persons currently in nursing homes do not really require nursing home treatment. [More…]

• We feel that together - and this is a matter of co-operation between the Department of Health and the Department of Social Services - we can facilitate the availability of aged persons hostels and provide inducements under which persons will establish this type of hostel. [More…]

• Senator Cavanagh then talked about health standards. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Acting Minister for Health. [More…]

• The DirectorGeneral of Health released statistics this month which show a rise in drug robberies and stated that this was causing concern to the Department of Health. [More…]

• -I sought some general information on the question of the theft of drugs because, firstly, there have been some Press statements recently and, secondly, the Director-General of Health recently took up this matter with the Secretary of the Australian Medical Association. [More…]

• But on that aspect I shall seek further information from the Acting Minister for Health and let the honourable senator know. [More…]

• 1 also appreciated the interest which you, Mr President, showed in my state of health. [More…]

• 73m and $75,000 in the votes of the Department of Education and Science for secondary and study grants and for the continuation of special projects in the Northern Territory, and $150,000 in the votes of the Department of Health for similar special projects in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• In previous years these amounts for the Departments of Education and Science and Health were included in the Aboriginal Advancement Trust Account, and it would therefore be appropriate to compare last year’s provision in the Trust Account of $ 1 4.83m with total provision this year of $26.5m for the same purposes; but it has been thought more appropriate that provision should be made from now on in the votes of the functional departments. [More…]

• I envisage allocating the $14.5m as between the various purposes for which the grants are made to the States on the basis of $8, 25m for housing, $1,748,000 for health, $2,377,000 for education, $500,000 for employment and vocational training, $875,000 for special work projects and $750,000 for regional projects. [More…]

• Funds for health work provided through the Trust Account are making possible an improvement of rural health services in areas of Aboriginal population. [More…]

• Hospitals, dental clinics, nursing homes and rural health centres have been established and community health nurses have been placed in many rural and outback areas. [More…]

• Programmes of health education and preventive medicine being developed by professional people should progressively relieve the burden on the curative services provided in hospitals in the major centres. [More…]

• Supplementary food assistance has also been made available for children and expectant mothers on settlement communities throughout the State of Queensland, and New South Wales continues to subsidise, from our grant, voluntary organisations working in the Aboriginal health field. [More…]

• In addition, of course, the Commonwealth Departments of Health and Interior have over the past year expended substantial amounts on health through their own programmes. [More…]

• Clearly much remains to be done in the health field and the health status of Aborigines remains a cause for concern, particularly in respect of infant mortality and malnutrition. [More…]

• It is not merely a matter of providing more finance but also a matter of continuing research into the root causes of some medical problems, and of involving Aboriginal communities, particularly mothers, in improved nutritional and health practices at the grass roots level. [More…]

• The transfer of all health responsibility in the Northern Territory to the Department of Health will, I am sure, result in a new approach to these important tasks. [More…]

• The housing programmes aim primarily to assist families, whose children will benefit thereby: a great deal of health activity is devoted to improving the health situation of Aboriginal infants and children; the bulk of expenditure in education is, of course, for younger Aborigines; while the employment training scheme and other activities of the Department of Labour and National Service seek in particular to assist schoolleavers. [More…]

• This will involve assisting them with accommodation, providing the means for them to overcome the health handicaps from which many of them suffer, giving assistance with education and employment, and providing legal assistance. [More…]

• Either with the State or unilaterally we have provided hostels and houses, supported the Aboriginal health service in South Sydney, provided funds for schooling, pre-schooling and adult education facilities, assisted Aborigines to find and hold employment, and supported the Aboriginal legal service. [More…]

• asked the Acting Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did officers of the Department of Health meet representatives of the Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association of Australia and the Australian Federation of Private Hospitals (New South Wales) on 5th and 13th July to consider the position of New South Wales private hospitals under the Hospitals Benefits Scheme. [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided (he following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Acting Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator GREENWOOD- The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In my own case I have had to look at the burden of responsibility which I have carried as Leader of the Government in the Senate and its implications in regard to my health. [More…]

• In addressing a question to the Minister for Health I add to your words, Mr President, and say to him: ‘Welcome back’. [More…]

• What programme does the Department of Health conduct to monitor the level of radio-iodine in Australian milk? [More…]

• When 1972 figures become available they will be evaluated as to their potential health effect in the usual careful way. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health, More rightly it might come within the province of the Minister for Social Services. [More…]

• As the honourable senator points out, there is an inter-change of administrative responsibility between the Department of Social Services and my own Department, the Department of Health. [More…]

• I have u further question which this time I direct to the Minister for Health who I presume has been given some reading material during his convalescence. [More…]

• Will the Minister explain why the Northern Territory Director of Health, Dr Langsford, was suddenly transferred back to Canberra when this report was presented? [More…]

• As the report shows a state of chaos in the Department of Health in the Northern Territory, what steps will be taken by the Minister to restructure and re-form the Department since the Aboriginal mortality rate continues unchecked and dedicated doctors continue to resign? [More…]

• The inquiry mentioned by the honourable senator was not confined to the activities of the Department of Health but was related to health matters generally in the Territory. [More…]

• Obviously the honourable senator is unaware that these matters were not entirely within the responsibility of the Department of Health. [More…]

• In that statement which I made on 3rd October and which I commend to Senator Georges and other honourable senators I pointed out that as at July this year, in response to representations which I made to the Government, health services in the Territory were brought under the control of the Department of Health. [More…]

• 1 mentioned also that the Department of Health will now have far wider responsibility than it had before for health in the Territory. [More…]

• 1 think I have said in this place in relation to other health matters, and certainly 1 put this view in my representations on this issue, that one does not have to be a medical practitioner to be able to say simply and with complete confidence that prevention is better than cure. [More…]

• As a consequence of the decision of Government as at July this year the Department of Health will be taking over not only the administration of health in terms of hospitalisation and the like but also it will be taking over responsibility for health in people’s homes and particularly in the settlements. [More…]

• The honourable senator mentioned that the Director of Health in the Northern Territory had been transferred back to the Canberra office. [More…]

• Very properly the Department of Health and other departments will have to examine the recommendations contained in the report. [More…]

• I am sure that everybody will agree that at the head office of the Department of Health he and other senior officers are very properly examining the report which has been submitted. [More…]

• I also pointed out that the Department of Health has been since July accepting far greater responsibility in relation to health in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• ls the Minister for Health aware that one of Australia’s most respected health administrators, Dr Sidney Sax. [More…]

• has just published a book in which he says that Australia’s health care systems, including the national health scheme, have reached a serious if not critical situation? [More…]

• Dr Sax has called for a total reexamination of the Government’s role in health care. [More…]

• Does the Minister intend to initiate such a procedure on the needs, organisation and efficiency of Australian health care systems? [More…]

• Dr Sax is a senior officer of the New South Wales Department of Health. [More…]

• Therefore his statements, as reported in the Press, concerning desirable developments in the field of health care warrant our close attention. [More…]

• Health in New South Wales and to whom presumably Dr Sax presented his book, as Mr Jago virtually is Dr Sax’s ministerial head, concerning the attitude of his Government to the views expressed by Dr Sax. [More…]

• Yesterday I asked the Minister for Health a question concerning a possible major increase in the bed rate subsidy to assist the running of hostels for retarded children. [More…]

• The Minister for Health was good enough to say that a reply might be forthcoming today. [More…]

• The other form of financial assistance provided by the Commonwealth in respect of handicapped children is a benefit of $1.50 a day, which was introduced in January 1969, and which is made under the provisions of the National Health Act for which I am responsible. [More…]

• So the Department of Health had a secondary administrative function. [More…]

• The recommendations contained in the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the physically and mentally handicapped have some bearing on the points raised by the honourable senator, and these recommendations are currently under examination by the Government. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health: Have discussions taken place with the Hospital Benefits Association on the question of its investing in the fields of general insurance, land and housing finance, etc? [More…]

• Under the National Health Act the Commonwealth exercises the necessary controls over the administration of health insurance, particularly in relation to the accumulation and investment of fund reserves. [More…]

• In this regard the Commonwealth has power to ensure that any proposal by a registered health insurance fund of the nature put forward by HBA would be kept entirely separate, and that is the point I was making. [More…]

• First and foremost, the health of the nation not only must be maintained but also must continually be improved. [More…]

• This means that the States have a continual call on their resources to provide health services, hospitals, clinics, mobile dental facilities, school health inspections aud many other requirements needed in the. [More…]

• whole field of health. [More…]

• the only threat to Queensland’s public hospital system might well be the health policy which is propounded by the Australian Labor Party. [More…]

• My question is to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Under the new arrangements with the settlements themselves, the Department of Health will move, as it has already moved, certain nurses into these areas. [More…]

• I think we are all aware of health and handling requirements that have been imposed on certain abattoirs to make them eligible to export to the American market. [More…]

• My question, directed to the Minister for Health, is supplementary to that asked previously by Senator Murphy. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that poor health and malnutrition exist widely in Queensland among Aboriginal children in fringe areas and on Government reserves? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSONThe health services in a State would be the responsibility of that State subject always, of course, to the eligibility of the person concerned to be in a fund or to receive benefits from a fund, whether it be a hospital fund or a medical fund. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• During the time that I have administered the Health portfolio I have always been very careful about expressing medical opinions. [More…]

• I am Minister for Health in the administrative sense and 1 am very aware of the impropriety of giving judgments without reference to my medical advisers. [More…]

• I take note of the remark of the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) that the Leader of the Opposition (Senator Murphy) has agreed to the proposition. [More…]

• When the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) asked me about this being done next Tuesday because there is some special problem I did indicate that I would agree to this motion. [More…]

• Other grounds of justification included in subsection (1) of proposed section 49D will cover agreements that are necessary for health considerations, agreements needed to enable the parties to compete effectively with other persons or for the effective operation of other acceptable agreements or practices. [More…]

• Does the Department of Immigration provide, either directly or indirectly by grants to the Slates for the purpose, interpreters to provide a service for those migrants who are hospitalised; if not, will the Minister give urgent consideration to providing interpreters in major public hospitals as a contribution to the health and well-being, both physical and mental, of those migrants who are not yet proficient in English. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister for Health: Towards the end of August J askedhim why the payment of$1 4 a week to a person caring for a chronically ill relative was to be delayed until March 1973 and why the payment could not be started much earlier.I raised these queries in question No. [More…]

• Is the marketing of synthetic meat largely confined at the moment to specialist health food shops? [More…]

• If there is no evidence of health dangers, what are the grounds for protest? [More…]

• Statements have been made through the agencies of 2 departments in relation to previous testing in the Pacific which state in fairly categorical terms that the influence of the tests has not been significant and, in fact, has not been a hazard to health. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware that aGoverment White Paper in the United Kingdom revealed that 5,607,435 experiments were done on living cats, dogs and other animals in 1971- an increase of 25,000 over the 1970 figure - and that much scientific experiment is done simply for the sake of experiment and produces nothing of relevance? [More…]

• Recently I had occasion to look at it to satisfy myself, as Minister, that the code and provisions in relation to experimental work which is being done in the name of health are appropriate. [More…]

• In this instance, in industry and in labour, we have the competence that is necessary to maintain Australia’s economic health, and I believe that both these areas of industry will be granted a large proportion of this contract before the matter has been finalised. [More…]

• Let me remind honourable senators that 2 years ago when 1 moved 2 amendments, which the Democratic Labor Party supported, in relation to the National Health Bill, the next day the DLP voted against those amendments for the very reason which Senator McManus says the Labor Party is now adopting. [More…]

• My question which naturally relates to doctors’ fees is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health tell us what the Government intends to do to persuade or induce the medical profession to adhere to what has been declared by the Government to be in the public interst? [More…]

• What courses of action has the Minister for Health instituted in order to see that the public interest is preserved? [More…]

• Naturally, as Minister for Health, I have been deeply involved. [More…]

• I had asked them to Canberra on receipt of a report from the Minister for Health . [More…]

• For some time past the AMA and the Department of Health have been developing a consultative procedure under which adjustments to common fees and benefits could be determined equitably - [More…]

• lt was in the course of these consultative procedural discussions between AMA officers and representatives of the Department of Health that it came to the notice of the Government - [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health seen a Press report today about research carried out by a Tasmanian research team into the part played by cholesterol in heart disease? [More…]

• Incidentally, he went on to say a very important thing for every Australian: That nationalisation in the traditional sense of nationalisation in the first term of a Labor government shall be done through the nationalisation of the health benefit systems in this country. [More…]

• Whatever the outcome of the election in December - it will not matter which party is in office after then - the Government will have to balance health, education, defence and many other issues. [More…]

• To all this talk about education I am very functional in my approach; I say simply that a Labor government or the present Government cannot promise the world; the cake must be cut up, and with all due respect to education we believe, as my Queensland colleague Senator McAuliffe has argued, in the health of the young people. [More…]

• Not enough is done about physical education and no matter what happens after the election in December, more money must be spent to make this a healthier nation. [More…]

• and (2) There are 2 female members of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• There is no reason why there should not be others, but I would draw the attention of the honourable senator to the fact that only 2 members, an eminent layman and an eminent laywoman are actually selected by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of the outcome of research which has been carried out at several universities in Australia into the factors concerned in the clotting of blood and its effect on heart disease? [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In relation to the free structure for medical officers operating under the national health scheme, what consideration, if any, is given to the position of psychiatrists, hypnotherapists and people operating in that area of the medical profession whose consultations generally are substantially longer than the consultations of medical practititioners and range over a fairly protracted period of time involving a great number of consultations? [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health a question. [More…]

• How far must the level of observance of the common fee fall before the Government will take action to insist that doctors participating in the national health scheme observe the common fee? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (12.23)- With the brevity that the Leader of the Opposition (Senator Murphy) has used, I wish to indicate that the Government will resist this proposal. [More…]

• There are many areas in which Aborigines are in great need, particularly in fields to which the Government has seen fit to allocate money such as housing, health, education, employment and, social work. [More…]

• I believe that these organisations do a great job in liaison and welfare work and not only in straight out welfare work where people are in dire circumstances and need but also in health and social activities. [More…]

• I feel that perhaps there is a need for more help in this field as there is in relation to health and education. [More…]

• He has made statements in bits and pieces saying how much would be given to the National Institute of Dramatic Art; how much would be given to the Australian Ballet School; what the Government proposed to put into housing; how much was to be spent on health research and how much was going into various other aspects of Aboriginal advancement. [More…]

• A long time ago the Gurindjis went on strike and established a settlement in the Wattie Creek area as their form of protest against industrial conditions, health conditions, and the refusal of this Government to recognise the value of their case for land rights. [More…]

• The certificate will need to be supplemented by the endorsement of a medical practitioner employed in the Department of Health. [More…]

• The new nursing home fund benefits are to apply to persons eligible for benefits under the Subsidised Health Benefits Scheme, that is, unemployment and sickness beneficiaries, low-income families and migrants within two months of arrival in Australia. [More…]

• 5 sots of regulations promulgated since October 1971 are repealed and the provisions of those regulations incorporated in the schedules to the National Health Act. [More…]

• The regulations known as Nat’ ‘nal Health (Variation of Benefits) (Nos 3 to 7) Regulations provided for variations in the scope of the medical services in respect of which medical benefits are payable and variations in the rates of Commonwealth and fund medical benefits payable in respect of the scheduled medical services. [More…]

• With regard to the comment in the report that the ‘selling prices of medical products distributed by CSL are mainly determined by the Minister and the Department of Health’, I would observe that the Commission is not treated any differently from any other drug firm in regard to its sales on the open market. [More…]

• (a) those medical products listed under the National Health Scheme; (b) those medical products not listed under the National Health Scheme; (c) veterinary products; and (d) blood products and polio, measles and rubella vaccines for which payment is made direct to CSL by the Commonwealth. [More…]

• As regards those products listed under the national health scheme, the Commission is treated in exactly the same manner as other manufacturers. [More…]

• The proposed prices are examined within my Department and if agreed to, are included as the price in the list of pharmaceutical benefits available under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Concerning those products not on the national health list, the prices are determined by the Commission in the light of the competitive situation in which they live. [More…]

• In addition, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) is introducing 3 new measures to assist the health and welfare of chronically-ill aged people (i) by giving additional assistance to patients of nursing homes: (ii) by increasing the Commonwealth subsidies paid lo organisations providing home nursing services; and (iii) by providing a new domiciliary care benefit to encourage and assist families and relatives to accept responsibility in their homes for the provision of the professional nursing care and supportive services required by an aged and infirm person, in order to reduce the demand for nursing home treatment At the same time the Ministers for Health and [More…]

• These organisations, as honourable senators will no doubt agree, play an important role in looking after the health and welfare of aged or invalid people in their own homes, not only by ensuring that they obtain adequate meals for a nominal charge, but also by providing a necessary contact between people who may be frail and lonely on the one hand and supportive services, such as home nursing, paramedical, housekeeping, emergency transport, shopping, gardening, hairdressing, chiropody, library and general counselling, on the other band. [More…]

• Observations based largely on the measurement of ascorbic acid in their blood plasma indicate that many elderly people suffer from a deficiency of vitamin C which is sufficient to depress their general state of health. [More…]

• This vitamin C programme will be kept under constant review in collaboration with the Department of Health. [More…]

• As I explained to the Senate when introducing the Aged Persons Homes Bill recently, one of the most important aspects of this year’s comprehensive programme to improve the health and welfare of aged people is to encourage and assist people who might otherwise be admitted prematurely or unnecessarily to nursing homes or other similar institutions to remain in their domestic environment for as long as possible. [More…]

• From my investigations 1 know that much of the health problem up there is not due so much to a shortage of money to get doctors but to a shortage of doctors who will go there and to a general shortage of doctors in Australia. [More…]

• But it is very difficult in some circumstances to even administer the normal processes of modern health, such as the insertion of needles and so on. [More…]

• The first basic requirement in the solution of this problem was to collate the statistics that have been collated under the direction of this Government by its medical officers in the Department of Health. [More…]

• reduce existing social and other handicaps facing them in health, housing, education and vocational training; and [More…]

• In April 1971, after having placed a question on the notice paper about this matter, the Leader of the Government in the Senate, the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) representing the Prime Minister inthis place, advised me that the Australian Council for the Arts had been in touch with newspaper managements, the Australian Newspapers Council and the Australian Journalists Association, and had sought the interest and support of leading journalists with experience in the arts. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Why did the Minister quote gross income levels when referring to income eligibility levels under the Government’s health insurance scheme, but quote taxable income level when referring to the proposed scheme of the Australian Labor Party, when replying to a question without notice by Senator Jessop on Tuesday, 23 May 1972. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that there is a very great difference between gross income and taxable income and that under the Australian Labor Party’s scheme a man supporting a wife and one child on $43.40 per week would pay no contribution for health insurance but is currently required to pay53 cents per week under the Government’s plan. [More…]

• What steps are proposed to introduce some equity into theGovernment’s scheme, similar to the underlying principles which have guided the development of the Australian Labor Party’s universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Gross income levels were quoted when referring to the National Health Scheme because eligibility under the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan is determined by the level of gross income. [More…]

• The level of gross income which would ensure that a family qualified for free medical and hospital treatment under the Australian Labor Party’s health proposals would depend on the amount of concessional deductions allowed. [More…]

• Under the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan, a family earning $43.30 per week is already eligible for the full level of assistance and therefore pays no contribution. [More…]

• Under the Labor Party health proposals, low income earners supporting a family with one or more children would be automatically covered at public expense where their taxable income does not exceed $1,700 per year. [More…]

• The income limit applying to low income families under the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan, in respect of free health insurance, is based on the minimum wage level payable under Commonwealth awards in the various States. [More…]

• The Government considers that the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan is providing significant relief to low income families and other needy sections of the community. [More…]

• The graduated scale of assistance provided by the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan to low income families overcomes difficulties which might arise if there were a sharp cut-off point as would be the case under the Australian Labor Party’s proposals. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• In a publication entitled ‘Poisons - Emergency Treatment’, which was produced by the Safety Promotion Committee of the Canadian Paediatric Society and was published by the authority of the Canadian Minister of National Health and Welfare, it is stated that, although the lethal dosage is unknown, survivals have been reported with 70 milligrammes per kilogram of body weight and deaths with 20 milligrammes per kilogram of body weight. [More…]

• Persons covered by the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan are now required to contribute 50 cents for each supply of 50 tablets or capsules of tricyclic anti-depressants instead of the 100 formerly supplied. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Can the Minister for Health inform the Senate of the number of working wives in Queensland who would be immediately disadvantaged and penalised by the Australian Labor Party’s proposed compulsory health tax which is currently set at 1.35 per cent of taxable income? [More…]

• Is the Minister for Air aware of a report by the senior health inspector of the Werribee Shire Council which states that the Royal Australian Air Force is dumping inadequately treated effluent into Port Phillip Bay and that the effluent has a bacterial count more than 6 times the allowable maximum? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (11.56)- I move: [More…]

• Today an honourable senator in all sincerity wanted to know the number of working women in Queensland who would be affected by the Labor ,’Party’s health policy. [More…]

• I take this opportunity to support the motion moved by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• I accept what the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has said - and he has been supported by the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate (Senator Murphy)- that we should bring this Parliament to an end and rise as quickly as possible. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (12.27) - As the mover of the motion I accept responsibility for it but I do not accept responsibility for all the things that have been said subsequently. [More…]

• For this purpose, ‘children in special need’ is defined in the Bill - clause 12 - as children of one parent families, of families in the first 3 years of settlement in Australia, of families where one of the parents is sick or incapacitated, and of families eligible to receive assistance under the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• The amendment proposed by the Australian Labor Party is as follows: but the Senate condemns the Budget because it fails to define adequate economic and social goals for Australia; and in particular because it provides no programme for restoring full employment, no means of checking the costs and prices of goods and land, no framework for improving the standards of education, health, welfare and public transport and no national plan for our capital cities and regional centres’. [More…]

• In my ministerial capacity relating to the Department of Customs and Excise, the Department of Supply and now the Department of Health I have had occasion to visit overseas ports while under tremendous pressure and with very tight schedules; I, too, took my wife with me on those occasions. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As the Commonwealth is such a large contributor to doctors’ incomes through its subsidising of fees, should it not follow that Commonwealth should determine the common fee level and insist that the doctors charge accordingly or, as an alternative, introduce a participating doctors’ scheme for the national health service? [More…]

• I preface my question which is directed to the Minister for Health by saying that no doubt he has seen recent reports by the co-discoverer of the diabetic drug insulin that there is a shortage of the drug in some countries. [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister for Health, refers to the success of the team of Tasmanian research scientists in relation to studies of heart disease, upon which the Minister has made some observations.In view of the comment of the Tasmanian scientist that the fat which contributes to heart attacks is produced in large quantities in times of stress and that the age group affected is becoming younger, I ask the Minister whether he is aware of the large number of organisations, churches, voluntary workers and lifeline establishments that are working in this field of mental health, endeavouring to assist people to deal with the problem of stress. [More…]

• Will the Government initiate a research project into this field of mental health as it is related to the areas on which the Tasmanian research scientists have placed emphasis and provide greater assistance to the voluntary bodies? [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health received a letter from the Australian Sports Medicine Association conveying a statement issued by the Federal Council meeting at Adelaide on 20th October 1972 appealing to the Federal Government to follow the example of many nations throughout the world by establishing a Ministry of Recreation and Sport and upgrading the Commonwealth National Fitness Council? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (4.56) -I promise that I will bring the point raised by Senator Wilkinson to the attention of the Department. [More…]

• If the Minister for Health wants more information - such as the names of the persons involved and so on - and I cannot supply it Senator Georges will. [More…]

• We have already dealt with the Department of Health, the Parliament and the Prime Minister’s Department. [More…]

• I think the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) has simply avoided the point I raised. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (8.41) - Obviously, I am not in a position to give an answer now; but, as I gave an assurance before, I certainly will see that the contributions made to this Committee debate by both Senator Cavanagh and Senator Georges are drawn to the attention of the Minister without delay. [More…]

• In my home State of New South Wales I have never been happy with the evasiveness of Mr Jago who is the State Minister for Health. [More…]

• Last year, and particularly the year before, I raised the matter of the inadequate number of interpreters provided at public health centres. [More…]

• But when I went to the Villawood Hostel several years ago some of the Slav and Italian women with babies told me at that time that they felt there was a rather loose interpreting service at baby health centres. [More…]

• Do the relatively high medical and efficiency standards set by the Department of Health and the Public Service Board restrict employment opportunities in the Public Service for handicapped persons. [More…]

• When was the last review into medical and efficiency standards conducted by the Department of Health and the Public Service Board, and were the standards modified or relaxed in any way. [More…]

• The Public Service Board has advised me that both the Public Service Act and the Superannuation Act require that appointees should undergo a medical examination and satisfy health and physical fitness standards for entry into the Commonwealth Service and for acceptance to the [More…]

• The medical standards, set by the Superannuation Board and the Public Service Board acting on the advice of the Department of Health, are relatively high for Superannuation Fund acceptance, but persons who are not able to meet these standards are often eligible for appointment under Provident Account conditions. [More…]

• Until 1962, the general rule was that permanent appointees to the Service (other than returned soldiers) should be in sound health and likely to remain so until retiring age. [More…]

• He resigned from that position on account of ill health. [More…]

• In fairness I must say that Mr Brown has a history of resignations from many jobs due to ill health. [More…]

• Senator McAuliffe said, among other things - this made me prick up my ears, and later I shall explain why - that Mr Brown was a senior official of the Federated Clerks Union of Australia and that he had resigned, in fact had resigned from several jobs, because of ill health. [More…]

• I am sorry that the question of Mr Brown’s health has been raised. [More…]

• Surely there is some privacy for the state of a man’s health. [More…]

• 1 did not know that there was anything wrong with his health. [More…]

• Senator Mulvihill could not have known that there was anything wrong with his health unless he had had access to his medical adviser. [More…]

• I think it is a scandalous thing that the statement should be made under privilege - he cannot challenge in the courts - that a man is a physical derelect, by a person who would have no knowledge at all of the state of his health. [More…]

• How could Senator Mulvihill have any knowledge of the physical health of this man? [More…]

• In regard to the questions relating to health, I suggest that it would be impertinent of me to ask for the medical records of this gentleman. [More…]

• We should assume, under a proper administration by an impartial department and under our system of government, that due precautions have been taken to ensure that the appointees are in a fit state of health. [More…]

• They will be subject to detailed scrutiny to ensure that the best price for the Commonwealth is obtained consistent with providing for the health and comfort of the children. [More…]

• The proposal that has been put forward by the Government is in line with the statement that was brought down in this chamber on 16th August 1972 by the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson). [More…]

• First, I notice that the Bill seeks to amend the National Health Act which would, in normal circumstances, provide to the Senate a very wide ambit for discussing the whole ramifications of the Government’s health scheme and the proposals that will be submitted to the people by the Australian Labor Party in the forthcoming election. [More…]

• I wish to comment to the Minister on the proposal by the Government that each nursing home which desires to continue to be approved under the National Health Act will have to make out a new application for approval. [More…]

• condition of the approval will be that each nursing home will have to agree to participate in the new arrangements by giving an undertaking to charge fees which do not exceed those normally charged by that institution as at 30th June of this year or to which variations in fees have been agreed to by the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• As I think was mentioned by my colleague, Mr Hayden, in another place, there is written into this legislation a type of prices justification policy in relation to the Government’s health proposals on nursing homes in respect of future charging by nursing homes. [More…]

• I think a question was asked by my colleague Mr Hayden in another place of the Minister for Immigration (Dr Forbes) who represents in that place the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health might answer the question now. [More…]

• I am not speaking of pensioners; I am speaking of contributors to a voluntary health organisation. [More…]

• I personally see a number of anomalies arising, but basically it is a very great improvement in health care legislation for the Australian people. [More…]

• It is somewhat in line with the recommendations of the Senate Select Committee on Health and Hospital Costs, commonly referred to now as the Wedgwood Committee, of which I was a member. [More…]

• I can assure the honourable senator that I or my successor as Minister for Health will meet it. [More…]

• The officers in the Department of Health are dedicated people and they will give a great amount of guidance and help to the Minister. [More…]

• It has been very heartening to me, as the Minister for Health, and the Department of Health to be able to bring this legislation forward and obtain not only in this chamber but also in the other place unanimous support for this concept. [More…]

• What financial assistance will be made available by the Commonwealth for 1972-73, in an endeavour to improve the standard of health on Aboriginal missions and Government reserves in Queensland. [More…]

• A total grant of $4,790,000 is to be made to Queensland in 1972-73 of which $675,000 has been allocated for health projects. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of a statement published in the Press during the recent visit of Mr Detwiller, a Canadian authority on health care, who introduced the Canadian health scheme in the 1950s? [More…]

• Is it a fact that countries such as Canada which have government sponsored health schemes are experiencing extreme financial difficulties due to over utilisation? [More…]

• Does the private study of the Australian health care system by Mr Detwiller indicate that Canada is contemplating a change to the voluntary health scheme at present operating in that country? [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) in his second reading speech on Appropriation Act (No. [More…]

• Child care must concern itself with mental health - an integral part of the problem - with the welfare of working mothers and with their pre-school children. [More…]

• But where we differ from the Government, as we have said in our amendment, is that the Government is making no attempt to provide for the educational or mental health aspects in the establishment of child care centres. [More…]

• In introducing this legislation the Government was not concerned for the child or for the mental health of the child or the mother. [More…]

• Those who permit an economic situation in which mothers are forced to work jeopardise the mental health not only of the mother but also of future generations. [More…]

• It is true, having regard to the state of health of the mother or the state of home and tensions, that some children would benefit from the tensionfree environment which they would probably find in a child care centre. [More…]

• Sister Emms, the occupational health nurse at a small arms factory in Lithgow has made some relevant comments about this matter. [More…]

• In a report entitled ‘Pre- school Centres in Industry’, prepared by a sub-committee of the Industry Standing Committee of the New South Wales Association for Mental Health, a body subsidised by the New South Wales Department of Health, Sister Emms had this to say: [More…]

• A subcommittee of the New South Wales Association for Mental Health expresses the opinion that in many areas the situation is even worse than the figures indicate. [More…]

• We feel that the matter is one more of a social character and a medical and health character than of education. [More…]

• In his second reading speech the Minister for Health (Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson) said: . [More…]

• Acting on medical advice, the mother of these children decided earlier in the year to go to Greece to see whether that would aid her health. [More…]

• She has been told by her local doctor that her health will further deteriorate unless she is reunited with her husband. [More…]

• On 24th October 1972, Senator Devitt asked me a question whether consideration was given in the National Health Scheme to the position of psychiatrists and others whose consultations generally are substantially longer than the consultations of medical practitioners and range over a fairly protracted period of time involving a great number of consultations. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The decision to sell the abattoir was taken by the Government after careful consideration of a report prepared by an interdepartmental committee, consisting of officers of the Departments of Health, the Treasury, Primary Industry and the Interior, and the National Capital Development Commission. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister for Health been drawn to a report from London that the British Government has announced that its scientific advisers are urgently studying claims that diseased potatoes might be causing 2 of the commonest forms of congenital birth defects? [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health - The Government opposes the motion moved by Senator Murphy because in my understanding an effort will be made in good faith to bring on the matter to which Senator Murphy is referring. [More…]

• Senator Sir KENNETH ANDERSON (New South Wales - Minister for Health) (2.25) - in reply - In closing this debate, I want to make it clear that I have been put in a very embarrassing position. [More…]

• One is their living and social conditions - health, education and what have you; the other is the preservation of those things that are sacred to them, such as the Drums of Mer which were made famous by an Australian writer but which today are virtually non-existent. [More…]

• There may be an exigency of health or a desire which would not necessarily allow me to remain in the chair of Leader of the Government in the Senate. [More…]

• At its 69th Session in November 1969, the National Health and Medical Research Council recommended hygiene standards for exposures to concentrations of chrysotile and amosite asbestos dust in air breathed by workers. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council is preparing comprehensive draft model legislation for the protection of workers from atmospheric contaminants. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did the Senior Health Inspector of the Werribee Shire Council claim in a report that the Royal Australian Air Force is dumping inadequately treated effluent, with a bacterial count of more than 6 times the allowable maximum, into Port Phillip Bay; if so, will the Minister take steps to ensure that the discharge of effluent which contravenes the Stream Pollution Regulations, and according to the report of the Senior Health Inspector is ‘potentially dangerous to swimmers’, is stopped immediately. [More…]

• A new sewage treatment works is being constructed, for the design of which approvals were sought and obtained from the Port Phillip Authority and the Victorian Department of Health. [More…]

• In July 1963, the late Senator Wade, then Minister for Health, announced special arrangements designed to assist children born deformed as a result of their mothers’ taking the drug thalidomide. [More…]

• Subsequent rehabilitation services were to be provided by the States but the Commonwealth decided to make available, for consultation with State authorities, specialists from the Repatriation Department and from the Department of Health’s Institute of Child Health. [More…]

• He was Minister in Charge of War Service Homes from 1934 to 1936, Minister for Defence from 1937 to 1938, Minister for Civil Aviation from 1938 to 1939 and Postmaster-General and Minister for Health from March 1940 to October 1940. [More…]

• Among them were the anti-poverty programme, the Civil Rights Acts of 1964, the medicare scheme to provide health insurance throughout the community, and an attack on slum housing and urban decay. [More…]

• That the action of certain unions in prohibiting tha export of Australian produce is harmful to Australia’s economic health; will create loss of goodwill with customers important to exporters and will eventually lead to loss of income and job opportunities for Australian citizens and, in addition, lower returns to producers, many of whom have suffered great losses owing to seasonal conditions, and that it is of urgent necessity to examine the disparity between farm gate price for meat and the retail price to the public. [More…]

• is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that the administration of the Queensland health services has reached ah all time low? [More…]

• Will the Minister- take appropriate steps to ensure that Queens and is the first State investigated by any Commonwealth committee of inquiry into health factors generally? [More…]

• I know that Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health, and Mr Hayden, the Minister for Social Security, are in contact and consultation with all relevant State Ministers concerning health matters generally. [More…]

• It refers to the statements made by Mr Francis James alleging that he was arrested and imprisoned without trial, tortured, denied access to representation and his health gravely affected in Communist China. [More…]

• Mr President, I want to take up a short period on the adjournment to make certain references to the Queensland hospital and health system which I believe needs an urgent inquiry. [More…]

• I make this appeal in particular to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• I ask him to take all constitutional means to have an investigation carried out as a matter of high priority by the Australian Hospital and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• In order to give a clear picture I want to quote from a story that was written exclusively for the ‘Australian’ of Friday, 23rd February 1973, by Dr Arthur Crawford, a Liberal Party member of the Queensland Parliament who, in my view, ought to be Minister for Health in Queensland but unfortunately does not have the numbers. [More…]

• It is geared for central bureaucratic control through the Health Department. [More…]

• They have complained about something in the hospital system and have been blacklisted by the Health Department and cannot get a job anywhere in Queensland. [More…]

• Decisions are made in the Health Department and the power is with the Under-Secretary. [More…]

• If Senator Wright had been here earlier he would know that I am asking the Minister representing the Minister for Health to give Queensland number one priority for an investigation by the Australian Hospital and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• It affects Federal responsibility to the extent that now we have a Federal Labor Government we will take some interest in what happens in the health field. [More…]

• As I said earlier, my criticism is of the Queensland Government and its neglect of public health, not of the staff in the general hospital system. [More…]

• 1 believe that only a searching inquiry such as I have called for under these circumstances will eliminate the weak spots in the Queensland health system. [More…]

• But there is tremendous criticism of Mr Tooth, the State Minister for Health, who has carried out a toothless campaign, if 1 may use that phrase, ever since he was appointed Minister. [More…]

• In my capacity as Minister representing in this chamber the Minister for Health I listened attentively to the remarks of my colleague. [More…]

• I know that for some years while he and I were members of the Opposition he took part in a great number of estimates debates in this4 chamber in connection with the Department of Health and highlighted the inadequacies of the hospital system in his State. [More…]

• Senator Keeffe has suggested that all of the constitutional means available to the Commonwealth Government should be adopted by it to enable it to ask the proposed Australian hospitals and health services commission to give high priority to the investigation of the needs of the Queensland hospital system. [More…]

• 1 know that the New South Wales Minister for Health, Mr Jago, said recently that S200m needs to be spent in that State alone if the hospital needs of the people are to be brought to proper standard, f mention these matters merely to indicate that as a result of 23 years of conservative government in Australia the hospital needs of this country are crying out for remedial attention. [More…]

• This is why my colleague the Minister for Health announced recently the establishment of an Australian Hospital and Health Services Commission to be presided over by the wellknown hospital administrator, Dr Sax. [More…]

• The purpose of the Commission will be to study Australian health care needs and to submit to the Australian Government recommendations on allocations of both capital and operating funds to develop and maintain health care delivery systems for the benefit of all Australians. [More…]

• The Commission is to be guided in its work by the principle that a high standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every Australian without distinction of race, creed, political belief or economic or social condition. [More…]

• Because of the complementary nature of the responsibilities of the Commission and of the Department of Health and because that Department will implement the recommendations of the Commission that are accepted by the Government, the Commission will keep the Department of Health fully informed on its activities.The Department, for its part, will provide expertise and general support for the Commission. [More…]

• One of the principles which the Commission will take into account in assessing hospital and health care needs of Australians is that of planning on a regional basis and the effective co-ordination of hospital and community services. [More…]

• Townsville is the largest city in the far north of this country and I believe that Senator Keeffe has made a justifiable case for the Australian Hospital and Health Services Commission giving high priority to the needs of the Townsville hospital. [More…]

• I certainly will bring his remarks to the attention of my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I assure the honourable senator that the Minister for Social Security and the Minister for Health are looking at this matter. [More…]

• I understand it will be one matter that will be considered by the Health and Hospital Services Commission that is being established by the Government. [More…]

• The question was directed to me as Minister representing the Minister for Health, but the area of responsibility comes within the portfolio of the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister for the Media, covers also in part his representation in this chamber of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In addition, is 70 per cent of ancillary help paid for from the national health scheme? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that a considerable number of doctors either own or have a financial interest in many of the 382 private nursing homes registered under the National Health Act? [More…]

• I understand that agreements have been reached with health authorities in respect of labelling so that distinctions can be made properly in accordance with the requirements of the National Health and Medical Research Council recommendations. [More…]

• For the purpose of clarification, I ask a question of the Minister who represents the Minister for Health and the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• I asked a question concerning the Department of Health and was told that it was a matter concerning the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• If a question is asked concerning the Department of Health, I presume that it will be answered by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If not, why not abolish the Health portfolio? [More…]

• For example, in the Department of Health the principal matters dealt with are public health including hospitals, community health and dental services, research, preventive medicine, pharmaceutical benefits, quarantine, health services in the Northern Terri tory, the Australian Capital Territory and Norfolk Island. [More…]

• A considerable number of enactments are referred to, starting with the Acoustic Laboratories Act 1948 and ending with the World Health Organisation Act 1947-1963. [More…]

• The principal matters dealt with by the Minister for Social Security are national social security schemes including invalid and age pensions, maternity allowances, widows pensions, child endowment, unemployment and sickness benefits, health benefits, schemes, national superannuation, national compensation, national rehabilitation service, aged persons’ homes, assistance for sheltered workshops and handicapped children. [More…]

• Is it also true that the Treasury warns that the overriding threat to the nation’s economic health is no longer unemployment but the serious danger of runaway inflation? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: What action does the Government contemplate to avoid a repetition of the recent excessive spraying of DDT on New South Wales cotton fields which has impaired the health of a large section of the field workers? [More…]

• Minister for Health has advised me that the chemical agent responsible for the problem at Wee Waa and other areas in the north-west of New South Wales was not in fact DDT but a mixture of other chemicals, including an organo-phosphorus compound which I think is commonly referred to as Phosdrin. [More…]

• The Minister has assured me that at present the National Health and Medical Research Council is drawing up recommendations relating to the use and safety of pesticides. [More…]

• Now that the Minister is aware of the statement referring to the English general practitioner in relation to the British health scheme, has he verified the accuracy or otherwise of those statements? [More…]

• An interdepartmental committee has been established consisting of representatives of the Departments of Health, Social Security, Customs and Excise, the AttorneyGeneral, and Environment and Conservation to look into how, in effect, some total approach might be made to these questions. [More…]

• As the very valuable report of the Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse showed, it is not simply a problem of the criminal law; nor is it simply a problem of education, health or the other disciplines. [More…]

• The intention of that interdepartmental committee is to investigate the approaches being taken in the United States, where the stress hitherto has been mostly on the criminal law aspect and also the approaches being taken in the United Kingdom where the stress seems to have been rather on the health aspect and dealing with it as being a problem of sickness. [More…]

• I am aware that under’ section’ 76a of the National Health Act every fund is required to provide a return to the Minister annually. [More…]

• I can well recall the honourable senator in his- role as Minister for Health- tabling the document sometime in the- autumn session, of last year. [More…]

• I want to remind the honourable senator that until, this Government is able to introduce amending, legislation to the existing Social Service Act and the National Health Act into the Parliament it will still be operating under an obsolescent, inadequate and hotchpotch scheme of the previous administration. [More…]

• My question, which is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, is supplementary to the 2 previous questions directed from the Opposition. [More…]

• Apparently, one- of the objections:- that, the present .Minister for Social Security has to- the manner in which the previous - Government- : administered;, the national health scheme is that it regarded the overall report- in. [More…]

• The honourable senator who was formerly Minister for Health introduced that legislation and I on behalf of the then Opposition did not oppose it. [More…]

• To compare Senator Greenwood’s conduct in the former Government, particularly when he was Minister for Health, let me refer briefly to sections of the National Health Act. [More…]

• When Senator Greenwood was Minister for Health in the former Government he had the responsibility of administering the National Health Act. [More…]

• 1 refer to section 13 of Part III of the National Health Act which deals with medical benefits and relates to the interpretation of some of the terms used in the Act. [More…]

• Section 13 of the National Health Act simply says what we are saying in respect to the application of 4 weeks annual leave to public servants. [More…]

• The former Government, in which Senator Greenwood, was the then Minister for Health, was saying that one was obliged it is true to say that it is voluntary to belong to a fund if, firstly, one wanted to derive the benefit of receiving the amount that is payable by the fund and secondly, the subsidy that is payable by the Commonwealth to the fund. [More…]

• The section goes on briefly to deal with 2 different types of beneficiaries under the so-called voluntary, non-compulsory national health scheme. [More…]

• When one considers the objections that have been voiced by Senator Greenwood to the proposal - which I support wholeheartedly - for a form of preference to people who make a contribution to an organisation which obtains benefit for them and when one compares what he, as the Minister for Health, said in relation to the National Health Act and what he said, as Attorney-General, in relation to the National Service Act one can see the point which I made earlier in my speech, that is, that it is very difficult to take seriously the Opposition’s quest to present itself as the champion of the worker because it strikes me, as I said earlier, as being out and out humbug. [More…]

• What greater coercion can there be than that which I read from the National Health Act, if it is a matter of comparing one with the other. [More…]

• Yet this Opposition, the former government, suggested that it was a voluntary health scheme. [More…]

• It was a compulsory health scheme because if one did not make a contribution one did not derive a benefit. [More…]

• This scheme of arrangement is as free and non-compulsory as the National Health Act was under the former government. [More…]

• Mr Acting Deputy President, I thought earlier tonight that you very logically related this issue to the health services. [More…]

• The previous Government boasted that it is a voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• On the other hand, some other fellow may have tried to enlist in the armed Services but was rejected because of ill health. [More…]

• I thought Senator Brown put a very lucid case when he pointed out that to join a voluntary health organisation one has to take out a subscription. [More…]

• I believe that there is a very close similarity between the trade union movement and its rules, regulations and registration and the National Health Act and its rules, regulations and registration. [More…]

• In order to obtain the benefits payable under the National Health Act it is necessary to be a member of a hospital or medical benefits fund. [More…]

• The effects of the National Health Act have been far more severe than the Government intended because it is necessary to be a member of a fund for a probationary period before receiving any benefits. [More…]

• The second ground of approach was the clear failure, of existing social and economic structures to meet the needs of modern society, particularly in relation to education, social security, health, industrial relations and urban and regional development. [More…]

• A universal health insurance scheme will be introduced. [More…]

• I have been critical of the Liberal Minister for Health in New South Wales, Mr Jago, because there is not an ample number of interpreters employed in maternity hospitals. [More…]

• For some reason that we have never been able to find out the previous Government set up the costly Nimmo Committee but to my mind its report was a good halfway house between what the Labor Party suggested concerning national health and what the then Government thought. [More…]

• Having gone around many electorates at large before and since the last election, I am more than ever convinced that the people are clamouring for a better deal on national health. [More…]

• I told him that my quarrel was not with the doctors but with the health insurance funds. [More…]

• As Gaitskell said on one occasion about fighting, I will never be satisfied until every bureaucratic decision by a health insurance fund can be reviewed. [More…]

• The simple fact of the matter is that at that time - namely, I think June or July of last year to which the honourable senator referred - I myself was a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which was inquiring into all aspects of repatriation. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health say whether it is a fact that the Commonwealth Government has approved the relaxation of quarantine regulations to permit the admission of cats and dogs from Papua New Guinea, Norfolk Island, Hawaii and Fiji into this country? [More…]

• Other Commonwealth Acts such as the Compensation (Commonwealth Employees), the Social Services and the National Health Acts recognise additional categories of these dependants. [More…]

• Is this contrary to the basis upon which the Parliament - with all parties concurring - approved amendments to the National Health Act in late 1972 whereby generally Commonwealth benefits were increased? [More…]

• I ask: Is that offer in line with the advocacy by the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, of the sterilisation of Aborigines? [More…]

• This is obviously a question the right answer to which will have to come from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I thought that they were on the free list under the national health scheme. [More…]

• In the light of his earlier reply, has the Minister considered whether in the light of what Senator Douglas McClelland stated to me, namely, that the Victoria Actuary’s report suggests that the funds of the Victorian health benefit organisations will not enable payments to be made for nursing home patients, there should be an increase in the contributions made to the hospital benefit funds as he has recently approved a 40 per cent increase in the payments made to medical benefit funds? [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, has written to the Victorian Minister for Health, Mr Rossiter, requesting his co-operation in arranging for the payment of the benefit. [More…]

• I understand that in addition to this correspondence which was dispatched by my colleague to the Victorian Minister for Health, discussions took place between Mr Hayden and Mr Rossiter on 5th March 1973. [More…]

• My colleague, the Minister for Social Security, has assured me that the secretary of the Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association of Victoria has approached the Victorian office of the Department of Health about making Commonwealth payments or issuing certificates specifying the amount of fund benefits payable to the proprietors. [More…]

• In addition, is 70 per cent of ancillary help paid for from the national health scheme. [More…]

• I have now seen a transcript of the ‘Four Corners’ program referred to, and it indicates that the reporter concerned referred to his own English doctor and to the fact that he and his partners are allowed to draw income both from the health scheme and from private fee-paying patients. [More…]

• Does he know that the provision of such windows is a condition laid down by the health authorities in any State and that plans will not be passed unless such windows are to be provided? [More…]

• Does he not agree that if excessive noise is issuing from any public entertainment premises orders should be issued to reduce the noise rather than seal the windows and that it is the duty of the licensing court to ensure that all windows and fire escape doors are working freely and correctly at all times to comply with health department and fire department standard regulations? [More…]

• The next question was on the subject of health. [More…]

• However, 1 do not know what the attitude of various health departments would be in relation to premises which have air conditioning. [More…]

• However, I shall refer the content of the question to the Minister for Health and ask him to give it the detailed reply that it merits. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has it yet been possible to make an evaluation of the effectiveness of current warnings that smoking is a health hazard? [More…]

• I understand that the Commonwealth Department of Health has been conducting surveys on the effectiveness of the types of campaigns that have previously been conducted. [More…]

• Tn this regard discussions are to take place tomorrow between officers of my Department and officers of the Commonwealth Department of Health, and tomorrow evening the Minister for Health and I will be in discussion about establishing a much more effective campaign over the media. [More…]

• $7,500,000 will be made available to the States to supplement funds already provided by the Commonwealth to cover expenditures in such fields as housing, education and health. [More…]

• Of that sum, $7.5m is to go to the States for housing, education and health. [More…]

• 1 congratulate him and Mrs Murphy - and I wish them and their child health and happiness. [More…]

• The poor health status of the Aboriginal people is a continuing cause for grave concern. [More…]

• Despite the increased expenditure during the last S years both by the Commonwealth Department of Health and, until recently, by the Department of the Interior on health programs in the Northern Territory and also by the Health Departments in the various States the present situation is not one that can be accepted as tolerable. [More…]

• The Department of Aboriginal Affairs, in conjunction with the Commonwealth Department of Health, is urgently examining ways in which a major attack can be mounted to solve the problems associated with the high mortality and retarded growth of Aboriginal infants as well as with the many chronic diseases to which not only Aboriginal children but also the adult members of the Aboriginal communities are prone. [More…]

• From the supplementary funds being made available at the present time approximately $1.5m will be for assistance to health programs. [More…]

• These include the recruitment of additional doctors and nurses to be concerned specifically with Aboriginal health in Western Australia, the building of a hospital complex and child health clinics, a dental clinic and the provision of water supply and sewerage at various settlements in Queensland and assistance to nursing aide training and the provision of adequate sewerage at- several reserves in New South Wales. [More…]

• The Minister hopes soon to be able to make available substantially greater funds for the State which will make possible a far more effective and comprehensive health program foi* Aboriginal people than has been the case in the past. [More…]

• But the Government says it is not going round the world, as the previous Government did, choosing immigrants on the basis of skills and craft, and bringing them here so that Australia can benefit by their youth, their health and their skills. [More…]

• Will the Minister advise what action has been taken, or is intended to be taken, to implement the recommendations contained in the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, on Physically and Mentally Handicapped Persons in Australia, which was presented to the Senate on 5th May 1971. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter: [More…]

• There were hundreds of men including middle-aged fat men, whom one would not see going for a little training run just for the good of their health. [More…]

• Recently I have had discussions with my colleague, the Minister for Health, on the course of action that we should take in carrying out Government policy in prohibiting cigarette and cigarette tobacco advertising and, at the same time, again in conformity with Government policy, to implement a system of phasing in anti-smoking advertising. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that if one wishes ill fortune to any enemy the easiest way of achieving this is to present that enemy with the ‘Doctors Book’, upon which the enemy will invariably accumulate all the diseases about which he or she reads? [More…]

• In the immediate context of the question, this interest embraces, for example, the dairying and vegetable oilseeds industries in the rural sector, and, from the consumer viewpoint, matters which include health factors and freedom of choice. [More…]

• The need for an admissions policy has been expressed by responsible organisations concerned with the health of the community. [More…]

• In the interests of Australians generally and particularly on health grounds 1 believe the quota system should be ended as soon at possible. [More…]

• He, having been responsible for some considerable time for the administration of the Health Department will be aware of the serious way in which the departmental officers view this task. [More…]

• to establish mandatory occupational safety and health standards applicable to all employees of the Commonwealth, of Commonwealth authorities, of Commonwealth contractors, in the Territories and in interstate trade and commerce; [More…]

• to provide for the effective enforcement of such safety and health standards; [More…]

• to provide for research relating to occupational safety and health; [More…]

• lo provide for training programs to increase and improve personnel engaged in the field of occupational safety and health; [More…]

• to delineate more clearly the responsibilities of the Commonwealth Government and the States in their activities relating to occupational safely and health; [More…]

• to provide grants to the States to assist them in identifying their needs and responsibilities in the area of occupational safety and health and to develop plans to conduct experiments and demonstration projects in connection therewith: and [More…]

• to provide for appropriate accident and health reporting procedures which will help achieve the foregoing objectives. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that there are at present 140 Recovery groups operating in Australian States and the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• Does he realise that Recovery is a unique voluntary community mental health service offering a sufferer to sufferer relationship which assists the expatient’s rehabilitation? [More…]

• I will certainly refer the honourable senator’s question to my colleague, the Minister for Health in another place. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The grant will be used for housing, health, education, employment, special works projects and regional projects. [More…]

• I believe that we should strive for their economic independence and to reduce existing social and other handicaps which face them in respect of health, housing, education and vocational training. [More…]

• Money is to be allocated for housing, health, education, employment, special work projects and regional projects. [More…]

• It is important that Aborigines are given the same opportunities as other Australians in the field of education and housing, and surely there is a real need for more to be done in the field of health than perhaps has been done in the past. [More…]

• All the legislation which is brought forward in relation to education and health will not solve problems unless competent Aborigines are fielded to liaise with their own people, to ensure that they are sure of their entitlements and where to go to receive them, and how to cope with the many problems they are facing. [More…]

• Last evening I attended a conference on the health of Aborigines in the north. [More…]

• One argument was: We are trying to educate them in our way of health but they quickly forget it when the witchdoctor scratches their arm or points the bone or something else’. [More…]

• As 1 said last evening, the Department of Health is concerned that we must alter the whole basis of our approach. [More…]

• In the past, we have been trying to force health measures upon the Aborigines and to reach a position where they accept them. [More…]

• Those Asian residents who are not contract or fixed term workers and who are not Australian citizens will be accepted for residence in Australia on application subject to availability of employment and accommodation and to health and character checks where deemed necessary. [More…]

• Next, the Governor-General referred to the fact that a National Hospitals and Health Services Commission will be established to survey and develop regional co-ordination of health care delivery. [More…]

• In this chamber during, I think, the first week of the current session I raised certain problems associated with the run down health scheme in Queensland, and virtually the only public reaction from the State Minister of Health was his statement that this was part of a plan to downgrade the Queensland hospital system. [More…]

• With a State government Minister for Health administering short sighted policies and a worn out State Government, we cannot expect anything better. [More…]

• My Government recognises that the worst social inequalities, the worst poverty and the worst health problems bear upon the Australian Aboriginal people. [More…]

• One of the handicaps that the Commonwealth Parliament has to face is that, in spite of the fact that it is a number of years since the 1966 referendum was conducted, the previous Government did not carry out any surveys on health, employment, housing or educational requirements for islanders or Aborigines. [More…]

• However he has arrived at an approximate estimate based upon the provisional statistics issued for 1972 by the United States National Center for Health Statistics. [More…]

• Can the AttorneyGeneral tell the Senate whether, if the deleterious effects upon the health and welfare of the Australian population from fallout from atmospheric testing by the French Government in the Pacific reach a level of considerable concern, the effect upon the entire populations of peoples living in the Pacific basin will be even greater? [More…]

• I am the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which is currently examining repatriation benefits and I should like to deal with just one example. [More…]

• asked the Minister repre senting the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the administration of Queensland health services has reached an all-time low; if so, will the Minister take appropriate steps to ensure that Queensland is the first State investigated by any Commonwealth committee of inquiry into health factors generally. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I shall request Dr Sax, Chairman of the Interim Committee on Hospitals and Health Services, to take Queensland’s special needs into account when recommending Federal assistance to Stales. [More…]

• It will be recalled that our spokesman on Health and Welfare during the 1972 election campaign, now the Minister for Social Security, indicated that the benefit of proposed new rates of subsidy would amount to $22m per year for Queensland. [More…]

• 1 would add that late in 1971 the New South Wales Minister for Health, the Hon. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Government have the National Health and Medical Research Council provide a comprehensive statement as to the known side effects due to the constant use of the pill. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Certain oral contraceptives became available as pharmaceutical benefits on 1st February 1972; thus between 1st February and 31st March 1 month’s supply of these products was obtainable, on a prescription, free of charge by persons having an entitlement under the Pensioner Medical Service, for 50c by persons with an entitlement under the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan and for a patient contribution of $1 by other persons. [More…]

• But let us make no mistake about the fact that, depending on the nature of the explosion, all tests, including Chinese tests, are detrimental to the health and welfare of the people of the world and to future generations. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, I ask: Why should the Queensland poisons regulations regarding the sale of cough mixtures containing common antihistamines be so restricted as to prohibit chemists from selling these preparations over the counter, when such a restriction is limited to Queensland, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory? [More…]

• I am advised by my colleague the Minster for Health in another place that the control of poisons comes within the responsibility of the individual States, the Commonwealth being responsible only in the territories it administers, namely the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council, which is an advisory body to the Commonwealth and States, has recommended that antihistamines be available only on prescription, except in preparations labelled and packed for the treatment of motion sickness in packs of 10 doses or less. [More…]

• The Minister for Health advises me further that the recommendations of Council have no legal standing until they are incorporated into appropriate State or territory legislation. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, I present the report which the Health Insurance Planning Committee tendered to the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) and which was tabled in the House of Representatives on 2nd May. [More…]

• One can live in Australia for 10 years, gain the age limit or the health standard and receive the benefit of this money from the Australian purse. [More…]

• So far as the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory - areas that are within the ambit of my colleague the Minister for Health in another place - are concerned, I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health to see what information he can provide to the honourable senator. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Civil Aviation and also to the Minister representing the Minister for Health as 1 think that it comes within both jurisdictions. [More…]

• Certainly, 1 will put forward his proposal to my colleague in another place, the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If I were one to resort to whimsy I could say that if the table which, incidentally, is compiled from figures supplied by Interpol, the United Nations and the World Health Organisation, says anything [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following reply to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Is he aware that last Saturday represented the second anniversary of the tabling of the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare relating to mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia? [More…]

• I understand that my colleague, the Minister for Health, is working on this matter and, if my recollection is correct, that he has established a committee to consider the details of the report. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Senator Murphy will be seeking to preserve the lives and good health of future generations of Australians. [More…]

• That film was screened earlier this week through arrangements made by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• An announcement was made that the Australian medical aid program in Vietnam is to change its emphasis from patient care aid to the fields of public health and medical training. [More…]

• As part of this review a team of 3 doctors, led by Sir William Refshauge, the Director-General of Health, visited Vietnam in November 1971. [More…]

• The team included a senior Adelaide surgeon and former leader of 2 surgical teams in Vietnam, Mr Mervyn Smith, and Dr J. Boxall of the Department of Health. [More…]

• This community health clinic will provide normal outpatient facilities, dispensary, a small laboratory, X- ray facilities, minor operating room and a maternity wing. [More…]

• In addition to the public health clinic project, medical training programs for the Vietnamese civil medical teachers and public health staff are being planned. [More…]

• public health administration. [More…]

• While I am on my feet I thank Senator Negus, who has just spoken, for his concern for my health. [More…]

• Are allegations contained in the Monthly Bulletin correct that (a) a Commonwealth Department of Health official visiting a 95 year old, helpless and partially blind woman admitted for intensive care, suggested that the woman should try to get up and, she having taken a few steps, decided that she did not need intensive care: the woman allegedly dying the following day; and (b) a patient suffering from a deteriorating condition of bowel cancer, admitted to a nursing home by his family doctor who agreed to complete the form NH5 after admission, was subsequently discharged from the nursing home because of a Departmental letter warning of possible deregistration of the nursing home if the new rules were not observed and only readmitted subsequently as the result of many hours of search by the family doctor to finally secure telephone approval from a Commonwealth Medical Officer; and (c) a doctor seeking the speedy admission of a 67 year old helpless woman followed precisely the new regulations and forwarded the form NH5 by post, receiving Departmental approval some 8 days later. [More…]

• Officers of my Department are doing everything in their power to minimise inconvenience and difficulties that may be faced by patients where medical practitioners refuse to follow the requirements of the National Health Act in regard to the admission of patients to nursing homes. [More…]

• The number of individual private medical practitioners complying with the requirements of the National Health Act regarding the approval of the Commonwealth prior to the admission of a patient to a nursing home is not readily ascertainable. [More…]

• Will the Minister for the Media investigate an agreement that exists between the Brisbane ‘Courier-Mail’ and the Queensland Minister for Health, Mr Tooth, regarding the non-publishing of any story concerning a health matter without the Minister’s prior approval or the guarantee to the Minister of a right of reply? [More…]

• I am unaware of any agreement which the honourable senator suggested has been entered into between the Brisbane ‘Courier-Mail’ and the Queensland Minister for Health regarding the non-publication of any health story prior to its referral to the Queensland Minister for Health. [More…]

• Minister representing the Minister for Health, I am unaware of the details mentioned by the honourable senator in his question. [More…]

• 2) as important but it has said that it regards the Conciliation and Arbitration Bill as important and it now says mat it regards its Health Bill as important. [More…]

• I would stress that any radio-active fall-out is detrimental to health and hence a matter for concern. [More…]

• Just prior to my coming into’ the Senate the Minister for Health did give me some information on this matter. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has advised me that’ no batches of influenza vaccine have failed ‘ this year and that the backlog of orders by distributors, which at one stage had reached almost 6 weeks, should fall to 2 weeks by the end of this month. [More…]

• There have been’ some wild public statements about the efficiency of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, : but, according to the Minister for Health,, the’ facts are, as students of an illustrated science strip in some leading daily “newspapers 1 will realise, that appropriate virus strains have to be decided some months in advance of production. [More…]

• As soon as the prevalent strain in the recent northern winter was confirmed by the World Health Organisation production was started in anticipation of orders for 800,000 doses, based on last year’s orders of 55,000 doses. [More…]

• The Minister for Health advises me that in 1 967, in the United States, for example, several firms were unable to produce a satisfactory vaccine until late in the winter. [More…]

• 1 ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question which is supplementary to the one that he has just answered. [More…]

• Will he ask the Minister for Health to allay the confusion that exists amongst patients, chemists and doctors as to whether a person needs one or two injections of the new influenza vaccine for booster purposes? [More…]

• But certain advice from the instrumentalities of the Department of Health indicates that a person needs 2 injections. [More…]

• The Department of Health implies that a person needs 2 injections because it has changed the pharmaceutical benefits list from one injection to 2 injections. [More…]

• As everyone knows, Senator Turnbull who has asked the question, is a medical practitioner, as is the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health inform me whether it is true that the National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia has recently approved a project to investigate the incidence of. [More…]

• Because I only represent the Minister, for Health in this chamber I know nothing about the, matter. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Having indicated that I oppose French nuclear testing if health dangers are involved, I ask: Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to an article by Sir Philip in this morning’s ‘Sydney Morning Herald’ which states inter alia that any person who moves his home from Sydney to Canberra is deliberately subjecting himself and his family to a permanently increased radiation dose very similar to that from the French tests because Canberra is 1,900 feet above sea level? [More…]

• Is this the health threat which threatens to launch a naval vessel, and is this the health threat which has deprived the Senate, at least temporarily, of the benefit of Senator’s Murphy’s presence? [More…]

• Will the Government issue a statement warning all intending residents of Canberra of this health hazard? [More…]

• As the representative in this chamber of the Minister for Health, I can say to the honourable senator that I understand that Sir Philip Baxter was Chairman of the Australian Atomic Energy Commission for some 15 years. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the present wheat quota system is reacting harshly against some traditional wheat farmers who, for health, family or other reasons, did not produce wheat during the quota averaging period of 1963-64 to 1968-69? [More…]

• Will the Minister examine the report and recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which looked at the position of mentally handicapped people and, in particular, to the references to mental health institutions and the reviews of Commonwealth-State agreements? [More…]

• As for the rest of the question as to whether we should appeal to the High Court about banning people doing something in pursuance of their health, I do not think that that requires an answer. [More…]

• I direct a question without notice to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the continued massive cash reserves which the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia Limited continue to amass, will he consider whether past Ministers for Health were unduly solicitous to the directors of the Funds when the earlier formula was made? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If so, are the levels within the limits considered by the health authorities as acceptable? [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to today’s announcement by the Minister for Health that $750,000 will be made available to the national drug education program for pamphlets, films and television documentaries. [More…]

• Will he ask his colleague, the Minister for Health, to consider seriously some means for ensuring the availability in every community of some person or organisation of high integrity and goodwill - working on a purely voluntary basis, one would hope - to whom persons may turn, when in difficulty with drugs, for discussion, advice and help and who, in turn, could with a minimum of fuss and bother ensure that the person concerned was provided with protection, encouragement and a ready availability of top level medical advice and treatment? [More…]

• I can tell the honourable senator that our colleague, the Minister for Health in another place, is at the present time considering all the matters that have been raised by him in a broad, overall attempt by the Government to combat and overcome the growing drug menace in Australia. [More…]

• My question, which is “directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security, concerns the recently tabled Health Insurance Planning Committee report - the so called Scotton and Deeble report - and the prior statement by the Government that it intended to invite the public to study the report and to make submissions on it. [More…]

• I know that a number of additional copies of the Scotton and Deeble report - the Health Insurance Planning Committee report - are being made available by my Department, through the Australian Government Publishing Service, at a cost of $1 per copy in order to get the report as much publicity as may be possible. [More…]

• I assure the honourable senator that a great deal of trouble has been taken by the Australian Government to make known to the public what is proposed for the national health insurance commission. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, pur suant to section 76a of the National Health Act 1953-1972, I present the second Annual Report on the operations of registered medical benefits and hospital benefits organisations for the year ended 30 June 1972. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health say whether the Government’s proposed health scheme is based largely on the Canadian health scheme? [More…]

• Is it a fact that in Canada national health costs have risen at a rate of 13 per cent per annum since Medicare was introduced in 1968 and that this is higher than the Canadian gross national product growth rate of 9 per cent? [More…]

• Is it also a fact that the cost of the Canadian health scheme could reach $7 billion by the middle of the decade? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the present health scheme in Canada has been described as a Frankenstein creation by the Minister for Health in Ontario and, according to a Canadian newspaper report, that the politicians have. [More…]

• Representing in this chamber as I do the Minister for Health I cannot say that the Government’s health scheme is based on the Canadian health scheme as the honourable senator suggests. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee recommended to the previous Government the establishment of a national health commission. [More…]

• Dr Forbes, a former Minister for Health, said that that recommendation would be implemented by the previous Government - 1 think in February 1970. [More…]

• Since this Government has come into office it has established a Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• I add to an answer which I gave to Senator Carrick yesterday that I understand that it is now the Government’s intention to circulate that report to everymedical practitioner in Australia calling for submissions as to the manner in which the Government should implement its policy to establish one national health insurance commission. [More…]

• Is the Minister assisting the Prime Minister aware that both France and China opposed a motion which was moved at the World Health Organisation by Australia and which condemned atomic tests in the atmosphere? [More…]

• The World Health Assembly in Geneva has just adopted by a vote of 87 to 4, with 10 abstentions, a resolution deploring all nuclear testing which results in an increase in the level of ionizing radiation in the atmosphere and urging its immediate cessation. [More…]

• I desire to ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Yesterday the Minister for Health announced a plan that the Government has in mind for going into the business of producing cheaper pharmaceutical drugs under the national health scheme. [More…]

• It will operate in amalgamation eventually with the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, and in competition with private enterprise drug firms, thus keeping healthy competition alive in the industry and reducing the cost of drugs to the Australian taxpayer. [More…]

• I believe that the Health Insurance Planning Committee report is a matter that comes within that category. [More…]

• Therefore I am using the ruse of speaking on the motion for the first readings of the Wool Tax Bills in order to speak about national health insurance. [More…]

• I am not making any political attack on the Health Insurance Planning Committee report, but I believe that the time has come to raise a matter in respect of national health. [More…]

• It is time not only that our national health system, whether it be the insurance system or the system of medical or hospital care, was improved but it is time that the patient was considered. [More…]

• The second question which the report seems to pose is: How can we attack the health benefit insurance companies? [More…]

• There were no medical men on the Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• If the Government wants a national health scheme, the first thing it must have is cooperation, and it is not co-operation when its spokesman says: ‘We will hit you over the head if you do not do what I tell you to do’. [More…]

• There is no doubt that someone in the Department of Health is a very good public relations man and that he is feeding the. [More…]

• When the Press statement made on behalf of either the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) or the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) is boiled down, it shows that the average annual earnings for a GP is $30,000 a year. [More…]

• My second point is that there is nothing in this blueprint for the future of medical services, or health insurance as it is called, because health insurance is tied up with the future improvement of medical care. [More…]

• AH that has been done in this proposal is to computerise what it will cost hospitals, health insurance companies, the commission and so on, but there is not one iota about the good of the patient. [More…]

• My fourth point in relation to the proposed national health scheme is that the Government proposes to do nothing to help to increase the number of GPs in practice. [More…]

• It will become so acute soon that the Government will have to rely on foreign doctors to run its health service as England does. [More…]

• I am not sure whether it is in the Health Insurance Planning Committee report or whether I heard it from someone in the department concerned. [More…]

• The basis of any health scheme, as has been proved throughout the world, is the general practitioner and referral from the general practitioner. [More…]

• Of course, what the propagandists in the Department of Health forget to point out is that thousands and thousands of people go to see a specialist without being referred and the specialist charges his specialist tee which is 2 or 3 times more than the common fee. [More…]

• 1 asked a question regarding the number of medical practitioners employed by the Commonwealth Department of Health in the last S years. [More…]

• But this is happening before the new national health scheme has come in. [More…]

• When one considers that the number of medical practitioners in the Commonwealth Department of Health has increased from 180 to 309 in 5 years, one wonders whether, if those extra 120 to 130 doctors went into general practice, perhaps there would not be a shortage of general practitioners. [More…]

• But we are saying: ‘Join the Commonwealth Health Department. [More…]

• Most of them - not all of them - have been failures in general practice and they join the Department of Health for the sake of security. [More…]

• But to me it is absolutely criminal that in 5 years the number of medical practitioners in the Department of Health who are based in Canberra has more than doubled. [More…]

• Here we have a blueprint, a chance, an opportunity to make something of our national health scheme, which is what the Labor Party has believed in for years and what it has been talking about for years. [More…]

• But when the Labor Party comes into office as the Government, all it is worrying about is national health insurance and whether it will cost $X, $Y or $Z. [More…]

• Why does not the Government include in its national health insurance dentists, physiotherapists and optometrists? [More…]

• Why does it not bring a complete national health insurance scheme? [More…]

• If it is going to introduce a national health insurance scheme, it should bring in a complete scheme. [More…]

• It will nationalise the rest of these ancillary services because it is saying: ‘We are not going to let any health insurance funds exist; we are going to abolish them’. [More…]

• So no one can get health insurance to cover these ancillary services which are so vital to the Australian people. [More…]

• The Government is killing private health insurance; it says so in this report. [More…]

• I have no time for the health insurance funds. [More…]

• Those honourable senators who served with me on the committee which inquired into this matter know that I have never supported the health insurance funds. [More…]

• But if people want private health insurance, why does not the Government let them have it? [More…]

• There is a place for private health insurance to cover the services of optometrists. [More…]

• Therefore, we Ought to have private health insurance. [More…]

• But the Government is killing private health insurance in this report. [More…]

• This is strictly my own point of view and it has nothing to do with the national health insurance scheme, but 1 also want to see something done about the propaganda that comes out about people who cannot afford to pay medical fees. [More…]

• I think that since the national health insurance scheme was introduced, the number of people who cannot afford to pay for medical services is roughly 3 per cent to 5 per cent of the total, which is negligible. [More…]

• I will close now because I have dealt mainly with the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Very few doctors are prepared to visit them and when they do.the visit is recorded on the computer and the doctor is ticked off by the Commonwealth Department of Health: ‘You have been seeing the pensioner every fortnight instead of going every 3 months’. [More…]

• A statement was issued by the Department of Social Security or the Department of Health - I am not sure which - complaining about repeat prescriptions. [More…]

• The Department of Health has now made a statement about pensioners who have been using this facility for years. [More…]

• I do not say that this should be carried to the extent of the practice relating to private scripts but there should be an item in the national health scheme to cover people who want repeats but do not want to see their doctor. [More…]

• Most doctors have a fee for writing out prescriptions, so why not include it in the national health scheme? [More…]

• This is the other matter that is irritating the general ‘ practitioners: The Department of Health tries to ensure that they are not capable of prescribing. [More…]

• The Department of Health denigrates the general practitioner all the time. [More…]

• They let the Department of Health get away with what it is doing. [More…]

• I may have been treating that child for years, not the Commonwealth Department of Health doctor in Sydney, Hobart or wherever he may live. [More…]

• The drug is included in the national health scheme list. [More…]

• The Department of Health doctor will ring up or send back the request with a query. [More…]

• The Department of Health knew it. [More…]

• So the doctors wrote to the DirectorGeneral of Health Services and asked that the after hours locum services - the emergency services - be given an extra amount of these doctor’s bag drugs which is a reasonable request, lt should not take much effort for two or three men - departmental officers and doctors - to get together and work out some scheme under which there will not be any cheating of the Government or drug addiction of the doctor. [More…]

• I went to see the Minister for Health just the other day. [More…]

• I know that Senator Douglas McClelland who represents the Minister for Health in the Senate has listened with interest to most of what I have said. [More…]

• I hope that we can evolve a national health plan that will benefit the patient and not worry all the time about the cost of health insurance or how much profit the doctor will make. [More…]

• I commend the honourable senator for putting the focus of the debate on the one important factor in the national health scheme, namely, that the test of a good health scheme is the quality of the health care that it delivers to the patient. [More…]

• Only last Thursday, during the proceedings of Senate Estimates Committee C, I asked what was the salary being advertised for those general practitioners who are to operate the health centres in Canberra which will be working in competition with the private practitioners. [More…]

• Today in Stockholm more than 50 per cent of the people belong to private health insurance schemes. [More…]

• The Professor made a plea to the people of Australia to continue a voluntary health scheme under which the patient at all times pays a small but nevertheless measurable amount of the health insurance cost. [More…]

• Where it appears that the patient pays nothing - I stress ‘appears’ because there is no such thing as free medicine - the run on the health scheme for everything from cosmetic surgery to over-visiting is such that the ordinary patient suffers in terms of the time of the visit, availability of beds in hospital and the availability of doctors to see him. [More…]

• He can directly bill the health scheme. [More…]

• If he directly bills the nationalised health scheme the patient pays nothing and the doctor gets 85 per cent back. [More…]

• The whole pressure is against general practice and yet this is the pivotal point of community health care. [More…]

• I know that Mr Whitlam in his policy speech made a plaintive plea that he did not feel happy about the fact that his car driver was paying more, so he said, for health insurance than he was. [More…]

• Of course, this statement failed to recognise that people on higher incomes pay infinitely more in direct taxation and subsidise health schemes in that way. [More…]

• I might remind the honourable senator who interjected and who is trying to make a speech on his own, as usual with great difficulty, that the Nimmo Committee report paid great tribute to the voluntary health schemes operating in Australia. [More…]

• It said that the voluntary health schemes in this country, by and large, were operating effectively and efficiently and giving a good service and that, by and large, the freedom of choice that they offered to the people of Australia was a good thing for the people of Australia. [More…]

• Yet, in the face of failure overseas, in the face of the fact that the voluntary health schemes are on the run back in all the main countries, in the face of the fact that in West Berlin there are about 230 voluntary health schemes, in the face of the fact that in [More…]

• Stockholm 50 per cent of the people - the proportion is rising - are now insuring against sickness, this Government is now going to destroy our health schemes. [More…]

• Just as it wants to amalgamate the trade unions and destroy them, so it is out now to amalgamate into one great body our various health schemes. [More…]

• Although I am Minister for the Media, I do represent in the Senate the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) and the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham). [More…]

• I feel that it is my responsibility during this debate on the motion for the first reading to answer some of the comments that have been made by Senator Turnbull and Senator Carrick on this important issue concerning the health and welfare of the Australian people. [More…]

• I have gathered from Senator Turnbull, for whom I have the greatest respect because of his knowledge of medical care in this country, and also from Senator Carrick that they do not want the existing health arrangements changed. [More…]

• So far as the health arrangements regarding the ordinary people in this country are concerned, they are of the belief that everything in the garden is rosy and that the people are satisfied with the existing arrangements. [More…]

• But if it be said by my friends opposite that everyone in this community is getting a fair go so far as our health services are concerned, as a Minister in the Labor Government I strongly disagree with them. [More…]

• The establishment of such a fee would best be undertaken by the medical profession, in conjunction with the Commonwealth Department of Health and the insurance funds, who have available to them the complete range of charges made in relation to every item in the Schedule of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Senator Carrick said that the Nimmo Committee paid great credit to the voluntary health schemes and that, by and large, they were operating effectively and efficiently. [More…]

• But the Nimmo Committee did not say that that was the millennium insofar as health insurance arrangements were concerned. [More…]

• The Committee considers that this objective would be advanced by the transfer of the administration of the health insurance scheme from the Commonwealth Department of Health to a national health insurance commission - [More…]

• the Commonwealth establish a national health insurance commission consisting of a Chairman and four other Commissioners . [More…]

• That was the report of an independent Committee established by the previous Government to inquire into health matters. [More…]

• In March 1970 the then Minister for Health, Dr Forbes, made a statement on behalf of the then Government on health insurance. [More…]

• At page 37, under the heading of ‘Health Insurance Commission’, he said: [More…]

• The administration of health insurance received considerable attention by the Nimmo Committee and its recommendations on this subject have been thoroughly reviewed by the Government. [More…]

• It has been decided to adopt the Committee’s proposal that a national health insurance commission be established. [More…]

• Within 3 days of that Ministry having been sworn in, my colleague the Minister for Social Security established the Health Insurance Planning Committee to carry out the recommendation of the Nimmo Committee of 1969 the implementation of which was advocated by a former Minister for Health in March 1970. [More…]

• I repeat that within 3 days of the Minister for Social Security having been elected to the Ministry of a Labor government, he established the Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• It was established to find the best ways and means of implementing Labor’s policy of establishing a national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Pending the outcome of negotiations with the Australian Medical Association concerning the pensioner medical service, supporting mothers may be covered by the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• I now refer to the second of the Bills we are dealing with, the National Health Bill 1973. [More…]

• The Bill provides for an amendment to section 9a of the National Health Act to make available to supporting mothers hearing aids on the same bases as apply to pensioners. [More…]

• asked the Minister rep resenting the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health follows upon the answer supplied yesterday to my question on notice No. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that Messrs Scotton and Deeble based their health insurance recommendations recently made to the Government largely on personal on the spot studies of the governmentfunded Canadian health scheme? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Federal Deputy Minis- ter of Health in Canada, when referring to the Canadian medicare scheme, recently stated: [More…]

• I ask the Minister whether the Labor Government will avoid proven mistakes made by other governments before introducing radical changes to the present Australian health scheme which obviously is the envy of many overseas countries? [More…]

• I will have them referred to my colleague the Minister for Health for his consideration or the Minister for Social Security for his consideration. [More…]

• As I said in the Senate last night, as soon as Mr Hayden became the Minister for Social Security he appointed a national health insurance planning commission which tendered a report to him in April. [More…]

• Did the Prime Minister, prior to Christmas, instruct officials that social service payments to Aboriginals in outback areas should no longer be distributed partly in rations and the remainder in cash, but entirely in cash; if so, what effect has this decision had on the health of Aboriginals, particularly children, in the outback areas. [More…]

• It is not possible to assess what, if any, specific effect direct payment of these benefits has had on the physical health of Aboriginals or their children. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• When does the Government propose to take remedial action, promised prior to the last election, relating to the mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia whose serious plight was illustrated by the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, which made 85 recommendations for assisting such people. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Similarly, other recommendations which come within my responsibility will be implemented following investigations by the Interim Committee on Hospitals and Health Services. [More…]

• The Committee is seeking to develop a system of hospital and health services which will benefit all Australians but, at the same time, accommodate the needs of particular groups such as physically and mentally handicapped persons. [More…]

• We are becoming more and more sedentary with associated health problems. [More…]

• Last Tuesday I spoke about a matter of national concern, the national health scheme. [More…]

• At least this shows that the Department of Health is on its toes and looking after our interests completely. [More…]

• I am sorry, the Department of Health. [More…]

• I have attacked the Department of Civil Aviation on this point but it is a Department of Health matter. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The patient contribution for the supply of a pharmaceutical benefit is one dollar, except to eligible pensioners and their dependants and persons eligible under the Subsidised Health Benefits Plan. [More…]

• I wish to direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• One is proceeding under the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, the other under the Chairmanship of Mr Justice Toose. [More…]

• The Australian National Health and Medical Research Council has adopted, for application in Australia, the dose limits recommended by ICRP for members of the public. [More…]

• In making this decision, the National Health and Medical Research Council explicitly accepted these dose limits for application with respect to practices within Australia involving the use of controllable sources of man-made ionizing radiation and with respect to critical groups of its population exposed to ionizing radiation from a particular practice. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the Canadian health scheme confronting soaring government costs and declining standards of patient care. [More…]

• Is Canada experiencing an open-ended patient demand which cannot be met by existing health services. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Canadian Government provides financial assistance to Provincial Governments for health and hospital services through the Medical Care Act 1968 and the Hospital Insurance and Diagnostic Services Act 1957. [More…]

• From the information available there is no evidence that patient demand is outstripping the supply of health services in Canada. [More…]

• asked the Minister rep resenting the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister any evidence that the fluoridation of public water supplies is in any way deleterious to public health; if so, what is the evidence, and what action does the Minister contemplate taking. [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has over a period of more than 20 years, and after taking into account experience in a number of countries, consistently taken the view that fluoridation of public water supplies is a signicant factor in the control and prevention of dental caries, and that the process is a reasonable and safe public health measure. [More…]

• A couple of weeks ago it initiated a motion at the World Health Organisation, in effect deploring the continuence of any kind of tests. [More…]

• I will pass the question to those Ministers who are specifically concerned with the subject matter-rit m&y come within the realm of the Minister for Science as well as the Minister for Health - in order that some attention may be given by the Government to what is a very significant and, on the face of it, disturbing alteration in the incidence of leukaemia in a particular area. [More…]

• It has made recommendations about language, education, counsellings, to which I have just referred, employment and other matters relating to health, housing, finance, personal needs, social workers and welfare officers. [More…]

• I do not think for one moment that any member of the Senate, especially one who served on the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare and particularly one who served on the committee of inquiry into the problems of the physically and mentally handicapped, would doubt the desirability of and the great need for additional social workers to be provided in the community. [More…]

• When we study administrative and development programs in our urban areas we have to be concerned with a great variety of functions such as the collection of taxes, the provision of roads and of transportation, health and welfare services. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If so, will the Minister immediately consult State Ministers for Health on the need for an urgent survey of the food processes adopted by the canning industry in Australia? [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health have his Department investigate the position in relation to canned goods imported from sources where the suspected process is operated? [More…]

• The reply provided by the Minister for Health was to the effect that the question of the foods provided to the Australian people was basically a matter which came within the ambit of the Pure Foods Acts of the various States. [More…]

• I refer now to the other portion of the question which the honourable senator asked in May, concerning the consideration the Government had given to the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which inquired into the problems of the physically and mentally handicapped. [More…]

• 274, which Senator McManus placed on the notice paper, my colleague the Minister for Health, at page 2124 of the Senate Hansard of 30 May last, gave to the Senate a detailed reply as to the consideration that the Government was giving to that report. [More…]

• I also remind the honourable senator that recently, on behalf of my colleague the Minister for Health, I laid on the table of the Senate a document entitled ‘A Community Health Program for Australia’, in which many of the matters to which the honourable senator referred have been raised and are alluded to. [More…]

• The Labor Government is now seeking to take over powers in areas such as education through the Schools Commission, and health through a proposed hospitals commission. [More…]

• It cannot be presumed that, however wise the Grants Commission might be or however intelligent and experienced a man such as Sir Leslie Melville might be, a central body sitting in Canberra could know every kerb and gutter, every piece of paspalum grass, every need for a local recreation area and every need for a baby health centre or library in Australia. [More…]

• It does not have to be elaborated or explained because it is self evident in respect of laws relating to taxation, traffic, pure food standards, public health, quarantine, building regulations, foreign ownership and so on. [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS McCLELLAND- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: As the compensation which is being paid by drug companies in West Germany and Great Britain is overdue, what role is the Commonwealth Health Department playing to secure a flow-through of just compensation to the Australian victims of that drug? [More…]

• As the honourable senator has said, when I was in Opposition I raised the question of the thalidomide victims with the then Minister for Health, the late Senator Wade, and as a result of the late senator’s intervention in the matter assistance in the form of artificial limbs was provided by the then government. [More…]

• I have taken up the matter with my colleague the Minister for Health and I know that he is pursuing activities in this regard. [More…]

• If any camping activity took place which seriously threatened the peace or good order of the city or which involved any question of public health the Government would look to the existing laws in force in the ACT for power to deal with those situations. [More…]

• In fact, the Minister for the Capital Territory - it is his responsibility to see the proper regulation of health and so forth in the Territory - says that it is unnecessary to restore this Ordinance, that there is ample provision in the law to deal with problems which may arise in the future. [More…]

• The Bills provide benefits under the social services legislation, the national health scheme and in relation to broadcasting and television licences for supporting mothers. [More…]

• I pause now to mention a matter in the National Health Bill. [More…]

• I take the opportunity to raise a matter that I raised with the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) by letter some time ago. [More…]

• I find this attitude extraordinary in a government which has introduced prices justification legislation, which has proclaimed its concern to look after the interests of the consumer and which is responsible for the administration of the national health scheme in which hearing aids specifically are being paid for out of the public purse. [More…]

• Generally, what assistance can the Government give in relation to a reasonable price that a person who does not qualify for a hearing aid under the national health scheme must pay? [More…]

• by leave- I wish to make a brief statement in respect of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has resolved to make a statement to the Senate on two of the matters referred to it by the Senate in the previous session which were not disposed of by the Committee. [More…]

• That amount represents an average 3 months’ wage bill, with health assurance and insurance costs. [More…]

• We have policies under way in relation to national health, social security and national superannuation. [More…]

• The consultants were directed in their investigation by a steering committee comprising representatives of the Departments of the Interior, Treasury, Works, the Defence group, Civil Aviation, Education, Health, and National Development and the Commonwealth Railways. [More…]

• One sailor will be granted leave for political and health reasons. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I think that this is a matter more for my colleague the Minister for Social Security than for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question, which has health-social security overtones, is directed to Senator .Douglas McClelland who represents the Minister for Health and the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• Can the Minister assure the Senate that, in view of the impending changes under the national health scheme, the directors of this Fund will not be allowed to ride roughshod over the wishes of the rank and file members of that Fund? [More…]

• The future of Fund reserves is a key part of the policy of the Australian Government in structuring its new health scheme and, of course, is receiving the very careful and considered attention of my colleague, the Minister, who, I understand, will be making a detailed statement on the matter at some later stage. [More…]

• We will put the information in a computer as we will do in relation to national health.’ [More…]

• The Ministry for Foreign Affairs, under his guidance, was represented at the World Health Organisation and elsewhere, and one knows that Australia has taken one of the strongest stances in the world against the conduct of nuclear testing by any country. [More…]

• I think everyone should be pleased to know that this man has had his name cleared, especially as he is in advanced years and in declining health. [More…]

• We have declared war on poverty and on the lack of facilities for education and health, and the lack of facilities for the cities of Australia. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister able to give the people of Australia an absolute assurance that the 1.35 per cent income levy proposed to be paid towards the health scheme will be sufficient? [More…]

• I think this is a matter more for my colleague the Minister for Social Security than for the Minister for Health, whom I represent, I know that the Minister for Social Security is now working on detailed plans of a national health scheme for presentation to the Cabinet and eventually to the Parliament. [More…]

• This is in accordance with Labor Party policy as enunciated at the last election, when .the proposed national health scheme was one of the main planks on which the Government was elected. [More…]

• In view of the Minister’s assurance to the Senate this afternoon that the Minister for Social Security is working on a detailed plan to place before Caucus and Cabinet in respect to a national health scheme, can the Minister state under what authority or precedent the Government is currently spending an amount said to be $250,000 on a national health scheme publicity campaign? [More…]

• As the Government seems to believe that one of the virtues of the Chinese nuclear tests is that the tests have been conducted over Chinese territory, I ask the Minister: Does the Chinese Government consider the effect of nuclear fall-out to be of little significance, or does the Chinese Government display a callous disregard for the health and welfare of its people? [More…]

• Controls have been introduced to prevent the importation of items such as household crockery which contains excessive quantities of lead and cadmium, unsafe car windscreens, various chlorinated compounds except for specific purposes, and cigarettes unless they carry appropriate health warnings. [More…]

• Honourable senators also know the regulation provides that even though a book is prohibited under regulation 4a the Minister may approve any application to import such works provided a report has been received from the Chairman of the National Literature Board of Review or the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• The petition was sent to the Department of Health, Repatriation and Social Security for comment. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: Will he inform the Senate as soon as he is able to do so the name of the advertising firm currently masterminding the Australian Government’s proposed new health scheme publicity campaign? [More…]

• Melbourne and not the Australian Government Printer produced the booklet ‘The Australian Health Program’? [More…]

• Achievement in various facets of Australian life - industry, health, education, leisure and so on - will depend increasingly on Australians being able to find their way to and through relevant areas of recorded knowledge. [More…]

• We hope that his moment of great anguish will soon be overcome and that his wife will soon be restored to good health. [More…]

• It has claimed a mandate for its health insurance scheme, its electoral redistribution Bill, its industrial reforms and its education, taxation, housing and urban development policies. [More…]

• The Minister for the Media (Senator Douglas McClelland), who represents in this chamber the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham), has suggested to me that the figures were doctored. [More…]

• I do not want to bring public health into the debate at the moment. [More…]

• Another field in which the unhealthy Leader of the Opposition was crying was that of health. [More…]

• Criticism was expressed in another place of the amount of money which has been made available for Labor’s new national health scheme. [More…]

• It seems that my speech is a health hazard for the Opposition. [More…]

• I refer now to health. [More…]

• I said earlier that the Labor Party is trying to catch up with and meet the needs of the health sector and the welfare sector of the community. [More…]

• In 1970-71, $559m was voted for health. [More…]

• That is an increased expenditure in the health field of $195.7m. [More…]

• In relation to health - time will not permit me to canvass all .that the Treasurer and the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) have said - again there has been an increase of 25 per cent over the amount provided in last year’s Budget. [More…]

• An additional $196m will be spent on health and $3 40m on social welfare. [More…]

• Are they saying that we should spend less on education, on pensions, on urban affairs or on health? [More…]

• The question which he directed to me on Tuesday was whether the advertising agency which did the ‘Its Time’ publicity campaign for the Australian Labor Party at the last Federal election was the advertising agency which carried out the health advertising on behalf of the Australian Government. [More…]

• The advertising agency currently handling the proposed new health scheme publicity campaign is a company known as Coudrey, Cowcher, Dailey Pty Ltd. [More…]

• I tried to get an answer from the Government on whether the Chinese regarded the fallout danger as being insignificant or whether China showed a callous disregard for the welfare and health of its people. [More…]

• Does that excuse them from exploding nuclear bombs without considering the health and welfare of millions of people in the world once the fall-out goes obliquely over Japan and Korea? [More…]

• Here again, the Prime Minister is using an odd criterion because the Chinese people are having their health and welfare affected. [More…]

• -I present the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the petitions relating to social services. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare the following matter- Rehabilitation Services for the Disadvantaged (Handicapped), including the total requirements necessary for the optimum provision of these services, particularly in the educational, medical, social and vocational aspects of rehabilitation, and having regard to: [More…]

• The report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on physically and mentally handicapped children tackled the subject of rehabilitation in considerable detail for this section of the population. [More…]

• With so much work done by Senate committees on various aspects of rehabilitation, I am recommending that the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare bring out a comprehensive report combining matters already touched upon as well as some not yet examined in detail. [More…]

• -Briefly, I wish to indicate that the Government concurs in this proposal being referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The humble Petition of undersigned citizens of Australia respectfully showeth: that the proposed ‘Free’ National Health Scheme is not free at all and will cost four out of five Australians more than the present scheme: that the proposed scheme is discriminatory and a further erosion of the civil liberties of Australian citizens, particularly working wives and single persons: that the proposed scheme is in fact a plan for nationalised medicine which will lead to gross waste and inefficiencies in medical services and will ultimately remove an individual ‘s right to choose his/her own doctor. [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the government will take no measures to interfere with the existing health scheme which functions efficiently and economically. [More…]

• That the proposed ‘ Free ‘ National Health Scheme is not free at all and will cost four out of five Australians more than the present scheme: [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measures to interfere with the existing health scheme which functions efficiently and economically. [More…]

• That the petition be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I have sufficient faith in the good sense of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare to know that it will deal with the petitions as they ought to be dealt with. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am sure the honourable senator will acknowledge that Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health, has taken a great interest in the problem of the children who have been the unfortunate victims of thalidomide. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has informed me that recently he had discussions with the Thalidomide Aid Society. [More…]

• Today I listened to some sort of pomp operation which went on about the national health scheme. [More…]

• When I am told that the present national health scheme is a good system I simply say, as I did by interjection earlier today, that for punishment every member of the Opposition should go home tonight and read the Nimmo report from cover to cover. [More…]

• If Senator Greenwood were here, I think he would agree, for once when as Minister of Health he was negotiating, in a moment of candour he nodded his head to me. [More…]

• I say again that if the Opposition had wanted to stave off some of our measures it should have implemented the Nimmo report and established a health commission. [More…]

• What does the present Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) say? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• (a) K. Wool fe- England and Wales: ‘Some 78 percent of the British abortions were done on ‘ mental health ‘ grounds ‘. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Does the Minister propose to raise the question of abandonment of compulsory x-ray programs with the State Ministers of Health; if not, why does the Government adopt different attitudes according to the source of the radiation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The radiation doses received by that fraction of the Australian population x-rayed in tuberculosis case finding programs have had, as demonstrated by the effectiveness of the program to reduce the incidence of tuberculosis in Australia, real benefit to the public health of the community. [More…]

• I have accepted the recommendation and referred it to the State Ministers of Health for implementation. [More…]

• Everyone knows that in relation to health we are pledged to see that in times of adversity, distress and sickness the best medical attention can be obtained no matter what income the patient receives. [More…]

• The proposed health scheme will come into operation in July next year. [More…]

• Should it be reduced in the field of health? [More…]

• Is it reasonable to suggest that any government in its first year in office after 23 years in opposition- bear in mind that this is fundamental to the whole position- should spend as much as $843m on education, $36 lm on health, $2 1 9m on housing which is an increase of 26 per cent on the last Budget, undertake to implement the elimination of the means test for people over 65 years of age, introduce national superannuation and do a number of other things which benefit not only people who live in urban areas but also those in rural areas? [More…]

• The Government is committed to a policy of far reaching expansion in the provision of public facilities and transfer payments in the fields of education, health, the cities and welfare generally. [More…]

• At the subsequent Gold Coast City Council election Alderman O’Donnell was defeated by Alderman Gibbs who is the present alderman for the area and also the chairman of the Health Committee. [More…]

• What did the Council recommend on 7 September 1973, which recommendation was processed by the Chairman of the Health Committee, Alderman Gibbs? [More…]

• Idonot wish to criticise the fact that there is to be increased expenditure on education and social welfare programs or the development of health care programs. [More…]

• Outside the local fall-out area, most evidence suggests that only a few of the radioactive elements produced by a nuclear explosion are a serious hazard to human health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the State and Commonwealth Ministers for Health are to meet in Canberra on 28 September to discuss a modified free milk scheme? [More…]

• I want briefly to outline some of the anomalies in the existing National Health Act, which was introduced by the previous Government in, I understand, 1953 and which has been amended in various respects since then. [More…]

• There has been a deliberate campaign of misrepresentation of the Labor Party’s proposed health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It has been waged by certain vested interests, including the Voluntary Health Insurance Association, the Australian Medical Association and dissident Opposition senators. [More…]

• The proposed national health scheme will automatically cover all residents of Australia for medical and standard ward hospital treatment. [More…]

• They will pay less under the Government’s national health scheme than they are now paying. [More…]

• The table of taxable individuals produced by the Taxpayers Association shows that only 126,95 1 taxpayers who have a net income of $10,000 a year or more would contribute the maximum of $ 1 50 a year under the proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• An officer was attached to the National Library, bringing to five the number of journalists on full time secondment to other Government departments; the other four are the Public Service Board, the Attorney-General’s Department, the Department of Health and the Bureau of Meteorology. [More…]

• The types of advertising ranged from simple classified Press advertisements to larger, more complex high impact national advertising campaigns, the most recent of which has been the current information campaign for the proposed Australian health insurance program which was planned and arranged by the Australian Government Advertising Service of my Department in association with the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• I am afraid that I am going to bore a lot of people because I am going to repeat my talk on national health. [More…]

• I propose to keep on talking about national health until I get some sanity amongst the members of this Parliament. [More…]

• First, let me talk about fees which should be the last thing to be talked about in regard to a national health scheme. [More…]

• As I have said before, there is no doubt that, prior to the passing of the National Health Act, doctors were in a far better financial position than they are today. [More…]

• But when it comes to a matter of their health or life they say that they cannot afford to pay $4 or, in the case for some people, $5. [More…]

• When we come to examine the question of fees, we forget that the Australian Medical Association and the doctors never asked for the national health scheme. [More…]

• What is forgotten is that having entered the field of national health the Government then became perturbed by the cost of the scheme to the Government. [More…]

• That is essential if there is to be a national health scheme. [More…]

• I am not opposing the national health scheme because we will have one. [More…]

• That is what we should have in a national health scheme. [More…]

• If he were here, I think he would agree that what I am saying is correct if we are to have a national health scheme which will be of some pride to the nation. [More…]

• Apparently we are not interested in improving the national health scheme under the Scotton and Deeble report. [More…]

• No matter what happens a national health scheme is going to be introduced and surely we should bring in a scheme that is worth while for the people of Australia. [More…]

• The first point is that you cannot run a national health scheme without doctors. [More…]

• However, under the national health scheme specialists will do this work and get $5 to $10 more although probably they have had less practice. [More…]

• He is the Minister representing the Minister for Health and I told him that I was going to speak on health matters. [More…]

• The previous government did not appoint a doctor as Minister for Health, and so on. [More…]

• This brings me to the scheme which the Department of Health has just announced. [More…]

• It is all very well to set up 2 community health centres in Canberra and say: ‘We will run them.’ [More…]

• I now turn to the community health system which has been established in Canberra. [More…]

• When it was decided to set up these 2 community health centres, the idea was that one would be run by private doctors and the other would be run under a salaried or nationalised scheme. [More…]

• Advertisements have been placed for more doctors for the nationalised community health centre because the doctors in that centre have to see only one patient every 20 minutes. [More…]

• This is how the national health centres are operating. [More…]

• Just think what will happen when the national health scheme is introduced if no incentive is given to the doctor. [More…]

• The Minister for the Media, who is at the table, knows more about the National Health Act than anyone else I know. [More…]

• I must say that during the Committee stage of our consideration of the National Health Bill the Minister surprised me by his knowledge of the provisions of the Bill. [More…]

• When the National Health Bill was before the chamber the Labor Party supported a couple of amendments that I proposed, but the amendments were defeated when the Democratic Labor Party changed its attitude. [More…]

• If I prescribe intal for a child who I think needs it, he cannot get it under the National Health Act unless the Commonwealth doctor in the capital city of the State in which I am practising gives his approval. [More…]

• Is someone going to tell me that if the Commonwealth spends its money on housing, health and welfare, urban affairs and sewerage, instead of in the rural sector in the form of subsidies, one form of spending is inflationary and the other is not? [More…]

• As I indicated a week or a fortnight ago in answer to a similar question from Senator Wright, it is my belief that every reasonable step has been taken by my Department and by the Department of Health, as was taken by the previous Government, to overcome the objections the Japanese have to the admission of Australian fruit to Japan. [More…]

• I present the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the petition relating to the transfer of social service entitlements. [More…]

• They do not go there for the sake of their health. [More…]

• Consequently it is my view that any money spent on improving housing, health services, education facilities and training programs as a necessary prerequisite to a full contribution by Australian Aborigines to Australian life. [More…]

• I also congratulate those who have been responsible for delaying the publication of the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The reason I have those reservations is that the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which investigated all aspects of repatriation received much public evidence on the subject. [More…]

• Again I say that I think it is a great pity that the efforts of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare should be picked about by the Government. [More…]

• I can recall that about 5 years ago I wrote to Mr Wentworth, who was the Minister for Social Services at the time, as well as to the then Ministers for Repatriation and Health and suggested that there could well be a conference of the 3 ministries to determine some means of making available the facilities of the artificial limb sections of the Department of Repatriation to civilian people in the community who are very seriously handicapped. [More…]

• Recently it was pointed out to me when we were talking about a health scheme that many people who use the scheme ought not to be using it. [More…]

• I do not know what the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare recommended although Senator Dame Nancy Buttfield presumes that I do. [More…]

• Will general practitioners, when the Government’s proposed national health scheme is introduced, be dealt with on the same basis as any other Australian public servants. [More…]

• The proposed program is one which concerns health insurance, not the employment of doctors. [More…]

• For all services rendered on a fee-for-service basis, doctors or their patients will be entitled to medical benefits from the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The State departments channel a substantial proportion of these funds through other State departments in areas such as health, education and housing. [More…]

• The Australian Government does not seek the transfer from the States of particular responsibilities in the fields of health, housing, education and other functional areas, which in its view should preferably be carried out by the appropriate Australian or State departments having responsibility in these areas, partly on the basis of the continued provision of funds by the Australian Government. [More…]

• Elderly people often reduce the range and variety of the diet necessary for good health, either by reason of personal choice, physical ailments, inertia and failing judgment, or by just the sheer financial inability to purchase an adequate diversity of fresh foods with the vitamin content intact. [More…]

• The principal Act was introduced in 1 969 on the basis of a recommendation made at the 1968 Health Minister’s Conference. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Australian Medical Association has enlisted the services of a former Miss Australia to assist in the promotion of antiGovernment propaganda in relation to the proposed new national health scheme? [More…]

• That Senator Willesee be granted leave of absence for 2 weeks on account of absence overseas on parliamentary business; that Senator Negus be granted leave of absence for 2 months on account of absence overseas on parliamentary business; that Senator Douglas McClelland be granted leave of absence for 2 weeks on account of ill health; and that Senator Bishop be granted leave of absence of one month on account of ill health. [More…]

• I wish him good health for the remaining years that he will have here. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian Health Insurance Program and any National Health Scheme; [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• That the proposed ‘ Free ‘ National Health Scheme is not free at all and will cost four out of five Australians more than the present scheme; [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measures to interfere with the existing health scheme which functions efficiently and economically. [More…]

• There has to be some sensible allocation of time in view of the fact that we have to consider not only the health aspect but also our duty to deal with the legislative program and supervision through committees, and the fact that Ministers have to perform ministerial responsibilities. [More…]

• They might be able to see in a clear light the wisdom of the Government’s policy and probably will come along to refresh themselves at the 2 hotels named and drink the health of the Australian Government. [More…]

• But, going further, we find that brucellosis can have a very detrimental effect on the public health of the community. [More…]

• What I am trying to say is that the national eradication campaign was being carried out not only to protect the meat industry but to protect the health of Australia. [More…]

• I am saying also that I do not see why the meat producers in this country should be called upon to pay for the prevention of ill health in the general Australian public. [More…]

• We all recall that those countries which were buying our meat were most insistent on the very strict health regulations which have been imposed on our abattoirs. [More…]

• I thought that was the reason for imposing these strict health regulations. [More…]

• In retrospect, these regulations have been of great benefit to the Australian industry and producer as well as to consumers as a whole because we now have in this country abattoirs of which we can be justly proud and in which the health regulations are very strict, which is as they should be in respect of the handling of foodstuffs. [More…]

• Many people engaged in the industry have told me that they too are in favour of it because they believe that if we tackle health control in this industry in a penny pinching fashion we will find that we will have a disease problem here with which we cannot cope. [More…]

• We must have health controls in this industry which are 100 per cent effective. [More…]

• We will not follow the practice of playing one section of the Australian community off against the other and that is why we have done so much and taken great initiatives in the areas of health, education and social security in this Budget, steps which will be of benefit to all Australians. [More…]

• It is difficult to evaluate all the consequences and benefits which might result from an upheaval such as this but the impact of these things will be felt strongly not only in the fields of education, culture, health, medicine and science in general but also, more importantly, the impact will be overwhelming in relation to organisation and management of the total society, particularly in our social welfare and our quality of life. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security, by stating that many of my constituents have expressed concern at what seems to be a substantial amount of taxpayers’ money being spent to publicise the Government’s national health scheme. [More…]

• Have no doubt about it, the Government considers that it is proper and that it is its responsibility to advertise to bring home to the people the truth about the national health scheme. [More…]

• Honourable senators would be aware, of course, that the Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam) has already given an undertaking that the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the mentally and physically handicapped relating to sheltered workshops and other matters, insofar as they are an Australian Government responsibility, will be implemented by this Government. [More…]

• In developing new goals, implementing long term planning and setting priorities in the welfare field, the Commission is charged with the task of taking an overall view of social policy, which encompasses such areas as education, housing, health services, employment policies and other matters, as well as the more specific issues of income-security payments and personal welfare services. [More…]

• The aim of the Australian Assistance Plan is to assist in the development at a regional level, within a nationally coordinated framework, of integrated patterns of welfare services, complementary to income support programs and the welfare related aspects of health, education, housing, employment, migration and other social policies. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will take up with the Minister for Health the suggestion that the honourable senator put, so that the Minister may consider it and give an answer to the honourable senator. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to reports that foot and mouth disease has now been diagnosed in West Irian in addition to Bali? [More…]

• Yes, I will convey that question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The incidence of foot and mouth disease is a matter for the Minister for Health and I shall refer that part of the question to him. [More…]

• -My question, which is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, follows the answer given to a question asked recently by Senator Webster. [More…]

• It is for the benefit of all of us to see a healthier and more economically sound labour force in the community and to see that conditions are provided for working men and women so that they will be interested in their work and have genuine enjoyment, or as much as there can be, in a life which they must spend gaining income for themselves or their families. [More…]

• The very health of the business community is entirely wrapped up in the satisfaction of the worker. [More…]

• It is entirely tied to the growing economic health of the average working person in the community. [More…]

• One could say generally that the economic health of this community has been impaired a great deal in the last 9 months under Labor, and it certainly has relevance to the suggestion that the Labor Government would be anxious to see the disappearance of many of the provisions in our conciliation and arbitration laws. [More…]

• Dr Deeble: Alleged Statement on Current Health Insurance Rates (Question No. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian Health Insurance Program and any National Health Scheme. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• I think that the proposed arrangement will be more efficient and better in terms of health. [More…]

• I do not believe that any medical man who examined the way in which the work of the Senate is being carried on at present would come to any other conclusion than that what is being done threatens the health of the ordinary members. [More…]

• In the interests of the ordinary health of members, I believe, any medical man would commend the proposed hours as better than the present hours. [More…]

• When the hours were changed by the Labor Party it was certainly my view that that was a change for the worse- a change for the worse for the Senate and a change for the worse for the health of honourable senators. [More…]

• The short answer to the problem presented by that situation is that it is physically impossible for any Senate Ministers to sustain their health. [More…]

• If we go on the way that we have been, we shall find that the probability of a deterioration in the health of honourable senators and members in the other place will increase. [More…]

• On one occasion a 10-minute burst settled a dispute between Mr Jago, the New South Wales Minister for Health, Senator Dame Annabelle Rankin and the New Zealand Health Minister in regard to a position in which people were exporting dogs to New Zealand and there was a foul-up in regard to how long it took to unload the dog crates because of documentation. [More…]

• One of them is one of the youngest senators, and he was in good health prior to his breakdown. [More…]

• The opinion of the Australian Labor Party was that it was far better to have these new sitting hours to protect the health of honourable senators. [More…]

• I think that in adopting these sitting hours my Party was influenced by the health of its members. [More…]

• I think that in the modern system we can expect that there will be constant health breakdowns of Ministers operating under the Westminster system unless some alternative method is found of relieving them of the multitude of duties and unless the pressure of their office is in some way eliminated. [More…]

• It is a matter for the Senate to decide what is a rational and efficient way of dealing with the business, taking into account the amount that we have to handle, the health of honourable senators. [More…]

• If this matter does not fall within the Minister’s responsibility I ask him to take it up with the Minister for Health to see whether it is true that a reliable vaccine for the control of this very difficult and dangerous disease has been developed in the United Kingdom. [More…]

• I believe that the Commonwealth Government should be making sufficient money available to the States to enable them to carry on the programs which they have been endeavouring to carry on for some time in the fields of housing, health, education and employment so that the Aboriginal people in the various States can be independent, the same as any other Australian. [More…]

• Health matters are the responsibility of the Department of Health, in whichever field they may arise. [More…]

• Everywhere throughout the Northern Territory, in areas of Queensland, and perhaps in all States, where the normal health service does not meet the requirements of some Aboriginal community, supplementary assistance is available through the Department of Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• They want housing, health and educational facilities, job opportunities, self determination and land rights. [More…]

• We have done this in the fields of housing, health and education out of capital funds. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian Health Insurance Program and any National Health Scheme. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• -Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been attracted to a report on research in the United States which indicates some relationship between small-pox injection of children and multiple sclerosis in later life? [More…]

• I intend discussing the matter with my colleague the Minister for Health to ask him what his Department can or will do about the matter. [More…]

• -No doubt the Minister representing the Minister for Health will have noted a question I asked last week concerning milk for school children. [More…]

• I now ask: Has the Minister seen a technical note by J. E. Coy, who is a nutrition officer in the Tasmanian Department of Health Services, in which it is shown that some Tasmanian children receive as little as 6.7oz of milk a day at home and so are in need of school milk? [More…]

• If he has not seen this note, will he bring it and any other information available from the Tasmanian Department of Health Services to the attention of the Commonwealth Department of Health when it reconsiders the proposal to cut out the supply of milk to school children? [More…]

• Senator DOUGLAS MCCLELLAND Senator Townley was good enough to show me at the commencement of question time an article headed ‘Milk Consumption of Tasmanian School Children’ written by Joanna Coy, the nutrition officer of the Department of Health Services in Hobart. [More…]

• 1 will certainly draw the attention of my colleague the Minister for Health to the article referred to. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health the following question: In view of the concern being expressed by farmers and graziers, particularly in northern Australia, over the outbreak of foot and mouth disease in areas adjacent to our north, will the Minister bring to the attention of the Minister for Health and the Cabinet the need for a clear policy on how to combat the disease if an outbreak occurs in this country? [More…]

• Today on behalf of Senator Little of the Democratic Labor Party I gave notice of a motion to introduce a Bill to amend the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In the event that such quantities are not sufficient for a particular patient for one month ‘s treatment, special provision exists for a medical practitioner to obtain approval from my Department’s Director of Health in the relevant State to prescribe a quantity of the drug sufficient for one month ‘s treatment. [More…]

• A continuing review of drugs and quantities available is maintained to ensure that adequate treatment is available to sufferers of chronic conditions, having regard to the requirements of State legislation and the interests of the patient’s health. [More…]

• Has anyone yet succeeded in reading the whole of this book without disastrous consequences to his mental health unless, of course, he was mad before? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the reference in the report of the Director-General of Health tabled yesterday that the number of prescriptions for tranquillisers nearly trebled in the last 12 months? [More…]

• I did notice the reference in the annual report of the Director-General of Health that the number of prescriptions for tranquillisers had nearly trebled in the last 12 months. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, is giving the matter consideration. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• At a meeting of Australian Health Ministers in Canberra on 28 September 1 973, 1 indicated my willingness to present to Cabinet the submissions and views of the States on the modification of the school milk scheme. [More…]

• Does the Federal Government propose to take any further action regarding the present health problems on Palm Island? [More…]

• Will the White Paper which is said to be a blueprint of the Australian Labor Party health scheme- the contents of which have already been leaked to sections of the media, and then understandably discussed by Caucus- be made available to the Parliament and the people this week, or is it still subject to further prolonged discussion? [More…]

• We took evidence from many organisations, particularly exservice organisations, and from various departments concerned with repatriation and health. [More…]

• Firstly, I should like to thank the members of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare for the help that they extended to me during our study of the repatriation system of this country. [More…]

• Many of these people had their health severely damaged by their service to this country. [More…]

• -In anticipation of an opportunity in the future for a fullscale debate on the report by the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare with respect to repatriation, I wish to make some brief remarks at this stage. [More…]

• -I congratulate the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on its report which, whilst it is in a short compass, is very embracing in the matters which it canvasses and in the recommendations which it makes. [More…]

• We look forward to their health being good in the future. [More…]

• But I believe that, if this pattern continues and if the strain being put on Ministers and members continues with this plethora of legislation, all of which we are told we must deal with immediately and rush through, this program will have the gravest effect upon the health of members of this Parliament, as has already been seen by the illnesses of quite a number of members who have had very difficult, very time consuming and very exhausting tasks to carry out. [More…]

• I think it has come to the notice of members of Parliament that there has been increased strain amongst us and a few are falling by the wayside due to ill health. [More…]

• We could have group 5BX exercises, Mr President, if you would be kind enough to lead us; or, as a gentleman of honour, you may be prepared to give way to the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• However, at a recent meeting with the Tasmanian Minister for Health and Social Welfare a basis for continued co-operation with the various State departments concerned was arrived at, and it is the Australian Government’s intention to open a small office of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs in Hobart [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Australian Department of Health has been making every endeavour, through the Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council, to encourage governments to list ingredients including food additives, on food labels. [More…]

• Since prices are negotiated between the Department of Health and the manufacturers, the Committee was not able to find out the extent to which upvaluation was responsible for price reductions. [More…]

• An associated question raised by the Department of Health and referred to by the Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association during our inquiry is whether or not the Department should receive cost and profit information which would assist it in its negotiations with manufacturers on prices for drugs coming within the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. [More…]

• Therefore, the Committee recommends that the National Health Act be amended to make it mandatory for companies to provide the Department of Health with cost and financial information in respect of products in the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. [More…]

• The Bill will expand the involvement of the Australian Government in mental health and related health fields. [More…]

• It replaces the States Grants (Mental Health Institutions) Act under which grants were made towards the capital cost of mental health institutions. [More…]

• The Bill adopts a different approach, while taking on a much wider view of mental health than that of the earlier Act. [More…]

• This provision follows an amendment by the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) in response to a suggested amendment by the Opposition which withdrew its suggested amendment as a result. [More…]

• Research shows that community health care is often more effective than institutional care. [More…]

• We must abandon the institutionalised and quite often inflexible approach to health care. [More…]

• This approach, which unfortunately has almost grown to acceptance through habit rather than reason, involves ad hoc responses to urgent requests for health care along with the hope that things will work out. [More…]

• This has not been, nor will it ever be, a satisfactory approach to Australia’s health needs. [More…]

• As the community health program gets further under way and as the Australian Hospital and Health Services Commission completes its recommendations on hospitals and all other forms of institutional care we can expect to see similiar developments accelerated in Australia. [More…]

• Decentralised services in local communities will be staffed by specialised personnel such as mental health visitors, psychologists, social workers and psychiatrists, all of whom will work closely with general medical practitioners and other community health people. [More…]

• Alongside community health programs will be an expansion of hostel and ‘half-way house’ accommodation for persons with chronic mental problems or social handicaps, who need residential care but not the more costly care of mental and general hospitals and nursing homes. [More…]

• The addition of community based services for alcoholism and drug dependency along with our new emphasis on other aspects of community mental health is a vital forward step in combating those serious community problems in a systematic way. [More…]

• In the next few years, further increasing local integration with community health, education and welfare services will remove more of the old stigma attaching to those needing help which is not just physical. [More…]

• The Bill provides for allocations of up to $7.5m for each of the years 1973-74 and 1974-75 after which such services will continue to be supported under, and will be integrated with, the broader Australian community health program. [More…]

• The Bill will bring, in a more effective and flexible way than the former assistance in the field of mental health, bridges to the developing broad community health field being expanded by the Government on the advice of the Interim Committee of the Australian Hospitals and Health Services Commission, whose first report on this subject I was privileged to table on May 3 1 last. [More…]

• The general purpose of social policy- which encompasses such areas as education, housing, health services, employment policies and other matters, as well as the more specific issues of income-security payments and personal welfare services- is to provide an environment in which the individual is given the opportunity to develop his or her personal abilities to thenmaximum potential. [More…]

• However, in the last few years in Australia, there has been a growing concern to ensure that community health, welfare and legal services, as well as adequate education and housing, are available to the entire community as a matter of right rather than as an act of charity. [More…]

• Initially, it is necessary to develop community-based systems with a network of services to which people may be linked if they have family, health, educational or personal problems. [More…]

• Firstly, a contribution of $1.50 a day was paid by the Department of Health to the people who were accommodated in these institutions. [More…]

• It seems to me that the Government has paid some attention to the report on mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia which was presented in the Senate some dme ago by the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Having been a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which inquired at length into the problems of the physically and mentally handicapped, I echo the remarks of Senator Jessop when I say frankly that I am very proud that the Government of which I am a member has taken heed of the very detailed and voluminous report which was arrived at collectively and unanimously by the members of that Committee, who were of all political persuasions, after they had taken evidence at length from a large cross-section of the Australian people who represent the physically and mentally handicapped section, particularly the handicapped children, in our community. [More…]

• I should point out to her that this, of course was one of the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare of which she was a member and of which I also was a member. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian health insurance program and any national health scheme. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that for 1 974 the National Health and Medical Research Council has not renewed an annual grant of $13,000 to enable a medical research team to proceed with investigations of Huntington’s chorea and that the leader, Dr Colin Brakenridge, has announced the impossibility of proceeding with his team? [More…]

• All that I can do is undertake to refer the seeking of the additional grant to my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to the unwarranted condemnatory attitude of the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, in regard to the sugar industry, as revealed in his support of views that the advertising of sugar be banned. [More…]

• However, he takes the view that his responsibility as Minister for Health is to speak primarily on the health aspects, particularly from the point of view of the consumer or the ordinary citizen. [More…]

• He is also investigating ways to study long range effects of food refining at the Sydney University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine which is administered by his Department. [More…]

• Dr Everingham is the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In fact, it is curious that one commodity which is supposed to promote health- that is, polyunsaturated margarine- is restricted in its availability to the Australian people. [More…]

• On behalf of the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) and pursuant to section 44 of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Act 1961-1970, I present the twelfth annual report of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission for the year ended 30 June 1973, together with financial statements and the Auditor-General’s report on those statements. [More…]

• -by leave- I rise to speak on the White Paper on the Australian health insurance program that was tabled this afternoon. [More…]

• It has been said- completely incorrectly- that this White Paper is markedly different from the Deeble Committee’s report, so different that the headlands and the ideas behind the Government’s national health scheme would be acceptable to the majority of people, including the Opposition. [More…]

• To understand this is to understand that on matters of fundamentals the White Paper perpetuates those fundamentals which would, if implemented, destroy the concept of the health scheme as it is known today and put in its place a scheme which is a rigid and socialist type scheme, one which impels compulsion and one which would destroy the key and fundamental relationship between doctor and patient. [More…]

• I say emphatically that this scheme and this White Paper continues the compulsory tax levy which in fact brings about a monolithic government health scheme which in essence destroys the voluntary health schemes. [More…]

• True they are to be propped up by some allowance of health funds to continue to finance private wards; true there is to be some vestidual remnant of medical health funds to finance some parts of the medical scheme including para-medical schemes which a benign socialist Government will not finance itself. [More…]

• But the fact is that all people will be compelled to pay a tax levy and in effect the voluntary health schemes will disappear as they are known today. [More…]

• The second headland is the emphasis throughout on financing hospitals on one basis and on one basis only by government, and that is that the Government through its compulsory health scheme will pay only for a patient in a standard ward or a public ward. [More…]

• There is one incredible concept in the White Paper which proposes that a patient getting an account from the doctor may send the account direct to the Government’s health commission and the health commission will then send a cheque to the patient made out to the doctor for 85 per cent of the bill. [More…]

• If the tax scheme is to be used, let the Commissioner of Taxation have the right to deduct from all income earners an appropriate amount if they cannot prove that they belong to an appropriate health scheme. [More…]

• A great deal is said to the effect that the present scheme is wrong because a man on $70 a week pays more for health insurance than a man on $400 a week. [More…]

• Out of his contribution comes the main financing of the health scheme because up to twothirdsand it is a growing segment- comes from tax revenue anyhow. [More…]

• It can make a flat rate tax deduction of, say, 35c in the dollar available to every person in respect of what he pays for health insurance, irrespective of his income. [More…]

• There is no freedom of choice when a government nationalises the health scheme and does not give people the freedom to choose. [More…]

• This is the Government which says ‘We will bring in something different because a multiplicity of health schemes is bad because of overheads’, but immediately proceeds to set up a multiplicity itself. [More…]

• It is doing it in Canberra at the moment and there is nothing at all to stop it if it is proven that it is necessary to set up a community health service. [More…]

• That the proposed ‘Free’ National Health Scheme is not free at all and will cost four out of five Australians more than the present scheme; [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the government will take no measures to interfere with the existing health scheme which functions efficiently and economically. [More…]

• In view of the serious mosquito problem being experienced by the residents of Darwin, particularly in the areas of Nakara and Wanguri, can the Minister representing the Minister for Health say what action, if any, is being taken in an effort to rid the community of this menace? [More…]

• -The Minister for Health in another place advised me that Senator McLaren might be seeking information of this nature. [More…]

• There has been a mosquito control program in the Territory for several years and the Australian Department of Health, in cooperation with the Darwin City Council and the Department of the Northern Territory, is currently undertaking an expanded mosquito control program which includes the northern suburbs of Darwin. [More…]

• My colleague the Minister for Health has provided me with additional background information of some detail and that I will provide in turn to the honourable senator. [More…]

• If he will not take action, will he take steps to ensure that the appropriate toilet blocks and ablution blocks are put in place so that the health of the community can be protected? [More…]

• For the Department of Health it is the Canberra Hospital and the Northern Territory hospitals which have had the main effect on the requirements. [More…]

• We have the projected National Health Bill which again will radically change the whole structure of the national health scheme operating in Australia at the present time. [More…]

• I direct to the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question which relates to the exploitation of housewives in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• Will the Minister have an investigation made of whether the marketing of eggs in this condition is a breach of health regulations and an infringement of the registered trade mark of the New South Wales Egg Marketing Board? [More…]

• However, I will refer his question to my colleagues, the Minister for Health and the Minister for the Capital [More…]

• That journal states that the decision to withdraw free school milk is an outrageous sacrifice of straightforward fact and, more importantly, children’s health and looks like a simple but vicious principle of penny pinching. [More…]

• That indicated that at that hour, because of the parliamentary and electoral duties, ill-health and such, there were only 45 out of 60 senators available to vote on a subject which would have an effect on the Australian nation for many hundreds of years- an effect which would be for good if the right decisions were made, and for evil and harm, and at great cost, if the wrong decisions were made. [More…]

• If we can come to a vote on the questions before us this evening I believe that in spite of parliamentary and other duties and health requirements 55-odd senators would be available, which is about par for the course for a nearly complete muster of senators to give a Senate decision. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian Health Insurance Program and any National Health Scheme. [More…]

• Your petitioners thereby humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• In view of the fact that the Government is attempting to tackle the massive problems associated with road safety, will the Minister see whether something can be done to minimise the obvious health hazards derived from our national transport system? [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That they oppose the Australian Health Insurance Program and any National Health Scheme. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will take no measure to interfere with the existing health scheme. [More…]

• I would like to ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As from 1 January that drug will be taken from the national health prescribed list of drugs requiring a special authority. [More…]

• Also, will the Minister ask the Minister for Health, if he has to get the information from the Minister, why we have to suffer any special purpose authorities? [More…]

• I think that during the course of the debate on the National Health Bill in 1970, when this Party was in opposition, I expressed the same sort of views as those that Senator Turnbull has been expressing. [More…]

• I do not know whether it is possible but I will certainly discuss that matter with my colleague, the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I understand from previous discussions that I have had with officers of the Department of Health- I think Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson might be able to confirm this because previously he was a Minister for Health- that many of these special authorities were insisted upon because there was a fear not only of over-prescribing but also of overindulgence on the part of the patients using the drug concerned. [More…]

• However, I will refer the second portion of the honourable senator’s question to my colleague, the Minister for Health, to see whether he can provide the honourable senator with additional information. [More…]

• In directing a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security, I refer to a statement made by the Minister appearing at page 3219 of the House of Representatives Hansard in which he said that for three out of four families, including those in which there is a working wife, the proposed national health plan would be cheaper than the present system. [More…]

• In response to Senator Greenwood ‘s question, 1 will look at page 24 of the report of the DirectorGeneral of Health to see whether the details supplied by Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson are correct. [More…]

• Standing Committee on Health and Welfare when it was inquiring into health and hospital costs generally, in evidence the Pharmacy Guild of Australia complained that the previous Government- admittedly this was before April 1 972- for seven or eight years had not increased the amount of fee payable by the Government to chemists for prescriptive purposes. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Leader of the Government in the Senate, arises out of reports on the findings of the Victorian Consumer Affairs Council which has stated, among other things, that buying a motor vehicle is a physical, mental and health hazard. [More…]

• In the provisions relating to freedom of religion, expression, assembly, association and movement, the legislation provides that these rights may be restricted in certain circumstances, such as where restriction is reasonably necessary to protect public safety or public health or constitute reasonable regulations, as to time, place and manner, of the right. [More…]

• Information from the Depanment of Health and Welfare in Canada indicates that no major change took place in the number of visits to doctors by persons previously covered under the voluntary insurance schemes following the introduction of public insurance in the various Provinces. [More…]

• What should be of most concern to all, honourable senator, is the fact that at present, over one million Australians have no insurance against the cost of health care either through private health insurance, Repatriation LMO services for Pensioner medical and hospital services. [More…]

• In view of the current coverage of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, the special arrangements covering Repatriation, old age and other pensioners (and their dependants), and the arrangements with public hospitals (including outpatients services), it is not expected that there will be a significant increase in the numbers of prescriptions and the costs of pharmaceutical benefits when the universal health insurance plan is introduced. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• -In rising to give wholehearted and enthusiastic support to this Bill on behalf of the Liberal Party I want to say that I feel we are all pleased with this good news in the field of health care for a particularly unfortunate and growing part of our population. [More…]

• The Bill provides signs of a new approach to mental health in all its aspects as covered in the long title of the Bill. [More…]

• It shows the people of Australia that the Commonwealth Government and departments of health are continuing to develop a helpful and understanding approach to the problems that, as I say, beset an unfortunately increasing number of the Australian population. [More…]

• The Minister for the Media (Senator Douglas McClelland) who represents the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) in the Senate said in his second reading speech that the Bill provides: [More…]

• In some States, the new training schemes are being conducted by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Initiatives of this Government in the fields of health, education and welfare are making heavy demands on the Commission which is actively involved both in the formulation of policy concerning the education of professionals in the areas mentioned, and in the implementation of other decisions and initiatives supported by the Government in respect of the colleges of advanced education. [More…]

• We see around us growing evidence of man-made harm in many regions of the earth: dangerous levels of pollution in water, air, earth and living beings; major and undesirable disturbances to the ecological balance of the biosphere; destruction and depletion of irreplaceable resources; and gross deficiencies harmful to the physical, mental and social health of man, in the man-made environment; particularly in the living and working environment. [More…]

• We see around us growing evidence of man-made harm in many regions of the earth: dangerous levels of pollution in water, air, earth and living beings; major and undesirable disturbances to the ecological balance of the biosphere; destruction and depletion of irreplaceable resources; and gross deficiences harmful to the physical, mental and social health of man, in the man-made environment; particularly in the living and working environment. [More…]

• Millions continue to live far below the minimum levels required for a decent human existence, deprived of adequate food and clothing, shelter and education, health and sanitation. [More…]

• Under the circumstances we might have a Commonwealth set-up in the fishing industry with the Commonwealth controlling certain health regulations for the fishing fleets. [More…]

• We have seen Bills such as that affecting the National Health Act, a substituted statute for the existing law, which again will have vast social consequences. [More…]

• Department of Social Security, Department of Labour, Department of Education, Australian Universities Commission, Australian Commission on Advanced Education, Australian Council of Social Service, Australian Association of Social Workers, Australian Psychological Society, Sociological Association of Australia and New Zealand, Interim Committee of National Hospital and Health Services Commission, South Australian Department for Community Welfare, Australian Institute of Welfare Officers. [More…]

• To devise methods of obtaining projective figures for welfare manpower needs in each State, and regional areas of each State, having regard to the needs of health and other serivces as well as primary welfare services. [More…]

• That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• How much is the free community health centre at Melba in the Australian Capital Territory at present costing in salaries and other allied costs? [More…]

• Does the Minister’s statement, which appeared on page 3219 of the House of Representatives Hansard of 13 November 1 973, that three out of four families, including those in which there is a working wife, would find the Government’s proposed national health scheme cheaper than at present, take into account the extra taxation to be paid if the proposed rate of 1 .33 per cent is itself not deductible from personal income? [More…]

• Mr McVEIGH Will the Minister for Social Security table in the House all the information contained in the documents and calculations on which he bases his assertion that health insurance under his proposals will be cheaper for three out of four families and seven out often single persons? [More…]

• What we have today is a definite and deliberate decision by the Australian Labor Party to arrogate to Canberra and the bureaucrats, mainly through the exercise of the power of the purse, all power over housing, all power over education, all power over health, all power over minerals, all power over conservation, all power over finance, all power over the control of off-shore minerals, all power over the control of Aborigines and all power over the control of arts and a host of other things. [More…]

• The Government has introduced into this Parliament legislation to control fuel resources, mineral resources, health, education and Aborigines in this country. [More…]

• The significant improvements will be made in the fields of housing, health and education and in providing employment training facilities. [More…]

• It will be spent as follows: $32.4m on housing, $2 1.3m on education, $ 12.9m on health, $9.Sm on missions and settlements, $ 10.8m on community activities, $2m on legal aid and $28. [More…]

• When we consider the weight, seriousness and the sheer number of the Bills which the Senate is being asked to considerBills that affect the constitutional position in Australia, Bills that affect the social order in Australia, Bills that affect domestic relations in Australia, Bills that affect the national health scheme and things like that- and matters, such as the Trade Practices Bill, that concern the commercial life and the trade union life of Australia, it must be realised that these things are of such moment that to try to deal with them ad hoc in the quick rush towards the end of a session would be unthinkable and indefensible. [More…]

• The Minister should have welcomed the opportunity to answer if he genuinely desired to explain his proposals on national health not only to this Senate and to the members of this Parliament but also to the community at large. [More…]

• The Minister draws attention to the Government’s policy and how it is to achieve its aim for the highest quality health care at a reasonable and responsible price. [More…]

• He goes on to point out how, in the past, the cost of the health service has been more reasonable for those on high incomes because the payments to the hospital benefits funds have been tax deductible. [More…]

• The total net cost to the Budget, including the effect of tax deductions, will be approximately the same as would be the case under the existing health insurance scheme. [More…]

• In future, he will have taken out of that for health insurance about $70, which is computed on the basis of the $100 a week or $5,200 a year. [More…]

• If it is the Minister’s intention that the payment be tax deductible, at a tax rate of 30c in the dollar that person’s total payment for health insurance would actually be not $70 but $59. [More…]

• So, although he would be paying $70 for health insurance, he actually would be saving $ 1 1 of his income if the $70 was tax deductible. [More…]

• Of course, he does not pay 50c in the dollar on the whole of his income, but he pays it on that portion of it in excess of a certain amount, from which portion his $150 contribution for health insurance would be paid. [More…]

• The argument of the Government in the White Paper is that all this is not justified under the old scheme because a man on $20,000, as well as paying tax amounting to $8,448 as against $3,388 paid in tax by the man on $11,000, should saddle up and carry a greater burden in regard to the health scheme as well. [More…]

• The health scheme is to be compulsory and he will have to join although he may be in very good health and consider that it is not worth it for him to pay such a high premium. [More…]

• He has had a direct opportunity to answer a question so that we would know precisely what this health scheme is going to cost and so that we could compare the statement that he has made to the Press, to the people of the country at large, that 3 out of 4 people will be better off even in the case of families where the wife is working. [More…]

• Does the Minister’s statement, which appeared on page 3219 of the House of Representatives Hansard of 13 November 1973, that three out of four families, including those in which there is a working wife, would find the Government’s proposed national health scheme cheaper than at present, take into account the extra taxation to be paid if the proposed rate of 1.35 percent - [More…]

• All I can say is that frankly I do not think Senator Little has understood the gravamen of the case put to the Parliament in a document, namely ‘The Health Insurance Planning Committee Report’ of April 1973, and again in a White Paper tabled on 7 November 1973, which set out what the Government has in mind. [More…]

• After all those deductions are taken into account and deducted from the worker’s gross income he then pays 1.35 per cent of individual taxable income for health insurance purposes. [More…]

• All I suggest to honourable senators opposite who are in any doubt about the financial estimates and financial arrangements is that they should refer to pages 67 and onwards of the report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee to the Minister for Social Security of April 1973.I suggest in addition that the honourable senator refer to pages 7, 64, 65, 71 and 72 of the Australian Health Insurance Program as tabled by me in this chamber on 7 November on behalf of my colleague. [More…]

• If, after all those things, he is in any doubt I suggest that the honourable senator look at the Minister’s second reading speech, which will probably be made tomorrow night, on the introduction of the Health Insurance Bill which will be of great benefit to the Australian people when enacted by this Parliament. [More…]

• On the recommendation made to me I decided that having regard to the course of the prosecution and the special circumstances, including Mr Gamble’s state of health, the trouble and expense of travelling to Darwin, and the fact that he had wished the matter to be disposed of at the time when he was in Darwin, discontinuance of the proceeding would be justified. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• To assist honourable senators to carry out the advice of the Minister for Social Security to do research themselves to find the comparable expense of the present health benefit scheme and that suggested by the Government, is the Minister yet able to inform honourable senators whether the compulsory payment of 1.35 per cent of taxable income will attract in total or in any part a reduction in current or any future taxable income assessment? [More…]

• Other pollutants from conventional fuels are proliferating other gases in the atmosphere, not the least of these being the sulphurous gases which will be causing emphysema and other such health problems if we persist with this type of energy source. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The members of the Estimates Committee were informed that a great deal of information on the Government’s proposed national health scheme had been published, some had been circulated and some has been got ready to be circulated before the Bill was introduced into the Parliament. [More…]

• I think that there was considerable dialogue during the meeting of this Senate Estimates Committee under my chairmanship as to what might happen in relation to computers used in our national health scheme. [More…]

• The balance is expended by the Department of Education for study grants and secondary grants, the Department of Health in the Northern Territory, the Department of Labour under its employment training scheme and the Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies. [More…]

• Funds for health services and community amenities, especially water and sewerage supplies, provided for in this Bill total $ 10.3m compared with $3.7m in 1972-73. [More…]

• These funds will enable a big expansion of effort in providing community health services in rural and remote areas. [More…]

• This Government established a special study group of Commonwealth and States health authorities which recommended a co-ordinated program covering establishment of local health committees, delivery of health care- including much wider deployment of doctors and community health nurses- administrative reorganisation, education, family planning, research and other special programs. [More…]

• I do not pretend that even this effort will rapidly improve things since in areas where traditional practices are still strong the concepts of nutrition, health care, public health and sanitation which the nonAboriginal community take for granted have still to find a place in the thinking of the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• 1 ) What are the minimum weekly earnings that will attract compulsory national health insurance under the Government’s proposed scheme. [More…]

• What is the lowest weekly income which will attract the maximum rate to be charged for compulsory health insurance. [More…]

• ) Details of the health insurance levy were clarified in the white paper on the Universal Health Insurance Program that was tabled on 8 November, 1973. [More…]

• It explained that the health insurance levy will be based on taxable incomes and initially, the following groups of people will be exempted from payment of the levy: [More…]

• The ceiling of $150 a year for the health insurance levy will be reached at a taxable annual income of $ 1 1,1 12. [More…]

• The Australian Health Insurance Program will provide fee for service benefits in respect of charges made by private doctors who treat private ward patients. [More…]

• Australian Capital Territory: Medical Staff at New Health Centres (Question No. [More…]

• asked the Minister represent ing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) What are the terms of employment of senior medical staff employed at the new health centres located at Melba and Scullin in the Australian Capital Territory, with regard to (a) salary; (b) holiday leave; (c) study leave; (d) long service leave; (e) any other benefits. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answers to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Does the Minister’s statement, which appeared on page 3219 of the House of Representatives Hansard of 13 November 1973, that three out of four families, including those in which there is a working wife, would find the Government’s proposed national health scheme cheaper than at present, take into account the extra taxation to be paid if the proposed rate of 1.35 percent is itself not deductible from personal income. [More…]

• and (2) The Minister for Social Security refers the honourable senator to his reply to a very similar question by a Member of the House of Representatives, Mr Tom McVeigh, Member for Darling Downs, which was asked in the House on 22 November 1973- “Mr McVeigh- Will the Minister for Social Security table in the House all the information contained in the documents and calculations on which he bases his assertion that health insurance under his proposals will be cheaper for three out of four families and seven out often single persons? [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• Here again, the Minister is not the first to think of this matter, and neither is the Department of Education, because the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfareand the Government has been a great champion of the Senate Standing Committee system- contains a section devoted to the education of the handicapped. [More…]

• In 1972 when that Minister, Mr Hayden, was in Opposition and did all the work himself, he placed on the notice paper of the House 30 questions to the Minister for Health and 20 questions to the Minister for Social Services on the particular item on which he said that he did all the work himself. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security now in a position to inform the Australian people whether the compulsory payment of 1.3S per cent of taxable income proposed to finance the Health Insurance Bill 1973 will itself be tax deductible? [More…]

• Mr Norman Banks, who conducts this session, was raising the question of health. [More…]

• I telephoned him and told him of the problem I had in getting vital information in order to make a comparison between the cost to the individual of the Government’s proposals and the cost that is met by people under the present health benefits scheme, and that no intelligent comparison could be made without this vital piece of information. [More…]

• The only possible conclusion that one can come to, after the publication of his White Paper which was alleged to explain all the details of his health scheme but which did not contain this information, and after his attention was drawn to what one might conclude because the money was to be raised in the manner of a tax on assessable income, is that it will not be tax deductible. [More…]

• Does the Minister’s statement, which appeared on page 32 1 9 of the House of Representatives Hansard of 13 November 1973, that three out of four families, including those in which there is a working wife, would find the Government’s proposed national health scheme cheaper than at present, take into account the extra taxation to be paid if - [More…]

• With respect might 1 say that after a good deal of tedious repetition in that debate I pointed out that in addition to the document provided in the answer by my colleague the Minister for Social Security, namely the ‘Income Distribution 1968-69’ publication put out by the Commonwealth Bureau of Census and Statistics, I referred the honourable senator to page 67 and also pages 7, 64, 65, 71 and 72 of the White Paper entitled ‘Australian Health Insurance Program’ as tabled by me on behalf of my colleague the Minister for Social Security in this place on 17 November. [More…]

• First of all, I assume that what Senator Little is asking in his original question is whether Mr Hayden, in claiming that three out of four families, including those in which there is a working wife, would be better off under the Government’s proposed health scheme, had taken into account that the 1.35 per cent levy would not be allowable as a taxation deduction. [More…]

• The administrative mechanics of assessment, collection and accounting for the health insurance levy have yet to be finalised but in most respects it is expected that the legislation will follow the general recommendations of the Planning Committee. [More…]

• However, in regard to collection procedures, the Government believes that recipients of wages and salaries should constantly be made aware of the amounts of their regular deductions which are earmarked as contributions for health insurance. [More…]

• Accordingly the legislation will provide for income tax and the health insurance levy to be notified to employees as separate items by employers and the Taxation Office. [More…]

• Surely it is set out quite clearly there that there will be a separate accounting to the wage and salary earning by way of income tax on the one hand and by the way of health insurance deductions on the other hand. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security now in a position to inform the Australian people whether a compulsory payment of 1.3S per cent of taxable income proposed to finance the Health Insurance Bill 1 973 will itself be tax deductible? [More…]

• Upon receipt of the report of the virus influenza outbreak at Edward River Mission, officers of my Department sought advice from the Australian Health Department. [More…]

• An officer of the Australian Health Department immediately contacted the Queensland Department of Health to offer any assistance which might be required but he was informed that the situation was under control, existing services were coping and that the outbreak was on the wane. [More…]

• He was also informed that the Queensland Department of Health would request the Royal Flying Doctor Service to arrange a special visit to Edward River to provide any further medical attention which may be required and furnish a report on the situation. [More…]

• -Yes, I understand that some radiation warnings were given by the Australian Broadcasting Control Board and the Department of Health some time ago. [More…]

• Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the publication ‘Australian Health Insurance Program- The Plain Facts’ issued by the Community Hospitals Association? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Association has used the format of an official Government publication, yet the purpose of the pamphlet is to attack the Government’s health scheme? [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Treasurer confirm the information obtained yesterday by radio commentator Norman Banks of Melbourne that the charge of 1.35 per cent on assessed taxable income designed to finance the Government’s health proposal will not be a deductible item for income taxation purposes? [More…]

• -I refer the Minister representing the Minister for Health to the organisation called ‘Recovery ‘ which is performing a very important service in the community by rehabilitating people suffering from nervous disorders. [More…]

• I will make immediate inquiries of my colleague the Minister for Health and supply the honourable senator with an answer. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate is the second National Health Bill for 1973. [More…]

• The first of these is to provide for the transfer of administration of certain parts of the Act from the Department of Health to the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• Its principal objective is to provide a basic range of medical services to persons whom it could reasonably be expected are unable to afford health insurance coverage. [More…]

• Clearly, any extension of these limits arising from further increases in the rates of pensioner benefits would create situations of inequity between such pensioners and the many non-pensioner families in the community who have weekly incomes less than these amounts but who are required to take out health insurance coverage. [More…]

• Honourable senators will be aware that these provisions will apply only until the introduction of the Government’s universal health insurance plan. [More…]

• Perhaps I ought to state at this point that under the Australian Government’s health insurance program, legislation for which was introduced in another place on 29 November, medical services obtained by pensioners from a private medical practitioner will be fully covered. [More…]

• This will refer not only to consultation at home or in a doctor’s private surgery but also to procedural items which currently are excluded from medical benefit cover under the private health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• Pensions, as will be the case with everyone in the community- that is, there will be no distinction, no second rate citizenry- will be able to obtain the services of a specialist of their choosing, no doubt with the assistance of a general practitioner, and medical services in the private surgery of that specialist and have those services fully covered by the Australian Government’s new health insurance program. [More…]

• I do not think any senator would not acknowledge that when there is economic health in the rural industries there is economic health throughout the country. [More…]

• The second biggest amount is to be provided for health services and community amenities, especially water and sewerage supplies. [More…]

• The people involved must meet with the Aboriginal people in the local area and environment to look at the problems with which they are faced in these important fields of housing, employment, education and health. [More…]

• The officers could go to places such as Charleville or Cunnamulla in Queensland, meeting the Aboriginal people there and looking at their problems and opportunities in housing, employment, education and health. [More…]

• In this way, many of the problems faced by Aboriginal people today could be solved, particularly in the important fields that I have already mentioned three or four times- housing, employment, education and health. [More…]

• The only other subject to which I wish to refer istheproliferationofvoluntaryorganisations.I appreciatethegoodworkthatthevariousvolun- taryorganisationsaredoing.Buttheyareacostly formoforganisation.Theyarealways impoverishedbecauseinsufficientmoneyis availabletothem.Muchoftheirimpoverishment isduetothefactthattoomanyvoluntaryorgan- isationsareduplicatingworkinparticularareas Everyoneseemstowantsomecreditforthees- tablishmentofanorganisationwhoseaimsareto dosomethingfortheAborigines.Manyare employingAboriginesasfieldofficers.Ithinkthe employmentoffieldofficersisessentialbecause thereareanumberofpeoplewhoneedtobe contactedintheirownhomes.Thepointisthere arefieldofficerscallingontheAboriginalcom- munitiestoassistthemwithlegalaid,thereare healthofficerscallingonthemtoassistthemin health matters and there are social workers and other groups calling on them tosee whetherthey canhelpthem.Theyarealldoinggoodwork,but isitalwaysnecessaryfortheretobesuchcallson afamilybymorethanoneorganisation? [More…]

• My question, addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, may also concern the Minister for Primary Industry. [More…]

• I am sure that the honourable senator will appreciate that I personally am not in a position to answer immediately the question directed by him to me in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The honourable senator was good enough to tell me, at some stage last week, that she intended to raise this case, I think for the purpose of highlighting some of the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• This followed complaints by Mr Allenby concerning his inability to carry out his duties because of the state of his health. [More…]

• Once we get to that stage we get, I suggest, problems which are quite comprehensive and fundamental and which are similar to those in the social services legislation or in the national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Whenever we had not agreed with those who occupied the Opposition benches last year and in previous years- and I have listened to them for 20 years- we had long debates on every social services, repatriation and health BUI that was introduced. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate provides for payments for medical benefits, hospital services and certain other specific services, and is the culmination of a great deal of investigation, planning and community debate concerning the most equitable and efficient means of providing health insurance coverage for all Australians. [More…]

• The Bill will enact principles for a health insurance program which were placed before the public at the last Federal election and for which the Government was given a clear mandate. [More…]

• The legislation the Government is now proposing represents a sincere endeavour to build a new health benefits system in a way which will meet the expectations of the public for high quality health services to be readily accessible to all, which will expand rather than inhibit the opportunities for freedom of choice, which will promote efficiency in the delivery of health services and which will assist in the upgrading of hospital and community based health facilities. [More…]

• I submit that the course of the debate on our health insurance proposals, including our deliberately open government’ approach to our policy planning, speaks for itself about our attitude of listening carefully to responsible criticism and seeking to achieve the best balance possible between the legitimate interests of patients, doctors and hospital managements. [More…]

• Honourable senators will remember that we published in April of this year the report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee which outlined a series of proposals on how a health insurance program could be introduced. [More…]

• Objective critics throughout the country have noted that the White Paper demonstrates the Government’s receptiveness to constructive criticism about the health insurance proposals. [More…]

• As far as I can ascertain such an open government’ exercise has not been undertaken before in Australia and I feel it is a significant innovation and, although it has not yet attracted such widespread attention as the health insurance proposals, I would call the attention of honourable senators to the fact that I have also tabled in this House a discussion paper on the Australian Assistance Plan. [More…]

• We have undertaken this ‘open government’ exercise while adhering to the principles presented to the people of Australia for a new and equitable health insurance system and for which, I repeat, we were given a clear mandate. [More…]

• Before proceeding to outline the purpose of specific clauses within the Bill, I will mention in broad detail the salient points of the health insurance program which will result from this legislation. [More…]

• Bill is the main legislative instrument for the introduction and operation of our health insurance program. [More…]

• As honourable senators are aware, a Bill has already been introduced which provides for the establishment of the Australian Health Insurance Commission, the main function of which will be to operate the Program. [More…]

• Further legislation relating to the scope and operation of private health insurance organisations and the introduction of levies on taxable income and on motor vehicle third party and workers’ compensation insurers and the protection of individual privacy will be introduced in the autumn sittings of 1974. [More…]

• Together this legislative framework will provide for a health insurance program such as I shall now outline. [More…]

• Adult residents Will be issued with health insurance cards as a means of establishing entitlement to benefits. [More…]

• I draw the attention of honourable senators to what the White Paper say on the matter of the health insurance cards and privacy of information. [More…]

• It should be borne in mind that many existing health insurance funds require contributors to produce numbered membership cards or books to facilitate benefit claim processing. [More…]

• Indeed, one large fund is issuing to contributors membership cards similar to the health insurance cards proposed for the Program. ‘ [More…]

• The information required for the processing of claims will be less than is now required by private health insurance funds. [More…]

• Within the health insurance program, there will be complete freedom of patients to choose their own doctors in private practice. [More…]

• Before doing so, however, I remind honourable senators that the health insurance program is outlined in the White Paper which has been widely distributed and is available to all who are interested in the subject. [More…]

• Part IV, clauses 39 to 46, cover health program grants. [More…]

• While the Bill provides for all residents of Australia to be eligible for the benefits of the program, it also makes provisions which will allow, at some future time, the introduction of arrangements whereby non-residents of Australia may purchase Australian health insurance program coverage by payment of a suitable premium. [More…]

• Be billed by the doctor, pay the doctor and then claim benefits from the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Forward the unpaid doctor’s bill to the Health Insurance Commission and receive back the appropriate benefits in the form of a cheque payable to the doctor. [More…]

• The doctor would then claim his payment from the Health Insurance Commission and the patient would not have to pay anthing. [More…]

• For such attendances the regulations will prescribe that the benefit which will be payable will be that part of the benefit specified in the Schedule which is financed by the health insurance levy. [More…]

• In practice the Bill provides for the Health Insurance Commission to determine fees in such circumstances in accordance with the principles laid down by the Committee. [More…]

• We have indicated, in the White Paper on our health insurance program, that we will consult with the medical profession about appropriate forms of ‘peer review’ arrangements. [More…]

• In this context I would point out that all hospitals currently approved under the National Health Act must apply for approval under this legislation so as to become eligible for Australian Government payments. [More…]

• The financing of the program will take place through the mechanism of a Health Insurance Fund, which will be established under Part VI of the Bill. [More…]

• All payments authorised by this legislation will be paid by the Health Insurance Commission out of this Fund. [More…]

• I mentioned at the beginning of this speech that our proposals seek social equity in health insurance. [More…]

• And, we believe, the Australian Government not only has an obligation in this respect, it also has a clear duty, as the custodian of public funds, to ensure that taxpayers get the best value in terms of health services for the money they contribute. [More…]

• This, in turn, means we have a duty to see that money is not wasted on an inefficient system of health insurance. [More…]

• A great deal of this money will be spent in propping up the ramshackle, inequitable and wasteful private health insurance scheme- a scheme which can only retain any facade of respectability through the injection of more and more taxpayers’ money. [More…]

• One of the reasons for all this is simply that the 90 health funds, with their separate and often extravagant managements, are wasteful. [More…]

• So now, in pretending to have a policy on health insurance, they are proposing a $300m first aid job to patch up the low income family and pensioner sections of their scheme. [More…]

• What I must point out quite forcibly here is that this $300m would be additional to the total cost of the medical and hospital services covered by private health insurance and by pensioner medical and hospital services and repatriation medical services. [More…]

• But the time is past for ‘band aid’ health care expedients. [More…]

• Like other advanced countries of the world Australia needs a health insurance program which will truly provide the doctor and the hospital of the citizen’s choice at the price he can afford. [More…]

• It is an iniquitous method of ensuring that those who can best afford health care get it more cheaply than those who can least afford it. [More…]

• It is a program which rejects the belief that health care is a commodity to be traded rather than a social utility to be used to improve the quality of living. [More…]

• It is at the same time a program which acknowledges the professional and vocational aspirations of those who provide health services. [More…]

• It is indeed a program which must cause this Parliament to decide whether health care is to be a privilege to be purchased or a right to be enjoyed equally by every Australian. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate establishes the Health Insurance Commission as a statutory authority to plan and establish an organisation to administer the Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• Those details of the Government’s health program relating to medical benefits and hospital payments will be contained in other legislation to be introduced into the Senate in the near future. [More…]

• At that time the Senate will be able to fully consider the Government’s proposals for universal health benefits coverage, which have been outlined in the White Paper titled ‘The Australian Health Insurance Program ‘, which was tabled today. [More…]

• The creation of this authority implements an undertaking given by the Prime Minister in his policy speech; that ‘in staffing the Health Insurance Fund, employment preference will be given to the employees of the present private funds, who will enjoy the entitlements, status and conditions and terms of employment accorded to Commonwealth public servants’. [More…]

• As I have indicated previously, authority for the Commission to make payments by way of medical benefits and hospital payments will be contained in the main body of the legislation governing the Government’s universal health insurance plan. [More…]

• I would point out to honourable senators that the information the Commission will need will be less in content and less invasive of privacy than that now required and held by the present private health funds, whether in computer or manual systems. [More…]

• Further to this, I would like to draw the attention of honourable senators to the special committee which has been appointed by the AttorneyGeneral (Senator Murphy) to advise on the protection needed to ensure privacy under the Government’s health program. [More…]

• The Executive recommended, after consultations with the private health funds concerning transitional arrangements, an arrangement where by the present private health funds act as agents for the Commission for periods up to three years for receiving claims and paying customary ‘over the counter’ benefits. [More…]

• 3 ) That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• This Bill will establish a Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• The Commission will study Australian health care needs and make recommendations to the Government on the allocation of capital and operating funds for the development and maintenance of health care delivery systems in Australia. [More…]

• The need to set up this Commission is based on the recognition that a high standard of health care is one of the fundamental rights of every Australian, and that the Australian Government must accept its full responsibility in this regard. [More…]

• It is our belief that health is a family affair and a community affair and that communities must look beyond the person who is sick in bed or who is in need of medical attention. [More…]

• The need for health services begins at birth and continues throughout our lives. [More…]

• In the past the emphasis in the delivery of health care has been on the provision of curative rather than preventive health and rehabilitation services. [More…]

• As an initial step it is the aim of this Government to correct this imbalance by encouraging the rapid expansion and co-ordination of community health services. [More…]

• The Government has committed itself to a policy of promoting the regionalisation and modernisation of hospitals, linked with the development of community based health services and preventive health programs. [More…]

• It is interested in the full range of services, facilities and funding arrangements required to promote a high standard of health. [More…]

• To make an immediate start on the work envisaged for the Commission, an Interim Committee on Hospitals and Health Services was appointed within the Department of Health soon after this Government took office. [More…]

• As a result of those recommendations positive action has been taken to improve the health services of this country. [More…]

• It will be a feature of the Commission’s examination of health needs for Australia to consult with the many authorities and organisations in Australia with deep interests in health care. [More…]

• And, of course, the Commission will have to rely heavily on the support that these bodies can give the Commission m ascertaining the existence and state of health services throughout the nation. [More…]

• As a practical example of this type of consultation and co-operation, the Commission is presently examining the hospital facilities position in Australia and is being actively assisted by such bodies as the Australian Medical Association, the Royal Australian Nursing Federation, the Australian College of Medical Administrators, the Australian Hospitals Association, the Australian Institute of Hospital Administrators, the Australian Department of Health, the Bureau of Census and Statistics and the Health authorities in participating States. [More…]

• The Interim Committee’s first report ‘A Community Health Program for Australia’ was tabled in the Senate on 31 May last. [More…]

• This report has been exceptionally well received by health administrators in this country. [More…]

• That program has been endorsed by the Government and a sum of $10m was allocated in this year’s Budget to meet capital and net operating costs of approved community health projects in 1973-74. [More…]

• The program should provide the required impetus for the establishment of much needed, but often overlooked, community based health services and should encourage communities and regions to examine their own needs and priorities and to express them to the relevant health authorities. [More…]

• To date, assistance totalling $9m has already been approved under the community health program. [More…]

• This program is an indication of the enthusiasm and earnestness of the Interim Committee in tackling its responsibilities, and indicates the wholehearted approach and the concern for the health care of the Australian people that the Commission will bring to bear on its tasks. [More…]

• The sum of $ 10m has been appropriated this year within the Department of Health appropriations. [More…]

• It is intended that the Department of Health will be implementing the program of approved projects and be expending the moneys on Australia’s behalf. [More…]

• It recognised quickly that its own efforts were not enough but that it was necessary to encourage all administrations within the health services community, to plan, research and evaluate their activities. [More…]

• The Government has provided funds of Sim a year and has given to the Interim Committee the overall co-ordinating role for an initial 3-year program for health services planning and research. [More…]

• Australia will continue to suffer from periodic shortages of various health professionals until a systematic approach is developed which anticipates requirements in the various skills to enable training facilities to adjust accordingly, which studies imbalances in the distribution of personnel and which generally ensures that they are being both trained and used effectively. [More…]

• A special committee, which it is intended will report directly to the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, is already starting to examine some of these problems. [More…]

• Meanwhile, the Interim Committee has involved itself with plans for accreditation of health facilities and services, and it has recommended that funds be provided to the Australian Hospitals Standards Committee for a draft plan for a scheme for accreditation of Australian hospitals for consideration by the Commission. [More…]

• This Bill establishes the Hospitals and Health Services Commission on a permanent and sound legal basis, enumerates its functions and gives it all the powers necessary to enable it to operate effectively. [More…]

• The functions of the Commission in general terms are: (a) to make recommendations to the Minister in relation to the provision of health services by the Department of Health; (b) to ascertain the health care needs of the Australian community and to make recommendations to the Minister in respect of those needs; (c) with the approval of the Minister, to make grants, including conditional grants, to government bodies, persons or organisations engaged in health care or research into health care; (d) to investigate means of securing and, with the approval of the Minister, arrange for, representation of Australia or the Commission on governmental bodies involved in health care; (e) to promote and take part in planning in relation to health services; (f) to promote the provision of adequate health services; (g) to review health care delivery systems and recommend changes to States, organisations or persons concerned with those systems; (h) to undertake such other functions in relation to health care as the Minister approves. [More…]

• Establishment of the Commission is yet another step in the Government’s progress toward a total approach to the nation’s health care needs. [More…]

• The Interim Committee has already more than demonstrated its capacity for hard work and sound responsible judgment and recommended the means of tackling some of the inadequacies in our health care system. [More…]

• High quality health services do not just happen. [More…]

• Health care needs must be identified and services must be planned and financed in a co-ordinated manner. [More…]

• The establishment of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission by this Bill will ensure the continuation of the identification of those needs and provide the apparatus for planning and co-ordinating the resources necessary for their fulfilment. [More…]

• The purpose of this Bill, expressed in its simplest terms, is to remove all barriers to the provision of a first-class health care cover to every Australian regardless of means. [More…]

• It also aims to preserve the dignity of the Australian people, their total freedom of choice in medical and hospital care, their personal privacy and to maintain the present quality of Australian health care which is recognised as being as high as any existing in the world. [More…]

• The decision to submit these amendments to the present National Health Act was made to solve the crisis that emanates from the proposals to dismantle the accepted scheme and replace it with one arousing hostility and causing predictably much higher costs to many subscribers. [More…]

• The present Act has operated with general cooperation by all sections of the medical and health professions but has revealed serious deficiencies in its cover and operation. [More…]

• The present scheme disadvantages some people in the community, mainly low income earners, especially those with large families and pensioners, who presently receive what can only be regarded as a second-class health service. [More…]

• On the other hand there is Mr Hayden, the Minister for Social Security, the architect of the Government’s proposed health scheme. [More…]

• In its place there is to be an entirely new, compulsory, tax-based health scheme, under a new nationalised health care bureaucracy. [More…]

• For their part, the very people, whose professional expertise is essential to the success of any national health scheme, have expressed their continued resentment and fears of the Minister’s health proposals. [More…]

• The average Australian is confused and apprehensive; he suffers the weaknesses of the existing National Health Act but seriously wonders whether the Minister’s plan, in the face of bitter medical and hospital opposition, will not create greater problems and, indeed, lead to a chaos that could destroy him completely. [More…]

• We seek to amend extensively the present National Health Act in order to eliminate the weaknesses in the voluntary scheme and to extend its coverage to the low-income single earner, to those with larger families, to pensioners, to newly arrived migrants and to aborigines. [More…]

• This Bill clearly opts for a voluntary health insurance scheme, as against a compulsory, taxbased one. [More…]

• In other words, the DLP believes that, given support by the Government and the other Opposition Parties, this Bill will provide fully adequate medical and hospital care, in which the patient is guaranteed his personal freedom and the maintenance of the present high standard of health in Australia. [More…]

• We believe that the Government’s divisive, unnecessary and very costly health proposals are too high a price to pay for a controversial new scheme of health cover for the 90-odd per cent of the community who are adequately covered already. [More…]

• In fact, if we include the 10.3 per cent of people covered by the pensioner medical service, the subsidised health benefits, the 2 per cent covered by repatriation benefits and the 0.6 per cent covered by the Australian defence forces medical care, there are at present 1,700,800 people- representing 12.9 per cent of the population- who have cover outside the non-profit medical funds. [More…]

• The subsidised health benefits scheme was originally introduced to provide cover without cost to people in the very low income groups, arriving migrants and the unemployed. [More…]

• Unfortunately too little effort has been made to ensure that the provisions of the subsidised health benefits scheme are kept in line with the needs of those sections of the community this scheme is designed to serve. [More…]

• For example, the income level at which low income earners become eligible for subsidised health benefits is below what is just in the present high inflation situation. [More…]

• But the subsidised health benefits scheme has further gross inadequacies. [More…]

• Under clause 16 of the DLP Bill the subsidised health benefits scheme would be widened to include single people on low incomes. [More…]

• Our Bill would also streamline the present complex administrative arrangements for the subsidised health benefits scheme by replacing the Commonwealth reimbursement of benefits and substituting the payment of contributions to the fund of the subsidised health benefits scheme beneficiary’s choice. [More…]

• Clause 13 provides that waiting periods for all subsidised health benefits scheme beneficiaries would be waived in respect of medical and public ward benefits, and the beneficiaries would continue, should they wish, to insure themselves for hospital benefits, in excess of the public ward level, at their own expense. [More…]

• Finally, under this Bill, the Commonwealth would enter into negotiations with the State governments for an alternative arrangement to the subsidised health benefits scheme which would be more suitable to the special needs of tribal Aborigines. [More…]

• At present, the pensioner medical service is limited to general practitioner services and provides no cover for the full range of services which insured patients and subsidised health benefits scheme beneficiaries enjoy. [More…]

• On the other hand, any other low-income person receiving subsidised health benefits may go into private or intermediate hospital accommodation and incur only the difference in cost between his public ward entitlement and the hospital charges. [More…]

• A major objective of this Bill, which is contained in clause 6, is to end this situation by phasing out the pensioner medical service and bringing those pensioners who desire it under the extended provisions of the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• Despite the Minister’s claim that this move would disadvantage pensioners, our Bill would provide low-income pensioners with the opportunity of upgrading their health care to the level of that enjoyed by all other members of the community. [More…]

• State hospitals would also be assisted by the inclusion of pensioners in the subsidised health benefits as they would receive the normal daily bed charges for pensioner patients in heu of the current $5 per day. [More…]

• The resulting openended commitments have created great problems in the financial management of national health schemes. [More…]

• The Committee’s Chairman shall be a Presidential member of the Arbitration Commission and, of its two other members, one shall be appointed by the Minister from a panel of three submitted by the Australian Medical Association and the other from a similar panel submitted by the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia. [More…]

• We would consider, and indeed welcome, suggestions from the Government and its health experts on ways to improve the Committee’s functions and composition. [More…]

• The Bill does not attempt to deal in great detail with the areas of paramedical services and health provisions for the elderly, invalids and semi-invalids. [More…]

• We offer this Bill as a practical solution of the present health impasse. [More…]

• At this stage, I wish merely to explain the Bill ‘s principal features and to stress its purpose, which is to provide adequate health cover to all Australians, especially the elderly, the under-privileged and the disadvantaged. [More…]

• I invite the support of all parties in the Senate to enable this BUI to go forward as the real solution to the on-going health debate and the health crisis which faces Australia today. [More…]

• McClelland) wishes to inquire whether we are going to have a cognate debate on the Health Insurance Bill and the Health Insurance Commission Bill. [More…]

• This means that we will have a cognate debate on the Health Insurance Bill and the Health Insurance Commission Bill. [More…]

• These Bills are part of an overall scheme put forward by the Government as its health scheme. [More…]

• As the Liberal Party spokesman on health, the honourable member for Hotham, Mr Chipp, said in the debate in the House of Representatives, notwithstanding the fact that the Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam) and the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) have threatened a double dissolution if we oppose this legislation, we believe that it is our duty to act in the interests of the people of Australia. [More…]

• The real question is how best to improve the standard of health care in this country. [More…]

• If we approach the question as I have suggested, and that is how best to improve the standard of health care in Australia, I think we can look to the average Austraiian. [More…]

• There has been a wave of revulsion in this country against the proposed health scheme. [More…]

• It ran a vote on the national health scheme. [More…]

• That vote sought an indication of whether people favoured the compulsory national health insurance scheme proposed by the Government or whether they favoured the existing voluntary health insurance scheme with minor improvements. [More…]

• The result was that 8 people voted for the Government’s health scheme, and 185 people voted against it. [More…]

• Maybe that is not indicative of the full strength of the opposition to the Government’s health scheme because it comes only from the Darling [More…]

• The assurance which I give on behalf of the Liberal Party of Australia is that we are responsive to the feelings of the vast majority of Australians who are revolted by this attempt to reduce the standards of health care in Australia. [More…]

• The Bills will take away the existing health scheme and will replace it with something which I will discuss shortly. [More…]

• Our scheme, the scheme which exists at the moment, is a scheme which, in the interests of the preservation of a free society and of the right of choice and the freedom of choice of doctors, hospitals and health insurance, allows every Australian the opportunity to exercise that choice. [More…]

• We think that there should be a degree of competition between doctors, hospitals and health insurance schemes, all of which are conducive to development, improvement and provision of the best possible services at the lowest possible cost. [More…]

• We believe that health care must be reasonably available as a right. [More…]

• We believe that it is a government’s duty to ensure that there is adequate health care available and that the right may be exercised by each Australian. [More…]

• We agree that there are some areas of the health scheme which require maintenance. [More…]

• But we do not see them as justifying the throwing out of the whole of the scheme which has worked well, which has worked satisfactorily in the mind of the average Australian and which, we believe, will ensure that adequate health care is available as a right to all Australians, with an exercise of their right of choice and with a reasonable degree of flexibility. [More…]

• We see it as necessary to consider the pensioner medical scheme and the subsidised health benefits and for them to be incorporated into the present national insurance arrangements to ensure that all benefits accruing to pensioners and low income earners are available under the scheme. [More…]

• We see it as desirable that there should be basic health care insurance coverage of the maximum number of people in this country and that it should be readily available for those people. [More…]

• We see as essential the survival of the independent health insurance funds for all health services, including paramedical services. [More…]

• We see it as desirable that there should be appropriate deterrents to the abuse of the health scheme. [More…]

• If there have been abuses in the past, if there may be abuses in future, that is not justification for scrapping the whole of a substantially successful and acceptable health scheme. [More…]

• It is a manifest first step towards the nationalisation of health care in Australia. [More…]

• So that the Government can give some thought to that, I refer to an interesting study that was conducted by an economic and market research firm, Phillip Shrapnel and Co., which recently carried out a detailed costing of the present and the proposed health insurance schemes. [More…]

• I am quite confident that the average Australian finds costs escalating quite sharply enough as a result of the other actions of this Government without having forced on to him a huge escalation in total costs of a health scheme which has been partially worked out and many times altered; a scheme which can be described only as unsatisfactory to the Australian people and which will reduce the standard of health care whilst increasing the costs of health care. [More…]

• The present health insurance scheme covers about 90 per cent or 92 per cent of the population. [More…]

• Mr Hayden ‘s estimate is that 87 per cent of the Australian people are now covered by health insurance, but I think if we consider what I will say we will see that that is not a correct estimate. [More…]

• At present, 79 per cent of the Australian people are covered by private health insurance, 10 per cent are covered by pensioner medical services, and approximately 3 per cent are covered by subsidised health benefits. [More…]

• The Government’s proposal is to take away the freedom of up to 92 per cent of Australians, who now voluntarily insure with the fund of their own choice or who are covered by other aspects of health care, and to compel them, by a taxation mechanism, to insure, up to standard hospital ward care level in what can be described only in the terms which were used in many of the debates on this scheme as a monolithic Government insurance fund. [More…]

• Who, looking at that, can claim and establish that health insurance can be provided more efficiently and at lower cost than it is provided by private funds, by private enterprise? [More…]

• That is hardly in the interests of the preservation of a free society, in the interests of economy or in the interests of providing the maximum standard of health care to Australians. [More…]

• I indicate to the Government and to the people that, if the Government were prepared to introduce these provisions as amendments to the present health scheme, the Opposition would support them. [More…]

• But this Bill in its present form and with its associated proposals will clearly do the following: It will lower the quality of medical care for Australian families; it will increase the total costs for the Government and thus for taxpayers; it will increase total costs for the majority of taxpayers, because they could only maintain the present quality of their health care by additional heavy commitments for private insurance; it will reduce freedom of choice; it will jeopardise the future of religious, private and country hospitals; and by design and intent it will be the first stage of nationalisation of health and medical care in Australia. [More…]

• No attitude has been made more clear in recent times than that of the Australian people in relation to the health scheme. [More…]

• Leave out all words after ‘That’, insert- the Senate is of the opinion that the existing health scheme is one of the best and most efficient in the world and that therefore this Bill and associated Bills should be withdrawn, because the Government’s alternative proposals to the existing health scheme will- [More…]

• increase total costs for the majority of taxpayers, because they could only maintain the present quality of their health care by additional heavy commitments for private insurance, [More…]

• jeopardize the future of religious, private and country hospitals, and (0 by design and intent be the first stage of nationalis ation of health and medical care in Australia. ‘ [More…]

• -The Health Insurance Bill 1973 which is before us is one of the most important measures that have been introduced by this Government. [More…]

• The figures quoted by Senator Rae mean that at least one million people throughout Australia are not covered under the existing so-called health scheme. [More…]

• Senator Rae said that the Government proposes to do away with the private health insurance scheme. [More…]

• However, I would like to remind Senator Rae and other honourable senators opposite, as well as members of the Australian Medical Association and other medical people, particularly those associated with the current health scheme, that the Commonwealth Government has to pay more than $300m a year to keep the private scheme going. [More…]

• The purpose of this piece of propaganda is to give 13 reasons why the women of this community should say no to the Government’s proposed health scheme. [More…]

• The Federal Government’s scheme to replace voluntary health insurance with a compulsory, tax-financed scheme is a creation of men- not doctors, mind you, but male academics and economists. [More…]

• This document was published by the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia. [More…]

• The publication says that the Government’s health scheme will cost the family more. [More…]

• Most Australians will pay ess for health insurance under the new scheme. [More…]

• I am being quite candid when I say that many of the agitators are those people who have left the national health scheme in England. [More…]

• The Government applies the same principle to such a basic thing as health as it applies to education. [More…]

• One does not have to use much imagination to apply our policy in relation to education to health. [More…]

• What is more important than having an Australia-wide health scheme which is available to everyone. [More…]

• This propaganda put out by the Voluntary Health Insurance Association uses the words: ‘If you are a working wife’, in an effort to scare the housewives in the home. [More…]

• For patients in private hospitals, the Health Insurance Commission will pay $16 a bed-day direct to the hospital, leaving patients to meet amounts equivalent on average to those charged for similar accommodation in public hospitals. [More…]

• What is voluntary about a system which imposes charges on everyone and will pursue even those who qualify for public ward treatment for the debts which they incur in preserving their health? [More…]

• The Government recognises valuable the contribution which private hospitals, particularly the religious and charitable hospitals, make to the health care system. [More…]

• The Government will see that insurers offer insurance to all present members on the same terms, without discrimination according to age and health status and without limits to the period of coverage. [More…]

• It will require, as a condition of registration, that the health insurance funds use their already excess reserves to underwrite this commitmentthe only way in which they will ever be used for the benefit of their members. [More…]

• But every doctor and every health insurance contributor knows that there has never been any threat to the right of people to choose their own medical advisers. [More…]

• The most recent World Health Organisation statistics show that Australia has the third highest ratio of hospital beds to population of all the developed countries. [More…]

• The Senate is dealing with two particularly important pieces of legislation- the Health Insurance Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973- and it is incumbent on the Senate to give them the closest attention. [More…]

• As important as health is to this community, the Labor Party in its wisdom has decided after 12 months in office- and it has celebrated that 12-month period- that it is appropriate to bring in 2 health Bills at the very end of this session. [More…]

• But the unique situation that we are in is that several other pieces of legislation- the exact number of which we know not- which apparently are of great import to the health of this community are to be brought in some time in 1974. [More…]

• We note that in his second reading speech on the Health Insurance Bill, the Minister for the Media (Senator Douglas McClelland) said: [More…]

• Further legislation relating to the scope and operation of private health insurance organisations and the introduction of levies on taxable income and on motor vehicle third party and workers’ compensation insurers and the protection of individual privacy will be introduced in the autumn sittings of 1974. [More…]

• Particularly significant changes in health services to the community are proposed in these Bills by the Australian Labor Party. [More…]

• The Opposition opposes the legislation and will vote against it because we believe that it will lower the quality of medical care for Australian families; that it will increase the total costs for the Government and thus the taxpayers; that it will increase total costs for the majority of taxpayers because they can maintain the present quality of their health care only by additional heavy commitments for private insurance; that it will reduce the freedom of choice; that it will jeopardise the future of religious, private and country hospitals; and by design and intent it will be the first stage of nationalisation of health and medical care in Australia. [More…]

• -The Senate resumes the debate on the health Bills which were brought into the Senate yesterday. [More…]

• Basically these are the Labor Party’s proposals for a health scheme for Australia. [More…]

• In short they were the lower quality of medical care which is envisaged under Labor’s proposals, the greatly increased cost to the majority of the taxpayers, the loss of freedom of choice so far as the individual is concerned, the jeopardy to the whole future of religious, private and country hospitals and, what is more important to many of us, the first stage of Labor’s proposals for the nationalisation of health and medical care in Australia. [More…]

• Labor has proposed a significant change to the method of delivery of health services to the Australian public. [More…]

• The Labor Party says it has a mandate for what it proposes to bring in under this health scheme. [More…]

• But I think he will be honest and say: ‘Well, that is one matter which we perhaps have had to overlook in our endeavour to get a health scheme, such as Labor wishes, under way at this time. ‘ [More…]

• The upgrading and the modernisation of the present health scheme is required. [More…]

• We find that various areas of research lead to benefits in our health services in this country. [More…]

• The chronic bed shortage has meant a massive swing to private health insurance. [More…]

• Health Service wants me to be a sorter and form-filler, if it’s what my patients want and the Hospitals expect, why should I fight them all? [More…]

• One can gather from that statement what is taking place in relation to nationalised health schemes. [More…]

• Nowhere is it more evident than in the Bill before the Senate relating to the health of the community. [More…]

• One relates to the type of health service that will be delivered to the public. [More…]

• It is supposedly a free health scheme but one only needs to look into various areas to realise that it will not be a free health scheme for those who choose to have something a little better than public ward attention as they have been able to choose for many years in the past. [More…]

• Most people in the community will be paying a higher amount for the type of health service which they want than they pay under the present scheme. [More…]

• That will be a disaster for the medical profession and for community health in future. [More…]

• If Labor has its way, there will be a lower quality of medical care in Australia, increased costs for the Government, increased total costs for the majority of taxpayers, rejection of the freedom of choice which exists at present, the jeopardy of the future of religious, private and country hospitals and the nationalisation and socialisation of medical health care in this community. [More…]

• These people were empowered in 1968 to conduct an inquiry into the shortcomings of what is known as our national health system. [More…]

• This is very significant because, as I have been reminded by Senator Wriedt, this assignment was suggested by the then Liberal Minister for Health, the Honourable Dr Forbes. [More…]

• Following that, there was an election in 1969 when the then Leader of the Opposition, the present Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam), campaigned throughout this country that the socalled national health scheme was not good enough. [More…]

• The operation of the health insurance scheme is unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many. [More…]

• The Committee made another very important recommendation regarding the administration of health insurance. [More…]

• With all deference to the speeches made by Senator Little and Senator Rae this afternoon, nobody has admitted, despite what Mr Justice Nimmo said, that there is a flaw in the existing structure of the funds, because after all this inquiry by Mr Justice Nimmo commenced in 1968 and Senator Greenwood was Minister for Health for a brief period between 1969 and 1972. [More…]

• Speaking in the New South Wales context, I know that we had a massive dispute about how much of the increased cost of the health scheme would be met by the funds. [More…]

• I throw back in the teeth of Senator Rae and, to a lesser degree, Senator Little that we are not on trial but the private enterprise health schemes and medical schemes are. [More…]

• When I returned I submitted to the then Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, a proposal which was related to the Belgian system, and I am still waiting for an answer in relation to that proposal. [More…]

• I want to deal with lack of health insurance coverage by these funds. [More…]

• Mr Hayden, the present Minister for Health, and I leaned on the fund concerned and it condescended to meet her expenses as a result of the automobile accident in the United States. [More…]

• It was said in a departmental reportthe report was prepared not by the Labor Government but by the Government of honourable senators opposite- that our present system is completely inferior to that operating in Western Europe and to that operating in Britain, because we do not have a comprehensive system of health insurance. [More…]

• As Senator Carrick would know, during the sittings of Estimates Committee C I asked the officers of the Department of Health how many complaints they had received in relation to the inadequacies of the various health schemes and medical schemes. [More…]

• I do not think there is one honourable senator here who has any inhibitions about taking on funds or taking on the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The whole point that I make today is that under the Hayden scheme the people will get a comprehensive health insurance cover. [More…]

• Nobody has given any credit- I include in this some of the people in the AMA who saw me- to the Minister for Health for making available $1.5m to finance a sort of crash program to increase the number of our general practitioners. [More…]

• I am prepared to say this to the honourable senator: Queensland under a Labor Government- I use the term in the collective sense- did give a certain lead to the other States in regard to health care. [More…]

• But I remind the honourable senator that even with what he did in regard to health- I do not reflect any discredit on him or a Labor government in Queensland- the other States had to economise in regard to health matters. [More…]

• 1 accept that the honourable senator introduced a concept of free coverage for public health. [More…]

• If honourable senators study the proposals that we are advancing, they will see that in addition to injecting money into a massive national health coverage to provide public beds and displaying a magnanimous attitude to private hospitals, over and above that injection of public funds, there will be a surplus of funds, despite the phoney accountancy attitude of Senator Webster. [More…]

• He stated what was wrong with the present health care system. [More…]

• We have had 2 eminent Opposition senators, Senator Greenwood and Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, who have acted as Minister for Health but who did not lift a finger to change the position. [More…]

• Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson admitted to me the amount of correspondence that he was receiving from dissatisfied clients in our private enterprise health fund system. [More…]

• If the Treasury were to hand out money to people who refused on conscience to join a private enterprise health system it could be said that there was freedom of choice. [More…]

• We all pay taxes but unless a person joins a private enterprise health fund, he receives nothing by way of medical benefits. [More…]

• I say quite unreservedly that as the Senate is now expending its time on a debate to introduce a better health deal I am amazed that Opposition senators are defending the evils of the past. [More…]

• Without the doctors no health program can function. [More…]

• We have recognised that to earn an annual income an individual needs bodily health, that whatever he spends on maintaining the health of his body is spent on maintaining the health of the tax producing agent, that without his health he cannot produce the income on which he has to pay taxes and that without his health he cannot rear the family that will pay the future taxes of this nation. [More…]

• But the Government of which he is a supporter is the first Government to cut out the principle of tax deductibility for health costs. [More…]

• We have had presented to us what is known as the Green Paper, which is a booklet entitled ‘Health Insurance Planning Committee Report’. [More…]

• So let’s look at just who these opponents of our health insurance proposals are and what are the causes of their behaviour. [More…]

• I am not prepared to say about any other profession the sorts of things that the Minister is saying of this profession which he wants to co-operate in the implementation of one of the most important programs which face this nation- our medical health service. [More…]

• That is the standard which the Minister adopts in this speech when he describes in such a manner the vital factors of the health industry of this country. [More…]

• In no mean manner he has challenged this Government’s credibility in its attitude towards this Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• The national health of any country has never been dealt with in such a shameless, cavalier or callous manner as the national health of this country has been handled by the Opposition. [More…]

• These Bills stem from a belief on the part of the Government that the health of the people is the foundation upon which all their happiness and all their powers as a nation will be built. [More…]

• As far as the Government is concerned, these Bills mark the beginning of a period in which the resources of this nation can and will be directed to the prevention of disease, the promotion of positive health and the treatment and cure of disease and disability. [More…]

• It is in effect the source of a charter for a national health program for the future. [More…]

• The steps proposed to be undertaken under these Bills will form part of a national pattern of health as seen by the Government and will be directed towards the promotion of happy and healthy living for all in the community, not just those whose reach it is within because they have the money to be able to afford it. [More…]

• Enlightened thought throughout the world, representing all aspects of opinion, has stressed the importance and the need for governments to interest themselves directly in national health services. [More…]

• The economic factor has been the most powerful argument in hastening the inevitability of a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Fifty years ago Federal Government had no legislative right to introduce laws governing health. [More…]

• The only health matters over which they had any control were quarantine and infectious diseases. [More…]

• In 1936 the chaotic conditions of health services in Australia became so evident that the Government of the day, comprised of men who gave allegiance to the present Opposition parties- they were men with the self-same political persuasions of those who sit opposite- determined that there should be better co-operation throughout Australia in relation to public health. [More…]

• Therefore it established the National Health and Medical Research Council which consisted of representatives of the Royal College of Surgeons, the Royal College of Physicians, and officers of the Commonwealth and State Departments of Health. [More…]

• The Australian Government invited experts from the United Kingdom to come to Australia to advise it on health matters. [More…]

• However, Mr Acting Deputy President, history records also that the conservative Government of the day was so niggardly that when it eventually produced a Bill to cover these health services, the scheme it proposed to introduce aroused such resentment among the people that despite the fact that the Bill went through the Parliament, hostility from the public was so strong that the Acts were never proclaimed. [More…]

• Yet we find that honourable senators opposite now have the audacity to try to tell a Labor Government what it should do regarding health matters for the people of Australia. [More…]

• I come forward now to 1941 when the newly constituted National Health and Medical Research Council recognised the urgency of the need for a health service in Australia and gave a lead to the medical profession, to Parliament and to the people of Australia. [More…]

• It provided a scheme for discussion which it hoped would be taken up by the medical profession, the officers of the various Health Departments and the people. [More…]

• We spoke about the national health scheme. [More…]

• In 1948 the National Health Service Bill was introduced into this chamber by the then Minister for Health, Senator McKenna. [More…]

• Although a lot of work and preparation had gone into that scheme and although it provided some sort of formula by which, the health services of this country could be improved, it suffered the same fate that the schemes before it suffered. [More…]

• It is interesting to read the Hansard account of speeches made at that time, because for months Senator McKenna, in his negotiations with the Australian Medical Association, was firmly convinced that due to his conciliatory manner and his diplomacy he was making headway with the profession, and the prospects of introducing a health scheme into this country appeared very bright until the time when the legislation was drafted and was about to be introduced into the Senate. [More…]

• It proved quite conclusively that the health services were inadequate in that they were not available to all Australians. [More…]

• My only complaint about its members is that they will not co-operate with this Government in its earnest endeavour to introduce a health scheme which will benefit and improve the lot of three out of four in the community. [More…]

• Sir Lionel Whitby, in an editorial in the Medical Journal’ of 3 July 1948, on the eve of the introduction of the national health scheme in the United Kingdom, summed up the position very well. [More…]

• His statement then is applicable today, on the eve of the introduction of this Government’s health scheme. [More…]

• The cost of ill health is a burden on the family, and the startling advances made by medicine in the past 25 years have steeply increased the cost There is, therefore, a logical case of spreading it over the whole of the community so that those that are fortunate to remain in good health may help those who temporarily fall out of the ranks. [More…]

• I believe that Sir Lionel Whitby’s statement applies today, on the eve of the introduction of our national health scheme. [More…]

• It is true that in 1 946 the alterations to the Constitution gave authority to the Federal Parliament to make laws regarding health. [More…]

• All that the Government seeks, all that it sought in 1948 and 1943 when it endeavoured to introduce health measures into this Parliament and all that it is concerned about is the hope that it will get the co-operation of the medical profession to develop the national health of the people of Australia. [More…]

• I have shown earlier that in 1936 the National Health and Medical Research Council, which was established by the United Australia Party Government, recommended a salaried medical service. [More…]

• The members of the Council included doctors and officers of the various Commonwealth and State Health Departments. [More…]

• In the unanimous findings of this report of the Joint Committee on Social Security on 1 July 1943 these 3 men came strongly down on the side of a salaried medical service in this land and that health centres should be established at various areas in it. [More…]

• I feel that I have shown quite conclusively, and have quoted from the records of 1936, 1943 and 1948-not as Senator Webster did as a figment of his imagination earlier this afternoon- and the Nimmo report of 1968, that the health services of this country are unsatisfactory and that the Government, irrespective of its political persuasion, should be directing urgently its attention towards bringing about some national control of the health services in this land. [More…]

• The Joint Committee on Social Security, 3 members of which represented the most conservative thinking in this Parliament- one would never have called them radicals- agreed that there should be a salaried medical profession in this land and that there should be a national health service introduced as urgently as possible. [More…]

• -We are of course discussing the Bill to introduce an Australian health insurance program. [More…]

• Once we have bureaucratic control of our health scheme we will, in the not too distant future, have complete nationalisation of the scheme. [More…]

• Not many members of the public will be able to afford the 1.35 per cent levy and the additional health insurance that will be required if they, as many do now, want to go to a private hospital. [More…]

• This health scheme is attempting to get the taxation claws into us even deeper. [More…]

• This is what I expect will happen with the health scheme. [More…]

• Once we have a huge government department, I doubt that the position in Australia will be any different from that in many other countries, such as Great Britain and Canada and some of the European countries, where common sense has forced the governments to reconsider their health schemes. [More…]

• He is also out of touch with what the people want, regarding health matters. [More…]

• I will not be a part of any scheme that allows the setting up of a bureaucratic department to run a health scheme that will make the people more sick of all these things. [More…]

• If a referendum had been held on the health scheme, I estimate that the result for the Government would have been even worse than that achieved in last Saturday’s referendum. [More…]

• There is not much wrong with the present health scheme; it has evolved gradually. [More…]

• The Government’s proposal really amounts to throwing out a health scheme that has been shown to be one of the most effective health schemes in the world. [More…]

• He was one of the experts in health care in Canada. [More…]

• Of course, the scheme we are discussing tonight is based on the Canadian health scheme. [More…]

• Mr Detwiller, who is a very well qualified man, said that the Australian health scheme had a lot going for it. [More…]

• I recall reading a statement by Mr Potter, who is the Health Minister in Ontario, Canada, that the Government had created a monster which was in effect devouring the economy and that people would be well advised to stop this monster before it consumed the resources of the country. [More…]

• In Ontario, the health scheme expenses appear to be growing at the rate of 13 per cent per annum, whereas the gross national product is increasing by about 9 per cent per annum. [More…]

• The Minister in another place has tried to suggest that only 87 per cent of the population is covered by health insurance. [More…]

• Previous speakers tonight have said and proved that 92 per cent of the people are covered by health insurance in one way or another. [More…]

• I know for a fact that the medical profession still has the Hippocratic tendency to provide health care for people whether they can afford to pay for it or not. [More…]

• So I believe I am right in saying that the people of Australia have a 100 per cent health cover. [More…]

• We recognise the fact that changing needs demand a revision of our present health scheme. [More…]

• Because we believe that the proposal of the socialist Minister will mean a downgrading of the medical service and a consequent lowering of the standards of health care to Australian families, because it will destroy the existing scheme, increase the total cost to the Government and for the majority of taxpayers, because it will mean the end of private and religious hospitals, and, above all because it will mean the end of the freedom of choice of patients with respect to their doctor or hospital, we totally reject the Bill. [More…]

• I think it would be reasonable to suggest that if a referendum were held on the question whether the Government should have centralised control over the national health of the people of Australia, and ultimately control over doctors, the Government would receive an even more convincing defeat than it suffered last Saturday, when it attempted to take over control of the prices and incomes of the people of Australia. [More…]

• I was most interested to read in a recent issue of the ‘ Bulletin ‘ a comment made by the Commonwealth Minister for Health (Dr Everingham). [More…]

• Commonwealth Health Minister Doug Everingham in an exclusive interview told the ‘Bulletin’ last week that he saw community health centres eventually catering for between 80 and 90 per cent of general practitioners services in Australia, leaving private practice fee-for-service doctors only 10 to 20 per cent of business. [More…]

• He demonstrated that the Deeble report on health insurance differed quite significantly from the White Paper that has been brought down by the Government in recent days. [More…]

• I turn to the effect of the proposed health scheme on hospitals. [More…]

• I recall that Dr Moss Cass is reported to have said that private hospitals and private nursing homes are irrelevant to the Labor Party’s concept of a national health scheme and that the vast majority of people could easily be catered for in the public hospital sector. [More…]

• A Bill of the magnitude of the Health Insurance Bill deserves to be discussed for several days in order to give the members of the Parliament, including honourable senators, a full opportunity to express their points of view. [More…]

• The Liberal Party has devoted the whole year to reviewing its health policy as well as its policy in all other areas. [More…]

• We have come to some conclusions as to the amendments that are necessary to the existing national health scheme. [More…]

• We wish to consider only those alterations which would result in significant improvements in the quality of health care or its coverage or its cost, or which would simplify the administration of the scheme. [More…]

• We wish to see maximum insurance coverage for basic health care. [More…]

• We desire the survival of independent health insurance funds for all areas of insurance, including paramedical services, so as to allow people a free choice of health insurance funds. [More…]

• We want to see appropriate deterrents to the abuse of the health scheme, either by patients or medical practitioners, provided that the deterrent does not make the health scheme unduly complicated and that people needing health care are not unreasonably deterred from seeking it. [More…]

• We want to see the pensioner medical scheme and the subsidised health benefits scheme integrated into the present national health scheme so that the benefits of the scheme accrue to pensioners and other people in low income sections of the community. [More…]

• -A11 the members of the Liberal Party Health Committee have contributed to the preparation of this document. [More…]

• However, I want to refer in particular to the provision of insurance for other professions working in the field of health care. [More…]

• I think that patients of optometrists should be able to attract some sort of benefit from the Government and from a health fund on the same basis that a benefit is attracted in regard to the medical profession. [More…]

• The previous Government recognised the capacity of the profession to refer patients to opthalmologists for specialist attention and, in fact, allowed these patients to attract a specialist benefit from the health funds. [More…]

• I believe that this was clearly a recognition of the competence of the profession to deal with visual treatment in the field of health care. [More…]

• Physiotherapists also have a strong case for the inclusion in the health program as they provide primary health care. [More…]

• I believe that the inclusion of this profession in the health program needs to be looked at favourably. [More…]

• I understand that although at the Scullin Health Centre, which I have visited, private doctors and one private dentist practise it has been manned by salaried physiotherapists. [More…]

• I suggest that fee for service private physiotherapists, private optometrists and private members of the other professions working in the field of health care ought to be included in that sort of complex. [More…]

• I am opposed to the principle of salaried health centres. [More…]

• I am of the opinion that if any government wants to provide total health care for the members of the community, it cannot avoid including other professions that are working in this field. [More…]

• I have no doubt that when we finally draft our health proposals, together with other proposals, we will be able to deal very well with the challenge that has been repeated by the Government on many occasions. [More…]

• A Federal Labor Government will introduce a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It will be administered by a single health fund. [More…]

• The Government presented the report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• One thing I must say for my friends opposite is that, if ever the anti-Labor forces in this country have been consistent, it has been in their attitude to health insurance. [More…]

• As long ago as 1938 the then Treasurer, Mr Casey, as he then was, introduced into the House of Representatives the National Health and Pensions Insurance Bill. [More…]

• Then we come to 1953, when Sir Earle Page, the then Minister for Health, introduced the scheme as it exists today. [More…]

• I could go on at considerable length, but all I think I need say is that the former Governmentthe present Opposition- established when it was in office a committee of inquiry into voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• The operation of the health insurance scheme - [More…]

• The Committee considers that this objective would be advanced by the transfer of the administration of the health insurance scheme from the Commonwealth Department of Health to a National Health Insurance Commission with as much independence as possible. [More…]

• Prior to a lot of tedious debate in this chamber in 1970 over a National Health Bill- a debate in which I took a prominent part on behalf of the then Opposition and which took place from about 9 May to 16 June- the then Minister for Health, Dr Forbes, had made a statement to the Parliament. [More…]

• The administration of health insurance received considerable attention by the Nimmo Committee and its recommendations on this subject have been thoroughly reviewed by the Government. [More…]

• It has been decided to adopt the Committee’s proposal that a National Health Insurance Commission be established. [More…]

• The Australian Labor Party went to the people at the last election with the clear policy that it would, if elected to office, establish a National Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The AMA today recommended the introduction of a Universal Health Insurance Scheme, in a submission to the National Inquiry into Poverty. [More…]

• The AMA said that the present subsidised health insurance scheme had proved ‘ unworkable ‘. [More…]

• It said that a universal health scheme would eliminate anomalies in the present voluntary health insurance scheme and provide for pensioners and those considered to be on the poverty line. [More…]

• The AMA told the inquiry that the inadequacies of the pensioner medical scheme and the subsidised health benefit scheme should be eliminated. [More…]

• It said there was no need to disrupt the present system of primary health care, but suggested it should be updated and changed in a way which did not interfere with the patient-doctor relationship. [More…]

• It gave no indication, however, of who should operate the proposed universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It said under a universal scheme, people who were intellectually and educationally incompetent to take advantage of the present scheme would be covered by health insurance. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, and the Minister for the Capital [More…]

• Will the Minister inform me as soon as possible whether doctors in the new Australian Capital Territory city of Tuggeranong will be allowed to conduct their medical practices in suitable rooms attached to private homes or in leased rooms in commercial buildings, as is common throughout Australia, or whether it will be mandatory that they practice only from health centres? [More…]

• I will refer the matter to my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• A Health Bill which somewhat relates to the matter is to be debated in the chamber today, and officers of the Health Department will be here later. [More…]

• We have had all this trouble which obviously had an effect upon his health. [More…]

• I think he could have been saved that trouble and saved the strain upon his health if the Government had been prepared at that time to do what it now says it is prepared to do. [More…]

• I hope that Mr Beazley will speedily be restored to health, and I hope that the Government will take more notice of his recommendations in future. [More…]

• It will be required to conduct its operations in a proper and workmanlike manner and in accordance with good industrial practices, to look after the safety, health and welfare of persons engaged in its operation, to interfere as little as possible with navigation, to have regard to conservation of the reserves of the sea and the sea bed, to have regard to operations being carried on by other persons engaged in similar activities and to consider in the exercise of it? [More…]

• One question which I have in mind and to which I direct the Minister’s attention is that in my view this Bill will commence an erosion of State rights, and in relation to health this may be a particularly important matter. [More…]

• I wish to read to the Senate 2 urgent telegrams which I have received, one from the Minister for Health in Victoria, which was sent yesterday and which states: [More…]

• Victoria supports New South Wales and Queensland Governments’ opposition to the hospitals and health services commission Bill. [More…]

• Request that the Bill be deferred by the Senate to enable State Health Ministers to examine the legislation. [More…]

• I have another urgent telegram from Mr Tooth, who is the Health Minister in Queensland. [More…]

• Queensland joins New South Wales and Victoria in expressing grave reservations regarding the Hospitals and Health Services Commission Bill 1973 presently before Federal Parliament insofar as many clauses appear to authorise invasion of States’ rights and responsibilities. [More…]

• As an interim committee has been working for most of 1973, my Party feels that the work it has done and the work that will be done by this Commission should be of advantage to health services in Austrafia. [More…]

• -The Opposition supports the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1973 which provides some amendments to the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Opposition congratulates the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) on making some desirable amendments to the Act. [More…]

• I understand that the Commonwealth Acoustics Laboratory is working on this problem, but I hope that the Minister for Health will ensure that everything possible is done to make this further amendment to the Act so that this small group of people can be catered for. [More…]

• The matter raised by Senator Rae on behalf of the Opposition will be drawn to the attention of my colleague, the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham). [More…]

• If the honourable senator asks the question of me personally, the answer is no, I have not had any personal contact with private medical practitioners, although I understand that my colleague, the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham), has. [More…]

• The departmental officers who are advising me assure me that the matter is a highly complex one, but the Minister for Health has had discussions with medical practitioners, and the matter is being investigated. [More…]

• Matters of health in Queensland are also costing the State Government quite a considerable amount. [More…]

• Provision has been made for development of community health services in line with recommendations of the Commonwealth interim committee. [More…]

• It was sad, of course, that his health began to fail him. [More…]

• As you, Mr President, said, ex-Senator Prowse has retired from this place because of ill health. [More…]

• While I regret his leaving us in his retirement I wish him good health and the comfort of having his family about him on his farm. [More…]

• He was Minister for Health from January 1956 until 1 962. [More…]

• He was Vice-President of the Tenth World Health Assembly in 1957. [More…]

• From that short statement it is clear that Dr Cameron served this Parliament and the nation in very high office, especially in that office for which his profession fitted him- the ministry of Health. [More…]

• As the Leader of the Government has said, he served in many areas, but I think the one that brought him closest to us was his service as Minister for Health. [More…]

• As we know, in those days the Minister for Health had certain problems to overcome and certain difficulties arose in connection with that portfolio. [More…]

• The Australian people need and desire a health insurance scheme which automatically and fairly covers all Australians against the costs of health care. [More…]

• The proposals outlined in the Government’s ‘White Paper’ entitled ‘The Australian Government’s Health Insurance Program’ allow for [More…]

• A fair system of financing health insurance based on a person ‘s capacity to pay, so favouring lower income earners, in comparison with the present scheme which favours those earning more. [More…]

• We therefore urge Members of the Senate to support the Australian Government’s legislation introducing universal health insurance and not delay such legislation when it is introduced in the Senate. [More…]

• That consideration of the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that in a recent issue of the ‘Fabian Newsletter’ the Secretary of the Fabian Society, Mr Jim Kennan, strongly urged the Government to extend the arrangements under the present National Health Act to provide adequate cover for low income earners, pensioners and the unemployed, who are presently disadvantaged? [More…]

• Are not these proposals urged by the Fabian Society precisely the same as those provided for under the Democratic Labor Party’s Health Bill? [More…]

• Will the Minister now study the Democratic Labor Party’s Bill carefully in order, to use the words of the Secretary of the Fabian Society, ‘to reduce the inequalities and provide better health insurance’? [More…]

• I am also given to understand that the writer of the article urged the Australian Government to take other initiatives in the health area which would enable the Government to implement the policy for which it secured a mandate from the Australian people. [More…]

• Perhaps the Minister could raise it with the National Health and Medical Research Council with a view to assistance being given. [More…]

• I am not sure whether it is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Education (Mr Beazley) or my colleague the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham). [More…]

• Nonetheless, I will refer the matter to my colleagues the Minister for Education and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question. [More…]

• National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• That the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• We were elected on a mandate which included a better health system. [More…]

• However, Senator McManus wrote a letter to the ‘Sydney Morning Herald ‘ in relation to the national health scheme. [More…]

• He referred to the Hayden Health Bill. [More…]

• We know that the vast majority of the private enterprise health schemes provide no coverage in this case. [More…]

• I have waited in vain for honourable senators to come up with some idea to improve our national health scheme, because it is not working. [More…]

• The fact of the matter is- much as honourable senators opposite might find it abhorrent or distasteful- in relation to national health that there are agreements between Italy and Yugoslavia and Norway and Britain. [More…]

• My point is that the national health scheme at present is not sufficiently comprehensive. [More…]

• I am sure that when Senator Greenwood writes his memoirs he will tell of the big days when he was Minister for Health. [More…]

• I hope that before the Senate rises in May we will have a better national health scheme. [More…]

• Important measures affecting health, education, and consumer protection have been either rejected, delayed or put aside by these people who have bulldozed the Australian people by their decision to oppose the implementation of the policies which the people adopted. [More…]

• I set out some of the points of our policy on the national health scheme. [More…]

• I offered to send them a copy of the White Paper dealing with our proposed national health scheme to further acquaint them with our legislation. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has advised me that on 4 February last a claim for reimbursement of the quarantine expenses for the detention of Mrs Haynes in Darwin was rendered on Qantas Airways Ltd- Qantas being the agent in Darwin for the British Overseas Airways Corporation, as it was then called. [More…]

• Because Qantas has raised no objection to the claim, it is assumed by the Department of Health that Qantas has accepted liability in the usual way on behalf of BOAC, which is now called British Airways Ltd. [More…]

• I remember that on several occasions I tried to ask a question of him in this chamber but he was not even allowed to answer a question when he was the Assistant Minister for Health. [More…]

• Whilst there are some aspersions, there is no direct accusation that there is any danger to health as a result of these tents. [More…]

• If there were any danger, I think that appropriate action would be taken by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• We must ensure that the genuine problems of health, housing, education and employment, along with the associated problems, are solved satisfactorily. [More…]

• In the field of health the people who made the decisions on behalf of the Government were the Australian Medical Association and the drug houses, in the main. [More…]

• The second priority which I would like to mention just briefly relates to health. [More…]

• If a person is secure, obviously he wants also to be healthy. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Primary Industry aware of the concern recently expressed by teachers and parents, particularly at several schools in Tasmania, in relation to the withdrawal of free milk for school children and the likely effect on the health of children, particularly in lower income families? [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen Press reports referring to the increase in food borne infections by salmonella bacteria, which increase has been affirmed by a New South Wales public health team? [More…]

• Has the Department of Health given consideration to the recommendation by the team that Australia should adopt the salmonella surveillance system as now used in the United States and Britain? [More…]

• -Mr President, because of the efficiency of my colleague the Minister for Health, I have some information on this matter. [More…]

• I can advise the honourable senator that, according to my colleague the Minister for Health, salmonella organisms are quite often implicated as an causative factor in outbreaks of gastro-enteritis, both in adults and in children. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has planned and is about to undertake a microbiological survey of certain foods, particularly ready-to-eat takeaway foods such as chicken pieces and rissoles. [More…]

• The important parts of the program, such as health - [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am told by my colleague, the Minister for Health, that except insofar as the Federal Territories are concerned, the Australian Department of Health has no authority to exercise any control over the use of Weedazol or any similar product used in Australia; therefore, this matter is purely one for the South Australian Government. [More…]

• As honourable senators know, we already have the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare which has not yet been debated. [More…]

• Health and Welfare [More…]

• More recently, increasing emphasis has been placedespecially by IDA but also by the IBRD to a limited extent- on projects with greater social implications and more direct benefits for the masses of needy people in developing countries, such as urban renewal, population control, public health and sewerage, and improved agricultural credit and extension services for small farmers. [More…]

• Opportunities are given to this Government to take positive steps, but it is denied by this Senate the opportunity to do what it wants to do in matters of health, including hospitals, private medical practitioners, nursing homes and health insurance generally. [More…]

• We have injected massive expenditure into education and if we are given assistance or a fair go from the Opposition Parties we will do the same in the field of health. [More…]

• The Department of Aboriginal Affairs makes grants to the various States for Aboriginal health purposes. [More…]

• These grants are additional to the normal health grants. [More…]

• In the main the Department of Health is concerned with the health of the various communities, but this is an occasion on which - [More…]

• The position is that on 15 March the Royal Australian Navy received a report from the Department of Health and the Department of Customs and Excise stating that a number of Indonesians- seven, I think- had lost their bearings and had arrived at an island called Dauan on a native prow from Merauke. [More…]

• The depts were concerned about the health of the party. [More…]

• The Indonesians were found to be in good health and the Indonesian Embassy was advised. [More…]

• I am not sure what has happened since, but as far as their health is concerned they are in a satisfactory condition. [More…]

• To get away from sport and closer to the health of the people, I ask the Minister for Repatriation, if he is not aware of the situation, whether he will institute inquiries to discover whether a number of repatriation pensioners seeking medical advice in the Australian Capital Territory are unable to obtain the services of general practitioners because so many doctors in the Australian Capital Territory, as a result of the developing sense of insecurity brought about by the Government’s emerging health policy, are either leaving the Territory or accepting salaried positions? [More…]

• My question which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to the drug methadone which is used in the treatment of heroin addiction. [More…]

• I ask: Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the statement made yesterday by the New York health authorities that methadone is killing as many people as is heroin? [More…]

• Will the Government, as a matter of urgency, obtain the basic medical evidence from New York underlying that statement in order to guide Australian health authorities in the future use, if any, of methadone in this country? [More…]

• I shall make inquiries of my colleague, the Minister fore Health, to see what the latest position is on the matter. [More…]

• Do they always have to have the residue of the carcass or are they supposed to be in such a state of health that a diet of steak would be too much for their physiques. [More…]

• That the present systems of financing of hospital and medical care in Australia are outdated, complex, unwieldy, and provide inadequate or no security against health care expenditure for a substantial proportion of the people of Australia; [More…]

• That there is an urgent need for a new national health insurance scheme, to which each person receiving an income should contribute an amount which is equitably calculated on the basis of that income, and which provides adequate security to each person against the costs of care for every kind of illness and injury. [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the parliament will speedily pass appropriate legislation to bring the benefits of an equitably financed, universal, and comprehensive health insurance scheme to the people of Australia. [More…]

• Is the Government’s opposition to atmospheric nuclear testing based on moral grounds as well as the possible effect of the testing upon health? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, ls it a fact that the Australian Government proposes to provide the Queensland Government with an amount in excess of $lm for the establishment in the inner city area of Brisbane of an assessment and treatment clinic for alcoholics, together with hostels in Brisbane and country areas for alcoholics? [More…]

• I, representing in the Senate the Minister for Health, am unaware of the exact nature of the details raised by the honourable senator, although he will be as aware as I am of the interest taken by our colleague the Minister for Health in trying to solve the problems of alcoholism and alcoholics in the Australian community. [More…]

• To give some instances, the legislation includes the Australian Capital Territory Representation Act, the Commonwealth Electoral Act, the Companies (Foreign Take-overs) Act, the Crimes Act, the Customs Act, the Designs Act, the Excise Act, the National Health Act, the Navigation Act and the Service and Execution of Process Act. [More…]

• Certainly when Senator Wade was Minister for Health he made the pharmaceutical companies refund 4m which was the amount they had overcharged the Federal Government for penicillin. [More…]

• That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has his attention been drawn to the frontispiece of the 1 973 annual report of the Australian Foundation on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence presented by Dr J. R. Moon, President of the Foundation, which gives unstinted praise to the Whitlam Australian Government and, more particularly, to the Honourable D. M. Everingham, the Minister for Health, for their sympathetic understanding, co-operation and support in making possible for the first time in this country a national secretariat, magazine and central library on alcoholism and drug dependence? [More…]

• Minister representing in the Senate the Minister for Health my attention has been drawn to the 1973 annual report issued by the Australian Foundation on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence and the expression of appreciation by that organisation of the sympathetic consideration, understanding, co-operation and support that it has received from the Australian Labor Government and, in particular, from my colleague the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, who, as the honourable senator knows, has shown for many years a great interest in this tremendous nationally important problem. [More…]

• I can also tell the honourable senator that my colleague the Minister for Health today had discussions with officers of an organisation known as Recovery, which is an organisation interested in the problems of people of the type referred to by the honourable senator. [More…]

• Members of that organisation have expressed to the Minister for Health and also to me their appreciation of the courtesies, assistance and understanding that my colleague has shown to them. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs whether he will supply the Senate with details of the amount of money provided for Aboriginal health in Western Australia. [More…]

• For comparison purposes I desire the figures for health assistance for Aboriginal people in Western Australia for the financial years 1972-73 and 1 973-74 respectively. [More…]

• I have the details of the amounts spent on Aboriginal health by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs in the various States. [More…]

• These figures will be supplemented by that part of the general health allocation spent on Aboriginal health and certain other moneys paid, especially from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs, in respect of the health of Aboriginal people. [More…]

• In 1972-73 some $930,000 was allocated by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs for Aboriginal health in Western Australia. [More…]

• We are conducting an all-out drive to try to cure some of the health problems of Aboriginal people in Western Australia. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health any knowledge of the proposal to establish hostels for intellectually handicapped people in Brisbane, Ipswich and Redcliffe? [More…]

• I did see a statement attributed to my colleague the Minister for Health which he issued some time last week, I think, in which he said that institutions of the type referred to by the honourable senator were being established at Ipswich, Redcliffe and Brisbane. [More…]

• I think, from recollection, throughout the whole of Queensland 16 institutions of the type mentioned are being established by the Department of Health as a result of a decision by the Australian Government. [More…]

• In view of the authoritative evidence on the effect of Chinese fallout in Australia and New Zealand and the proven real threat to human health in the Pacific area from the Chinese tests, what possible reason, other than a politically protective one, has the Minister for excluding the Chinese from a motion relating to the Pacific region? [More…]

• One of the Bills before the Senate is the Health Insurance Bill 1973. [More…]

• It comprises the principal legislation to enable the implementation of the Govenment’s health insurance program. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Bill 1973 provides for payments for medical benefits, hospital services and certain other specific services such as health program grants. [More…]

• We are putting this Bill once more before the Senate because the introduction of an equitable and efficient health insurance program covering all Australians was one of our major election promises and one which was clearly approved by the electorate. [More…]

• The whole debate on health insurance has polarised opinions roughly according to whether people have a progressive and socially concerned outlook or whether they are so conservative as to resist all worthwhile change. [More…]

• But there is one point on which there is general agreement and this is that in some way or other all Australians should have health insurance coverage. [More…]

• It would, of course, be possible to tinker with the so-called voluntary health insurance scheme to provide a patch-work coverage for the more than one and a half million people who do not have insurance coverage at present. [More…]

• Nobody can pretend that the present health insurance scheme is either equitable or efficient. [More…]

• Under the proposals in these Bills- and I point out that the Health Insurance Commission Bill flows from the Health Insurance Bill- everyone in the community will be automatically covered. [More…]

• This would represent a very costly partial solution to the social challenge posed by the inadequacies of the present pensioner medical service and the plight of low income earners who are unable to afford coverage under the existing health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The fact is that the present means test for deciding eligibility for the pensioner medical service for a couple without children is $86.50 a week, whereas a couple without children cannot be admitted to the subsidised health benefits plan unless they have a weekly income of $69.50 or less. [More…]

• The Bill now before us will enable the implementation of a program which will provide complete coverage, including specialist medical care, for all pensioners and low income earners for the same total cost as would be incurred in the continuation of the existing ramshackle array of health care schemes. [More…]

• Tinkering with the pensioner medical service to cover pensioners under the subsidised health benefits plan will exclude great numbers of people who would otherwise have enjoyed the benefits of the pensioner medical service. [More…]

• Let us hear clearly and in quite concrete terms what is the Opposition’s alternative program and how the Opposition proposes to remedy the serious defects in the present health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Attempts have been made to cause fear in the public mind about the use of health insurance cards. [More…]

• I should rather hope that we will see no more of this discreditable propaganda following the report, tabled in this place on 7 March, by the Committee of Inquiry into the Protection of Privacy on the question of patient privacy in health insurance. [More…]

• The Committee of Inquiry into the Protection of Privacy made recommendations which are in line with the Government’s intentions, as spelt out in the White Paper, regarding the use of health insurance cards. [More…]

• We had, prior to the report by the Committee, made it clear that the recommendations of the Committee concerning confidentiality of patient information would be included at an appropriate time in the health insurance legislation. [More…]

• A close examination is being made of the Committee’s recommendations in preparation for the introduction of appropriate amendments to the health insurance legislation, whether embodied in the Bill now before the Senate, in complementary legislation, or in interim amendments to the existing National Health Act. [More…]

• The total costs of the program will be the same as those which will be needed for the present unco-ordinated series of health care assistance schemes. [More…]

• For individual members of the public the costs will be based on the equitable principle of ability to pay and they will mean that the great majority of the public will pay less for the benefits of the program than they at present pay for coverage under the so-called private health insurance system. [More…]

• Honourable senators opposite are welcome to the role of defending the present inequitable system by which those who earn least pay the most for health insurance coverage and those who earn the most pay the least. [More…]

• It is surely noteworthy that such groups as the AMA, the General Practitioners Society, the Association of Medical Specialists and the Voluntary Health Insurance Association have vested interests in the continuation of the existing health insurance scheme. [More…]

• They may have ideological beliefs about the concept of universal health insurance financed through taxation, but it is very plain that their primary motivation is concerned with their perception of their own material interests. [More…]

• There are, of course, hundreds of unions and other organisations which support our health insurance program, many of them no doubt for reasons of ideology and because our proposals offer a materially better deal for their members. [More…]

• The plain fact of the matter is that they are people concerned with social equity and progress who, after honestly and dispassionately examining our proposals, have decided that the health insurance program will be for the general good of the community. [More…]

• All of the deceit and distortion which has been injected into the community debate on our health insurance proposals cannot alter the fact that this Government came into office with a clear mandate for its program. [More…]

• I should mention that while the Health Insurance Bill is the main legislative instrument for the introduction of the Government’s health insurance program it is the Government’s intention that complementary legislation concerning such matters as the scope and operation of private health insurance and the introduction of levies on taxable income and on motor vehicle third party and workers compensation insurance will be introduced at a later date. [More…]

• We will also, I repeat, introduce complementary legislation on the subject of the protection of privacy in health insurance operations. [More…]

• The equity of cover in the present scheme should be intolerable to any community that claims to have a social conscience in that those people who can least afford it pay most for their health cover, and those people who are most able to afford it pay least. [More…]

• Perhaps most importantly of all- we lose sight of this- is the way in which the pooling of funds allows the whole community to be covered and allows an expansion of the range of services available to the community to be provided at no additional cost to that currently outlaid under the present system of private health insurance, repatriation and medical services and pensioner medical and hospital services. [More…]

• That can be done only by increasing taxation, by reducing outlays in other areas, by an amalgamation of those things or by foregoing important priorities which could be included in general programs if a more efficient system of pooling finances could be undertaken as the Government is proposing in this universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• As he indicated in another place, the Minister for Social Security was in Canada recently and was advised by the Ontario Medical Association, amongst other representatives of the medical profession, that they wholeheartedly embrace a universal system of health insurance based on fee for service private medical practice in the community. [More…]

• I commend the Health Insurance Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973, which I have yet to introduce to honourable senators. [More…]

• The Bill establishes a Health Insurance Commission as a statutory authority to plan and establish an organisation to administer the Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• This Bill was, along with the Health Insurance Bill, defeated in the Senate last year. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission Bill is being reintroduced in the same form as it was when previously placed before the Parliament. [More…]

• At this stage I would seek from the Minister for the Media (Senator Douglas McClelland) an indication of whether he proposes to have a cognate debate on the second reading of the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Bill 1973. [More…]

• So far as I am concerned, I would seek a cognate debate on the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Bill 1973 but if the Opposition wishes otherwise, the Government will accomodate it. [More…]

• On behalf of the Opposition I wish to indicate that we will not vote for the second reading of these 2 health Bills. [More…]

• The Government has not brought these Bills up because it is interested in the health of the people; it brought them up purely as a little window-dressing for the coming election. [More…]

• If it wants to go to the election on the now discredited health proposals of the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden), that is the risk it takes. [More…]

• These Bills are not health Bills and do not even purport to be a health system. [More…]

• If the Government was so convinced that the propositions it brought forward last year were perfect, absolute, the greatest things ever dreamed up for the health of the people of Australia, why then, at the stage when the Bills had been defeated, did it have a second thought about them? [More…]

• It knew as a result of the debates, when the weaknesses of that legislation were exposed in this place, that if Australia wished to have any sort of health scheme the one it proposed, and the one now again proposed, was so inadequate in its concepts and in its attempts to be a health scheme that it had to come up with some other idea. [More…]

• While the Government has grandstanded about this so-called health proposal, what does it come up with? [More…]

• As I understand the situation it has come up with one of the Bills that was passed last year which, I think, related to a Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• So the Government’s great and grandiose health scheme, which it was presenting as a total health scheme, is being dribbled into Parliament in bits and pieces- a health Bill this year, a health Bill next year and a health Bill at some other time. [More…]

• We really are not talking about a health Bill this evening, nor will we be doing so tomorrow when we come back to it. [More…]

• How then could one expect the Parliament to consider these Bills as a health proposal? [More…]

• They deal with training opportunities, health, education, employment, housing and the law as well as other matters. [More…]

• I present the report and transcript of evidence from the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the petition relating to ultrasonic aids for the blind and move: [More…]

• The report sets out the terms of the petition and states that the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare invited submissions from the Australian Government departments and from organisations for the blind, including those who initiated the petition. [More…]

• The health Bills are to come before us and they are purely an election gimmick. [More…]

• Senator Douglas McClelland does not really want these health Bills, nor does Mr Hayden, but we are going to go into them. [More…]

• -Mr Deputy President, the debate with which we are concerned relates to the reintroduced Health Insurance Bill 1973- and I emphasise 1973’- and the Health Insurance Commission Bill also of 1 973. [More…]

• In other words, the Health Insurance Bill is an identical Bill and, as I understand it, that is not disputed in any way. [More…]

• It has been our intention, and we are fulfilling that, to reintroduce this Bill because we regard health as an important issue at any election, but not the only issue. [More…]

• I remind honourable senators of the day on which the Health Insurance Bill was reintroduced. [More…]

• As an almost immediate response by this Government, it cynically and for the purposes of the election- as clearly admitted by Mr Hayden in that statement which is reported at page 1075 of the House of Representatives Hansard of 4 April 1974- said that this Bill was reintroduced because the Government regards health as an important issue at any election, but not the only issue. [More…]

• This is an election gimmick, and it is a farce that this chamber should have imposed on it the duty of dealing with health Bills which were discredited last year throughout the public debate that took place in relation to them. [More…]

• I remind the chamber that when I spoke on this matter last December I referred to the fact that in Tasmania alone approximately 25,000 people had been prepared to sign petitions to the Parliament seeking to ensure that the Parliament was aware of the fact that these people did not want a health scheme, such as that which was envisaged by the Government, introduced. [More…]

• As has been pointed out- and it will be pointed out again and again- most of the legislation which the Senate has rejected is related to about 5 areas of legislation- the Government’s attempts to gerrymander the electorates and the Government’s attempts to introduce an unwanted and unpopular health scheme. [More…]

• These Bills are not concerned with the health care of the Australian people. [More…]

• But what about the health of the Australian people? [More…]

• What about the access of the people to proper and appropriate health care? [More…]

• They have not been prepared to take the opportunity which is open to them of letting the people of Australia pass judgment on their performances in relation to matters such as the health scheme. [More…]

• I remind you, Mr Deputy President, that this health scheme has been changed so many times from the one originally proposed at the time of the election campaign in November 1972 as to be virtually unrecognisable. [More…]

• He went abroad to examine health schemes around the world in order to try to find out how the Government could further patch up their scheme which was rejected both by the Parliament and the people, or to find a new scheme that they might be able to introduce. [More…]

• The fact that the Minister went overseas to look at all the other health schemes was an admission that he, his Party and the Government had rejected the idea of a health scheme as contained in the 2 Bills now before us, this Health Insurance Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973. [More…]

• health was an important matter for an election. [More…]

• Before the suspension of the sitting for dinner and before we co-operated with Senator Murphy to enable him to introduce some Bills, I was referring to the basis upon which the Health Insurance Bill 1 973 and the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1 973 had been introduced. [More…]

• They were not introduced for the purpose of considering a real scheme for the health care of this nation, but rather so that the Government could gain what it thinks is some advantage out of the further rejection by the Senate of these Bills. [More…]

• I wonder whether one could ever have regard to the Government’s health proposals at any stage of an election campaign when one regards the general duplicity which has been employed in regard to this and some other actions. [More…]

• Dr Deeble and Mr Corrigan, brought together in Melbourne a group of people to discuss a significant variation to the proposal in relation to health. [More…]

• At that meeting there was consideredcertainly with the Minister’s knowledge and according to his senior officers at the Minister’s instruction- by a number of people concerned what the Minister was prepared to do, or at least it was said, by way of significant variation of the health scheme. [More…]

• A dual system of national health insurance- with a Government commission and voluntary health funds providing cover- is proposed in a document circulated by a top Government health planner. [More…]

• It is a major compromise of the aims in the Government’s Health Insurance Bill rejected by the Senate last year. [More…]

• The planner, Dr J. S. Deeble, one of the architects of Labor’s universal health scheme, was criticised yesterday for having ‘exceeded his brief by a spokesman for the Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden. [More…]

• How can anyone have any faith in the honesty and integrity of a government which just a fortnight ago called a meeting in Melbourne to propose significant variations to its health scheme and then wheels in before us this Bill, which is unaltered from the one rejected last year? [More…]

• I think it is something which is vital and fundamental to the understanding by the Australian people of the debate which has taken place in relation to matters such as this Health Insurance Bill and projected action in relation to certain Appropriation Bills all of which are relevant as being brought together in one debate. [More…]

• I suggest that the introduction into this debate of future possibilities is out of order and is a subject matter of another debate rather than the debate on the Health Bill before the Senate at the moment. [More…]

• The case which I was putting is that the bona fides of the introduction of the Health Bill are related to the current political situation. [More…]

• Senator Rae, I must insist that you debate the health Bill before the Senate at present. [More…]

• In a document dated 20 March 1974, which is a document to which I referred some time ago and which no doubt is the cause of great embarrassment now to the Government, there is set out proposals for an alternative health scheme. [More…]

• The Minister is prepared to amend the present program to allow those who prefer private treatment to ‘opt out ‘ of the Government fund and to offset payments to private insurance funds against their liability for the health insurance levy. [More…]

• Let me continue, though, in relation to the bona fides of the Government in relation to health; and I limit it to health. [More…]

• On 10 August 1973 the Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, wrote a letter in relation to the operation of the health funds and the private hospital benefit tables which had been projected. [More…]

• I pause to emphasise the words- although the further proposals submitted meet my condition regarding the limitation of Special Account liability, there are other aspects of the requirements of the National Health Act which need consideration. [More…]

• Which all honourable senators will recall did a very good job in investigating the question of health and the health scheme- and compatible with the Nimmo Committee recommendations. [More…]

• He then refused to accede to a reasonable request from an association trying to improve the health scheme and to introduce a new table, although the conditions had been met. [More…]

• I rise to support the Health Insurance Bill which has been submitted to this Senate by my colleague Senator Douglas McClelland. [More…]

• I have in my hand a document called ‘Health Insurance’. [More…]

• The operation of the health insurance scheme is unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many. [More…]

• I can recall Senator Greenwood, when he was the Minister for Health, being extremely exasperated about the inability of himself and a fellow member of the Liberal Party, the forgetful, former New South Wales Minister for Health, Mr Jago, to reach agreement with the Hospital Contributions Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia Ltd in New South Wales. [More…]

• From the time that he was the Minister for Health until the advent of a Labor government the previous Government did nothing to curb the funds. [More…]

• Successive governments in Britain, whether they were tory or Labour, have not disturbed the structure of the British health scheme. [More…]

• Whether we like it or not, most countries have a national health system. [More…]

• If while they are overseas they suffer an injury or an ailment they have a fight on their hands in trying to obtain reimbursement of their medical expenses from many of the major health funds. [More…]

• I repeat that some of the small health funds could not be faulted on their democracy. [More…]

• I purposely interviewed the Belgium Government because, although Belgium has had all sorts of political parties in government, it, like most of the middle European countries, has had a comprehensive system of national health insurance for many years. [More…]

• At the time I made that visit Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson was the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I gave it to the then Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson. [More…]

• On the last occasion on which the Estimates Committees sat I was Chairman of Estimates Committee C which inquired into the estimates for the Department of Health. [More…]

• The report may have emanated from some document that leaked out, but it is concerned with the new health policy of the Liberal Party. [More…]

• The article is headed: ‘Compulsion in Liberals’ Health Plan’. [More…]

• The report mentions a few other adjustments to the Liberal health plan. [More…]

• I say to Liberal Party senators that the fact that they are not answering the criticism of the faults of the present health system is, in my book, the Liberal Party’s soft underbelly in the health field. [More…]

• I defy any honourable senator opposite, or any of my colleagues on this side of the chamber for that matter, to say that people do not complain about being short-changed by the health insurance funds. [More…]

• Until we pioneered our health insurance scheme the Opposition parties were prepared to let things drift along. [More…]

• That the administration of the health insurance scheme be transferred from the Commonwealth Department of Health to a National Health Insurance Commission of five members. [More…]

• What a great day it would be when Mr Cade, Mr Turner and these other people who have sponged on the subscribers to health funds had to account for their administration. [More…]

• The Minister for the Media, Senator Douglas McClelland and I- I can also include you, Mr Acting Deputy President- were made aware of the imperfections of these funds when we served on the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The health insurance funds got a Shylock complex in relation to their reserves. [More…]

• Some of my colleagues will probably tear me to pieces for saying this, but I believe that had Senator Greenwood remained as Minister for Health- I say this even though I violently differ with him on foreign policy and civil liberties- he might have taken out the stick on the health funds. [More…]

• I repeat- I say it over and over again- that if the people who administer these health funds intend to divert the reserves of the funds into the next election campaign, we will go out on the hustings and defeat them on this issue. [More…]

• I commenced my speech by stating that as a Government we have sought to introduce certain reforms in the health field. [More…]

• I simply say that the Government is making an endeavour, in the light of the criticisms made by Mr Justice Nimmo in his report, to reform the health system. [More…]

• All major countries- I include Great Britain but exclude the United States of America- have adopted a national health system. [More…]

• I do not question the many millions of dollars that can be spent on health. [More…]

• The whole purpose of the Government has been to try to reform the shortcomings in the existing health scheme that were shown up in the report produced in March 1969. [More…]

• Such union officials apparently would not fall into the same category as the officials of the various health funds throughout Australia whom the honourable senator criticised. [More…]

• I do not doubt that the information that I have given ties up very well with the general proposition of health insurance. [More…]

• At the present time the Senate has before it 2 health Bills. [More…]

• One is called the Health Insurance Bill and the other one is called the Health Insurance Commission Bill. [More…]

• Apparently, that is one of the parts of the general structure of a proposed Labor Government health scheme for Australia. [More…]

• The other Bill, the Health Insurance Bill, which is of much greater importance, is a very large document containing 152 pages. [More…]

• It has 45 pages devoted to setting out the substance of what the Labor Party would hope to be a part of the health insurance scheme for the citizens of Australia. [More…]

• There appears to me to be great wisdom in the Opposition prompting the minds of honourable senators on whether this is the type of legislation that the Labor Party wants in regard to a health insurance scheme. [More…]

• They see that the Bill has been brought back into the Senate to enable the Government to say to the people of Australia after tomorrow: ‘This is the type of health legislation which the Senate once rejected. [More…]

• What are we to do with this marvellous concept that we have in relation to health insurance for the people of Australia? [More…]

• Mr Hayden must have done something over there, but he has not placed one thing on record as to whether the Canadian health scheme was the ultimate for this country. [More…]

• So now we have these 2 health Bills before us today. [More…]

• By no means has this Senate been given an indication of what the Labor health plans are. [More…]

• We are left entirely in the air as to what Labor’s health scheme is because the Minister for the Media, in his second reading speech, said: [More…]

• I should mention that while the Health Insurance Bill is the main legislative instrument for the introduction of the Government’s health insurance program it is the Government’s intention that complementary legislation concerning such matters as the scope and operation of private health insurance and the introduction of levies on taxable income and on motor vehicle third party and workers compensation insurance will be introduced at a later date. [More…]

• We will also, I repeat, introduce complementary legislation on the subject of the protection of privacy in health insurance operations. [More…]

• We have it put to us, as a Senate, that we are being given a complete health scheme. [More…]

• Further legislation relating to the scope and operation of private health insurance organisations and the introduction of levies on taxable income and on motor vehicle third party and workers’ compensation insurers and the protection of individual privacy will be introduced in the autumn sittings of 1974. [More…]

• But we have got four or five other ones that form a basic part of our health insurance scheme, but we will not tell you about those. [More…]

• I believe that the Health Insurance Bill 1973, which, in 1974, we are debating for a second time, is the socialist health program of the Labor Government. [More…]

• We are putting this Bill once more before the Senate because the introduction of an equitable and efficient health insurance program covering all Australians was one of our major election promises and one which was clearly approved by the electorate. [More…]

• All of the deceit and distortion which has been injected into the community debate on our health insurance proposals cannot alter the fact that this Government came into office with a clear mandate for its program. [More…]

• I have attempted to question in my own mind whether the speech of the Prime Minister in relation to health in actual fact gave the Labor Party a mandate for this proposal. [More…]

• How is the electorate to take the statement that this health scheme was promised to the electorate, so it must be put into action? [More…]

• I think that this health Bill has just been thought up on the way. [More…]

• Senator Webster, superphosphate is a little wide of health care. [More…]

• But the Minister in his second reading speech on the Health Insurance Bill said, in effect: ‘We have a mandate to bring in this particular socialist philosophy that we have here’. [More…]

• Those mandates were not handed to the Labor Party, and neither was a mandate for this health insurance scheme, when it was first devised, handed to the Labor Party. [More…]

• I agree that this health scheme is in line with Labor socialist philosophy. [More…]

• The philosophy of the Labor Party is to socialise the delivery of health service in this community. [More…]

• I was making the point that the proposals of the Labor Party are a significant change from the present method of delivery of a health service. [More…]

• A complete alteration of the present scheme to this Government controlled scheme is not in the interests of the consumers of a health program in the community. [More…]

• We have a situation here that can be likened to what would occur in the health field if these Bills were to be passed. [More…]

• This evening there is a cognate debate on these 2 Bills relating to health. [More…]

• The chronic bed shortage has meant a massive swing to private health insurance. [More…]

• It is quite evident that if we are to pursue a Bill such as this and if we are to accept the socialist schemes of Labor as indicated in the Minister’s second reading speech, we will enter upon an era of government control of the medical profession, of government control of private hospitals and government control of the whole ambit of the delivery of health benefit in this community. [More…]

• Health Bill. [More…]

• He asked the Minister for the Media who represents the Minister for Health, on seven or eight occasions at question time to answer this question. [More…]

• If the Bill happened to go through, the average worker would be paying more for his health insurance than he pays under the present system. [More…]

• It is headed ‘PM Shelves Health Scheme. [More…]

• The Federal Government would look at other ways of financing health services, particularly public hospitals’, the Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam, said today. [More…]

• There are other comments here by the Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, about salvage moves on health. [More…]

• But we are led to believe that this Bill that is in front of us and which this Senate looked at in December 1 973 was one which the Labor Government had adopted as the ultimate for its health program. [More…]

• Perhaps the Government slipped this Bill into the Senate yesterday so that if there was a double dissolution it would be able to say again: ‘The Senate has rejected our health Bill for which we had a mandate at the last election’. [More…]

• This type of health scheme is not for the good of the Australian community. [More…]

• Most immoderate language was used by the Minister in describing the doctors merely because they wanted to have their say and express their opinions on what this type of program would do to the quality of medical health services in this country. [More…]

• I refer to the skilled professions in the industry whose cooperation had to be obtained to make a success of any health service in this country. [More…]

• It is not sufficient to produce a health scheme that is acceptable to the patients of this nation without having the cooperation of the skilled practitioners who provide the health services. [More…]

• So it is with the medical health services. [More…]

• But in the White Paper issued by the Government headed ‘Public Hospitals: Estimated Contributions to the Operating Costs by the Australian Government and State Governments’, he makes a comparison between the present private insurance scheme and the Government’s health insurance scheme that we are debating. [More…]

• Whether that was its name I am not aware but I quote from documents prepared by the Australian Reference Service entitled ‘New Zealand’s National Health Scheme’. [More…]

• The chronic bed shortage has meant a massive swing to private health insurance. [More…]

• The Government’s White Paper on The Australian Health Insurance Program completely explodes the theory of free medicine. [More…]

• He only repeated wrong calculations of what the low income earner would pay under the Government’s proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• I will show what will be paid under the proposed 1.35 per cent levy, compared with the minimum amount which a contributor now pays to any of the voluntary medical and health funds. [More…]

• When we take into account that only 40 per cent of the people of Australia- that is, the wage earner or the income earner- earn the average weekly earnings and the remainder earn less than the average weekly earnings, we can see that a large percentage of people in Australia will pay far less in health insurance under the proposal put up by the Government than they do under the scheme in operation at the moment. [More…]

• A person earning that amount would pay under the new scheme $65.50 per annum, instead of $92 per annum which is the smallest amount for which one can obtain health insurance at the moment under any medical or hospital scheme in the Commonwealth. [More…]

• A person would have to be earning something like $9,000 a year before he would pay in the vicinity of $92 for health insurance based on the 1.35 per cent levy. [More…]

• He knows very well that they would be covered under the subsidised health care scheme. [More…]

• Senator Little also criticised national health schemes in other countries. [More…]

• The United Kingdom has had a national health scheme for something like 30 years. [More…]

• They have lived with the Australian National Health Act, with all its complexities and everything that is associated with it. [More…]

• They also know the benefits of the national health scheme which operates in the country from which they came. [More…]

• If that scheme is as bad as Senator Little tries to make us believe it is, it is a wonder that when there has been a change of government in the United Kingdom- there have been many changes of government over the last 30 yearsthe Conservatives, as one of their first actions when elected to Government, did not change the national health scheme to some system that they support. [More…]

• The situation applying there is completely different from that applying under our National Health Act which was introduced in 1951 and has been changed on many occasions. [More…]

• It has to be changed every time the doctors put up their fees or the hospitals put up their charges or when contributors to health insurance funds are required to increase their voluntary contributions in order to make up the leeway. [More…]

• Of course, it does not matter what type of health insurance scheme we have because eventually it is the taxpayer who pays. [More…]

• It is the quality of health care that is of most importance. [More…]

• No doubt this will be improved when we have one health insurance scheme and all contributors belong to that one scheme. [More…]

• Yet Senator Rae had the audacity to say on 2 occasions tonight- once before the dinner suspension and again after the dinner suspension- that the Health Insurance Bill was discredited during the debate last year. [More…]

• The reason the Government puts forward this proposal, of course, is that under the existing National Health Act only 87 per cent of our population has medical and hospital insurance coverage; the other 13 per cent, representing 1.5 million people, is not covered. [More…]

• Opposition senators must surely agree that any health insurance scheme that does not cover such a high percentage of the population of the Commonwealth has some faults which should be rectified. [More…]

• It is the purpose of the Bill that we have introduced to rectify the anomalies that exist in the present National Health Act. [More…]

• He takes the receipt to his health insurance fund where he is required to fill in a very complicated form which contains a host of questions. [More…]

• These doctors were asked to prepare a report on a national health scheme. [More…]

• When referring to health, he said: [More…]

• The most notorious single instance of unequal sharing of burdens is the Liberals ‘ health insurance system. [More…]

• Health Insurance [More…]

• A Federal Labor Government will introduce a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It will be administered by a single Health Fund. [More…]

• The health scheme was advertised in newspapers all over the Commonwealth. [More…]

• In South Australia, the State from which I come, the Australian Labor Party ran 3 full page advertisements on the national health scheme. [More…]

• -The Senate has before it the Health Insurance Bill which has been submitted to us for a second time. [More…]

• On no issue were more claims or assertions made than on the issue of health. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that on the issue of health the Labor Party said to the people of Australia that the real core of evil as to national health in Australia lay in the rapacious medical profession, in the unduly high fees that members of the medical profession were charging and demanding. [More…]

• The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT (Senator Marriott)- Now, let us return to the Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• The point I was trying to make, Mr Acting Deputy President, was that Shakespeare was thinking of the misrepresentations contained in the Health Insurance Bill when he went on to say: [More…]

• I am grateful for the reminder of the pertinence of these quotations to the Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• Australia: ‘Put us in power and we will give you a health Bill which will give a better health service for all at a cheaper cost for all’. [More…]

• Mr Acting Deputy President, lest the enthusiasm of Government supporters should not contain itself I want to say that the document I held out is the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1 973 which I now table at Senator McLaren’s request, a document which no doubt he will read for the first time. [More…]

• In recent estimates investigations in this place it became clear that deception was being practised in the presentation of estimates; that in the amalagamation of those parts of the Department of Health and the Department of Social Security that are involved in the national health scheme, the administrative costs of the national health scheme are being intermingled with items of the Department of Social Security so that in the future it will not be possible to get a single costing of the national health scheme. [More…]

• The fact that the person must pay, firstly, by tax impost for national health and, secondly, by indirect tax is hidden by the Government. [More…]

• I quote to the Senate that in the United Kingdom the standard medical journals have stated repeatedly over the past year quite unchallenged that the average time made available by a general practitioner under the national health scheme to see a patient is of the order of 3 minutes. [More…]

• In Scandinavia.the home of free medicine, more than 50 per cent of the people in Stockholm now belong to private health funds because they have rejected the national health scheme. [More…]

• The whole basis of a health scheme is that for those who are genuinely ill the best of health treatment should be given. [More…]

• If we cause serious waiting times to get beds in hospitals we make the health scheme degenerate and the patients suffer badly. [More…]

• We have in Australia the elements, in terms of a voluntary health scheme and in the terms of the relationship of the patient to his general practitioner or to his specialist, of the best schemes in the world. [More…]

• I would state the principle this way: Under the present voluntary health scheme the patient is the employer of the doctor. [More…]

• The patient can choose his doctor, his health scheme, his hospital and the level of ward in his hospital. [More…]

• Tomorrow under the proposed national health scheme the Government would become the employer as the government has done in all other countries that have a similar scheme. [More…]

• It has been acknowledged by the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) in the other place today that the meeting occurred and that it occurred on the basis of getting some agreed change to the Bill and the concept of health as it was presented. [More…]

• I have been overseas and talked to leaders of governments who administer the national health schemes of their countries. [More…]

• I do not think that even the Minister for the Media (Senator Douglas McClelland) who is at the table would attempt to argue that countries which have nationalised health schemes give a 100 per cent cover. [More…]

• If the Minister talked to people in England, Canada, Norway, Sweden or New Zealand and asked what percentage of the people are covered by that country’s nationalised health and medical scheme they would all tell him that in fact one does not get the maximum cover. [More…]

• The figures that are available to me suggest that the voluntary health insurance funds cover about 10,5 19,000 Australians for hospital treatment which represents about 79.9 per cent of the people, and 10,430,000 for medical care which is about 79.2 per cent of the people. [More…]

• I heard somebody tonight say how people overseas had said that they were happy with the nationalised health services they had in their countries. [More…]

• Does the Government really believe that it can get a health service from the medical profession, the nursing profession and all the paramedical professions associated with medicine on the basis of compulsion? [More…]

• The Director-General of Health was with me. [More…]

• I have spoken to a number of the Ministers for Health in the Canadian Provinces. [More…]

• In my heart I am sure that if the Government were given the opportunity in its own time and in its own way it would not put this Bill as it is now or this one leg of a series of Bills as the final answer for a health scheme. [More…]

• Let me give the political history of the controversy surrounding national health in Australia. [More…]

• Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson for whom I have the greatest personel respect and who was a very progressive Minister for Health, so far as conservative Ministers go, will know that in 1968 this Senate expressed concern at the way in which the administration of health services and health insurance schemes was being conducted in Australia. [More…]

• By a majority decision, this Senate established a Senate select committee to inquire into health and hospital services in Australia. [More…]

• The then Senator Dittmer and I brought down a recommendation- admittedly it was a minority recommendation- that the entire health scheme which existed then and which exists now should be scrapped and a national health insurance scheme established. [More…]

• The majority members of the committee expressed great dissatisfaction with the administration- or the maladministration- of the private health insurance scheme. [More…]

• At the time that that Senate committee was about to sit, the then Government decided to establish its own health insurance commission in addition to the select committee set up by the Senate. [More…]

• The operation or the health insurance scheme is unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many. [More…]

• In general, apart from some minor corrections which were made after that report, the matters about which the Nimmo Committee complained relating to the health scheme that existed at that time in fact exist today under the scheme that was fostered under a series of conservative governments. [More…]

• After having taken evidence in Australia and after having visited Canada, one of his recommendations was that the Commonwealth establish a national health insurance commission consisting of a chairman and 4 other commissioners. [More…]

• That report- a detailed and voluminous report- sought by the previous Government was presented to the then Minister for Health, Dr Forbes, in March 1969. [More…]

• The administration of health insurance received considerable attention by the Nimmo Committee and its recommendations on this subject have been thoroughly reviewed by the Government. [More…]

• It has been decided to adopt the Committee’s proposal that a National Health Insurance Commission be established. [More…]

• We have heard nothing since from our political opponents, except when this Government moved in the Parliament to establish a national health insurance commission. [More…]

• If there is any doubt about whether the Labor movement secured a mandate from the people in December 1972 on health insurance, let me read what the present Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam) said in his policy speech. [More…]

• We will establish a universal health insurance system not just because the Liberal system is grossly inadequate and inefficient, but because we reject a system by which the more one earns the less one pays, a system by which a person on $20,000 pays only half as much as a person on $5,000 a year. [More…]

• Under the heading ‘Health’ the Prime Minister, in his policy speech for the December 1972 election, said: [More…]

• The most notorious single instance of unequal sharing of burdens is the Liberals’ health insurance system. [More…]

• The Labor Government will introduce a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It will be administered by a single health fund. [More…]

• Labor’s health insurance scheme has been carefully developed, analysed and costed over a period of nearly six years. [More…]

• All these facts have to be taken into consideration in determining whether this so-called voluntary health insurance scheme is a satisfactory one and can be compared in any way whatever to the universal health scheme. [More…]

• Certainly the universal health insurance program has been a major plank in the Labor Party’s platform since 1968, and the people of Australia have given the Labor movement the clearest mandate to introduce this program. [More…]

• About a fortnight after the Government assumed office in December 1972 we established a Health Insurance Planning Committee to prepare guidelines for the implementation of the proposed health insurance program. [More…]

• At the time of his tabling the Committee’s report on 2 May 1973, my colleague, the Minister for Social Security, stated that the report was a working paper and that the final decision on how the health insurance program was to be introduced would be made by the Government. [More…]

• There were comments and there were letters discussing the report’s implications for health care in Australia. [More…]

• As a result the Government decided to depart from and expand upon a number of recommendations of the Health Insurance Planning Committee report, although basically it accepted its essential elements and general principles. [More…]

• On 8 November last year my colleague, the Minister for Social Security, tabled in Parliament a White Paper titled ‘Australian Health Insurance Program’ which set out details of the Government’s intentions. [More…]

• My colleague, the Minister for Social Security, today tabled in the House of Representatives a document which purports to be the policy recommendations of the Committee on Social Security, Health and Welfare of the Liberal Party of Australia. [More…]

• It makes it quite obvious that the Liberal Party is not adverse to the institution of some form of compulsory health insurance. [More…]

• In fact, such a scheme is proposed in the Liberal Party’s policy recommendations from its Committee on Social Security, Health and Welfare. [More…]

• What is extraordinary is that in paragraph 1 1 of the document tabled by my colleague in another place reference is made to the fact that the Liberal Party proposes that a discriminatory, compulsory levy should be imposed on the taxation payments made by those who are too poor to pay for private health medical insurance. [More…]

• It actually suggests that low income earners and others should be compelled in this way to contribute to a government health insurance fund or, alternatively, should actually have their health insurance interest actually auctioned off to the lowest bidder amongst the private health funds. [More…]

• This extraordinary document headed ‘Highly ConfidentialLiberal Party of Australia- Committee on Social Security, Health and Welfare- Policy Recommendations’ sets out in paragraph 24 - [More…]

• That paragraph, which is headed: ‘Persons still uncovered for Health Insurance’, states: [More…]

• The overwhelming chances are that that person would be entitled to a fully subsidised health insurance premium benefit. [More…]

• The essential advantage is that all Australians under this scheme will be entitled as of right to the full range of health care, and doctors and hospitals will know that they will be paid. [More…]

• I am certain that on 18 May the Australian people overwhelmingly will give the Labor movement another mandate to implement its progressive policy of a universal health insurance program. [More…]

• He will cut down on education, health and social services. [More…]

• If the facts are as mentioned by the honourable senatorthat Queensland Druggists Ltd and Drug Houses of Australia Ltd intend to impose a $5 opening fee plus taxi fares for the provision of life saving drugs to seriously ill people and chemists when they are needed- surely such action must have a very bad effect on the living standards of a very large section of the Australian community which, because of the tactics adopted by the Opposition in this place, already has been deprived of a more efficient and more up to date national health scheme. [More…]

• Does the Minister not agree that the lack of any clear proposals by the Opposition, together with its obsession with public spending, must mean that it would want to cut spending on education, health and welfare? [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the concern expressed by many teachers and parents over the effect of the withdrawal of free milk for school children? [More…]

• Some weeks ago I raised this matter and the Minister for Primary Industry said that he would refer it to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer. [More…]

• I now ask: Will the Minister representing the Minister for Health let the Senate know what is the position in relation to this scheme or some alternative scheme in substitution for it? [More…]

• If those 10 Bills were categorised it would be seen that three of them were electoral Bills, two were constitution alteration Bills- legislation which in any event should have awaited consideration by the Constitutional Convention- and two were two health Bills. [More…]

• By the nature of things, having regard to our knowledge of judicial tenure, most judges who retire- unless it be for ill health- retire at a late age in life, usually over age 60. [More…]

• Provision is made for retirement before age 60 on the ground of ill health. [More…]

• Last night at approximately midnight the Senate, full knowing that it was giving the Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam) an absolute and complete instrument on which to ask for a double dissolution, for the second time with a 3-months lapse defeated the health Bills. [More…]

• What happened to the famous health scheme of Scotton and Deeble? [More…]

• When the Prime Minister of Australia (Mr Whitlam) put to the people that we would have a national health insurance scheme and set out the details of that scheme, the people were entitled to have the Government enact the legislation to implement those promises. [More…]

• They do not want money being spent on health and education in a myriad of ways in order to overcome 23 years of neglect. [More…]

• Yesterday, with full knowledge of what the decision meant, the Opposition Parties in this Senate rejected for the second time within 3 months the health Bills and thereby gave unchallengeable constitutional grounds for the Government to seek its double dissolution. [More…]

• Referring to the Opposition Parties- have prevented us introducing universal health insurance. [More…]

• The reason we did so is that we believe the present health insurance which is based upon the principle of choice, the right to choose your own doctor and your own hospital and to insure so that you can meet costs, is a far better system than one in which compulsion and the one service of a government health scheme is the epitome. [More…]

• These include $9m for pre-school and child care centres, $1.7m for health services, of which $0.5m is for blood transfusion services and $0.7m for the school dental scheme, $lm for grants to the apple and pear and canning fruit industries, and $ 1 . [More…]

• I would say that the breweries would be very pleased with the generous treatment provided by the Government, at the instance particularly of the Minister for Customs and Excise (Senator Murphy), when the Government refunded all the excise duty that had been paid on all the bottled beer that had to be destroyed under the provisions of the Health Act. [More…]

• They did a tremendous job in organising meals for thousands of people and matters relating to furniture, health and other things. [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall that in 1971 the then Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, gave an undertaking that remuneration and allowances paid on an annual basis to various statutory office holders would be specified by Act of Parliament. [More…]

• During her representation of the State in this Senate she has applied herself not only to Senate committees concerned with health and welfare, to which references have been made, but also to the total field of political activity. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether there now is evidence that more and more doctors are supporting the Australian Government and its national health scheme designed, as it is, to give all Australians a more adequate and equitable health service? [More…]

• He served as Minister for Health and Social Services from June 1946 to December 1949. [More…]

• His period as Minister for Health and Social Services was especially significant to the Labor Government of the time and to the people of Australia. [More…]

• As Senator Murphy has said, from 1946 to 1949 he held the very responsible post of Minister for Health and Social Services, which was then of greatly expanded importance. [More…]

• I think a typical example of this sort of thing is what has happened in the present debate on the proposed national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It has always seemed very sad to me that this situation should arise in respect of a proposal to introduce a national health insurance scheme which will give universal coverage to those in the community for their medical, surgical and other needs, which will preserve the freedom of choice of the patient and the doctor and which will extend freedom of choice to pensioners. [More…]

• In this health debate there has arisen an organisation called the General Practitioners Society. [More…]

• I suppose that this organisation, which is supported financially by many of the multinational drug firms, would receive more publicity in a debate on the health scheme than any of the other organisations involved; even more, I think, than the Australian Medical Association which is at least willing to negotiate with this Government or any other government. [More…]

• The people in this organisation have lowered the debate on the health scheme to this level. [More…]

• I hope that when the national health insurance legislation is introduced again the debate will be a rational one, that we can look at the facts, the figures, the results and the outcome, and have a debate on a rational level and not on a highly emotional level as has happened in some quarters in this country previously. [More…]

• The second area is that of health insurance. [More…]

• Last year the Australian people were subjected to what was sometimes described as the great health debate. [More…]

• It revolved around the Government’s program which had been well researched and well considered and which was opposed by a party which had no alternative health insurance program to offer to the Australian people- and even at this stage that party has no viable health insurance program to offer to the Australian people. [More…]

• The important point I make about the health insurance program and the changes which are taking place in the industrial relations field is simply that in both areas the Government’s policies represent an enlargement of the freedoms of the Australian people. [More…]

• They remove the fear of the consequences of ill health for a very substantial proportion of our community and they allow freedom of association in industrial organisations. [More…]

• I reject the argument that efficiency for its own sake- an easier health insurance scheme to administer- is necessarily related to equity. [More…]

• I have been interested in politics for many years, but it was the growing health crisis that precipitated my participation in politics. [More…]

• I will be speaking more in this chamber on the subject of health which soon will be an important subject of discussion in this place. [More…]

• Health is the single most important item on anybody’s agenda. [More…]

• Many health schemes have been tried all round the world. [More…]

• The Bill now before the Senate is one of 2 Bills - the other being the Health Insurance Commission Bill- which comprise the principal legislation to enable implementation of a new Australian health insurance program to replace the present inadequate voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It is the Government’s firm commitment to put an end to the present notoriously inequitable and inefficient arrangements for providing individuals with protection against the costs of medical and hospital services by introducing a health insurance program based on the principles of social equity, universal coverage and efficiency. [More…]

• On its election in December 1 972, the Government established a Health Insurance Planning Committee to develop in detail the proposals which had received such solid community support prior to and during that election campaign. [More…]

• In November 1973 the Government, after carefully considering both the Health Insurance Planning Committee’s recommendations and comment by individual and interested groups, published a White Paper which set out the Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• Be billed by the doctor, pay the doctor and then claim benefits from the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Forward the unpaid doctor’s bill to the Health Insurance Commission and receive back the appropriate benefits in the form of a cheque payable to the doctor. [More…]

• The doctor would then claim his payment from the Health Insurance Commission and the patient would not have to pay anything. [More…]

• The agreements are to be in accordance with the Heads of Agreement contained in Schedule 2 of the Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• Patients seeking treatment as private patients in public hospitals or in private hospitals will be able to insure privately against the accommodation fees charged and private health insurance contributions will be allowable taxation concessional deductions. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Bill also makes provision for special arrangements to be entered into with private religious, charitable and community hospitals, to enable such hospitals to choose, if they wish, to accommodate and treat patients free of charge. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Bill provides for the payment by the Australian Government of a supplementary bed payment to hospitals entering into these arrangements. [More…]

• All payments authorised by the Bill now before the Senate will be made from the Health Insurance Fund established under Part VI of the [More…]

• Health Insurance Bill and will be paid by the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• As honourable senators will recall, on the 2 previous occasions when the Health Insurance Bill was introduced into the Senate, it was stated that it was one of a number of Bills which, together, would provide the legislative framework to authorise the complete implementation of the Australian health insurance program. [More…]

• Honourable senators are already aware that Bills to authorise the health insurance levy will be introduced by my colleague, Senator Wriedt, representing the Treasurer (Mr Crean), and I shall be introducing again the Health Insurance Commission Bill. [More…]

• Once the Health Insurance Bill becomes operative and payments for medical and hospital services are being made under those provisions, it will be necessary to avoid the duplication which would be involved if payments were also made for these services under the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• Consequently, it is proposed that, except for services received before the commencement of the new program, no further benefits under the National Health Act will be paid. [More…]

• Steps will be taken to ensure that no patient is disadvantaged over the period of transition from the National Health Act to the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• So that the legislation on the statute books expresses the intentions of Parliament clearly, it is proposed to introduce the National Health Bill repealing those redundant provisions relating to the payment of medical and hospital benefits under the National Health Act and terminating the pensioner medical service arrangements which will no longer be needed. [More…]

• The National Health Bill will also provide for: the cessation of payments of medical and hospital fund benefits by providing for registered health insurance organisations to cease carrying on health insurance business under the National Health Act. [More…]

• ( In future the operations of private health insurance organisations will be supervised under the provisions of special legislation to which I shall refer shortly.) [More…]

• the repeal of those parts of the National Health Act governing the operation of the existing health insurance scheme after all rights and obligations have been satisfied the extension of the additional Commonwealth benefits payable in respect of nursing home patients with pensioner medical service entitlement to all nursing home patients and the consequential elimination of the payment of nursing home fund benefits the Minister to direct the Health Insurance Commission to operate a medical and /or hospital benefits fund in a State or Territory where this is necessary for the protection of the benefits entitlements of contributors. [More…]

• Honourable senators have been informed previously that it is the Government’s intention to introduce legislation relating to the scope and operation of private health insurance business under its program. [More…]

• I am able to foreshadow briefly for honourable senators that private health insurance organisations will be able to offer insurance coverage against the fees, firstly, for treatment in public and private hospitals; secondly, for medical services to the extent of the difference between the fees in Schedule 1 of the Health Insurance Bill and the medical benefits payable; and, thirdly, for an unrestricted range of ancillary health services. [More…]

• Organisations wishing to conduct private health insurance business will be required to obtain authorisation from the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• The health insurance operations of authorised organisations will be subject to the Minister’s supervision. [More…]

• The administrative arrangements relating to authorisation and supervision will be broadly along the lines of those in the present National Health Act. [More…]

• However, to provide additional protection to the contributor, provisions will be made for a court to appoint a judicial manager where in its view an organisation is not being properly managed, and there will also be provisions to enable an organisation’s health insurance operations to be wound-up by a court where this becomes necessary. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Bill is the principal legislation for a program which will give universal and comprehensive protection against health costs. [More…]

• People will bear the cost of the program according to their ability to pay, reversing the present situation in which the less fortunate pay most for their health services. [More…]

• The money spent by the community on health care will be efficiently pooled and distributed, eliminating the wasteful practices inherent in the existing system. [More…]

• Certainty of access to comprehensive health care without fear of the financial consequences will become a right for every Australian. [More…]

• The Australian health insurance program, together with other initiatives taken by the Government in the field of health care financing and delivery, represents a concerted, planned approach to this vital social issue- an approach combining efficiency with social equity. [More…]

• We would hope that not only optometry patients but also other sections in the field of health care would benefit. [More…]

• We want to include all professions in a health scheme, but I believe that we have to approach these things in the light of the economic state of the nation. [More…]

• The fact that a pensioner died in ill-health mattered not at all to them. [More…]

• They thought the government had not changed at all, in the same way as the old men of the Australian Medical Association worked consistently to oppose the introduction of Labor’s health insurance schemes and ultimately were joined by the old men of the General Practitioners Society. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether Dr David Jarvis, an experienced general practitioner, was employed at the salaried health centre at Melba in the Austraiian Capital Territory from the beginning of September 1973? [More…]

• Has Dr Jarvis recently resigned from the salaried health centre at Melba to enter private practice at Latham? [More…]

• On it is the Health Insurance Bill and the Petroleum and Minerals Authority Bill. [More…]

• It would also increase total costs for the majority of taxpayers because they could maintain the present standard of their health care only by additional heavy commitments for private insurance. [More…]

• It would also reduce the freedom of choice which has been an essential part of Australian policies in health care for as far back as we care to remember. [More…]

• Overriding all the other considerations, by its very design, we believe that it is the first stage of nationalisation of health and medical care in Australia. [More…]

• In fact, the Scotton and Deeble report upon which the scheme has been based makes no recommendations which will significantly improve health care in Australia. [More…]

• To present to the people a program which talks of* free medical care is to overlook the fact that whether it is instituted by commandeering a certain percentage of each salary earner’s income to be appropriated specifically for health care or whether it is to be a government subsidy coming in a general way from one source or another, the money is still coming from the people of Australia. [More…]

• Let us talk about some of the problems which we envisage in this health program. [More…]

• I think that this is best understood when it is related to a particular scheme such as the nationalised health program that has been introduced. [More…]

• The decision by this Government to dismantle the present health care system is one on which the people of Australia have expressed their view quite forcefully at every opinion poll which has been offered to them. [More…]

• The majority of the people do not want to change the existing voluntary health care system. [More…]

• If we allow the tyranny of numbers in a House of government to force upon the Australian people a new system of diminished health care, we are handing to the Government of the day a system of administration of health care and not one of delivery of health care. [More…]

• Why should this happen to medical and health care services in Australia in 1974? [More…]

• What would we get under this national health care program? [More…]

• Am I to understand that under clause 24 (3) of the Bill patients would be deprived of private psychiatric hospital care and health insurance benefits which would relate to that type of care. [More…]

• In summary, these health Bills would remove the freedom of choice from the patient in regard to the hospital, doctor and type of care. [More…]

• The total net cost to the budget, including the effect of tax deductions, will be approximately the same as would be the case under the existing Health Insurance Scheme. [More…]

• This makes it clear that the Health Insurance Bills will not direct a greater proportion of tax income to health services but will, in fact, give a diminished service in the future. [More…]

• The proposals within the program would make it extremely difficult for the private hospitals to continue and for the patients to have available to them the care of the private hospital system because of the costs which are involved but which are not covered by the Government’s nationalised health program. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Planning Committee’s report assessed the field of health care from a narrow economic view and had no intimate knowledge or showed no intimate knowledge of the practical working and healing professions and their institutions. [More…]

• Some interesting comments were made by Professor Garlick, who is a part-time professor at Monash University in Victoria, with regard to health care. [More…]

• Under the present voluntary health scheme patients have had this choice and they have shown that they have a preference for a private hospital system which allows them a variety of care suited to their needs in a particular illness. [More…]

• We have the experience of other countries which have had nationalised medicine and we have the sort of quotation from the USA which states that universal health insurance of this type creates a surge of demand that swamps the already inadequate delivery systems in major public hospitals. [More…]

• The report on nationalised hospitals and health services had been commissioned by the Government. [More…]

• Private hospitals would want to enter into agreements with the Government when its proposed national health insurance scheme started. [More…]

• That is a statement of intent or objective of the Government in implementing a nationalised health scheme. [More…]

• These are the proposals of the Government and these are things which I question as being the type of health care program for the Australian people. [More…]

• So, if we were able to have a universal cover for health insurance, the pensioner medical service and repatriation medical services under the Government’s scheme, the cost would be in the vicinity of $700m. [More…]

• To put this into perspective as far as I can I shall quote from a report prepared by certain individual actuaries based on the financial estimates of the proposed Australian health insurance program. [More…]

• I would say, firstly, that the report is based on the Government’s program of a 1.35 per cent levy and a ceiling of $ 1 50 for any taxpayer for health care, and on the cost for a full year’s program. [More…]

• It has been simple enough to find the statistics for fee for medical services for insured persons but it has been extremely difficult to obtain estimates for services for people who were not insured under any of the voluntary health insurance schemes. [More…]

• The total payments for medical services from the Australian Health Insurance Fund would be $585m. [More…]

• The figures which are shown as projected revenue figures of the Health Insurance Fund for 1974-75 are these: Medical benefits at the lower limit, $585m; hospital payments, $676m; health program grants, $3m. [More…]

• It is an important figure to remember because when we are talking about introducing a system of health care, and the Government is picking up the tab, we cannot talk about one year only: We must project the cost into the future. [More…]

• But the Government would be subsidising increasingly the health program it had designed for the Australian people. [More…]

• Any country which has had a nationalised health program has found an escalation in the use of every medical service provided. [More…]

• Alternatively, if the subsidy from Consolidated Revenue was kept at the 1 to 1.5 ratio which was promised, you would find that there would be diminished health care. [More…]

• Either we are going to pay more money or we are going to have less health care. [More…]

• I would predict that in the economic situation in which we find ourselves in Australia it is more likely to be the latter situation which will be produced, that the Government will be unable to afford the allocation of funds and we will find that Australians will be receiving less health care in the programs which the Government will introduce. [More…]

• I want to speak in support of the Health Insurance Bills. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle said during her speech that there would be diminished health care, that we cannot afford the system, that people have a preference for private hospitals, and a whole lot of things which were copied from the documents which the AMA has been propagating in this country ever since 2 December 1 972 and even prior to then when they knew that there was going to be a change of government. [More…]

• There are racketeers operating in the field of health as there are in so many other fields in this country and other countries. [More…]

• They are prepared to sacrifice the health of Australians on the altar of mammon. [More…]

• The reason why there are not enough beds is that for so many years we have been operating under a Liberal Party system of health care. [More…]

• I want to refer now to the health problem as we see it in my State of Queensland. [More…]

• Before doing so there are a number of points that I would like to make in regard to health care so far as Queensland is concerned. [More…]

• We need Labor’s health scheme if we are to maintain some standard of health for the Austraiian people. [More…]

• The health scheme has been running down now for a long time. [More…]

• There are people dying in Australia because they are not able to afford health care under the system that the previous Government nurtured for so many years. [More…]

• More than 15 per cent of Australians do not belong to medical benefit schemes because they cannot afford to do so, and a large proportion of that percentage are migrants who have come to Australia in many instances from countries in which a government health scheme is operating. [More…]

• This might satisfy Senator Sir Magnus Cormack: In Townsville there is a gentleman named Dr Scott Young- a doctor, politician, speculatorwho has denigrated Labor’s health scheme ever since it was first mooted; even before we became the Government. [More…]

• It is all very well for Senator Guilfoyle to say on behalf of her Party- and I know that she is the spokesman on health matters for her Party- that these Bills should not be passed. [More…]

• It is all very well for her to say that the Australian public does not want a health care system. [More…]

• The Australian public wants a health care system which is far better than the one that the previous Government, during the 23 years that it was in office, nurtured under the direction of the AMA. [More…]

• The Australian people want the Labor Government’s health care scheme. [More…]

• There is not a lot of time left for this debate tonight but I want to compliment Senator Guilfoyle on her clear and comprehensive resume of the effects of the proposed health Bills. [More…]

• They are not refusing to treat pensioners; they are still prescribing medicines and treatment under the national health scheme. [More…]

• Health is important to everyone and these Bills are designed to rob people of their health care. [More…]

• I think there are 133 clauses in the Health Insurance Bill and 74 of them relate to restrictions and controls- anything to stop people from getting health service. [More…]

• Any health service must be designed to provide care for patients. [More…]

• Health care is a single and individual business. [More…]

• The community health centres and clinics that Senator Georges talks about are an outcrop of the socialist scheme. [More…]

• The community health centre is a badly thought out and ill defined concept. [More…]

• They have nothing to do with health care, only socialist health care, and that is what the Government is trying to introduce here. [More…]

• One of the difficulties in trying to finance health care in this fashion is that only a small proportion of the population is sick at any one time and that proportion varies from day to day. [More…]

• The Bill promises social equity in health insurance, on the ground that the rich pay less for their health insurance because they can claim their premiums as tax deductible. [More…]

• A lot of that money comes back to the people in pension benefits, repatriation benefits and other health expenditure. [More…]

• In addition, there are subsidised health benefits on 3 levels, depending on the person’s income. [More…]

• A patient might find it easier to get into the health scheme if he admitted it. [More…]

• He could still have his choice of specialist because, under the health scheme, the doctor would refer him to a specialist who had public beds in a hospital and who could treat him there. [More…]

• They have a fierce independence regarding their health care. [More…]

• Where is all the big public demand for a radical change in our health care system? [More…]

• Has anyone heard a public outcry that Australia’s health care system has gone to the dogs? [More…]

• We are using agencies in the States for welfare, health, education and housing. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the existence of the Therapeutic Goods Advisory Committee which was set up in 1972 by the LiberalCountry Party Government? [More…]

• That the present systems of financing of hospital and medical care in Australia are outdated, complex, unwieldy, and provide inadequate or no security against health care expenditure for a substantial proportion of the people of Australia; [More…]

• That there is an urgent need for a new national health insurance scheme, to which each person receiving an income should contribute an amount which is equitably calculated on the basis of that income, and which provides adequate security to each person against the costs of care for every kind of illness and injury. [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that the parliament will speedily pass appropriate legislation to bring the benefits of an equitably financed, universal, and comprehensive health insurance scheme to the people of Australia. [More…]

• More recently, increasing emphasis has been placed- especially by IDA but also by the IBRD to a limited extent- on projects with greater social implications and more direct benefits for the masses of needy people in developing countries, in such fields as education, urban renewal, population control, public health and sewage, and improved agricultural credit and extension services for small farmers. [More…]

• -Mr President, you will remember that when the time for debate ran out last night I was in the middle of dispelling some of the charges that had been laid against our existing health scheme and I was also dispelling some of the reasons given to warrant the introduction of these new Bills. [More…]

• I had pointed out to honourable senators that any health scheme in any State or nation must exist solely for the patient as an individual and not be based on a system of regimentation of either patients or doctors. [More…]

• This Health Insurance Bill proposes to cover all the people as if they fall sick all the time. [More…]

• Any health plan which promises that much is doomed to failure because it cannot fulfil the promise. [More…]

• The Bills purport to provide social equality in health insurance. [More…]

• I had pointed out that this claim was made on the grounds that the rich receive cheaper health insurance because of the tax deductibility of their health insurance premiums. [More…]

• I had also pointed out in order to refute this claim that the rich pay higher taxes anyway and that much of that money was returned to the people in the form of health benefits for pensioners, repatriation cases and other health expenditure. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Bill tries to make costs predictable by assuming that it is doctors ‘ fees that cause increases in costs whereas in reality it is the utilisation of the service that determines the extent of the cost of the service. [More…]

• For example, a person may go to a doctor with an ordinary chest infection and require only one visit and a course of treatment with antibiotics to be returned to normal health. [More…]

• It is claimed that the present health insurance scheme wastes public money simply because 1 5 per cent of the premiums collected is used in the collection of those premiums. [More…]

• These people can apply for inclusion in the subsidised health benefits scheme under 3 levels of cover for lower incomes. [More…]

• I mentioned that such action would make that person’s entry into the health machine easier. [More…]

• They have a fierce independence in regard to their health care. [More…]

• I can say that none of them is unhappy or dissatisfied or even dissatisfied with their health care. [More…]

• Our health services can be improved just as those for the Aborigines can be improved. [More…]

• We do not need to cooperate; we have a free health service. [More…]

• We have heard only a government demanding that we change our health services. [More…]

• Nobody has claimed that Australian health services have gone to the dogs or that they have got too costly. [More…]

• The main problem we have is government interference in our health services. [More…]

• Of course everyone assumes that the patient is the white haired boy in the health scheme. [More…]

• The British national health scheme, by the way, was born of tragedy and has lurched its way over the years to its present chaos. [More…]

• If this is done it will put Australia in an impossible position from a health point of view. [More…]

• The balance between private and public practice acts to improve health standards because of the competition between the two. [More…]

• Patients must be given a choice between the two and doctors and staff also must be given a choice between the two so that we can have optimal standards and healthy co-operation between the two. [More…]

• The British national health scheme has broken down. [More…]

• The goodwill of doctors, the nurses and all hospital staff and health workers is most important, just as confidence and faith also are important in the health game. [More…]

• In the face of this opposition it will be impossible to implement the Bill at all because no national health scheme anywhere can work without the co-operation of the medical profession. [More…]

• ’, because government intervention is the main reason why there is this terrible problem in the health industry today. [More…]

• All that the Government’s scheme will do will be to tell you, the patients, how much health the Government will let you have and it will tell me, the doctor, how much health I am allowed to give you. [More…]

• All of the national health schemes which have been implemented in Western countries have been set up by politicians trying to curry favour with the voters on the promise of relieving them of the financial burdens of illness, particularly catastrophic illness. [More…]

• These schemes have certainly not been generated by the people in the business, the doctors, nurses and allied medical personnel- not because of any vested interest in such a scheme but because they know that socialised health will not work. [More…]

• Russia has had 50 years to make socialised health work and China 25 years. [More…]

• This is simply because of government restrictions on health care unopposed by any private medical service. [More…]

• In our experience of socialised health services in other countries, the promise of health care ‘free to the consumer at the point of consumption’ immediately creates an unlimited demand for those services. [More…]

• Then these 2 factors diverge from each other- as the demand for health care goes up and you start spending to meet it, the available finance diminishes, and the only way the government can fix this situation is to put restrictions on the demand- and it does. [More…]

• I hope I have said enough to show that Australia’s present health organisation is not ramshackle, inequitable and wasteful’. [More…]

• For a start, the Government has done nothing so far- it has been in office over 18 months now- about putting pensioners into the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• It would be an act of high social responsibility for the Government immediately to put all pensioners into the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• The Service should have been updated as time went by into a better and better service until the time when all these people could have been put in the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• This is a pity because, as I mentioned before, goodwill is the sounding board of good health. [More…]

• I mention now the development of community health centres. [More…]

• These community health centres which are being established are ill advised, ill conceived and even ill defined white elephants. [More…]

• I mentioned community health centres when 1 was speaking last night mainly to dismiss them. [More…]

• Out of the 44 community health centres built in Great Britain during the last 12 years only 4 remain in existence and are operating at present. [More…]

• No doubt honourable senators have read of the problems in Canberra and the lessons which have been learned by at least one doctor who tried to work in a community health centre. [More…]

• Even at this stage I might add that it costs 3 times as much for a patient to visit a doctor in a community health centre as it does to visit a general practitioner. [More…]

• Community health centres were promulgated as a device to supply a much wanted need in the area of general practice. [More…]

• In other words something was lacking and the health centres were to complement and supplement the general practitioners. [More…]

• In reality they represent a futile attempt by the Government to compete with private health services and to put the private services out of business or, at least, to bring the private sector under Government control. [More…]

• The Government ignores completely the future requirement for health care in Australia. [More…]

• There is a natural role for government in health care. [More…]

• Under the private enterprise system the patient remains in control of his illness and the amount of the health service he wants to use. [More…]

• Medical insurance is tailor made to meet the sudden and unexpected needs of health care. [More…]

• These Bills are designed to turn us about and plummet us to the bottom of the hodge-podge of socialist health schemes which have proven themselves to be failures right around the world. [More…]

• Health is too important a matter to each and everyone of us to place in the hands of any government, Liberal or Labor. [More…]

• A person’s health transcends political boundaries and it must not be shackled by party platforms or political philosophy. [More…]

• I rise to support the Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• I am pleased that at the conclusion of his speech Senator Sheil began to talk about health insurance which is, I understand, the subject of the debate. [More…]

• During the course of his contribution he talked about a great variety of other subjects which may be of concern to certain medical practitioners but they are not relevant to the topic before us at the moment, which is a health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Secondly, the report of that company was based on projections of high utilisation of the health service, and no doubt those projections were supplied by the AMA. [More…]

• For example, has any actuarial assessment been made of the escalating costs of the existing health scheme in this country? [More…]

• The Vietnam war was not a health scheme of concern to the Australian people; it was a death scheme of a completely different variety which was not costed and the costs of which have never been given to this House. [More…]

• All that, of course, is now hopefully forgotten but today we have the assistance of actuaries to look at the Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• I am not saying that the cost of a health scheme is not a very important matter but it has not been neglected by the Government. [More…]

• 1 refer the Senate to the introductory portion of the Government’s White Paper entitled ‘The Australian Health Insurance Program’ which was presented in November 1973. [More…]

• Without reading the relevant section in any detail may I make the point that the great emphasis of that introduction is on the escalating cost of health services in Australia, the escalating cost of health services throughout the world, and on the need to provide a scheme on which the Government can keep an eye from a financial point of view. [More…]

• This year health services will cost more than $2,000m. [More…]

• The Government has a responsibility to ensure that any growth in health costs is justified. [More…]

• It must establish that any of this growing cost is not due to avoidable waste, extravagance or inefficient methods of delivering or financing health services. [More…]

• The cost of health care in Australia as it is projected into the future has been a prime concern throughout the documents published by the Government in relation to its health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The Government has been aware of the situation in Canada and other countries where they also have escalating health costs and these matters have been taken into account in the preparation of the legislation which is now before the Senate. [More…]

• Throughout the debate so far Opposition senators have referred to the Health Insurance Bill as a nationalised health scheme. [More…]

• Whether that is loose terminology, a bad habit or some sort of pay-off for the $431,000 which the AMA spent last year on opposing the Government’s health scheme I do not know, but it is not correct and every honourable senator in this chamber knows that it is not correct. [More…]

• After all, we are here to discuss a health insurance scheme for the whole of the Australian people. [More…]

• I refer to those expressions describing the Government’s scheme as a nationalised health scheme, socialised medicine, and so on. [More…]

• The purpose of the scheme is to introduce in this country a health insurance system which is equitable, fair and efficient. [More…]

• Those facts ought to be known by everybody in Australia because in 1973 we had what is euphemistically called the ‘the great health debate’ which went on from April 1973, at least, until the end of the year. [More…]

• In 1972, prior to the election in December that year, the Government put before the people its health program for Australia. [More…]

• The evidence for that statement is supplied in the report of the Nimmo Committee, the Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, which was appointed by the Liberal-Country Party Government in 1969 to look into the question of the efficiency and adequacy of health services in Australia. [More…]

• Briefly, that report said that the system was unnecessarily complex and inequitable, that the benefits were inadequate, that it imposed hardship on certain sections of the community and that the private health funds had very high operating costs. [More…]

• That inertia is typical of the myopic social vision which Opposition senators display and which may be a case for making spectacles a free item in the national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The first is that in Australia approximately one million people are not covered by health insurance benefits. [More…]

• If one wants authority for the proposition that approximately one million Australians are uninsured, it can be found in paragraph 8 of the background statement of the Liberal Party of Australia Committee on Social Security, Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Secondly, there are the poor, some newly arrived migrants, who cannot understand English or the complexities of the health scheme. [More…]

• One million people not covered by health insurance is a lot of people in a country with the pretensions which we have of being a modern and an efficient democracy. [More…]

• When we remember that approximately 60 per cent of the one million people who are not covered are migrants, I think the problem becomes one of even greater social significance because the majority of those migrants come from countries which have compulsory health insurance schemes. [More…]

• They are not used to coming to a modern, progressive country such as Australia which has no compulsory and comprehensive health insurance scheme. [More…]

• That problem is a very grave social one for this country, and I ask Opposition senators whether they really care about that very large group of migrants who are not covered by health insurance. [More…]

• The debate on health insurance last year was a long and a confusing one in which the Government’s policy on health was grossly misrepresented. [More…]

• What sort of society provides that a person who rides a motor cycle must wear a safety helmet to stop himself from getting hurt, that a person in a car must wear a seat belt to stop himself from getting hurt- these safety measures were introduced by State Liberal governments- and that a person must have an X-ray to see whether he has tuberculosis but does not require people who suffer disabilities in terms of ill health or injury to insure themselves? [More…]

• Secondly, it was said that the Labor Government’s health insurance scheme would result in gross overuse of medical services. [More…]

• The figures clearly suggest that in the first year of compulsory health insurance in that Canadian province there was a marginal overuse of the health services. [More…]

• I believe that is the only documented material relating to the level of overuse of any compulsory health service. [More…]

• Thirdly, it was said- I mention this point because it is still being saidthat the Government’s scheme was a nationalised health service, socialised medicine and so on. [More…]

• The AMA came into the great health debate at a certain stage with the sort of advertisements which appeared regularly in the papers. [More…]

• The unhappy fate of patients under the nationalised health scheme, as it was called, would be to become a statistic in a computer. [More…]

• But they do not have very much time to think about the social consequences of what they are doing and, more particularly, to think about the social consequences of what their purported leaders are saying on their behalf in the community in relation to the social problems of health. [More…]

• Last year the Opposition spokesman on health matters in the other place said: [More…]

• I put it to the Senate that if the people who voted in the election of May 1974 were clear about anything, they were clear about one thing- that if the Government was re-elected it would introduce its national health insurance scheme, because that scheme was discussed throughout 1973. [More…]

• It was foremost in the political debate in this country in 1973, and every elector who voted in May 1 974 surely must have been clear about the fact that if the Government was returned, it would introduce its national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I think that the Liberal-Country Party Opposition has interpreted what the people of Australia said in December 1972 and again in May 1974 only by looking, as it were, into every living room in Australia and saying: Look, the Australian people might have voted for the Labor Party on 2 occasions but no, they did not vote for a national health insurance scheme, or they did not vote for Senate representation for the Territories, or they did not vote for electoral reform or for anything else that we happened to dislike. [More…]

• As Senator Cavanagh has suggested, one thing is perfectly clear: The Australian people knew what was going to happen about the health insurance scheme if they voted for the Labor Party. [More…]

• If anything can be said in summary, it is that the people voted for the Labor Party against the Opposition, and they knew the Opposition’s attitude to health insurance and they knew the Labour Party’s attitude. [More…]

• Of course in the 1974 election campaign a new factor was introduced; suddenly the Liberal Party produced a new health scheme of its own. [More…]

• In spite of everything that was said in the findings of the Nimmo Report in 1 969, throughout 1973 the Liberals told us that the existing health scheme was satisfactory and that the Labor Party’s health scheme was disastrous. [More…]

• Between 1969 and 1974 nothing was done about the inadequacies of the existing health scheme; nothing was done about the condition of the Liberal Party policy in relation to the provision of health insurance. [More…]

• One might ask whether even now the new Liberal Party health scheme is understood by Opposition senators, or has even been read by Opposition senators, because we have heard very little about it in this debate. [More…]

• But the significant fact about the production of a new health insurance program by the Liberal Party in April 1974 was that it was an admission that everything they had said in 1973 was wrong. [More…]

• The significant thing is that the Nimmo Report was right and that the whole debate of 1973- ‘the great health debate of 1973’- was nothing more than a farce and an obstructionist tactic against the Government of the time. [More…]

• The new Liberal Party health scheme accepts in a background document that there are about one million people in Australia who are uninsured. [More…]

• We might also ask: What is so magical about the private health funds in Australia? [More…]

• Will the Liberal Party senators go to bat in this debate to expound on the virtues of the private health funds, to tell us how efficient and democratic they are in terms of consumer representation, and to tell us what sort of say the members of the funds have in the level of contributions and the level of benefits provided? [More…]

• Will any Liberal senators get up and explain to us what are the great virtues of privacy, of competing private organisations in the provision of health care to the Australian community? [More…]

• We on this side of the Senate do not say that the health insurance scheme which we propound is perfect. [More…]

• We say that it is an answer to the criticisms and inadequacies of the health insurance provisions in this country. [More…]

• We say that it was quite clear in 1969 that the existing level of services provided to people in the community in relation to health was totally inadequate. [More…]

• The introduction of a new health scheme will involve difficulties. [More…]

• It is myopic to say that we will defend that scheme to the last; that we will defend the existing interests of private health funds; that we will defend the position of the General Practitioners Society and the Australian Medical Association; that we will adopt defences in relation to all those matters but we will not be prepared to face up to change. [More…]

• I nave said that change brings problems and nobody on this side of the Senate pretends that the introduction of the new health insurance scheme will be without difficulties. [More…]

• The Government has authority from the people of Australia for the introduction of a new comprehensive health scheme. [More…]

• If we do introduce such a scheme we will not be embarking on a unique and unusual development in health care. [More…]

• Many other countries have comprehensive health schemes of a compulsory nature. [More…]

• Australia, with pretensions to being a just, modern and democratic society, should be proud to join those nations in providing new health insurance and health care schemes. [More…]

• In this cognate debate we are debating the Health Insurance Bill and the Health Insurance Commission Bill together. [More…]

• I say at the beginning of my speech that I reassert that this is a new Senate, that there are 15 people here who were not present in the last Parliament and who took no part in a health debate at parliamentary level at any time. [More…]

• In terms of health care by world standards Australia has been a high performance community. [More…]

• In some areas our health performance has been poor. [More…]

• For example, Aboriginal health care has been poor but it is an aberration within what is basically a high performance country. [More…]

• The health of our citizens is good, as is their longevity. [More…]

• By world health standards we have no malnutrition, with the exception of a few small well-defined areas. [More…]

• We are a high performance country and our health delivery system keeps us that way. [More…]

• What is being sought is a major alteration in the structure and delivery of health and we have to be certain that we are not going to end up with worse health care as a result. [More…]

• What matters in the end is the health care we receive, the health care actually received by my wife and children as consumers of health care. [More…]

• In studying this legislation we should ask: What will it mean to us in terms of health care received, not just now but in 5 years’ time? [More…]

• If the health care is to be worse, or no better, the Bills have nothing to recommend them. [More…]

• The major act of socialisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor Government in its first term of office is through the establishment of a single health insurance commission. [More…]

• Senator Button, who is now out of the chamber, pointed out that there was nothing magical about private health insurance funds. [More…]

• I ask him what is so magical about the concept of a government health insurance fund if it will not improve access to care for people presently without it. [More…]

• The second point is that the new scheme will overcome the deficiencies in health care. [More…]

• I turn to the question of how many Australians are at present covered by health insurance. [More…]

• We have a health scheme which was introduced by a LiberalCountry Party Government and one which has continuously been improved and upgraded. [More…]

• The latest initiative was the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• The Government attempted to assess the number of people who had access to health insurance by excluding large numbers of people who should have been included. [More…]

• It was an improper way to assess health care cover. [More…]

• Let me say immediately that I should like to see a situation in which no one is without access to insurance cover or health care. [More…]

• There are people dying in Australia because they are not able to afford health care under the system that the previous Government nurtured for so many years. [More…]

• -This table is a breakdown of the number of people who are not covered by health insurance. [More…]

• It is clear from that summary that there is, as Senator Button has said, an excessive number of migrant people who are not covered by health insurance. [More…]

• The construction workers, the process workers and people in the low income groups will be automatically included in the subsidised health proposals put forward by my Party earlier this year. [More…]

• We put forward a very progressive policy on a sliding scale entitlement to subsidise health care. [More…]

• The Labor proposal contains nothing which will help these people in the Greek and Yugoslav communities to obtain better health care. [More…]

• As I hope to point out in a few minutes, their problem is not simply one of health insurance. [More…]

• Their problem is that frequently they live in health scarcity areas. [More…]

• How many more health workers will there be who can speak their language, understand their culture and give them the kind of care they desire? [More…]

• What I am saying is that the sufferers might be the members of their families who need health care. [More…]

• Let me move on to deal with questions of health care delivery and what we are really seeking in the Australian community. [More…]

• This insurance scheme contains nothing that will help the people in these health scarcity areas get to a doctor quicker for consultation because there is not the health personnel there to see them. [More…]

• We have to accept that the Labor Party has tried to sell this program on the basis that it is selling better health for Australians. [More…]

• The people in the State that I represent will still be faced with the fact that they cannot get health care even though they are paying their 1.35 per cent taxation levy and even though they have been promised all kinds of care by this Government of the little man. [More…]

• The ethnic communities in Wollongong will be no closer to breaking the barriers which now keep them away from the health delivery system. [More…]

• Until we get a kind of health program that is concerned with care itself, with attitudes, with personnel who understand what is required, until we have the kind of program that provides people who understand the ‘evil eye’ and the practices adopted in certain communitiesthe members of certain communities will not be treated by people who understand their cultural background which involves a belief in magic. [More…]

• There are communities in which we must understand the cultural background in order to understand certain emotional responses of people in certain areas- people will feel foreign in this country and they will not understand our health care delivery system. [More…]

• Let us examine the entitlement to health care received by people in the Australian Capital Territory at the salaried community health centres. [More…]

• I interpolate here that the features of good health care are quality, accessibility, efficiency and continuity. [More…]

• The health centre closes at 5.30 p.m. [More…]

• If a person wants health care after that time he has to go to the Woden Valley Hospital casualty section until 9.30 p.m. and after that time he has to go to the Canberra Hospital casualty section. [More…]

• We find that Labor’s concept of health care, as contained in this folder, is to do with hospitals. [More…]

• But again, the picture for primary health care was not very good. [More…]

• The people of Mosman get good health care because there are enough doctors. [More…]

• It deals with conclusions on the present position relating to medical manpower, because this is one of the important points in any kind of scheme for health care in a society. [More…]

• It is a hoax to suggest to the Australian people that they are in for a new deal in health care. [More…]

• It is a party that understands institution and it sees health care as being given by institutions. [More…]

• The hospitals of Australia are increasing in complexity and manpower and are producing less and less effect upon the health statistics of our country. [More…]

• This is to be discussed later when the amendments to the Health Insurance Bill will be possible. [More…]

• This directs people from the community health services to the Woden Valley Hospital and the Canberra Community Hospital for night care and will build up the hospital system. [More…]

• The table shows that Mr Whitlam pays income tax of $21,249 and a health insurance premium, after tax, of $43. [More…]

• A Commonwealth driver, without overtime, would pay income tax of $1,403 and health insurance premium, after tax, of $77. [More…]

• Senator Button pointed out the percentage of our gross domestic expenditure that goes on health. [More…]

• We can say that about $1,000 of the tax paid by the Prime Minister in income tax would be specifically ear-marked for health. [More…]

• Let us look at what the Labor Party has done during its 18 months to try to improve health care in this country. [More…]

• In 1973-74 and 1974-75 it allotted $7.5m each year for research into mental health, alcoholism and drug dependence. [More…]

• In 1973-74 it allocated $10m for certain community health projects. [More…]

• I wish to refer to the Report of Inquiry into the Health Services of the Northern Territory which was tabled in the Northern Territory Legislative Council in November 1972. [More…]

• The Public Service Board System and its method of administration is oriented to procedural requirements and Departmental Regulations and not to patient care, whereas the ONLY reason for the existence of a Health Service should be patient care. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health is not by tradition, structure, background or experience suited for providing health care at a patient level. [More…]

• In one of the laboratories which government had available to it, the Northern Territory, where it is running a salaried health service, a commission of inquiry found it necessary to condemn the Department of Health as a suitable employing agency. [More…]

• What chance have we got of expecting any better health care under Labor’s proposals? [More…]

• The results of a survey which were published in the ‘Sun’ newspaper of 12 September 1 973 showed that 54 per cent or more than half of Australians said ‘no’ to the health scheme. [More…]

• For instance, first past the post voting, nationalised health and medical services and increased taxation are but a few of the possible results. [More…]

• It is my belief that all the talk of free health care is a hoax. [More…]

• There is no such thing as free health care and there never was. [More…]

• The Government’s job is to seek some kind of reconciliation, to seek some modification and to seek some fair dealing so that its scheme for payment under the health insurance proposals will be more equitable. [More…]

• It is with a feeling somewhat of deja vu that I stand here, I hope for the last time, to debate this health scheme because it has been debated since 1968 in this country. [More…]

• It surprised me to hear Senator Baume commence his speech with the nationalistic jingoistic business that we have the greatest doctors and that we are such a high performance community when we consider the parameters by which we judge world health. [More…]

• It is only in the last few weeks that our performance in relation to the World Health Organisation figures has been questioned. [More…]

• The figures come straight from the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• If, as Senator Baume implies, these figures are the result of our good health delivery system we do not seem to have a very good health delivery system. [More…]

• I will agree that health delivery is not the only factor in those figures. [More…]

• But I think it is disturbing to see how our infant mortality rate compares with other countries, particularly when we are so very much below Sweden, a nasty country with a democratic socialist government and a socialised medical scheme, not a national health insurance scheme such as we are trying to introduce. [More…]

• But these are the parameters which Dr Baume says demonstrate the quality of our health delivery service. [More…]

• I am sure honourable senators opposite are undoubtedly pleased that I do not intend to go into a long dissertation on the many clauses in the 2 Health Bills. [More…]

• Unlike the Opposition I will not try to pretend that these 2 Bills represent the only 2 concepts in Labor’s scheme to improve health services in this country. [More…]

• It is wrong to argue and to take these Bills in isolation and imply that we are saying that if these 2 Bills are passed that is all we need do and we would, in fact, suddenly solve this country’s health problem. [More…]

• Our Health Insurance Commission plans to improve and develop hospitals in this country, to develop local health centres of various types, both salaried, fee for service and ordinary private schemes which Senator Sheil dislikes so much. [More…]

• These 2 Bills are part of the whole concept of improving the health care and the health delivery service in this country. [More…]

• We believe- and we make no bones about it- that we consider that the provision of an adequate medical health system in this country is a part of the social services for which it is appropriate that this Government should legislate. [More…]

• To suggest that this national health insurance scheme is in fact socialised medicine and is conscripting doctors- as Mr Chipp has pointed out on a couple of occasions- is arrant nonsense. [More…]

• Senator Sheil, however, really exceeded anything else I have heard in this health debate by his remark that nobody wants this scheme. [More…]

• They have a fierce independence regarding their health care. [More…]

• No one in this country except the right wing extremists of the General Practitioners Society and the League of Rights- frankly, I do not know how to distinguish between those 2 organisations- is opposed to a national health service. [More…]

• The only difference is in the provision of health insurance by an efficient single organisation instead of by the 160 organisations that we have now. [More…]

• The third part of the opposition to this scheme comes from the voluntary health organisations.. [More…]

• The voluntary health schemes, some of the bigger ones particularly, have become very large and have become little empires for those who manage and look after them. [More…]

• For a long time we have known that the health insurance scheme was not working and that it was breaking down. [More…]

• One of the Committee ‘s findings was that the operation of the health insurance scheme was unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many. [More…]

• The mere filling out of a form to claim a simple benefit from any of the voluntary health schemes is a complex and difficult problem for many people. [More…]

• People join a voluntary health insurance fund because they believe they are covering themselves for illness, but they find that they are not covered and that they have to find a lot of money, in addition to what they get back from the health insurance schemes, to meet their medical expenses. [More…]

• This son of report with its 7 findings and its 42 recommendations for change was recognised by the then Minister for Health and the then Prime Minister at the time as indicating that the scheme was falling to pieces, that it was ramshackle and that it was not leading anywhere. [More…]

• The main recommendation of the report and the main realisation of the then Minister for Health and the then Prime Minister, was, in fact, that unless there was predictability of cost, and unless there was some control, some arbitration over the fees that the medical profession was charging, this scheme would collapse. [More…]

• We find that the Liberal and Country Parties proposed health scheme which was introduced prior to the last election, went a long way along the lines of our scheme. [More…]

• The Liberal and Country Parties recognised the necessity for universal coverage and in fact gave people the voluntary choice- either they would join a health scheme or an amount would be taken out of their earnings as taxation. [More…]

• The previous Government protected its friends and vested interests in the voluntary health insurance schemes and said: ‘Go ahead’. [More…]

• Despite the Nimmo Committee report which said that there were far too many schemes, the previous Government said: Go ahead, keep your jobs, keep your positions of privilege, keep your trips overseas to the world voluntary health insurance conferences - [More…]

• Because the terms of reference of the Nimmo Committee provided that the Committee was to investigate only voluntary health schemes it could not suggest any alternative scheme. [More…]

• This cost will be met by the National Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• If people want private hospital care they will make one conscious decision to insure for it, in the same way as they make one conscious decision to insure for a health scheme now. [More…]

• It will bring a new and enlightened period into health care in this country. [More…]

• In two or three years we will have a health scheme from which no one will want to go back to the old ways. [More…]

• The Senate is conducting a cognate debate on the Health Insurance Bill and the Health Insurance Commission Bill. [More…]

• An important factor about the concern which people feel is that these measures and the debate deal with the nation’s health. [More…]

• In dealing with the nation’s health this legislation cuts right across national life in every detail- social, medical and in every other way. [More…]

• However the scheme may be described, people will say that they are paying for the scheme out of their own taxation, that they are paying taxes for everybody else ‘s health scheme and so they will ask: ‘Why should we not have some hospitalisation and try to get our money’s worth?’ [More…]

• A study of the health schemes of the United Kingdom and other countries will reveal that to be so. [More…]

• The people who need health care will be at the mercy, I suggest, of some bureaucrat. [More…]

• Part of any total health scheme surely relates to the system of private hospitals. [More…]

• I draw the attention of the Senate to the fact that in April last year the Health Insurance Planning Committee estimated that such a levy might yield $325m in 1974-1975. [More…]

• The White Paper on the Australian health insurance program presented in November last year revised that assessment by upwards of 1 1 per cent and estimated that the levy would yield an amount of $360m. [More…]

• Indeed, in the development of any health scheme they are completely predictable reasons but in my view the Government has not given us any assurance on any of them or any reasons like them. [More…]

• We are concerned because the health scheme which exists in Australia has built up over the years a cooperation between the government and the people. [More…]

• It is a good example of the power and control that the Government will have if this legislation be passed because the measure before us today deals with the total social dimension of all Australians and within that total social dimension lies the nation’s health. [More…]

• I have made these references to this area of the health insurance proposal and I indicate my opposition to the legislation. [More…]

• The Government is setting out to provide the vast majority of citizens in this country with a valid and sane health insurance program to replace the present inadequate voluntary scheme. [More…]

• We have heard it alleged during the long time that this matter of the doctor-patient relationship has been debated in Australia that the Government’s scheme will break down this relationship, will ruin health care in Australia and reduce standards. [More…]

• We have been led to believe by many spokesmen for doctors that their main concern is their patient and the welfare of their patient and that they sacrifice more of their health, leisure and general wellbeing, in pursuit of such perfection and full personal care of their patients than do the rest of us run-of-the-mill citizens in our pursuits. [More…]

• It has urged them to stop issuing special referral forms and it has called on them to ignore regulations under which they seek permission of the Department of Health before prescribing certain restricted drugs. [More…]

• The Australian Medical Association in Canberra has called on its members, if the Government establishes further health centres staffed by salaried general practitioners in areas which in the opinion of the AMA are already adequately served by private medical practitioners, not to participate in the scheme. [More…]

• That is the type of area where we want to set up health centres so that the people can have medical care. [More…]

• The General Practitioners Society in Australia was so concerned about general health care that at its recent conference it passed a resolution which read as follows: [More…]

• -Prior to the suspension of the sitting I was drawing the attention of the Senate to the fact that so many of the doctors’ organisations felt they had a beholden duty to obstruct the health insurance plan that we wish to introduce. [More…]

• It is no wonder that in some areas of Australia women have been forced to set up their own health centres. [More…]

• We have heard how we must foster the goodwill of doctors and the goodwill of staff in health organisations, but I think it is time someone did something about fostering the goodwill of patients. [More…]

• These doctors know very well- and they say it publicly- that a health insurance scheme that is competent and universal is very badly needed. [More…]

• They know that it in no way interferes with private practice and that it makes sensible and practical changes in the funding of a health scheme. [More…]

• Just about every developed country- and some developing countries too- have adopted comprehensive universal health insurance as part of their social security system. [More…]

• In Western Europe and Canada universal health insurance is settled policy, despite the misinformation with which we have all been bombarded. [More…]

• For years sensible people have realised that the private health insurance schemes were not practical or logical. [More…]

• If one multiplies that amount by the number of health schemes in Australia it will be seen that it is a ridiculous amount to spend on administrative costs. [More…]

• The HBA is producing a magazine for these people, the latest edition of which contains inches of material denigrating the Government’s proposed health insurance scheme and pointing out the faults in the Swedish health scheme, which is a scheme of nationalised medicine. [More…]

• But what have public relations and promotional gimmicks to do with health insurance? [More…]

• The remedy proposed by our opponents is to extend the subsidised health benefits plan to bring in all the pensioners and low income earners. [More…]

• One would have thought that if any aspect of the present scheme has been proved to be a complete disaster, it would be the subsidised health benefits plan which covers about one person in 20 of those who are eligible for it. [More…]

• Under the subsidised health benefits plan, people here with financial handicaps, some of whom have been deprived all their lives and who are often not very good at managing their own affairs, have to attend, fill out forms and go back and forth from department to insurance fund to produce evidence in order to get the same sorts of subsidies, in many cases, as a rich man gets automatically in the form of income tax concessions. [More…]

• The justification for this scheme and the pride of this Labor Government is that we know that this program will promote the development of a better health care system. [More…]

• We know that providing good health care means not only spending money- the present scheme does that in large measure- but spending money and using resources in a planned and proper way. [More…]

• They are the National Health Bill and the Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• A major act of nationalisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor Government in the next term will be through the establishment of a single health fund administered by a health insurance commission. [More…]

• Private hospitals and private nursing homes are irrelevant to the Labor Party’s concept of a national health scheme and the vast majority of people can easily be catered for in the public hospital sector. [More…]

• Full salaried health services will be introduced in Australia sooner or later. [More…]

• ’, acknowledging that the Labor Party’s policy is full salaried health services. [More…]

• The second characteristic is that the legislation seeks to compel every citizen of Australia, through a compulsory tax levy, to contribute to this nationalised scheme- to this National Health Insurance Commission- by an openended tax levy. [More…]

• Is that not a characteristic and is not a compulsory tax levy on all people for a National Health Insurance Commission a nationalised health scheme? [More…]

• Of course, under Labor’s proposal they would not pay for a health scheme at all; their tax payments would be on one of the lower scales. [More…]

• At the moment these people have to pay the full rate for the health scheme. [More…]

• We have a situation in which you demolish the private health funds. [More…]

• Why are they proliferating private health insurance? [More…]

• Why, in Western Germany, are there 283 private health schemes? [More…]

• It has some 283 major voluntary health schemes. [More…]

• It should consider how it can get good health care to the individual, not how it can achieve institutionalised health in a bureaucratic way. [More…]

• The real test is whether, in the end, it will give better health to the persons concerned. [More…]

• The fundamentals are that this scheme aims to demolish freedom of choice for voluntary health and medical schemes and to substitute a single national health insurance scheme with a second layer in which a patient can receive some private treatment and some paramedical treatment which the Government scheme does not provide, if a patient reinsures in another way. [More…]

• I expect many things when the Government comes forward and says of its scheme: ‘This is a scheme which will stabilise health costs’. [More…]

• Mr Hayden has said that he will stabilise health costs and have a better and cheaper scheme than the existing one. [More…]

• The effect of this would be ultimate government control and therefore the destruction of freedom of choice under a system of health delivery which has no equal in this country. [More…]

• Senator Cavanagh acknowledges the virtue of Dr Gun’s idea that a full salaried health service would be the ideal, the goal. [More…]

• If the goal is to be a scheme that will provide the best possible health service for the patient, the patient must be the master of the situation. [More…]

• Or is it not true that the amount of time that a national health scheme patient receives from a general practitioner in Great Britain is shrinking and shrinking? [More…]

• We on our side see the patient as the goal and first class health care as the goal. [More…]

• Pursuing that line, in my early investigations of what this matter was all about I was told by representatives of the Australian Medical Association that the Association had approached the previous Liberal-Country Party Government approximately 18 months before it was defeated with quite significant proposals to amend the voluntary health scheme. [More…]

• It is true that the Labor Party’s plans are to nationalise the medical and health services of Australia. [More…]

• I guess from looking at his Party’s platform in regard to health services that it does not go far enough. [More…]

• I think it goes without saying that honourable senators on this side of the chamber would adopt the general Liberal view that a government’s hand in all things is to support, where possible, a fair private operation and to support it on behalf of the whole community In this way, the same standard of government approach would apply to medical and health services. [More…]

• The point was extremely well made by a previous speaker who said that today Australia, because of the voluntary aspect of its medical and health services, attracts from overseas a considerable number of medical officers. [More…]

• Over the years I have dealt with a number of people who have had problems which may have arisen over medical and health services. [More…]

• Firstly, a gallup poll has shown that about 56 per cent of the people who have an opinion about the health scheme are against the Labor scheme. [More…]

• The cost of the health scheme in Canada is increasing at such a rate that if it continues, in 1 1 years Canada’s entire budget will be spent upon the health scheme. [More…]

• Some health centres were built in Saskatchewan by the socialist State government, but of the 47 originally built, 43 have closed because of lack of personal care and also because of the cost of running them. [More…]

• In the United Kingdom at the present time a massive injection of funds is necessary to prevent the health scheme from collapsing financially. [More…]

• I will now deal with the question of who has organised the Government’s proposed health scheme? [More…]

• Yet this proposed health scheme that we now will see forced upon the Australian people has been dreamed up by economists. [More…]

• Today’s ‘Australian’ reported that the cost of the health scheme is estimated- admittedly by the Australian Medical Association, and it may be a little biased- to be $400m out. [More…]

• I think that this proposed health scheme is something that the Whitlam Government and the people of Australia will live to regret because they will not be able to afford to feed it financially. [More…]

• I think that this proposed health scheme will be murder to the economy of Australia. [More…]

• At the present time these people would be covered for health insurance by making one payment to a medical benefits fund. [More…]

• It has, though, resulted in the provision of good quality health care. [More…]

• The proposed health scheme cannot give a guarantee against a lot of things. [More…]

• I would agree to the making of sensible alterations to the present health scheme. [More…]

• Once again, to use an example which the Government is fond of using, if a referendum were held on the proposed health scheme I am sure that the people would soundly toss it out. [More…]

• I could not quite follow the consistency of what he said when he criticised the Liberal and Country Parties’ proposals for improving the existing health scheme. [More…]

• Our concept of medical and health services is that they should remain a free choice for patients. [More…]

• I oppose this measure which obviously is the fore-runner of a compulsory 1.35 per cent taxable impost on the people of Australia in order to establish a Government-run health fund in this country. [More…]

• Many people will have to pay more for their health care in this country. [More…]

• I believe that this Government is retrogressive in its approach to health care in Australia. [More…]

• They do not want to queue up at hospitals for surgical procedures available from the national health service institutions. [More…]

• I have here an interesting supplement to the London ‘Times’ dealing with health care in the United Kingdom, published only a few months ago. [More…]

• I do not wish to hold up the Senate but I would like to read one or two extracts from the supplement that seem to indicate that the health scheme in the United Kingdom has not been what Minister Bevan thought it ought to be when it was created that long ago. [More…]

• The birth of the National Health Service more than a quarter of a century ago was a painful process. [More…]

• It is easy to look back now and to assume that as Minister of Health Aneurin Bevan was able to establish the pattern that he wanted. [More…]

• Local authorities were so upset at losing control over their hospitals that it was essential to leave them with the community health services. [More…]

• Relations between hospital doctor and GP were more distant; nor was contact sufficiently close with the community health services or the welfare services under local authority control. [More…]

• When the National Health Service began in 1948 there were 3,040 voluntary and municipal hospitals, of which 2,688 were taken over. [More…]

• Right through the article runs the theme that health care provided in the national health service hospitals is certainly second rate compared with that supplied by the very few private hospitals that are in existence in England at present. [More…]

• Should he be in need of an operation or specialist treatment, the treatment will be given by his own doctor and not by the surgeon who happens to be rostered for duty under the national health service scheme. [More…]

• I turn to the situation in Australia and I draw the attention of honourable senators to recent Press articles on the running costs of free medical health centres in the Australian Capital Territory which, I believe, is the socialist laboratory of Australia. [More…]

• I remind honourable senators of an article which appeared in the ‘Australian’ of 29 May headed Free health “more costly”. [More…]

• The cost of treating patients in the Federal Government’s free health centres could be up to 126 per cent higher than treatment by private general practitioners. [More…]

• He compared the costs and incomes of IS Canberra doctors selected at random with the cost of maintaining doctors at the free health centres in the capital. [More…]

• Mr East found that at a conservative estimate the cost of treatment to patients going to free health centres was at least 62 per cent more expensive than treating them privately. [More…]

• The report states that Mr East indicated that administration, rental and staff salary costs for each doctor employed by the Government at free health centres meant an additional $5,000 a doctor over and above the costs of a doctor in private practice. [More…]

• Mr East also suggested that whereas the average general practitioner treated 40 patients a day, according to the health centre estimates salaried doctors there treated 28 patients a day. [More…]

• Mr East is reported to have said that on that basis it is at least 62 per cent more expensive to treat patients in health centres than in private practice. [More…]

• I think it is interesting to note that within the last 24 hours or so a doctor has resigned from the Melba Health Centre. [More…]

• That doctor is going back into practice on a fee for service basis at Kippax health centre. [More…]

• In its aim to improve the existing scheme the Liberal Party recognises the need to pay more attention to general practice and the area of primary health care. [More…]

• As far as the problem in the suburban areas of Melbourne is concerned, I believe that this is the sort of situation in which the principle of a community health centre could be applied. [More…]

• I think that firstly we should be looking towards the establishment of a fee-for-service community health centre staffed by doctors and supported by adequate back-up facilities in the paramedical areas. [More…]

• They voted overwhelmingly for the policies of the ALP and our policies regarding a health insurance scheme which is the subject of the 2 Bills that are before us tonight. [More…]

• I think that it is rather curious that we should be told tonight of the dire fate which awaits us if we adopt a scheme of national health insurance. [More…]

• We are told about the appalling standards of medical practice, the dire distress, the anguish and the suffering of those unfortunate countries in which there is a scheme of health insurance. [More…]

• We are told that these are the sad countries where people are sick and miserable because they have the misfortune to live under a scheme of national compulsory health insurance. [More…]

• Unfortunately, we have not been told about any of those countries where the people are thriving in radiant health because they do not have health insurance and because they rely on a completely free medical scheme. [More…]

• I am surprised that Senator Baume, Senator Townley or one of the other Opposition senators did not tell us about the wonders of medical services in the Philippines, Thailand, Uganda, the Central African Republic and those countries which have the sort of medical service which Opposition senators would like the Australian people to have- that is to say, no health insurance and medical services completely in the hands of private enterprise. [More…]

• I challenge the Opposition to compare the standards of health in those countries which have a national health insurance scheme with the standards in those countries which do not have a national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The standards of health in Scandinavia and Western Europe are infinitely superior to those in Uganda, the Central African Republic and the Philippines- those countries whose health schemes have gained such admiration from honourable senators opposite tonight. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle has told us how tragic it is that the rights of the Australian people should be taken away from them in order that they should engage in compulsory health insurance, ls she arguing that compulsory insurance in toto is to be condemned? [More…]

• In the same way the people of Western and Northern Europe who have had the experience of national health insurance schemes would never dream of abandoning those schemes. [More…]

• Has anyone ever heard of the Christian Democrats of West Germany saying at any stage that they would abandon their scheme of national health insurance? [More…]

• Of course they would notbecause the Christian Democrats, the conservative party in West Germany, introduced the compulsory national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Did the Conservative Party in Great Britain or even Enoch Powell or the late Major Sir Henry LeggeBourke in their wildest moments ever say that the British health scheme should be dismantled? [More…]

• There are at present living in Australia one million people who are not members of the voluntary health insurance schemes which exist in this country. [More…]

• There are a variety of reasons, no doubt, why they do not join the present voluntary health insurance scheme. [More…]

• We do not deny that it is integral to the policy of our Party that the provision of adequate health services for all citizens and residents of this country is a right to which all those citizens and residents are entitled whether they have or have not joined some voluntary organisation or whether their parents or the people of whom they are dependants have joined such an organisation. [More…]

• Conceding that, we believe that the only way and the fairest way in which such provision can be made for the health of the Australian people is a system of compulsory national health insurance. [More…]

• I am pleased that Senator Steele Hall, despite the remnants of his earlier days in the Liberal-Country League, at least has gone sufficiently far on this matter to acknowledge, unlike his more troglodytic colleagues on the Opposition benches, that it is essential that there should be a system of compulsory national health insurance. [More…]

• The effect of the provision in clause 24 (3) (a), which states that certain premises used for the care or treatment of mentally ill or mentally defective persons shall not be approved as hospitals for the purposes of hospital payments, is the same as the provision in the definition of ‘hospital’ in section 4 of the existing National Health Act. [More…]

• The purpose of the provision in the National Health Act is to preclude State mental health institutions from being approved as hospitals and this is the purpose of the provision in clause 24 (3) of the Bill now before the Senate. [More…]

• Private psychiatric hospitals currently approved as hospitals under the National Health Act will be eligible for approval as hospitals under the provisions in the Bill before the Senate. [More…]

• Under the health insurance program of this Government- the Government of the Australian Labor Party- this payment of $2 a day which lasted from 1958 to 1972 under the Liberals and the Country Party will be increased to $16 a day. [More…]

• The aim of the provisions contained in clause 34 of the Health Insurance Bill is to provide a continuing and in some respects expanded role for the religious, charitable and community hospitals, and to ensure that the contributions made by the dedicated staff of these hospitals is not lost. [More…]

• She said that clauses 30 to 32 of the Health Insurance Bill had the effect of placing State hospitals under the direct control of the Australian Government. [More…]

• Clauses 30 to 32 of the Bill relate to State governments entering into agreements with the Australian Government and the heads of these agreements are spelt out in schedule 2 of the Health Insurance Bill, which is one of the Bills which are now before us. [More…]

• However, the provisions of the Health Insurance Bill and the agreements cannot be construed to mean that the Australian Government will be placing State hospitals under the direct control of the Australian Government. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle has quoted to us; and this matter has already been dealt with very largely by Senator Button- the report by a firm of actuaries in Melbourne on the estimated costing of the proposed national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• But as the matter has been raised and some sort of extrapolation has been done, in a rather crude way if I may say so, by Senator Sheil, and in a somewhat more sophisticated way by Senator Guilfoyle, of the estimated increases in costs of the National Health Insurance Bill which is now before the Parliament and which the Australian Labor Party hopes will be adopted, I think it may be salutary to look at some of the increases which have taken place in hospital charges under the existing scheme. [More…]

• The Bills very closely approximate to the national health insurance scheme in New Zealand. [More…]

• We are saying tonight that we are determined that the people of Australia, in order to suit the interests of any group with vested interests, will not be denied the good health and the health service to which they are entitled and which the Australian Labor Party is determined to see that they will have. [More…]

• There has been consultation with the Department of Health, which has a responsibility in this regard, and it has advised that these goods are dangerous to children because of the compounds included in the substance used for the blowing. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Obviously any criticism of quarantine procedures is taken very seriously by the Department of Health. [More…]

• After these complaints were received, at the direction of the Minister for Health 3 senior officers of his Department were sent to investigate the matter. [More…]

• They found particularly that quarantine security had not been impaired in any way by the decision of the Western Australia Director of Health, who is also a very experienced medical officer, to reserve for himself the authority to order the fumigation of vessels, which I think was one of the matters particularly concerning the people who had been critical. [More…]

• The Director of the Department of Health in Western Australia has been instructed to issue a Press statement setting out the full facts of the case. [More…]

• For the benefit of honourable senators I should add that the Minister for Health assures me that he is satisfied that proper quarantine measures were taken in regard to the ‘Lorana ‘. [More…]

• They were entirely in accord with the recommendations that were made as late as 1972 by the World Health Organisation, and they were consistent with Australia’s very high standards of quarantine. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of the recommendation by the Finance Committee of the Hospital Contribution Fund to raise the salary of one executive from $24,000 a year to $3 1,500 a year, plus an expense allowance of $1,500 and a free car, and that this salary level is similar to executive salary levels in other voluntary health funds? [More…]

• Certainly we are all aware that the conduct of private hospital benefit funds has been that of private entrepreneurs engaging in a businessand the business they have been dealing with is the health of the Australian people. [More…]

• It has been to a very large extent a means of providing very great rewards for these people who have occupied executive positions in a series of organisations which have not in any way served the best interests of a national health scheme for the Australian people. [More…]

• It is for that reason and for many other equally good reasons that the Australian Labor Party adopted its policy towards national health insurance. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council, the Australian Fisheries Council and the Australian Agricultural Council are also concerned with aspects of water quality, whilst the recently formed Australian Environment Council, in its wider role, has decided to set up a specialist committee to investigate and, where appropriate, to make recommendations for national emission standards and guides to environmental quality criteria. [More…]

• That the present systems of financing of hospital and medical care in Australia are outdated, complex, unwieldy, and provide inadequate or no security against health care expenditure for a substantial proportion of the people of Australia; [More…]

• That there is an urgent need for a new national health insurance scheme, to which each person receiving an income should contribute an amount which is equitably calculated on the basis of that income, and which provides adequate security to each person against the costs of care for every kind of illness and injury. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Parliament will speedily pass appropriate legislation to bring the benefits of an equitably financed, universal, and comprehensive health insurance scheme to the people of Australia. [More…]

• The Minister representing the Minister for Health will recall that yesterday I asked a question concerning allegations that quarantine procedures in Western Australia were lax. [More…]

• All I can do is convey to the Minister for Health the information which Senator Sim has given, ask him to make a thorough investigation of the allegations which have been made by these 2 persons who were on the ‘Khota Bali’ and see that Senator Sim is provided with an answer as soon as those investigations are completed. [More…]

• Following the Treasurer’s announcement last night that the Government had decided to defer or drastically cut back its social welfare program, a program enunciated and much vaunted only 2 months ago when the Government must have known exactly the health of the nation’s economy, what programs other than those outlined by the Treasurer last night have been deferred or curtailed? [More…]

• But my worry about this whole thing is the same as that which I expressed in relation to the Health Insurance Bill, namely, the tremendous cost that will be involved to the country. [More…]

• There is, of course, a diverse range of other corporations operating in the financial sector, including life and general insurance companies, pension funds, terminating building societies, friendly and health societies, unit trusts, investment and trustee companies. [More…]

• It looks at the help which it might give in public health and in sewerage. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Has the Government offered to help Indonesia control the outbreak of foot and mouth disease at Bali? [More…]

• I refer the Minister to the impasse which has arisen between the Australian Government and the medical profession over the staffing of hospitals and health centres in Canberra. [More…]

• Will he urge the Prime Minister to set up a process of conciliation and to bring his influence to bear in an effort to find the kind of solution which will benefit the people of the Australian Capital Territory, maintain the best possible standards of health care and protect the legitimate aspirations of the profession? [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Act 1973 [More…]

• Firstly, is it a fact that 5 new community health centres are planned for the eastern suburbs of Sydney? [More…]

• Secondly, is it a fact that it is planned to staff these community health centres by seconding second year resident medical officers from teaching hospitals? [More…]

• Thirdly, is the Minister aware that his announced policy is to provide community health centres in areas of most need and that the eastern suburbs of Sydney already have a most favourable health care situation? [More…]

• Also, jurisdiction under certain provisions of the Customs Act, the National Health Act and the Post and Telegraph Act would not be transferred to the Superior Court, as consideration is being given to vesting jurisdiction under those provisions in the new Administrative Review Tribunal to be established by separate legislation. [More…]

• Of course, British ex-servicemen receive pensions paid by the British Department of Health and Social Security, I think it is called, for which the Australian Department of Repatriation and Compensation acts as an agent. [More…]

• Reported levels for the larger cities in Australia of carbon monoxide and oxidants, the 2 pollutants most commonly associated with motor vehicles, are up to four and five times the World Health Organisation’s long term goals. [More…]

• By this Bill, and 2 others that I shall shortly introduce, it is proposed to impose a health insurance levy of 1.35 per cent of the taxable incomes, as determined for income tax purposes, of people residing in Australia. [More…]

• The Bills complement other measures designed to implement the Government’s universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The levy proposed in the present Bills was discussed in the White Paper on the health insurance program published in November 1973, which was preceded by the report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• Introduction of the levy is timed to coincide with the coming into operation of the main health insurance legislation. [More…]

• An aged person exempt from income tax by reason of the special transitional tax rebate will also be exempt from health levy. [More…]

• The general principle is, however, that whatever the level of the income tax rebate in 1975-76, an aged person who is exempt from income tax on account of it will also be exempt from health levy. [More…]

• I should mention, however, that while the levy will be administered and collected under the income tax system and payasyouearn deductions from salaries and wages will be increased in 1975-76 to take account of it, provisions in the legislaton require a separate identification of the amount of a taxpayer’s liability that represents health insurance levy. [More…]

• I commend this Bill- the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill- to the Senate. [More…]

• In the first instance I was, on behalf of the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs (Senator Cavanagh), to carry out an on the spot in-depth examination of conditions that the Aborigines in that region were experiencing in relation to housing, education, health, and work opportunities among other things. [More…]

• The report shows that the Aborigines in that region, generally speaking, are suffering from deplorable conditions in terms of housing, education, employment opportunities and the provision of health services. [More…]

• Mrs Skuta, who is very active in the Gippsland area for which she is the National Aboriginal Consultative Committee member, sent me a frightening report about the conditions of Aborigines in the area, mostly in regard to health, housing and welfare. [More…]

• We gave $557,000 for housing, $84,000 for health - (Quorum formed.) [More…]

• Last year in Aboriginal assistance the Australian Government gave to Victoria $557,000 for housing, $84,000 for health, more than $250,000 for education and $32,000 for unemployment purposes as special works grants. [More…]

• -This question really comes under the auspices of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The imports must be accompanied by a certificate of health from the exporting country. [More…]

• That is as much information as I can give the honourable senator, but in view of the detailed nature of his question I will send it to the Minister for Health and get an equally detailed answer. [More…]

• 2) 1973, Senate (Representation of Territories) Act 1973, Representation Act 1973, Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, Health Insurance Act 1973 and Petroleum and Minerals Authority Act 1973. [More…]

• Under that I take it that if leave were granted for a cognate debate on, say, the 2 Health Bills, there would be 4 hours on that cognate debate, and the 4 hours would commence from the time the Chair put the question that the proposed law be affirmed. [More…]

• May I suggest at the outset that we have a general debate on this Bill, the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1 974, the Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974 and the Income Tax (International Agreements) Bill 1974, as they are cognate measures, with the remarks which are made relating to any one or more of those 4 Bills which deal with the Government’s proposed health scheme. [More…]

• -The Bills to which we are directing our attention are the 4 Bills which would implement the Hayden health scheme. [More…]

• This national health scheme has been around and around and around again, and each time that we have had to deal with a Bill that relates to it we have stated our opposition to the proposal of the Government. [More…]

• Also it is with some regret that we find the introduction of the Bill which seeks to dismantle the health scheme which has served the people of Australia and which has been developed to cover their needs in so many aspects of the delivery of health care. [More…]

• It was part of the package that was expressed to the people as a national health scheme. [More…]

• It is unrealistic to pretend that the 1.35 per cent of taxable income at this stage together with the Government backing previously announced could cover the cost of the health care scheme as it will be at the time this scheme is introduced. [More…]

• We have had no revision of the contribution which the Government would be forced to make from Consolidated Revenue to allow the minimum of health care to be delivered to the people of Australia. [More…]

• We want to place on record the feeling of the Opposition that this is a totally irresponsible approach by a government to health care. [More…]

• At a time when a government in its economic management must consider many aspects of government expenditure, to have this open-ended requirement that the Government will face in order to meet the difference between the amount provided by the 1.35 per cent levy and the inevitable cost of health care seems to us to show that economic management is not one of the objectives which the Government is pursuing with any great skill. [More…]

• I do mean that because allied to this proposal for an open-ended health scheme in terms of cost we have proposals for national compensation with which the Minister for Repatriation and Compensation is closely associated. [More…]

• And to have a health scheme, which has been functioning with voluntary contributions from responsible taxpayers in Australia, dismantled and to create a situation of such doubt at this time seems to me to be irresponsible. [More…]

• It refers to the levy of 1.35 per cent on taxable income for the national health scheme and also talks of the proposed national superannuation plan which would also commandeer a percentage of income. [More…]

• That we will have a levy for health, that we may have one for national superannuation and that we may have one for any other proposal which the Government cares to introduce means that more and more the Government is intruding on the spending of the taxpayer of this country, and not always with the greatest efficiency being built into the schemes which are being planned. [More…]

• It is these things that we question, but in particular we question that health care is to be the subject of this program in respect of which we have had no detail presented to us that would allow us to think that the Government has a sense of responsibility about what will be the inevitable effect of the dismantling of the present health scheme. [More…]

• Later this day we anticipate that we will be dealing with another emergency provision of the Government with regard to the private health funds in this country. [More…]

• When talking about the open-ended cost of this scheme, I think that it would be wise to look at the increases in some of the health costs as they are being experienced at the present time. [More…]

• The decision has been made by some of the private health funds to increase their charges for the simple reason that their costs have been increasing so rapidly and so disproportionately to the contributions which they have been gathering. [More…]

• It is a big question when we consider that health care has been developed in Australia to suit the community. [More…]

• We have progressively closed gaps in health care. [More…]

• For this reason, the Opposition strenuously opposes these 4 Bills which have been brought forward as a package by Mr Hayden to introduce a national health scheme. [More…]

• However, in pursuance of section 73B(c) of the National Health Act 1953-1973, the Minister has directed that you shall cause alterations to be made to your organisation’s Queensland hospital fund rules to provide for the weekly contribution rate for all members to the private table to be 63 cents (single) and 51.25 (family). [More…]

• They are the National Health Bill, the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill, the Health Insurance Levy Bill and the Income Tax (International Agreements) Bill. [More…]

• By the simple expedient of failing to increase the Government’s contributions to patients to keep the private health industry in business the funds are being forced into financial insecurity. [More…]

• They are the National Health Bill, the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill, the Health Insurance Levy Bill and the Income Tax (International Agreements) Bill. [More…]

• Those Bills are part of the program of the Australian Labor Party to nationalise health and health services in this country. [More…]

• The Liberal Party of Australia is opposed to the philosophy of this approach to health care and the delivery of health care. [More…]

• I have noticed that clause 10 of the Health Insurance Levy Bill limits the application of the proposed levy until 1 July 1975. [More…]

• Recently we had the spectacle of the Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam) delivering an address at the Liverpool District Hospital in the south-west of Sydney in which he made some predictions about the cost of health care and gave some projections about the proportion of our gross national product which would be taken up in paying for health care. [More…]

• He made the point that we are now spending 5 per cent of our gross national product on health but that this will rise, by his estimate, to 12 per cent over the next 25 years. [More…]

• As Senator Sheil has said, let us ask the people of Queensland, who at the moment have some of their health services provided to them free, how they are going to feel about paying a levy of 1.35 per cent. [More…]

• The cost of health care is limitless. [More…]

• There is no amount of money that one can give which will meet all the requirements of health care. [More…]

• I hope to talk later today on another Bill which is concerned with health funds. [More…]

• I would like to speak briefly about the National Health Bill, which is one of the 4 Bills now before us. [More…]

• The National Health Bill is characterised by its wish to take something away from the people of Australia. [More…]

• I believe that the present health scheme has many virtues and many strengths. [More…]

• There will be a continuing need for private health insurance. [More…]

• But I go further: This Bill seeks, in its own way, to destroy the private health funds. [More…]

• I agree that in this Bill there are some initiatives dealing with health insurance which I would not oppose, but I am concerned. [More…]

• There is no requirement to stop the payment of Commonwealth benefits and no requirement to put in these punitive provisions against the health funds. [More…]

• In this cognate debate the Senate has before it the National Health Bill 1974, the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1974 and the Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974. [More…]

• The Bills at present before the Senate seek to do 2 things- to provide a monopoly financing instrument for the Government and to repeal those sections of the existing National Health Act which would be in conflict. [More…]

• The Government is taking upon itself the monopoly right to charge what it likes for a health scheme. [More…]

• What an incredible piece of arrogance it is that today the Government in another place is rising in indignation that health funds should set their rates for a proper charge, and insists as a Government that there shall be fixed charges and appeals tribunals involved in this matter. [More…]

• If one listens to the Government members, one hears the only alibi they have- that some years ago the Nimmo Committee made a report on health insurance. [More…]

• They say that the Nimmo Committee report suggested that there should not be a multiplicity of voluntary health funds or that there should not be voluntary health funds at all. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee in no way recommended the nationalisation of the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• The Nimmo Committee in no way said that a multiplicity of voluntary health funds was wrong. [More…]

• The major act of nationalisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor government in the next term will be through the establishment of a single health scheme administered by a health insurance commission. [More…]

• In other words, what Mr Whitlam said and what our Fabian Society President opposite has endorsed, is that the aim of this measure is to create the nationalisation of medicine by means of a national health insurance commission, and that is precisely what has been done. [More…]

• I have drawn the attention of the Senate to the fact that the rates to be charged under the Bill would be severely punitive to the ordinary working families and would provide for a standard of health care which would be lower than that provided in the past. [More…]

• In no way has it been demonstrated that this legislation will upgrade the health scheme. [More…]

• I simply apply myself to the specifics of these Bills and remind the Senate that those countries which sought to set up a monopoly health institution are now experiencing a breakdown of that institution. [More…]

• Perhaps the Minister will confirm this fact: In a city which is the centre of nationalised medicine, in recent years more than 50 per cent of the community has sought to, and in fact has set up voluntary health funds because the nationalised health fund, of which this Government’s proposal is a model, has utterly failed. [More…]

• I conclude by saying that just as the Senate has rejected the previous 2 Health Bills, it should reject these three. [More…]

• If there is included a tax Bill related to double taxation, I will say that there are 3 national health Bills and a double taxation Bill. [More…]

• I believe that Opposition senators should vote for these Bills if the Government’s major health legislation is confirmed next week. [More…]

• If we look at the position in the United States, which we seem to follow in many ways, we find that the costs of health care are enormous. [More…]

• That country does not have a nationalised health scheme or a health scheme of this nature, which the Government would claim at this stage is not a nationalised health scheme. [More…]

• -Senator Baume would know that health costs throughout the world are rising at an enormous rate. [More…]

• I think it is quite unrealistic to assume that this Bill which imposes a levy of 1.35 per cent is anything more than an introductory aspect of the Labor Party’s health plans. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle criticised the Government for not releasing cost figures on its health insurance proposals. [More…]

• The Government’s health insurance program was fully costed in the White Paper entitled, ‘The Australian Health Insurance Program’, which has been available to all honourable senators for quite some time. [More…]

• Naturally, the overall costs of health services covered by health insurance are rising quickly. [More…]

• Presumably it will be derived from increases in health insurance contributions. [More…]

• A person’s contribution to the cost of health care is based on the principle of his capacity to pay. [More…]

• This levy is not an additional payment but a substitution for contributions to existing private health insurance funds under the present scheme. [More…]

• He also drew some attention to the already high and rapidly growing costs of health care and implied, it seemed, that this would be something which would affect specifically the Labor scheme. [More…]

• One would have to ask Senator Baume whether he believes that only the more well to do members of the community should be able to ensure against rising health costs. [More…]

• Further, Senator Carrick ignored the fact that the existing private health insurance contributions are about to be increased substantially. [More…]

• Senator Carrick made great play of the report of the Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, the Nimmo report, and demonstrated to us very clearly- I think we were all convinced- that Mr Justice Nimmo had said nothing about nationalising the existing funds. [More…]

• That was quite remarkable; but it would have been more surprising if Mr Justice Nimmo had done the contrary, because his terms of reference were confined strictly to the existing voluntary health insurance schemes. [More…]

• We intend to carry on our fight to see that the Australian people have the best health system in the world. [More…]

• I wish to explain to the Senate that the Government would like to proceed with the business of the Senate in the following order: Firstly, consideration of the Glebe Lands (Appropriation) Bill, which it was intended would be the next matter to be debated; and secondly, when it becomes available from the House of Representatives, National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I hope that we will be able to proceed forthwith to debate National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• The consultants’ report, as distinct from the Minister’s statement, mentions a community health centre. [More…]

• I have lived through an age in which health officials and governments have fought strenuously to relieve the Australian people of the conditions which prevail in intensely concentrated terrace houses. [More…]

• An abundance of literature covering some 30 or 40 years seeks to condemn those types of houses as not being healthy, which because they lack side windows, ventilation and daylight are denied the very essentials of health that we seek in the detached cottage. [More…]

• I just say this because although the fashion today is to seek to live in terrace houses, and although we should preserve a percentage of them, the Australian ideal of a healthy house has more ventilation, more daylight and more access. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate has been introduced as a matter of urgency to correct a serious defect ofthe National Health Act. [More…]

• It deals with the controls over health benefit funds in relation to benefits payable and contributions which they may charge and provides greater protection to members of funds who may be disadvantaged by the actions of fund managements. [More…]

• Recent events have made it abundantly clear that some funds intend to take every step within their power to ensure that, when the present system of private health insurance ends and the new universal program commences, they retain intact the vast and excessive reserves which they have built up through consistently overcharging contributors over many years. [More…]

• The Government’s view is that excessive reserves held by health insurance funds should be used for the direct benefit of contributors by holding down contribution rates to the lowest level compatible with the financial viability of the funds. [More…]

• On the advice from the Registration Committee established under the National Health Act, the Minister for Social Security refused approval of the proposed contribution increases. [More…]

• One can reasonably apprehend that if adequate action is not now taken to protect the public interest, health insurance funds throughout Australia may be encouraged to flout the reasonable instructions on contribution rates and benefit levels issued by the Government on advice from the Registration Committee. [More…]

• I would like to make it clear, however, that the health insurance funds generally are displaying a responsible attitude. [More…]

• In fact the Victorian health funds have announced that they will not seek to increase contribution rates before 1 January 1975 despite heavy increases in hospital fees in that State. [More…]

• Honourable senators will understand from the facts which I have just outlined that the Medical Benefits Fund and the Hospitals Contribution Fund have deliberately flouted the intention of the National Health Act enacted by and administered for so many years by our predecessors that increases in contribution rates should be approved by the Minister before they are implemented. [More…]

• Government, which in turn was based on the recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance- the Nimmo Committeeof 1 969. [More…]

• In a major policy statement on behalf of the previous Government on 4 March 1970, Dr Forbes, the then Minister for Health, said in another place: [More…]

• These relate to the financial reserves of registered health insurance funds. [More…]

• Honourable senators will note that, contrary to Press speculation, this Bill does not propose financial penalties against health funds. [More…]

• It is basically designed to clear up doubts about the authority of the Australian Government to control the benefits and contributions of health funds- an authority which the Opposition must surely support since, during its term as Government, Ministers of that Government showed concern about the enhancement of that authority and also about the principle that health funds should not amass excessive reserves but should use reserve moneys to avoid or to cushion contribution increases. [More…]

• In this respect, I again draw the attention of the Senate to the Statement made on 4 March 1970 by the then Minister for Health, Dr Forbes, concerning consideration the then Government was giving to the introduction of penalties against health funds and their officers. [More…]

• Honourable senators may also recall that in June and July of 1971 the authority of the then Minister, Senator Greenwood, to direct the health funds on hospital fund contributions and benefits was challenged by New South Wales funds led by the Medical Benefits Fund and the Hospitals Contribution Fund. [More…]

• I am sure all honourable senators will agree that the legislation controlling health insurance should be amended to ensure that it is capable of achieving its intentions. [More…]

• In summary this Bill is designed to make certain that the intentions of the present National Health Act can be positively implemented in the interests of the public and that the avenue of appeal against the Minister’s decisions in relation to contribution and benefit levels should provide proper opportunities to have the whole quesiton of what are adequate reserves judicially resolved. [More…]

• In conclusion, I wish to point out that when this legislation has been passed by the Parliament, the contribution rates determined in accordance with the proper procedures provided will give all contributors to health funds full entitlements to benefits without paying unauthorised contributions which fund managements may impose. [More…]

• Without this legislation, the Government’s legal authority to protect contributors’ interests is not as clear as it should be and the public could be gravely inconvenienced and unfairly imposed upon with illegal charges for health insurance coverage. [More…]

• It is, I repeat, a BDI to ensure that the policy declarations of past Liberal-Country Party governments on the matter of health fund reserves is achieved in the public interest. [More…]

• The Australian Council of Social Services report states that in most of the inner city areas there are inadequate health, education and welfare facilities. [More…]

• In it there are aged people, single persons, frail persons, Aborigines, chronically ill people and people who enjoy a good state of health. [More…]

• -The Bill which is now before the House has been decribed by the Minister for Repatriation and Compensation (Senator Wheeldon) as being of urgency to correct a serious defect in the National Health Act. [More…]

• (6) of the National Health Act which describes the powers of the Minister. [More…]

• I wonder why the Government has not considered that it has a duty to voluntary organisations within the community, which serve the community and which, with the Government, seek to cover the health needs of the Australian people. [More…]

• The Minister said that the increases were a blatant and deliberate attempt to over-charge health insurance contributors. [More…]

• Another matter which ought- to be regarded as important is that despite the fact that the Government is proposing the most extravagant health care scheme in Australia, it is still refusing to increase the Commonwealth benefit of $2 per day as a contribution to the hospital charges. [More…]

• With escalating costs and the increasing prices that we are seeing in regard to every facility in Australia, the relating of reserves to contributions seems to me to miss the fact that the reserves should be related to the commitments which will have to be met by the health benefit funds. [More…]

• This National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) has been brought forward with inordinate urgency to cover what is supposedly a serious defect in the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Minister also has said that one can reasonably apprehend that if adequate action is not taken now to protect the public interest- whatever that means- health insurance funds throughout Australia may be encouraged to flout reasonable instructions on contribution rates and benefit levels. [More…]

• From what has happened to the 2 health insurance companies in New South Wales it would appear that the ‘reasonable instructions’ are outright rejection. [More…]

• It is a grandstanding effort by a Minister who wants to engage in confrontation when the appropriate course to take, as the record of the last 20 years indicates, is to have consultation with the health insurance funds when an arrangement has to be reached for the alteration of contributions because the benefits provided have been altered. [More…]

• As I think can be adequately demonstrated, this Bill is unnecessary and has in it only one original thought which, when it has been amendedI understand that it will be amended as the Government will accept the Opposition’s amendment- will give the health insurance funds of this country a protection against the authoritarian stand which the Minister is prepared to adopt. [More…]

• I was the Minister for Health in 1971 when hospital fees were fixed in New South Wales. [More…]

• It is beneficial to the contributors and it is part of that merit of our health scheme which I believe is in the interests of the Australian people to continue because the Australian contributor can pay his contributions for private ward treatment in a public hospital, his contributions for intermediate ward treatment in a public hospital and his contributions for public ward treatment in a public hospital. [More…]

• Back in 1971 that power was exercised under the existing Act by the then Minister for Health and the requirements were gazetted and the funds respected the directions they were given. [More…]

• But he is not prepared to do that and his record demonstrates a record of conflict and confrontation which I can only believe is designed to create chaos in the area of health insurance in order to create an attitude in which people might more readily accept the Government’s scheme. [More…]

• But I can only think of all the problems which have been caused in the area of nursing home benefits, the unnecessary problems which have recurred with regard to medical benefits and the problems which are occurring currently in this area of hospital insurance to believe that the purpose is the ulterior purpose of creating problems in the health scheme generally. [More…]

• I am at a loss to understand why the Minister is bringing forward a Bill and claiming urgency for it unless it is to deceive the people of Australia and to give some son of publicity to the Press upon which he relies so such to build up this great hate which he has demonstrated for some health insurance funds. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, in a direction which he gave to a Queensland organisation in February of this year, a copy of which I have seen, separated contributions and benefits in a way in which he now seeks a power to do under this Bill. [More…]

• The Federal Government will introduce urgent legislation today to allow it to impose fines of up to $1000 a day on health funds which defy its orders. [More…]

• The legislation would provide for big daily fines against health funds which increased contributions without Government permission. [More…]

• The ‘Daily Telegraph’, under the heading Crack down on health funds’, said: [More…]

• Federal Cabinet last night approved a new law to fine medical and health funds $ 1 ,000 a day. [More…]

• Not only is it incompetent in running the economy; it is not even competent to put forward a sensible Bill in regard to the Minister’s prize public relations campaign against the health funds. [More…]

• I do not think there is any doubt that, if the Government continues to be frustrated with regard to this Bill and its measures to introduce its health scheme in Australia, it will obviously approach the public with a very well-designed plan to obtain sympathy and support from the public. [More…]

• Their needs are not only in respect of health, education and housing, the whole ambit of their needs, is carted into this Parliament on the basis of what would be good legislation or legislation in their interests. [More…]

• A little while ago in the House of Representatives we heard the honourable member for Hotham (Mr Chipp) say in respect of one of the measures that the Joint Sitting will discuss tonight or tomorrow- I refer to the National Health legislation which proposes a health scheme on which this Government campaigned and was elected; it was proposed first to the Australian people in 1968 and was restated in 1969, 1972 and 1974-that he and the Opposition would go to the barricades rather than yield one iota, one inch, to the will of the people. [More…]

• They said that they would do the same with health services. [More…]

• Mr Chairman, it is my honour to commend to the Joint Sitting of this Parliament for confirmation the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973 and the Health Insurance Bill 1 973. [More…]

• No Bills ought to be better known or better understood than the Health Insurance Commission Bill and the Health Insurance Bill. [More…]

• Indeed, emotionalism reached great heights on the part of the Opposition when the spokesman for the Opposition on matters such as this, the honourable member for Hotham (Mr Chipp) said he was prepared even to fall at the barricades fighting against the proposal for a universal health insurance program. [More…]

• With the kindliest intent in the world I say to him that as one of the first casualties to fall at the barricades today he can be one of the first people to call on the benefits of the new universal health insurance program. [More…]

• It is based on equity; it is based on a sense of justice; it will ensure that every person in this community is covered for health insurance purposes; and, most certainly, it is based on a freedom of choice- a freedom to choose the private medical practitioner that one cares to use and a freedom to choose the type of hospital treatment that one cares to draw upon. [More…]

• Let me outline quickly the key points of the health insurance program. [More…]

• I point out that the Health Insurance Commission Bill is ancillary to the Health Insurance Bill in that the Health Insurance Commission Bill proposes an administrative structure that will ensure that the health insurance program operates properly. [More…]

• These are the benefits that the community stands to gain: For individual citizens our health, insurance program will mean an automatic health insurance cover that is based on a more equitable system of payment and a freedom of choice of the doctor and the type of hospital care. [More…]

• There has been altogether too much dishonesty within this chamber from members of the Opposition who neither understand nor want to understand, and from the vested interests whether they are in certain representative bodies of the medical profession or whether they are in private health insurance funds, which generously subsidise their political activities, and which do not want this change to take place, in spite of the benefits that it will contribute to the people. [More…]

• That is a task that has been taken up by the Government within the Ministry of Health and mainly through the activities of the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• No previous Australian Government has committed itself financially to supporting the development of health services in the community on a national scale. [More…]

• Today community health centres are being developed so that people will have a range of health services- not just medical practitioners, as important as they are, and there is no disputing that fact, but also the people who should be backing them up and who have never had adequate encouragement to provide those services or an opportunity to fulfil that task, namely, the paramedics and the associated medical professionals, such as health social workers, home visit nurses, physiotherapists and technologists of various types. [More…]

• They are the people who are now staffing those community health centres. [More…]

• Similarly, psychiatric community health centres are being set up. [More…]

• People are being trained to be therapists so that the children of the nation- our children, the most valuable investment we will make in the future of this countrywill, among other things, have adequate health services available to them in the school grounds through the services being developed. [More…]

• The Australian Government, through Dr Everingham and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, is providing money- not proposing to do so but doing so; it commenced to do so in the last Budget- to the State authorities that maintain our public hospitals so that they can upgrade them. [More…]

• I want to move back from the subject to which I have diverted because it relates to health services and I do not want any member of the Opposition to stand up and say that I have spoken only about an economic exercise. [More…]

• That is what the present system of health insurance is. [More…]

• But this is a superior system of health insurance as an economic exercise, as a financial exercise, because every dollar that is spent maximises the return in health services that are purchased. [More…]

• The essential thing about a health insurance program is that it should cover everyone in the community, there should be equity in the distribution of the cost of the scheme and people should be able to obtain the health services they need without concern as to whether the cost is going to be prohibitive in some way or other. [More…]

• It is an unchallengeable fact that many people are not receiving proper health care. [More…]

• The people on low incomes, especially migrants, are not receiving the level of medical and hospital care that they really need in the best interests of their health. [More…]

• To that extent, as we do these things we improve the quality of health care. [More…]

• Our basic position- and it is the primary intention of this program- is that health care services should be provided in the same way as is assistance for education; it should be provided as a social utility available as a right to every Australian rather than as a commodity to be traded or as a privilege to be purchased. [More…]

• Their proposal turned out to be a rather tattered ambulance service costing about $200m which would do very little to remedy the defects of the present system of health insurance. [More…]

• But the proposals were a confession that there is something wrongsomething dreadfully wrong- with the present system of private health insurance. [More…]

• The very fact that at any given time the present system of health insurance fails to cover more than one million people is one reason. [More…]

• The Australian Bureau of Statistics, which was known as the Bureau of Census and Statistics, and more recently Professor Henderson in one of his surveys for his poverty inquiry, have established that at any given time at least 13 per cent of the population is without any health insurance cover at all, and most of the people in this grouping are people who cannot afford to take the risk of not having adequate cover for their health needs. [More…]

• These are the people who are repeatedly shown up in social surveys as the people who have health needs which are not being met. [More…]

• It is a poor state of affairs that such a high number of people should have neglected health needs in a wealthy society such as ours. [More…]

• The subsidised health insurance program at best could cover only four out of every 100 low income families which it was supposed to cover. [More…]

• A man in this position who earns $80 a week after tax pays over $2 a week for his health insurance cover. [More…]

• But a man earning $300 a week pays only a little over $1 a week for his health insurance cover. [More…]

• Liberals privately, in the secrecy of their committee meetings, have confessed this inequity because at page 9 of the original document which one of the Opposition members was kind enough to send to my office anonymously before the last election- the document on the Opposition’s health proposals- the following remarks were made: [More…]

• For example, the case has been given that it costs the Prime Minister less to insure himself for health and medical care than it does for his chauffeur to do the same thing. [More…]

• Let me move on to another problem of the present system of health insurance, namely, the cost explosion. [More…]

• There has been a 152 per cent increase in the commitment by which the Australian Government has to finance private health insurance schemes and associated schemes like the pensioners medical service and repatriation medical services. [More…]

• The rate of explosion in health service costs in this area covered by and related to health insurance is far faster in Australia than in most other advanced countries in the world. [More…]

• We hear a lot about Canada from Opposition spokesmen, from the Australian Medical Association and from the health insurance funds. [More…]

• In the last 5 years the average annual rate of increase in costs in health services has exceeded 18 per cent per annum in Australia. [More…]

• As a proportion of gross domestic product the cost of Canada’s health services is at this point about the same as in the United States of America, but I repeat that in Canada everyone is covered. [More…]

• What the Government is trying to do by proposing a system of universal health insurance is to bring Australia up to this stage of the twentieth century and to give it what most other advanced countries of the world have. [More…]

• Even the United States of America is in the middle of a rather turbulent debate on the issue of universal health insurance. [More…]

• This is the fourth time that this socalled Labor health scheme has been debated in this place. [More…]

• It is a matter of principle, because we believe that this health scheme proposed by the Labor Party would be a disaster to the health of the Australian people. [More…]

• What the Opposition cares about is the health of the Australian people. [More…]

• It is a debate about human beings- Australian human beings- and the most important thing in their lives, their health. [More…]

• This debate concerns not only those people who are now living, but also those to be born, because once this Labor health scheme is impacted on the Australian people there is no getting away from it. [More…]

• It will be with us for ever, as the British socialised health scheme is with the British people, as are the schemes that exist in Canada and New Zealand. [More…]

• The inevitable result of living is that sometime all of us will lose that rare gift which we take for granted while we have it- our health. [More…]

• All of us can talk academically about health schemes, doctors and hospitals until we or one of our family need one. [More…]

• -Mr Chairman, you know that I have ultimate respect for your rulings, but if the performance of this Government over the last 18 months is not relevant to what it promised to do in the field of health, I regard that as a rather curious ruling. [More…]

• This measure before the Joint Sitting will effect the health of every Australian. [More…]

• I would have thought that it was quite fair and proper for me to refer to the Government’s miserable record over the past 18 months to allow the Australian people to assess what hope this health scheme has. [More…]

• Now it proceeds with this health scheme which 56 per cent of the people surveyed in a Gallup poll said that they do not want. [More…]

• The Labor Party genuinely believes that the best health care system is by salaried doctors, with Governmentowned hospitals and Government-owned nursing homes. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) is on record as saying that he envisages that in a few years time, under the scheme, 80 per cent of people will be going to salaried doctors and that only 20 per cent will be able to afford to see a private doctor in his surgery. [More…]

• Private hospitals and private nursing homes are irrelevant to the Labor Party’s concept of a national health scheme. [More…]

• The major act of nationalisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor Government in the next term will be through the establishment of a single health fund administered by a health insurance commission. [More…]

• Firstly, the Government says to between 92 per cent and 95 per cent of Australians who are already covered by voluntary health insurance: ‘We are going to upset the present situation. [More…]

• We concede that many people today are not covered for health insurance and should be. [More…]

• The Labor Party health scheme entitles all Australians to free hospitalisation in a public ward. [More…]

• I think that the great private hospitals run by philanthropic, charitable and religious organisations which have done a fantastic job for health care in this country are in immediate danger under this scheme. [More…]

• House of Representatives I have said to the Minister that the Opposition supports increased money for public hospitals, we support assistance for people on low incomes with their insurance premiums and we support a great number of proposals in his health scheme; and I have appealed to him to adopt a bi-partisan approach on these matters. [More…]

• It will not improve the nation’s health. [More…]

• It can meddle with and ruin everything else it touches, but I plead with it not to meddle with the nation’s health. [More…]

• It occurrs to me that when the founding fathers wrote in that provision they must have had something like these health Bills in mind because, especially having heard the honourable member for Hotham (Mr Chipp) and, for that matter, knowing in advance how I proposed to respond, I can only be fortified in the view that if there is one subject on which no good purpose can be served by further argument it is this subject of Labor’s alternative health scheme. [More…]

• In this context slogans are particularly good for short term political effect, if useless for real understanding, and whatever may be said about the opponents of Labor’s health scheme it could not be said that they have been short of slogans. [More…]

• There have been many cliches spoken, in the hope that people are idiots, and based on the false premise that just because someone drops a cliche, everyone is going to believe it and therefore hate the Government, hate the Labor Party, and despise the health scheme. [More…]

• It is said, for example, that the new scheme will be accompanied by sharply rising health cost. [More…]

• But that really proves nothing on its own, does it, because the present health scheme is also accompanied by sharply rising health costs, and the figures are clearly available to demonstrate it. [More…]

• The Treasurer’s statement of financial transactions for the 1973-74 year shows the outlay on health at $942m as opposed to $783m the previous year. [More…]

• Again, that is a 20 per cent rate of increase, and all on the basis of the present health scheme. [More…]

• The first was universal insurance instead of partial cover, the second was equitable payment of costs rather than the current inequitable spread, and the third was some predictability in medical costs both as related to total health expenses and as applicable to individual fee for service arrangements. [More…]

• Anybody who listened to him would realise that the essential message coming out of his speech was this: ‘For goodness sake, do not talk any more about this health scheme because the more it is talked about the more it is exposed for its essential badness.’ [More…]

• The objectives of any health scheme are basically the same, whether they are the objectives of the nation or the objectives of a person. [More…]

• What is needed is that when a person requires health care, he must have access to it. [More…]

• That is the objective of government, but we do not want instituted a national health scheme which will send us broke. [More…]

• We can- and a Labor Government would- build an alternative public health service within the limits of present health expenditures in Australia. [More…]

• He said that he would build this scheme within the limits of the existing costs of the health scheme in 1 967. [More…]

• We all know that the Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, will not cost his health scheme. [More…]

• At present, health services cost our nation more than $2,000m a year, or about 5.3 percent of gross domestic product. [More…]

• Their cost is increasing so dramatically that it has been estimated that our expenditure on health services could be more than 12 per cent of gross domestic product by the year 2000. [More…]

• The honourable member for Perth wants to stop the debate now, but the Prime Minister wants to talk about health services in the year 2000. [More…]

• He said that the present cost of health services is 5.3 per cent of gross domestic product and that the cost in the future would be 12 per cent. [More…]

• Compare those figures with his statement when he launched the proposal and said: ‘We can provide it within the limits of the present health expenditure’. [More…]

• Health services, representing 5.3 per cent of our gross domestic product, cost us $2,385m. [More…]

• In today’s terms the extra cost of $3,000m- that is the difference between $2,400m and $5,400mwould represent an increase of about two and a quarter- between two and two and a half- in the share of the gross domestic product given to health services. [More…]

• The money would be going to health. [More…]

• This health scheme would drag away all of that expenditure on those items of social security and welfare and of housing. [More…]

• The man who runs the Ontario health scheme- nowadays Canada is the criterion for all things, and Ontario is the place from where a lot of this health scheme was taken- said this: [More…]

• In Canada the spending on health services is one of the highest portions of gross domestic product in the world, and Canada still has not a health scheme which satisfies anybody. [More…]

• I am informed that half of the Swedes have to take out private insurance anyway notwithstanding the massive taxes they are paying to try to finance the health scheme. [More…]

• If the Government were going to produce a good health scheme we could make a choice and say: A good health scheme we will have to pay for and we opt for it. ‘ [More…]

• But how can anyone declare this to be a good health scheme when the people who deliver the health scheme- the medical profession- will not have a bar of it? [More…]

• Are we to run a health scheme without doctors? [More…]

• If this health scheme goes through, this generation will be passing on a vast failure and those who vote for it will regret it. [More…]

• Britain has inflation, strikes, nationalised health, and its health scheme is falling about its ears. [More…]

• In fact, if the Government is to get the number of beds it requires for standard health care it will have to pinch them from the private hospitals to start with. [More…]

• Do not forget that a tremendous number of Britons have left Britain, not excluding a tremendous number of doctors who have left Britain because they could not stand the health system there. [More…]

• If we had not had those British doctors who have come to Australia we would not be able to deliver the health care we are delivering today. [More…]

• We have to get over this myth of free health care. [More…]

• We want hospitals that are efficient units and not for them to have taken away the example of the present health scheme, so that there will be a proper turnover and efficiency in the hospitals. [More…]

• Even if this amount of money were spent on the health scheme, we still would not have arrived at its cost. [More…]

• Apparently, he has decided to lend his voice to the propaganda war against the national health scheme. [More…]

• Thirty-six years ago a then senior Minister of the Government of the time- he was Treasurer in a United Australia Party Government- introduced a Bill into the Parliament dealing with national health. [More…]

• It is to the shame of previous conservative governments, governments of the same political persuasion as the Party to which the Leader of the Opposition, the honourable member for Hotham and all other members who are taking part in this debate from the Opposition point of view belong, that the nation’s so-called voluntary health scheme does not cater for at least a million Australians today. [More…]

• It is those people and their children more than anyone else who need the scheme to cover their health needs. [More…]

• Until they are fully protected and until they are fully covered, we as Australians will not have a truly national health scheme. [More…]

• We saw the previous LiberalCountry Party Government try to head off the establishment of a Labor sponsored Senate Select Committee to inquire into health and hospital costs. [More…]

• We saw the Nimmo committee advocate the establishment of a national health insurance commission. [More…]

• A previous Liberal Minister for Health, the honourable member for Barker, Dr Forbes, who I understand will be taking part in this debate, stated in a ministerial statement on 4 March 1970: [More…]

• This is by the previous Liberal-Country Party Government - to adopt the Committee’s proposal that a National Health Insurance Commission be established. [More…]

• Red herrings have been spawned by the opponents of this Health Insurance Bill in a veritable ocean of propaganda that has almost swamped the real issues that are the subject of the debate. [More…]

• Yet there is again this false propaganda on the part of the Liberal Party and the Country Party and on the part of the health funds that in some way the doctors have to fight a so-called socialist plot to undermine doctor-patient relationships. [More…]

• The Bill really concerns the Government’s relations with the Health funds- the so-called voluntary health insurance funds. [More…]

• The Bill seeks to improve and rationalise the system of health insurance because it is the Australian Government that is the major contributor to the health funds. [More…]

• The majority of Australians are simply unaware that the Government subsidises very substantially the patients’ contributions to the health funds and that the funds are not simply private insurance organisations. [More…]

• In the Prime Minister’s policy speech he stated that the Australian Labor Government would introduce a universal health insurance scheme, that it would be administered by a single fund and that contributions would be paid according to taxable income. [More…]

• The Bill says, in effect, that no Australian should be placed in a position where his health or that of his family can be jeopardised by his lack of money or where his health or that of his children can be further jeopardised by worry over his ability to pay. [More…]

• The honourable member for Perth (Mr Berinson) at least gave some details but in doing so he gave away the devastating point, that under the Government’s proposed scheme people will still need to take out private health insurance and at a considerably increased cost. [More…]

• The points we made were, firstly, that it would lower the quality of medical care to Australian families; second, that it would increase the total cost to the Government and thus to the taxpayer; third, that it would increase the cost to an individual because, in addition to increased taxation, expensive additional private insurance would be required to maintain health care standards; fourth, that it would reduce the freedom of choice of doctors and hospitals; fifth, that it would jeopardise the future of religious, private and country hospitals; and, sixth, that it would be the first stage of nationalisation of health care in Australia. [More…]

• The Government is adopting a revolutionary rather than evolutionary approach to our health care system. [More…]

• After 30 years of a national health scheme Great Britain has managed to cover approximately 96 per cent- or 4 per cent more- of its population. [More…]

• Surely that is not a problem that requires drastic revolutionary surgery that will turn the whole health care system into confusion and chaos. [More…]

• One should add to that the fact that according to gallup polls a majority of Australians has consistently shown themselves to be opposed to it and that the vast majority of those involved in the health care system are opposed to it, including the doctors. [More…]

• The pensioner medical scheme and the subsidised health benefits plan for low income earners are not perfect. [More…]

• Under the present subsidised health benefits plan- imperfect though it is- with the recent alterations, a family man can earn up to $3,500 and be completely covered for hospital and medical benefits with the Government paying his contributions and he still does not have to pay any special tax levy. [More…]

• Third, it will polarise the health system in this country. [More…]

• Instead of having a reasonable community approach to health in Australia there will be a polarisation between those who, on the one hand, are forced to use the public system and the wealthy who, on the other hand, can well afford to pay for special private hospitals and private facilities. [More…]

• Those wealthy people using private facilities will take with them a disproportionate share of our health delivery people- doctors, nurses and so on- so, in a situation of shortages, depriving people who use public wards and ordinary facilities of the services of these urgently needed people. [More…]

• The fourth point is that the community support which has been apparent for health and hospitals generally will be lost. [More…]

• This system provides a guarantee for long term patients and it also reduces the cost of health insurance. [More…]

• The Leader of the Opposition made the point very well that there will be an increase in the gross domestic product expended on health from 5 to 12 per cent. [More…]

• Shrapnel and Knight, 2 independent actuaries, have said that the Minister has underestimated the cost by $400m and State health ministers have said the same. [More…]

• Not only will there be an increased cost to the nation but there will also be an increased cost to the individual who will have to pay the special tax levy of 1.35 per cent plus, as that percentage will have to be increased; he will also be required, out of ordinary taxation from general revenue, to pay for the deficit in the health fund. [More…]

• The Australian Government’s proposed new health scheme will be ‘a mathematical shambles that in some cases will more than double health care cost,’ the Taxpayers’ Association said. [More…]

• Their health insurance bill will jump 82 per cent under the new scheme, it says. [More…]

• The newspaper report states quite clearly that the health bill for the average family man will increase by 82 per cent. [More…]

• Mr Acting Chairman, the Government should stop its senseless, socialist stampede for a costly, unworkable scheme that will reduce health care standards, reduce freedom of choice and put many of our hospitals at peril. [More…]

• -Mr Acting Chairman, these health bills have been considered by the House of Representatives and passed by it on 3 occasions. [More…]

• So I fail to understand why the honourable member for Hotham (Mr Chipp) consistently confuses this proposed health program with the British scheme. [More…]

• The report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee outlining how the health insurance program could be introduced was tabled in the House of Representatives in April 1973. [More…]

• This legislation represents a sincere endeavour to build a new health benefits system which will provide high quality health services, accessible to all. [More…]

• Which will expand freedom of choice; which will promote efficiency in health services and which will upgrade hospital and community health centres. [More…]

• The legislation will make possible the establishment of community health centres. [More…]

• This was not possible in the 23 years that the Opposition had the chance to provide a health service to cover Australian people [More…]

• There are some groups within the community who obtain health services free, including pensioners. [More…]

• At present the bulk of the population must insure themselves and their families through one of the multiplicity of health insurance funds. [More…]

• If honourable members of the Opposition can visualise a situation in which a person cannot afford health coverage, they will realise that if he has the choice between paying the rent and eating, he will eat, and if he has the choice between paying health insurance and eating, he will eat. [More…]

• Let us face this fact once and for all: The existing scheme discriminates against the very people who most urgently need health insurance. [More…]

• The very basis of the program submitted here by my Party is to make sure that the hard-working family man is not plunged into poverty through his inability to afford health insurance. [More…]

• I repeat that people will eat before they take out health insurance. [More…]

• The honourable member for Chisholm (Mr Staley) made an unfortunate statement the other day in the debate on the health Bills. [More…]

• We in Australia are in the happy situation of having a typically Australian solution to the problem of health care. [More…]

• I submit that the right to good health is a basic freedom and that medical treatment should not rest on ability to pay. [More…]

• The honourable member for Chisholm also suggested in this House that the health program we are debating would do away with the close relationship between doctor and patient. [More…]

• Australians re-elected this Government and, in so doing, re-endorsed this national health program. [More…]

• Australia’s present private health insurance system is clearly to blame for the present situation. [More…]

• Disadvantaged people are being discouraged from belonging to private health funds because contributions to them are in no way related to a person’s ability to pay. [More…]

• In debating this Bill, the Parliament is really deciding whether health care is a privilege to be purchased or a right to be enjoyed equally by every Australian. [More…]

• In my opinion, a vote against this Bill is a vote against the rights of good health of one million Australians who are uninsured. [More…]

• Why should a monolithic health service be any different, any better, for the people of Australia than the one which has been developed as part of the Australian need? [More…]

• I think he acknowledges that nowhere is he talking about delivery of health care. [More…]

• The people do not want this health scheme. [More…]

• Why then do we have the obstinate introduction and re-introduction- round and round again- into this Parliament of a scheme which is a disaster to health care as we need it? [More…]

• It has been stressed in a cliche that health care is a right. [More…]

• Surely health care is a responsibility. [More…]

• Under the existing health scheme the Liberal-Country Party Government progressively closed the gaps as they were found to exist and it assisted those low income groups, such as migrants and pensioners, to have health care. [More…]

• Ours was not a government obsessed with taking over the health scheme. [More…]

• But really, it is not a health scheme that we are talking about; it is a social program. [More…]

• I am to become a card-carrying Australian for a public health system, a national superannuation scheme and a national compensation scheme. [More…]

• Is it in the interests of individual Australians to create a monopoly over health services? [More…]

• This national health scheme and other nationalised programs which we are seeing are not the way in which we will best express the will and the purpose of this nation. [More…]

• If it is not to provide a diminished health service, then, of course, there is no freedom of choice for us as to what the rate will be next year. [More…]

• Independent actuaries have told us that the 1.5 to 1 ratio which the Government initiated in the first place will in no way cover the needs of the present health program. [More…]

• If the Leader of the Opposition is correct in his figure of some 14 per cent being required for health care, what sort of a levy will we, as individual Australians, have imposed on our tax-paying income? [More…]

• The White Paper which was produced stated, in paragraph 7.15, that the total net cost of the Budget, including the effect of tax deductions, will be approximately the same as under the existing health scheme. [More…]

• Are we therefore talking about diminishing the actual health care that will be delivered? [More…]

• These things are provided in the existing health service. [More…]

• The various types of plans that any government department decides upon are plans with doors, doorways and passages of certain dimensions, and all manner of restrictive provisions- not necessarily what is needed to deliver the health service to the people but what some bureaucratic department decides is the type of plan that would best suit that purpose. [More…]

• I am not talking of that time; I am going back to 1944-45, in the days of a Labor government, when it was decided that the Federal Government had a responsibility in the matter of health care. [More…]

• At the time that Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson was Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister for Health we closed many more gaps. [More…]

• Progressively the system has been built to serve the Australian people and their health needs. [More…]

• If that were upheld by the High Court as an infringement of the Constitution with regard to civil conscription, can members imagine what the High Court of Australia may say not so long ahead with regard to sessional doctors who, under the Hayden health scheme, will be required to deal with government in the way in which this form-filling-in government always requires? [More…]

• Will it dismantle the health care program as it has done the child care program? [More…]

• Are we in the hands of a government which, for economic reasons, after having created this monopoly of health care, will plunge into discrimination against certain groups, against services which will be provided and against ancillary services? [More…]

• The dangers of the proposed health scheme on the medical profession, on the private hospital system and on the Australian people make me feel very concerned about the fact that the Government should persist in introducing a scheme which is not wanted. [More…]

• As was pointed out this morning, the Government has trimmed, schemed and tried to by-pass the problems that have been put before it, but at no time has the Government acknowledged that it was wrong; that the proposed health scheme was a theory of some economists. [More…]

• The proposed health scheme may be a superior economic system, but superior to what has not been acknowledged. [More…]

• Although we have been regarded as obstructing the wish of the Australian Government to introduce its health scheme, I believe that I represent the people of Victoria who have elected me to this place, and I assure them that it will not be my vote that will enable a nationalised health scheme to be introduced into this country. [More…]

• Her concept of free competition in the present medical benefits voluntary health scheme is a rather interesting one. [More…]

• Anyone who considers that there is competition between schemes which charge the same rates, which give the same benefits, which have the same forms and which have the same regulations has a peculiar concept of competition, as has someone who refers to referendum results as an indication that the Australian people do not want this proposed health scheme. [More…]

• The result of those referendums or elections put honourable senators and members on this side of the Parliament into power, and the proposed health scheme was part of our policy at those elections. [More…]

• These Bills produce for the first time a system of health insurance incorporating the principles of social equity, justice and universal coverage which are not present and not possible under the present health scheme. [More…]

• These proposals provide for a change in the method of funding health care in this country and, together with the other proposals for hospital and community care, represent a social reform- a reform to overcome the inefficiencies of the present system and to correct its malapportionment of the taxpayers’ money between the private and public sectors and its maldistribution of doctors and health services. [More…]

• During the last election campaign he said he supported the Liberal Party health scheme when, because of his membership of the General Practitioners Society, obviously he did not. [More…]

• The second most virulent opposition to the new health scheme has come from the friends of the honourable member for Hotham, the big funds with their $20,000 and $30,000 a year executives, whose boards are made up of people who have vested interests in the business of health, whose constitutions carefully preclude consumer representation on their boards. [More…]

• Not only were they active in the great health debate but also they were successful in having provision made for meaningful consumer and government representation on health funds removed from the Opposition’s policy on health, in spite of the opposition of the honourable member for Hotham who leaves to feed himself. [More…]

• Prior to the suspension of the sitting I was speaking about the false and unreasonable criticism of the Government’s proposed health insurance plan. [More…]

• It never concerned the Opposition in that other large field of public health carerepatriation medical services- when it was in power. [More…]

• I am sorry that the Opposition Parties may get less assistance from the large health funds in future, but there are plenty of other equally wealthy and equally unworthy causes for the Opposition to champion. [More…]

• All the criticisms of the present scheme are corrected in our proposed health scheme. [More…]

• Some of them were corrected in the hurriedly prepared Liberal Party health scheme produced just before the last election. [More…]

• For the first time the Liberal Party and the Country Party conceded that there were people not covered by the present health scheme, that the scheme was not universal. [More…]

• The only difference between the scheme proposed by the Opposition and our proposal is that we cannot see any sense in preserving the large voluntary health funds. [More…]

• In the original draft of the Opposition’s proposal there was provision for representatives of the contributors to be on the boards of the health funds. [More…]

• This legislation will improve health care in this country and will bring justice to it. [More…]

• This is all about the health Bills. [More…]

• I have probably spoken more words about national health schemes than has anyone in these 2 Houses of Parliament, not because I am naturally verbose but because for 5 years as Minister for Health I presided over the development and operation of the existing voluntary health scheme which these Bills, in an act of wanton senseless vandalism, are designed to destroy. [More…]

• I learned how complex and delicately balanced were the relationships between the professionals and the institutions responsible for providing health care and, in turn, between those professionals and institutions and the recipients of health care. [More…]

• I learned how easily these relationships can be upset, how easily the quality of health care can decline if one wields the bludgeon, as the present Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) has done; if one attempts to let funding arrangements and economic considerations rather than efficient and sympathetic delivery of health care predominate in the health scheme; if in a search for something that is simple and easily understood one forgets that he is dealing with something that is essentially complex and therefore not conducive to such treatment; if one pulls down and destroys and starts again rather than build on what is proven and tried. [More…]

• I learned by observing what had happened in other countries that by adopting these criteria we had developed a health scheme which, although not perfect, was unique and, I believe, somewhat precious. [More…]

• At the end of my time as Minister for Health I expressed my convictions in these words: [More…]

• We want a health scheme in which the citizen is always treated as an individual human being and not just as a cog in a medical care machine. [More…]

• Honourable members and honourable senators will remember that, over the years, every time there has been an increase in doctors’ fees or an increase in hospital charges; every time there were complaints that the present scheme did not adequately cover paramedical services; every time there were problems about nursing homes; every time that other such problems arose, there were cries from the Prime Minister and his few servile supporters in the Press Gallery that we must have the Labor Party’s health scheme to fix them. [More…]

• In the light of all this there are people from one end of Australia to the other asking themselves why the Government is trying to throw out a health scheme which the overwhelming majority of them have found perfectly satisfactory, which has given them good quality health care at reasonable cost with freedom of choice of doctor and hospital and health insurance fund, and with speed and compassion, and in which they have genuine confidence. [More…]

• I constantly ask myself why these changes have become necessary or why there has been the denigration which the Australian Labor Party has undertaken persistently over the years of the health funds, the doctors, the private hospitals, the nursing homes and other such bodies. [More…]

• If the Labor Party’s health scheme was as good as honourable members and honourable senators opposite have been saying it is, why go into this denigration of decent, self-respecting individuals to the extent that they have. [More…]

• As they saw it, it was only by constructing a scheme that was virtually entirely tax financed that the health costs which were burgeoning everywhere in the world could be controlled. [More…]

• This is how the United Kingdom has been able to keep expenditure on health below 5 per cent of its gross national product. [More…]

• The voluntary health scheme was going through a bad patch. [More…]

• It made some headway in the minds of members of the public, not on its merits, because the realities were and are hidden from the public gaze, but on the constant reiteration by the Prime Minister that the current difficulties of the voluntary health scheme at that time were inherent in the scheme itself. [More…]

• We were able to produce the present arrangements, which so many Australians have found so sensitively attuned to their health care needs, without abandoning the principles of voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• Firstly, there are the health funds. [More…]

• I defy the Minister to deny that he and the Prime Minister quite deliberately, as an act of policy, set out to denigrate the health funds and to create in the public mind the impression that the funds were profit making institutions operating for their own benefit and that the large number of closed and friendly society funds were a source of extravagance and inefficiency and squandered money on excessive promotion and self-indulgence. [More…]

• The honourable member for Hotham went further in his misleading statement by saying that if this ever occurred- he almost implied that it was going to happen in a few years, in some inexplicable way, because of the present health scheme proposals- only 20 per cent of people would be able to afford doctors in private practice. [More…]

• He said the Prime Minister had forecast that the 5.3 per cent of the gross domestic product now going on health care would rise by the year 2000 to 12 per cent of the gross domestic product. [More…]

• He said, as I have said and as the Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, has said- as several of us have said- that the best expert extimates of the way the exponential growth of health cost is going now is that if it continues at the present trend it will reach 12 per cent by the year 2000. [More…]

• Those emotional phrases are not going to solve or stop this health debate. [More…]

• The Opposition is not going to stop the people of Australia from getting universal health insurance cover. [More…]

• As long ago as 1938 the founder of that once great Liberal Party said that the only solution to the problem of meeting health costs was a national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• What changed that great vision of Sir Robert Menzies and turned the Liberal Party away from a universal health insurance scheme? [More…]

• Much has been made of statements by the Prime Minister and the Minister for Social Security that our first nationalisation project would be health insurance. [More…]

• The Opposition has again misrepresented these statements by saying that the Government will nationalise all health services, and that of course is something very different. [More…]

• People on both sides of the House have stressed that nationalisation of health insurance is not nationalisation of medical services, that health services and health care delivery are not insurance and are not systems of payment. [More…]

• One of the biggest deficiencies in the present scheme is the inability, the unwillingness or the neglect of previous governments in any way to plan, to look ahead at the needs of health care delivery. [More…]

• In fact, when we made representations to former Ministers for Health they said consistently: ‘It is not a matter for us, it is a matter for the States.’ [More…]

• They did not even dream of community health systems and they had no approach to rehabilitation, with one honourable exception. [More…]

• I refer to a community health program, a medical rehabilitation scheme for Australia and a hospitals program for Australia. [More…]

• But what other government has done as much to help to decentralise these very functions and to insist that the local community committees and authorities and the voluntary organisations have a place in the regional organisation of health care? [More…]

• This problem extends into other health services as well as hospitals. [More…]

• At present health services cost our nation more than $2,000m a year or about 5.3 per cent of gross domestic product. [More…]

• Their cost is increasing so dramatically that it has been estimated that our expenditure on health services could be more thai 12 per cent of gross domestic product by the year 2000. [More…]

• The proposed levy of 1.35 per cent on taxable income will prove cheaper than the present health insurance scheme for the great majority of Australians. [More…]

• I do not agree with that statement, but it does indentify what he was talking about, that is, the proposed Labor health scheme with the 1.35 per cent levy. [More…]

• He was referring to the health scheme legislation. [More…]

• We expect the health insurance program to become a reality in 1 975. [More…]

• The other matter I wish to raise is that in his speech the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) said that I had said- and I certainly did- that the Minister for Health had not costed his scheme. [More…]

• I think that we all really want to know what effect the passage of these Bills will have on the patients, the doctors, the hospitals and the health industry overall. [More…]

• The role of the Senate is most pertinent to this health legislation. [More…]

• Queensland, the State which I represent, will be inimically damaged by the passage of this health legislation. [More…]

• I hope that with the health Bills all Queensland senators will vote together, as they have been clearly instructed to do, and reject them. [More…]

• Let us not have any misconception about either of these health Bills. [More…]

• They do not promise people any better health. [More…]

• They promise worse health. [More…]

• This high tax, ill-health Bill is the first step in destroying our private health insurance, our private general practitioner service, our private specialist service, our private hospitals, our private nursing homes and our private ancillary services. [More…]

• As has been stated during these debates, many countries have tried various forms of socialised health. [More…]

• Despite the claims of honourable members opposite, Australians are not generally dissatisfied with the health service they have at the moment. [More…]

• If we are to replace our health services and the good standard that we enjoy, we should replace them with something better, not something worse. [More…]

• It is maintained that there is social inequality in the cost of medical insurance simply because richer people can deduct their premiums from their income for tax purposes and get it more cheaply, but I would point out that the richer people pay more tax anyway and out of that tax a fair whack is taken for the provision of other health services. [More…]

• When we come to think of it, the whole health edifice exists for the patient. [More…]

• The promise of free health care to the consumer at the point of delivery is a wild one. [More…]

• The difference between the party to which I have the honour to belong and the Opposition Parties is that we represent those people and the Opposition represents the privileged in the community, people such as the doctors who are represented by the Australian Medical Association and the General Practitioners’ Society, the private hospitals and the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• One would have thought that some tinge of conscience would have been awakened under those modish suits and those stylish haircuts, some feeling of responsibility for the ordinary people whom the Opposition represents, the ordinary people who join one of the health insurance funds out of some 160 which exist. [More…]

• Even members of the Country Party represent consumers who should be represented on these health insurance funds. [More…]

• But consumers play a very small part in boards of management of health insurance funds. [More…]

• The private health insurance funds have failed to give the Australian people the protection they require. [More…]

• It would cost in the vicinity of $150m a year and would achieve nothing by way of desirable incentives for the future development of the health care system. [More…]

• We are not committed to innumerable private health insurance funds whose only concern is to build up their reserves so that when this Government’s scheme begins to operate they may escape with the fat funds. [More…]

• We are committed to giving the people of Australia a comprehensive health insurance scheme- a comprehensive health cover- because we believe in their intrinsic right to a life of dignity and decency. [More…]

• Within the constraints of time that are put upon me- they are quite severe- one or two things deserve to be stated concerning the proposed health scheme. [More…]

• When I look at the Government and when I consider the activities of the Prime Minister (Mr Whitlam) and the honourable member for Oxley (Mr Hayden) over the last 5 years I am forced to accept the simple proposition that their aim has been to go down in Australian history as the gravediggers of Australia’s health system. [More…]

• This is certainly true in respect of health services. [More…]

• The commonsense of the Australian people was manifest when the Constitution was first adopted, because in the matter of health only one power was conferred on the Commonwealth Government- the power of quarantine. [More…]

• When, after the Second World War, the social service amendments were made to the Constitution, further powers in respect of health, hospitals, medical benefits, etc., were conferred upon the Commonwealth Government, but not so as to authorise any form of civil conscription. [More…]

• The spirit of that veto is offended when, in terms of economic conscription and financial conscription, the Government, through the honourable member for Oxley and the Prime Minister, attempts to inter our present health system. [More…]

• Economic conscription, with all its compulsion and with all its direction, has always been anathema to the Australian people, but the Government intends to impose it on the Australian people in respect of health. [More…]

• Earlier this afternoon I listened to the speech of a former Minister for Health, the honourable member for Barker (Dr Forbes), and every word in his comments was correct. [More…]

• For 5 years the Prime Minister and his supporters have looked for the vulnerable elements in the Australian health system in order to utilise them as instruments with which to destroy the Australian health system. [More…]

• They have looked for the vulnerable elements in the medical profession; they have looked for the vulnerable elements in respect of hospitals; and they have used the weight of their propaganda and money to make vulnerable the voluntary health services of this nation. [More…]

• Under the proposed health scheme that payment will be an extra cost on her of several hundred dollars. [More…]

• Turning to the third element in respect of the voluntary health funds, accusations of deception upon deception have been laid at their doors for more than 5 years, and there has been no more cruel deception than that 25 per cent of the money paid out by voluntary health funds has in fact been spent on management expenses. [More…]

• In terms of health, which is the most intimate of social services, the Government does not want to put itself in the position of sharing power with anyone else. [More…]

• One is left only with the proposition- a simple proposition in this respect- that the Government and those people who propose this scheme will not be happy until they have the title of the successful gravedigger thrust upon them, and they will not be happy unless they see the body of a healthy, vital, voluntary, supported Australian health services interred. [More…]

• -There is nothing like a debate on a down-to-earth topic such as health to expose the gulf that separates the Liberal Party from the problems of an average Australian family. [More…]

• Every word we heard this morning from the Leader of the Opposition (Mr Snedden) and the Opposition spokesman on health and social security, the honourable member for Hotham (Mr Chipp), showed clearly that they are out of touch with the health care services upon which an overwhelming majority of Australian families are obliged to rely. [More…]

• Every calamity which they predicted as a result of the health scheme which we are debating this afternoon is already part and parcel of health care arrangements for which the Opposition is responsible and with which every ordinary Australian family becomes involved in times of sickness or injury. [More…]

• The Leader of the Opposition said that under Labor’s alternative national health program patients would have to wait and wait in doctor’s surgeries for their medical attention. [More…]

• I will show him surgeries located for miles around his home, which is situated in my electorate, in which sick people, frightened people, crying children and victims of accidents waited hours this morning for medical attention, as they wait each day of each year under the Liberal health arrangements which did not occasion him any concern in 23 years. [More…]

• The Leader of the Opposition said that under Labor’s alternative health scheme people would have to wait, wait, wait until hospital beds were available before they could undergo elective surgery. [More…]

• It is utter presumption for Opposition members to pontificate, as they have today, on community health services of which they have never had personal experience. [More…]

• The criticisms which they made this morning were not based on the shabby congested surgeries and public hospitals of the outer suburbs on which ordinary people rely for health services. [More…]

• That the proposed law, namely the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, be affirmed. [More…]

• There are great and growing needs of the people for better housing, health, education and for the whole quality of life in which the modern city has failed so badly. [More…]

• These needs are so great and are growing at such a rate that they cannot be met from the proceeds of taxation on individuals, or from charges made in the public sector, or from charges made for health or education or housing. [More…]

• It will be required to conduct its operations in a proper and workmanlike manner and, in accordance with good industrial practices, to look after the safety, health and welfare of persons engaged in those operations. [More…]

• We saw that illustrated in our electoral Bills and in our health Bills, and now we see that same characteristic illustrated in this Petroleum and Minerals Authority Bill. [More…]

• Our health scheme is no State monopoly. [More…]

• Both are examples of public enterprise in healthy competition with private enterprise. [More…]

• There is even more merit in one being in healthy competition with the other. [More…]

• We also had to take account of our commitments to other programs of high priority such as education, health and social welfare and above all of the general state of the economy. [More…]

• Sometimes they have to be done for the protection of livestock, or the health of the community through quarantine, or to prevent the smuggling of drugs. [More…]

• The message was directed against Labor’s health scheme. [More…]

• Too many strikes were called under circumstances threatening serious injury to public health or safety- strikes in the coal mines and in public utilities, for example. [More…]

• Industrial strife which interferes with the normal flow of commerce and with the full production of articles and commodities for commerce, can be avoided or substantially minimised if employers, employees, and labour organisations each recognise under law one another’s legitimate rights in their relations with each other, and above all recognise under law that neither party has any right in its relations with any other to engage in acts or practices which jeopardise the public health, safety, or interest. [More…]

• I ask: Is this company registered under the National Health Act? [More…]

• I recall that there are similar provisions under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Several programs have a high priority, such as education, welfare, health and above all, the general state of the economy. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that during the general election campaign, among other election promises, the Government undertook to provide finance to the South Australian Government for the purpose of filtering the Adelaide water supply at a cost, I believe, of something like $80m? [More…]

• In view of the little extra cost involved and in the interest of public health, will the Minister ask the Treasurer for extra money so that the water in that area can be filtered? [More…]

• I shall refer the honourable senator’s question to my colleague the Minister for Health and ask him to take whatever appropriate action he needs to take in order to achieve the objectives which the Government outlined before the last Federal election. [More…]

• Senator Lawrie asked whether the company was registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• In fact, the company is not registered under the National Health Act and is not in any event obliged to be as it does not offer medical or hospital benefits as defined under that Act. [More…]

• This aid in any case consists of a type which is properly to be regarded as designed to improve the health and welfare of the people of South Vietnam, and should not be seen as Australian props under the South Vietnamese Government. [More…]

• The fact is that the dairy industry today is in reasonably good health. [More…]

• The Minister for Agriculture apparently happily runs along with the wishes of the Labor Party concerning advertising that margarine will do your health some good. [More…]

• Australia supports a resolution passed at the 1973 International Conference on Marine Pollution requesting the World Health Organisation to initiate studies into these matters. [More…]

• This money was made available through the Victorian Department of Health. [More…]

• It was the responsibility of the Victorian Department of Health to advise sponsoring bodies of approved assistance under the 1973-74 Interim Pre-school and Child Care Services Program. [More…]

• Details of Australian Government approvals under this program were advised to the Victorian Minister for Health in a letter from the Minister for Education dated 10 April 1974. [More…]

• It is understood that while there were discussions between the Victorian State Minister for Health and Knox City Council officers in April 1974, the Victorian Department of Health has only recently formally advised the Council of the City of Knox of the projects relating to that City and approved as part of the Interim Pre-School and Child Care Services Program. [More…]

• That proposals to change the existing health scheme are unacceptable to the people of Australia [More…]

• The Department of Customs and Excise, the Department of Health and the Department of Transport and other departments have discussed this matter for quite a long period. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• At the meeting of the Australian Ministers for Health, which was held in August of this year, the Ministers agreed to take back to their respective States proposals that had come from the National Therapeutic Goods Committee which called for a uniform code of advertising for pharmaceutical products. [More…]

• This Government is still not aware of the actions which the States intend to take to implement the recommendations of the Health Ministers Conference. [More…]

• However, the Minister for Health in this Government does intend to introduce as soon as possible proposals to control this form of advertising in the Territories under the authority of this Government. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Customs and Excise aware that there have been complaints in a Brisbane newspaper that certain canned vegetables imported from Taiwan could be a health risk because they may have been grown in human waste? [More…]

• Imported food products generally are referred by the Department of Customs and Excise to the Australian Government Analyst for testing only when there is reason to believe that they present a potential hazard to health. [More…]

• Health and Welfare; and [More…]

• Health and Welfare; [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Health and Welfare has already presented a report in respect of one of the 5 matters which are before it. [More…]

• The Soviet authorities deny, however, that he has been ill-treated or is in poor health and state that he has received proper medical facilities. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In particular in New South Wales, after some negotiations with the Health Commission of that State, an accident and emergency treatment centre has been established at the repatriation general hospital in Concord to handle casualty cases from an area which is yet to be defined in the western suburbs of Sydney. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I lay on the table of the Senate the report of the DirectorGeneral of Health on the activities of the Australian Department of Health for the year ended 30 June 1974. [More…]

• -On 18 July 1974, Senator Baume asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health the following question, without notice: [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the existence of the Therapeutic Goods Advisory Committee which was set up in 1972 by the Liberal-Country Party Government? [More…]

• The Minister for Health has now provided me with the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Department of Repatriation and Compensation, in conjunction with the Department of Health, has provided a centre in Darwin where artificial limbs are made available to all those who are in need of them, particularly Aborigines. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to a statement made by the Minister for Health and reported in today’s Press which advises people not to eat more than about half a kilogram of flake due to the presence of mercury which has been detected recently in some fish filets. [More…]

• As the States have a significant responsibility in this matter will the Minister ask his colleague to arrange a meeting of all State Ministers for Health so that a combined attack can be made on water pollution in Australia and also so that some uniform regulations can be drawn up concerning the safe level of mercury in food? [More…]

• Of course, primarily this is an environmental rather than a health problem. [More…]

• Apparently 10 lb of fish would be enough to cause very serious danger to the health of a person who ate it. [More…]

• Certainly I shall convey to the Minister for Health the matter which Senator Jessop has raised. [More…]

• The Government is not prepared to vary its previous decision and allocate more from the Budget to the Post Office because this could only be at the expense of our priority programs in the fields of education, welfare and health. [More…]

• In meeting these social and economic needs in areas such as medical assistance, education, agricultural extension services and temporary housing, Australia would be joining Canada, the Netherlands, West Germany, Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway and other countries, together with the specialised agencies of the United Nations such as the Food and Agriculture Organisation, the United Nations Childrens Fund, the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organisation and the World Health Organisation in giving humanitarian assistance to the African national liberation movements. [More…]

• Health and Welfare: [More…]

• The economic welfare of Australia depends on the health and vitality of the private sector, yet it is this sector which the Government is so determined to undermine and weaken. [More…]

• As I have said, those areas were education, health, social security, housing, and urban and regional development. [More…]

• I would suggest that if the Labor Party would like to introduce a national health scheme it could do it in more palatable ways than by smearing the medical profession and the private enterprise sections of our medical system. [More…]

• If the Government’s policy on national health is a good one, let it state its merits and let it stand up to public criticism and public debate. [More…]

• The Government promised a vastly expanded program of expenditure on what might be called the areas of social concern- health, education and so on. [More…]

• More of that income will be taken and devoted to spending on education, health, Aborigines and so on. [More…]

• Some proposals came from professionals in the field of child care and child health, particularly psychiatrists and teachers. [More…]

• With the threat of entry of exotic diseases into Australia, concern has been expressed in primary industry that the Government is not giving sufficient priority to the establishment of the Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• -It is true that the Government has decided to establish a national Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• The Minister is concerned about the introduction of exotic diseases into Australia, because a little while ago he answered a question concerning the proposed establishment of the Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: In view of his problem concerning the staffing of the proposed Bureau of Animal Health, will he give consideration to organising a voluntary pool arrangement among Australian veterinarians in order to cope with an emergency situation should there be an outbreak of foot and mouth disease in Australia? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of the growing concern of the objectors at the threatened danger to the environment of this partly rural and partly residential area and the damage to the amenities of the district through the wholesale destruction of trees and the creation of traffic problems, quite apart from any health hazards that might result? [More…]

• Certainly it might have general benefits for the health of all honourable senators and members. [More…]

• The Government’s justification for limiting the advance is that if it were to increase the advance to the Post Office beyond that figure it would be at the expense of other government priority programs in the field of education, welfare and health. [More…]

• The Chilean authorities assured our Embassy that Miss Lamas was in good physical health. [More…]

• It is really a matter of our maintaining our research efforts in order to ensure that fruit which may be exported to Japan is acceptable to the health authorities in that country. [More…]

• Special grants are to be available to specified universities to increase teaching and research in special education of the handicapped, to establish courses or chairs of community practice associated with community health centres, and to increase the number of social workers in training. [More…]

• What crosses my mind is whether he is the doctor who supposedly wrote to Senator Webster a letter from which Senator Webster quoted during the health debate. [More…]

• I think Senator Douglas McClelland, who now sits opposite at the table here and is in charge of Government business, was one of the most assiduous senators in areas of health- I recall this assiduity arising out of his interest and knowledge gained through his work on one of our select committees- and in matters concerning the media, his own professional or trade union area. [More…]

• I would just like to comment briefly on the Government’s much publicised national health scheme which was mentioned so much during the general election campaign and which was the subject of one of the double dissolution Bills. [More…]

• In fact, the Government seems to be losing ground in relation to its proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• I saw a letter from the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham)- this does not refer only to private hospitals but also to public hospitals in many parts of Australia- which indicates that the cost per patient is approximately $1,000 a month. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• We also see a Government that is spending money, and spending it heavily, in the areas of health and education and on other things that go towards making for the welfare of our people. [More…]

• He will remember that when his leader, during the last Federal election campaign, was asked which areas he would cut out, he found it very difficult to say anything, except to suggest cuts in expenditure on health, education and the other services which no selfrespecting government would cut. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that notwithstanding the foregoing, Dr Wells of the Australian Capital Territory Health Services has already appointed full time specialists to the hospital services scheme without advising the doctors of these appointments? [More…]

• I must say that I have a great admiration for Senator Baume ‘s intimate acquaintance with the minutiae of the Department of Health. [More…]

• All I can do is undertake to convey Senator Baume ‘s question and his strictures to my colleague the Minister for Health and ask him to act with the promptness which Senator Baume, who, as I say, appears to know a great deal about this matter, seems to think that the circumstances demand. [More…]

• Central Health Laboratory at Woden, Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• In health expenditure we have gone from $20.5m to $1 15.2m, and it is interesting to note that these are moneys which are being paid by the Commonwealth to State agencies. [More…]

• It is a responsible Budget because for the first time the Australian Government has embarked on a major 5-year program to expand and modernise public hospitals and other health institutions in the States. [More…]

• As I have said, the Whitlam Government Budget is concerned with education, health, social welfare and urban improvement. [More…]

• When the first Whitlam Budget was presented we sounded a tocsin in relation to education, health and social welfare. [More…]

• A logical extrapolation of that point of view would be that the last few feet of non-functional metal on a modern motor vehicle is more important than the road upon which the motor vehicle moves, that the unsolicited plastic toy in the cornflakes packet and the costly package that contains it are more valuable than an adequate health service or that the half empty glass and concrete monoliths that dominate the city skyline are socially more desirable than public housing for economically or ethnically underprivileged groups. [More…]

• Is it to be spending on pensions, is it to be spending on education, is it to be spending on health or is it to be spending on grants to local and State governments? [More…]

• A study of residues in the Australian diet carried out by the National Health and Medical Research Council in 1971 revealed that the diet contained no significant quantity of mercury. [More…]

• If the community health centre program- the primary care program- is to mean anything, in the end it has to mean more people in practice giving their services. [More…]

• Honourable senators may recall Senator Chaney ‘s maiden speech last week in which he drew attention to the fact that only in a city with all the problems can you start looking for the solution to Australia’s health problems. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) will know that Dr John Stevens, a leading English general practitioner, has put in a comprehensive plan of medical education for the Wollongong situation and it could be put into action any time we wanted to do so. [More…]

• I also tell the honourable senator that the Sax Committee, namely the National Hospitals and Health Services Commission, is now doing a study on the question of putting a medical school into Wollongong. [More…]

• If one gets into difficulty with one ‘s health, one goes to a doctor. [More…]

• Of course we have put a lot more money into education, health and social security. [More…]

• The proposed Health Insurance Scheme has not yet been introduced. [More…]

• Development of the Health Insurance data processing system; [More…]

• Processing of Health Insurance statistics relating to the existing scheme; [More…]

• The use to which the computer would be put in the event of a long delay in the implementation of the Health Insurance Program would be reviewed by the Department in the light of work priorities for computing requirements at that time. [More…]

• I would point out that had it not been for the frustration of the Opposition in the Senate, the Health Insurance Program would have been introduced on 1 July this year and the computer would have been in full use. [More…]

• Will the conversion from mass concentration (mg. per litre) to substance concentration (millimoles per litre) cause confusion among some health workers. [More…]

• What arrangements have been made to inform the medical profession and the other health professions of the problems and to provide them with appropriate conversion charts. [More…]

• No confusion among health workers is expected in the future. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• No new community health centres have been approved for the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney. [More…]

• It is assumed that the reference is to a proposal put to the Hospitals and Health Services Commission for the establishment of four health centres in the Eastern Suburbs and which is still under consideration by the Commission. [More…]

• I am not aware of any proposal to staff health centres in New South Wales using second year resident medical officers seconded from teaching hospitals. [More…]

• In New South Wales, medical staff employed in community health centres are employed under the NSW Public Service Act. [More…]

• The Eastern Suburbs of Sydney do not comprise an area recognised for purposes of health care planning in New South Wales. [More…]

• The Eastern Suburbs would fall within the Southern Metropolitan health planning region. [More…]

• Within that region there are areas that do enjoy a favourable health care situation and others that do not. [More…]

• However, any area may display particular problems in the array of health services available in relation to the needs of the community being served. [More…]

• The balance will be expended by other departments such as the Department of Education for study grants and secondary grants and special programs in the Northern Territory, by the Department of Health in the Northern Territory, and the Department of Labor and Immigration under its employment training scheme. [More…]

• However, some items of expenditure, such as the provision of education and health services at Aboriginal communities in the Northern Territory, while designed to meet the special needs of the Aboriginal people, al.so represent to some extent the equivalent of services provided for the general community. [More…]

• In summary, the policies of the Australian Government in respect of Aboriginal people might be described as seeking: to encourage and strengthen the capacity of Aborigines to manage their own affairs and to increase their economic independence; to enable Aborigines to have a real freedom of choice about their life style and the extent to which, particularly in the more remote communities, they maintain their traditional customs and culture- a freedom which can be exercised to the extent that communities have local authority, in particular through land ownership; to make equality a reality for Aboriginal Australians by working to overcome those handicaps which generally face them in fields such as housing, health, education, employment and civil liberties; in doing this, to help Aborigines themselves to provide services designed to overcome handicapsfor instance, through Aboriginal housing societies, medical services and legal services- and to act in the closest consultation with Aboriginal communities and individuals at both the national and the local levels. [More…]

• It has always regarded the provision of services such as health, housing, education, employment, legal aid and others to Aborigines as being the responsibility of functional departments and authorities. [More…]

• It is not the Australian Government’s intention to assume permanent responsibility for the activities of State departments in fields such as health and education in respect of Aboriginal people. [More…]

• These areas are as follows: Dental therapy assistance, pre-school education, community recreation complexes, the State Strategy Plan, urban public transport, community health, community mental health and the National Estate. [More…]

• Freedom to legislate with respect to social security, health matters, transport costs and transport charges has been a very difficult problem for those Tasmanian governments which have been in power. [More…]

• In a small State like Tasmania, with a small population which is spread across the State, some forms of social services, health and education cost more than they do in other States. [More…]

• There is $2m for community health centres on which money had never been spent before and $3m for the school dental health scheme. [More…]

• One of our former Senate colleagues who is well known to you, Mr President, in the person of Mr Fitzgerald, who was not enjoying good health at the time, came along and graced several of the rallies with his presence. [More…]

• Health Programs in New South Wales: Terminology (Question No. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What is the difference between a Community Health Complex and a Community Health Centre, in relation to the community health program grants for New South Wales. [More…]

• Does the program provide for the establishment of 12 Health Centres. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Hospitals and Health Services Commission accepts considerable freedom and variety in local usage and terminology concerning projects submitted to it under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• In relation to New South Wales, the Health Commission of New South Wales views a Community Health Complex as a project serving approximately 60,000 persons and providing a wide range of primary care services together with specialist back-up services. [More…]

• It views a Community Health Centre as a project serving a population of up to 20,000 persons and providing, in the main, only primary care services. [More…]

• 15 Centres and 2 Complexes were included in the approved 1973-74 Community Health Program for New South Wales. [More…]

• Approval of the above projects was made by the Minister for Health on the recommendation of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• In formulating its recommendations, the Commission took account of the needs and priorities for the provision of community health services and facilities as submitted by the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• The Hospitals and Health Services Commission, in consultation with the State Authority, also took account of the benefits of emphasising the allocation of Block Grants under the Community Health Program to integrated regional systems for the provision of needed community health services and facilities. [More…]

• The 2 Community Health Complexes funded in 1 973-74 were part of a regional plan for the Western Metropolitan Region of Sydney. [More…]

• The other Centres were each funded under a specific Grant to meet urgent needs given a high priority by the New South Wales Health Commission. [More…]

• The Australian Government relied heavily on the expert views of the Health Commission of New South Wales in determining the need for these initial facilities. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Will the Minister inform the Senate of the extent to which medical investigators using National Health and Medical Research Council funds must adhere to the requirements for consent in human experimentation set out on pages 444-5 of the Council’s 1972 Report on Medical Research. [More…]

• Does the National Health and Medical Research Council insist upon and monitor compliance with the requirements set out in the Report. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Has a letter been written by the Minister for Social Security to the State Ministers for Health setting out the Commonwealth offer on Federal contributions to the funding of hospitals under the proposed new National Health Insurance Scheme. [More…]

• I have written to State Ministers for Health, setting out the suggested contents of the proposed agreements between the Australian and State Governments on the provision of public hospital services, including funding of hospitals. [More…]

• The purpose of my letter was primarily to seek each Health Minister’s reaction to the general principles of the proposed agreement, which is based on the Heads of Agreement set out in Schedule 2 of the Health Insurance Act 1 973. [More…]

• I further proposed that once the Health Ministers had given a general indication of their views, officers of my Department and the Health Ministers’ Departments might proceed to develop a detailed proposal for our examination. [More…]

• There was intensive public discussion on the ‘Green Paper’ and subsequently the ‘White Paper’ on the Health Insurance proposal extending over several months. [More…]

• The principles proposed in the letter to the States are set out in Schedule 2 of the Health Insurance Act 1973, as mentioned in paragraph ( 1 ) above. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It was an amendment well worthy of your support and we think it a great pity that you could not have expressed your personal opinions and done something to assist the State you represent instead of voting on Party lines scoring political points and mouthing arithmetic about aid in the field of education and health. [More…]

• Obviously this is a matter with which the Minister for Health himself will have to deal. [More…]

• I shall put to him the matter that Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson has raised today, and as soon as I have received a reply on this matter, which I agree is a matter of some urgency, I shall advise the Senate of what action the Department of Health is taking in order to prevent any possible introduction of cholera into Australia. [More…]

• Moreover, if we are really interested in feeding the hungry world why do we devote a considerable amount of resources to attempts to persuade the overfed at home and abroad to endanger their health by gluttony- by eating more than is good for them? [More…]

• It is the intention of the Government that medical and hospital treatment will continue to be available to eligible patients through the Repatriation treatment scheme upon implementation of the Health Insurance Program. [More…]

• The honourable senator will recall that the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill recently rejected in this House, sought to provide certain categories of Repatriation beneficiaries with partial or total relief from payment of the levy. [More…]

• It seemed to me that this matter was one of some urgency, and I asked the Minister for Health to let me have a prompt report on the matter, which he has done. [More…]

• I think the Minister for Health is always very prompt with his replies. [More…]

• The Philippines have been reported by the World Health Organisation consistently as an infected area all this year, and the latest outbreak is a resurgence of endemic disease. [More…]

• The World Health Organisation in May 1973 pointed out that insistence on vaccination against cholera, while offering partial protection, did not preclude the possibility of importation of cholera into a country. [More…]

• For these reasons the World Health Organisation, since 1973, has not supported vaccination against cholera for international travel. [More…]

• It follows that the protection of populations depends mainly on sanitation and other public health measures taken within the country. [More…]

• Officers of the Department of Health performing quarantine duties at international airports have been notified of this resurgence of cholera in the Manila area and will exercise extra vigilance in regard to passengers arriving from this part of Asia. [More…]

• The Department of Health continues to advise vaccination against cholera for personal protection of Australians travelling overseas and likely to visit cholera infected countries. [More…]

• One would know that under Liberal governments the ordinary citizen has been deprived of many freedoms, especially in relation to such matters as health and the like. [More…]

• To equate the desire of the Government for the Film Commission to get information by compulsory process from any person with the compulsory powers that are occasionally found in health Acts which are concerned with public health is, I think, to have a sense of proportion which does not put public health or the Film Commission in its correct perspective. [More…]

• The number of medical benefits organisations and hospital benefits organisations registered under the National Health Act as at 30 September 1974, excluding duplicate registrations because of multi-state operations, is 79 and 85 respectively. [More…]

• and (3) These matters are at present under consideration in connection with the discussions taking place with private health insurance funds. [More…]

• 1 ) As I have mentioned before, the cost of the Australian Health Insurance Program will be about the same as the sum of the present private health insurance scheme plus pensioner hospital and medical benefits and Repatriation medical services costs. [More…]

• The last costing carried out is in the White Paper: ‘The Australian Health Insurance Program’. [More…]

• Senator Baume would be interested to know that previous Liberal/Country Party Health Ministers always refused to make any forward projections of the cost of private health insurance and, in fact, would only provide detailed figures for a financial year some several months after the conclusion of that financial year. [More…]

• The Government’s policy on ‘direct’ or ‘bulk’ billing is set out in paragraphs 3.15 to 3.22 of the White Paper titled ‘The Australian Health Insurance Program’, which was tabled in the Senate by the Minister then representing the Minister for Social Security (Senator Douglas McClelland) on 13 [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Quarantine procedures recommended by the World Health Organization are contained in a lengthy publication entitled- International Health Regulations 1969. [More…]

• The procedures in Australia substantially conform with those recommended by the World Health Organization. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Was this order withdrawn by the Director of Health; if so, what reasons were given. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Did the Director of Health issue orders on 20 June 1974, that the vessel M.V. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -I will have to get the Minister for Health on to this problem of influenza. [More…]

• -The government and the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, have investigated Dr Kalokerinos ‘s findings on this question and I have had discussions with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• While the value of his work is acknowledged in the Department of Health there is some doubt about the validity of his theory concerning the effects of vitamin C on the health of the Aboriginal people, a theory which he seems to believe is the whole solution to the Aboriginal health problem. [More…]

• Only within the last month I received a deputation representing doctors in New South Wales who are looking after the health of the Aboriginal people in that State. [More…]

• They say that it is impossible to overcome the health problem of Aborigines while there is a lack of housing and while there are cramped conditions. [More…]

• Dr Kalokerinos has had discussions with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Within the Department of Health generally, it is not accepted that his theory will provide the solution. [More…]

• We hope that by a study of the question we can obtain a more definite solution to the problem of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• But we do not accept and the Department of Health does not accept the theory that this is the solution to all Aboriginal health problems. [More…]

• The answer is that, during their incarceration, these people suffered abnormal hardships and privations which could affect their general health and well-being as they get on in years and, for this reason, they are obviously deserving of special consideration. [More…]

• This in itself is not a bad thing, but the Senate may care to know a few basic health facts about marriage. [More…]

• If one examines the death rates, sickness rates and psychiatric illness rates of married men and single men and married women and single women one will find that married men are healthier than single men and have lower mortality rates. [More…]

• Also, it is true in Tasmania and I believe in at least some other States, depending upon the particular judge before whom a particular matter comes, that in respect of the ground of cruelty although it is no longer necessary to prove an intention it is still necessary to establish what the courts have called ‘grave and weighty misconduct’ and, in addition, actual injury to the health of the complaining spouse or serious apprehension thereof. [More…]

• The Henderson Commission recommended fringe benefits and health care be made available to all invalid pensioners so long as any part pension is paid; again no action has resulted. [More…]

• Eventually they wrecked the mental health of the 3 children of the family. [More…]

• She has left far behind her the two or three years of work in which she acquired expertise in an office of factory and now, being competent only as a mother and housekeeper, is left to fend for herself, according to the provisions of this Bill, if she is in good health and capable of getting a job. [More…]

• Perhaps he may quote the facts to us on the health standards of our black brothers and sisters. [More…]

• In the financial year 1972-73, $282m was expended by public undertakings on health services for the Black, Coloured and Indian peoples. [More…]

• Examples of such possible projects are support for health clinics in southern Tanzania and in Zambia, assistance to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees - [More…]

• Examples of such possible projects are support for health clinics in southern Tanzania and in Zambia, assistance to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the Council of Namibia for subsistence crop farming near Lusaka to accommodate refugees, assistance to United Nations agencies in the training of boys in agricultural and technical skills, and relief to refugees from southern Africa living in temporary settlements in Zambia. [More…]

• Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• We all know the famous words ‘in sickness and in health ‘. [More…]

• I preface my question, which I direct to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security, by saying that the Minister for Social Security made repeated election promises before both the 1972 and 1974 Federal elections that under his administration Queensland would receive $22m for health services. [More…]

• At this stage we have not reached the health standards that the Japanese require. [More…]

• Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to reports that the Lord Mayor of Melbourne will lead a deputation to the State Minister for Health protesting about the State Government’s threat to withdraw the $100,000 subsidy to 2 proposed council pre-school centres if the Melbourne City Council accepts Federal Government building funds? [More…]

• The Australian Government, by virtue of these powers, can assume certain responsibilities for the health care of the population generally, which of course, includes pensioners, but it does not have an exclusive or even dominant responsibility in that field. [More…]

• The National Health Act provides for the Australian Government to pay public hospitals $5 for each day that a pensioner eligible for the Pensioner Medical Service is provided with free treatment in a public ward. [More…]

• At the Australian Health Ministers’ Conference on 16-18 August 1974, the State Ministers for Health sought an increase in the pensioner bed day benefit. [More…]

• The State Health Ministers were informed that, if they so wished, I would approach the Prime Minister to have the pensioner hospital benefit of $5 a day increased, subject to a corresponding adjustment of the general finance allocations to the States. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that a Mr Garske, a former officer of the Department of Social Security, has been appointed Queensland manager of the Health Insurance Commission? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Earlier this year, when I became aware of the allegations concerning insufficient quarantine procedures in force in Western Australia, I immediately ordered an investigation which was carried out by the First Assistant DirectorGeneral, Quarantine Division, Canberra, the Director of Health, New South Wales Division, and the Assistant Director-General of the Department’s Policy Secretariat and Legislation Branch, Canberra. [More…]

• It is envisaged that the medical and hospital treatment which would include chiropractic treatment, if it is to be included, would be dealt with under the National Health Act. [More…]

• In his absence, the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, is acting as Minister for the Environment and Conservation. [More…]

• I am anxious to hear from the Minister for Repatriation and Compensation (Senator Wheeldon) who in this chamber represents the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham), what we will do about the drug rauwolfia, especially since there has been a suggestion of an association between the use of rauwolfia and breast cancer. [More…]

• The fact is that the Government has no compunction at all about telling Queensland how it should attend to all sorts of things like health and roads. [More…]

• We have endeavoured through our efforts to bring in health services to help those same people. [More…]

• Last year members of Estimates Committee C queried whether it was appropriate that proposed expenditure for the national health insurance plan and the National Commission on Social Welfare should be included in Appropriation Bill (No. [More…]

• It seems to me that the proposed expenditures questioned by members of Committee C conform in that the Social Welfare Commission Bill 1973 is now before the Senate and 1 understand that the Minister for Social Security intends to introduce the Health Insurance Commission Bill 1 973 during the current sittings. [More…]

• I mention that we can come back to this theme later when we consider the estimates for the Department of Health because a similar situation exists. [More…]

• There must be adequate consultation with the health professions because a lot of doctors have told me privately that they are not happy with the way in which additional people can become entitled to concessional care with minimum consultation with them or with their professional colleagues. [More…]

• What capital expenditure is the Government presently committed to in establishing the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• What is the estimate of the total cost of capital equipment in the establishment of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• All advanced western countries are experiencing rapid cost escalation in the provision of health services regardless of their system of financing. [More…]

• There is no evidence available that would suggest that health care costs are increasing at a faster rate in countries that have universal health insurance than in countries that have other forms of financing. [More…]

• I found no indication that doctors were over-utilising or opposing the Canadian Health Insurance Scheme because of any bulk billing systems. [More…]

• What I did find was that Canadian Medical Associations of Provinces, in common with all political parties and the community generally, wholeheartedly supported the universal health insurance scheme and claimed that better quality health care was being provided than under the previous private health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1) Is the approval of private hospitals in Queensland, for purposes of the National Health Act, dependent upon approval in the first instance by the Queensland Government. [More…]

• 1 ) There is no such requirement in the National Health Act, but it is usual for premises not to be approved as a hospital under the National Health Act unless the premises have been licensed to operate as a hospital under the relevant State legislation. [More…]

• The National Health Act does not provide for conditions of approval to be imposed on private hospitals approved under that Act. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the October 1974 edition of the magazine ‘The Radical’ include an article written by the Minister for Health which contains a very considerable mis-statement of fact? [More…]

• This amendment has relevance to authorities to be established by ordinance in the Australian Capital Territory, such as the proposed Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• I mention this just to point out that it is envisaged that the regional councils will move into quite a wide area of social welfare policy, such as grants for community health services, States Grants (Home Care) Act, grants for the development of low cost accommodation for young travellers, etc. [More…]

• They are: Mr P. Doughtry, Marriage Counselling Centre; Mrs J. Innes-Reid, Townsville General Hospital and the City Council- the City Council has been invited to attend; Dr I. Atkinson, Townsville General Hospital and the City Council; Mrs M. Campbell, Senior Citizens Welfare Association; Mr B. Leakey, St. Vincent de Paul Society; Mrs A. Butler, student counsellor; Miss M. Gindhart, St Raphael’s College, James Cook University; Mr M. Reynolds, Specific Learning Difficulties Association; Mr A. Spance, Crippled Childrens Society; Miss G. Gorman, Department of Social Security; Miss D. Wilson, Community Health Services; Dr J. Mayo, Department of Economics, James Cook University; and Major J. Patterson, Community Services Organisation Section of the Army. [More…]

• It will then determine whether it wants to have on its council the members who have been appointed by the State Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is to have on its committee 2 members appointed by the Commonwealth Minister for Health or the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• Proposed expenditures- Department of Health, $99,872,000 and Department of the Environment and Conservation, $3,653,000- passed. [More…]

• They might be in London, they might be in the Department of Health or they might be in the Department of Immigration. [More…]

• Other moneys are to be spent on education, health and other matters. [More…]

• About 10 years ago the Queensland Director-General of Health inspected the area and condemned it utterly. [More…]

• Senator Cavanagh did not investigate the health position or the other conditions that I have mentioned. [More…]

• The State Government in Queensland, over a number of years, has accepted responsibility for these Aborigines to the extent that it provides for these communities in every field- education, health, housing, the whole box and dice of what is required. [More…]

• There was granted $1.2m for Aboriginal health which was not spent, and the grant given to Queensland for education and amenities was not fully spent. [More…]

• Mr President, I inform the Senate that the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, who left Australia on 16 November to lead the Australian delegation to the Fourth Commonwealth Medical Conference in Sri Lanka, will be returning on 2 December. [More…]

• In his absence the Minister for the Environment and Conservation, Dr Cass, will act as Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Certainly what they have said is very alarming and I shall see that this is referred to the Minister for Health for early investigation by his Department. [More…]

• If the result of the inquiries do confirm what has been said by the 3 visiting specialists from Harvard University, then indeed it may well be a matter for action under the Trade Practices Act and no doubt the matter would be referred by the Minister for Health to the Attorney-General for appropriate action. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This is a matter which has been of considerable concern to both the Honourable the Minister for Health and the Honourable the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• In order to ensure that both the meals-on-wheels organisations and the aged persons are aware of the nutritional aspects, the Nutrition Section of the Department of Health has produced two publications. [More…]

• Young people want instruction in such knotty matters as insurance whether it be health, personal or property, budgeting, taxation banking, existing welfare services, family planning. [More…]

• Provision of a suitable environment, the development of community amenities, education and health services, and the opportunity to obtain suitable housing as essential prerequisites of a sound family life. [More…]

• 1 ) The Minister for Social Security believes that a universal health insurance scheme is the most efficient means of providing health insurance. [More…]

• In the context of the existing arrangements, however, the Minister for Social Security has expressed the view that there are too many health benefit organisations in the sense that they duplicate services unnecessarily and expend contributors’ funds on competitive advertising which is undesirable. [More…]

• Until the Universal Health Insurance Scheme, ‘Medibank’, comes into operation on July 1 1 975 the Minister for Social Security has accepted the need to provide interim repair work to the present defective system of private health insurance by allowing registration of some small organisations which provide health insurance coverage for special groups in the community. [More…]

• In fact, because of the defects of the present system of private health insurance, the Minister for Social Security has encouraged the registration of additional organisations e.g., the Aboriginal Medical Service, to ensure that particular groups are adequately provided for pending the introduction of the Government’s Universal Program. [More…]

• Four health benefits organisations have been registered under the National Health Act since 2 December 1972- three medical benefits funds and one hospital benefits fund. [More…]

• During the same period, six organisations have had their registration cancelled under the National Health Acttwo medical benefits funds and four hospital benefits funds. [More…]

• Western Region Subsidised Health Benefits Fund (Victoria) 13 August 1974 [More…]

• This organisation has been operating a medical benefits fund and a hospital benefits fund under the provisions of the National Health Act continuously since 1 July 1953 and 4 July 1967 respectively. [More…]

• However, all medical and hospital benefits organisations registered at 1 July 1970, wishing to continue in the National Health Scheme, were required under the provisions of the National Health Act 1970, to seek re-registration. [More…]

• Notwithstanding this refusal, it continued to operate under ‘deemed’ registration provisions of the National Health Act 1970 (section 61 ) pending the hearing of an appeal lodged by the organisation under section 80 of the Act against the Minister’s decision. [More…]

• Aboriginal Medical Service, and Western Region Subsidised Health Benefits Fund [More…]

• These two organisations are registered under the National Health Act as ‘contract’ medical benefits organisations (see section 13 (i) for definition of’contract arrangements’) and as such are reimbursed for one half the salaries paid by the organisation to the doctors employed. [More…]

• The Western Region Subsidised Health Benefits Fund was set up under the auspices of the Trade Union Clinic and Research Centre Limited, Footscray, Victoria, to provide a comprehensive range of free health services to eligible pensioners and their dependants, who would otherwise normally receive free treatment from participating doctors under the Pensioner Medical Service arrangements. [More…]

• -I present the report from the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the petitions relating to the proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• It deals with buildings for health, educational, commercial, industrial and residential sectors of the community. [More…]

• I say here and now that, quite apart from the considerations of the party to which I belong, the construction industry in Australia is the thermometer so far as the economic health of the community is concerned. [More…]

• and (3) I would remind the honourable senator that the provision in the National Health Act providing for the reporting annually on the operations of registered medical benefits and hospital benefits organisations was introduced by the previous Government. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the Women’s Health Centre at Leichhardt, New South Wales, funded with Federal moneys. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Until her part-time employment at the Centre terminated in October 1 974, Australian Government financial assistance under the Community Health Program was applied towards the payment of her salary by the Centre. [More…]

• Did not the Country Party say, at page 282 of the transcript, that Australian Government policy should be designed towards, firstly, the encouragement of beef production and, secondly, the improvement of industrial health standards? [More…]

• Has there been any improvement in health standards? [More…]

• The more significant part of the submission of the Country Party referred to the second point raised by the honourable senator concerning industry health standards. [More…]

• Of course, it was under the previous Government that the decision to establish a National Animal Health Laboratory in Australia was deferred. [More…]

• This Government, when it came into office, took the decision to proceed with that National Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• The proposals of the Committee are, in effect, that all ‘State-type’ functions be transferred to the Territory Executive, except that major functions such as rural land, mining, education, health, companies and the Supreme Court be retained by the Australian Government and other major functions such as roads, ports, fisheries, national parks and the police be shared. [More…]

• In the present appeals, the third parties have focused public attention on the proposed power station in a manner which has called upon the Commission to justify to the fullest extent its proposed activity and to demonstrate that such activity will present no threat to the environment or to public health. [More…]

• One could read- I have it here if anyone wants to see it- the full judgment of the Environment Protection Appeal Board and see from it that there is absolutely no risk either to the environment or to public health in Victoria, in the Board’s judgment, if the conditions are observed. [More…]

• That is the requirement, of course, in all public health provisions- that the requirements be observed. [More…]

• From 19 December 1972 to 3 October 1974, the net increase in the Department’s operative staff was 1466 which included nearly 500 Health Insurance and benefits staff transferred from Department of Health. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am pleased to see that Senator Missen subscribes to the policy of the Australian Labor Party in supporting the national Government’s approach to the provision of health services, and I look forward to receiving continued support from him. [More…]

• In general principle, 1 am pleased to welcome Senator Missen to the ranks of those who advocate a national health scheme. [More…]

• I also remind the Senate that the Minister for Social Security subsequently introduced a Bill to control further the health funds and that the Senate amended the Bill to provide an appeal mechanism. [More…]

• I ask: Have those two large health funds used this appeal mechanism? [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that one effect of continuing uncontrolled inflation is a rise in hospital costs and that this, in turn, will inevitably involve rises in the cost of health insurance? [More…]

• All I would say at this stage is that I should hardly think that a decision of a supreme court or any other court would repudiate an action in principle taken by a Minister in regulating the fees charged by any health fund. [More…]

• It is merely, it would seem to me, making a judgment, possibly on a question of law, but there is not a statement of any principle about the right of the national Government to regulate health funds. [More…]

• the agc and state of health of each of the parties; [More…]

• The situation may arise where somebody re-marries a man who is either in poor health or in poor financial circumstances. [More…]

• When one looks at the construction of that position in the overall concept that Australia’s overseas debt had hardly increased at all in 20-odd years, one sees that the real burden of debt structure has changed from the Commonwealth to the States and the State budgets therefore have a substantial problem in meeting the interest burden of those expanding State debts brought about largely by their infrastructure and all kinds of activities involving schools, roads, hospitals, health programs and that sort of thing. [More…]

• I think that the food guide put out by the Department of Social Security for the Meals on Wheels organisation is more a matter for the Department of Health. [More…]

• They encroach into the whole field of health and would be better off administered by the Department of Health rather than by the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• The Bill also transfers the provisions relating to the handicapped children’s benefit which is now administered by the Department of Social Security, from the National Health Act to this Act. [More…]

• It provides a balanced and integrated program that is intended to serve an area of social need bounded on one side by the program of the Australian Assistance Plan, and on the other by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• Justin O ‘Byrne, this morning and that he is in particularly good health. [More…]

• Children are not only continually exploited by seductive and misleading advertising, but are bombarded with a massive amount of violence which increasing amounts of research show to be detrimental to a child ‘s mental health. [More…]

• The instance is given of the Australian Capital Territory Health Commission and the purpose of the amendment is likewise clear. [More…]

• It is to be hoped that the States will be generous in allocating amounts to that purpose in Clause 14 which is concerned with the provision of staff to promote safety, health and welfare in individual colleges. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Indeed a great deal of the research supported by the National Health and Medical Research Council which appears on cursory examination to be so-called ‘basic’ research has links with both acute and chronic disease. [More…]

• The Council does not confine its grants solely to research into disease, but into all medical aspects of the maintenance of health, which includes the investigation of body mechanisms which are necessary for health. [More…]

• While grants in many of the areas mentioned may not relate directly to disease, they would certainly relate to health or medical care. [More…]

• Details of these grants will be published in the proceedings of the 79th Session of the National Health and Medical Research Council which should be available early in the new year. [More…]

• The legislation authorising the establishment and functioning of the Health Insurance Commission has been passed by the Australian Parliament. [More…]

• The first of these is the Health Insurance Commission Act, which authorises the establishment of the Commission, defines its powers and functions, provides for the manner in which it is to be financed and for associated matters. [More…]

• The second Act is the Health Insurance Act which upon proclamation will authorise the payment of medical benefits, hospital benefits, payments to the States for hospital services and the making of Health Program Grants. [More…]

• In addition, the New South Wales Health Commission has been helping to establish a supply of fresh fruit and vegetables for the people. [More…]

• A few weeks ago when announcing the second substantial increase, within the space of 3 months, in the levels of nursing home benefits payable under the National Health Act, the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) reiterated the Government’s undertaking to introduce a system of deficit financing to meet the losses incurred by nursing homes operated by charitable or benevolent organisations as an alternative to the existing nursing home benefit arrangements. [More…]

• Charitable and benevolent organisations participate with vigour and dedication in the task of caring for the sick and the aged and indeed the care provided by these organisations has become an essential part of our overall system of health care. [More…]

• If it decides there would be no advantage for a particular nursing home it is free to remain outside the deficit financing arrangements and continue to receive the Australian Government nursing home benefits provided under the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Bill also contains machinery provisions similar to those in the National Health Act for approval of nursing homes under the new legislation. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate contains provisions relating to a number of the Government’s activities regarding health insurance and benefits authorised by the National Health Act. [More…]

• Following the election of this Government to office at the end of 1972, we embarked on a diversified legislative program directed to various aspects of our health insurance initiatives. [More…]

• Our main effort, of course, was directed to the Government’s own health insurance program- culminating with the passing of the Health Insurance Act and the Health Insurance Commission Act. [More…]

• This main effort was supplemented by investigations as to the manner in which the legislation authorising the present voluntary health insurance arrangements could be improved. [More…]

• Proposals directed to improvements to the legislation authorising the present health insurance arrangements were placed before the Government recently. [More…]

• We were then faced with a decision as to whether they should be proceeded with, in view of the imminence of our own health insurance program- scheduled for introduction on 1 July 1 975. [More…]

• The existing private health insurance scheme authorised by the National Health Act, in fact, is a system supported by extremely generous direct and indirect subsidy from the Australian Government and State governments. [More…]

• The health benefit organisations could not have grown to their present significance nor could they continue to operate, except for the very generous support that comes from Government sources, directly and indirectly. [More…]

• For instance, on average over 60 per cent of the cost of medical services covered by medical ‘ insurance is met by direct subsidy from the Australian Government through the health insurance scheme and by indirect subsidy from the same source through tax concessions, which are a cost borne by the Government. [More…]

• Therefore it is clearly in the interests of the people of Australia that the system of a private health insurance scheme should be properly supervised by the Australian Government and it is the clear responsibility of the Government to exercise this supervision. [More…]

• The most important provisions in the Bill are designed to enable the responsible Minister to exercise more effectively this supervision of the operations of the health benefits organisations registered under the National Health Act in a way that will enable the Government of the day to achieve its objectives. [More…]

• There was established the Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, the Nimmo Committee, which presented its report during 1969, and the Senate also set up its own Committee to enquire into medical and hospital costs. [More…]

• At that time a matter of major concern was the financial policies followed by some of the health benefits organisations. [More…]

• Following consideration of the report of the Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance, amendments to the National Health Act were introduced by the previous Government aimed at rectifying some of the unsatisfactory aspects of the health insurance scheme including the two I have already mentioned. [More…]

• The then Minister for Health, the Hon. [More…]

• That organisations and their officers be subject to penalties for any failures to comply with the conditions imposed by and under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Following careful consideration of this situation, the Government has framed provisions similar to those in the Insurance Act to protect the interests of contributors which are compatible with the intentions of the previous Government as made clear in the statement by the then Minister for Health. [More…]

• As I stated earlier the arrangements I have outlined are along the lines of arrangements provided for in the Insurance Act and I believe all honourable senators will welcome their enactment as a positive step forward in the protection of the interests of contributors to health benefits funds. [More…]

• The rigidity arises mainly from sections 67 and 68 of the present Act which provide that the reserves must remain in the fund which has accumulated them and cannot be used for any other purpose, not even to support some other fund of the organisation that is also registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Committee- the expert committee established under the National Health Act- so recommends. [More…]

• These special accounts which are authorised by Part VI, Division 2 of the National Health Act, ensure that contributors continue to receive medical and hospital fund benefits which otherwise they would be denied by the pre-existing, chronic or maximum benefit rules of the organisations restricting the payment of fund benefits. [More…]

• This escalation in Government spending arising from underwriting the activities of health benefits funds through the special account mechanism has occurred at the time when there were extremely large reserves accumulated by the funds. [More…]

• It must be realised that the special account system was designed by the previous LiberalCountry Party Government to prop up the health benefits funds. [More…]

• One will represent the interests of health benefit organisations, another the interests of contributors to the organisations and that the third member would be a qualified accountant. [More…]

• The proposed new definition of Government nursing home’ in sub-clause 3 (i) and other clauses provide for public nursing homes in the Australian Territories to be exempted from nursing home admission and fees supervision under the National Health Act as are public nursing homes in the States at present. [More…]

• Clauses 16 and 25 include provisions amending section 57b and 73c of the National Health Act to provide for an increase in the nursing home patient contribution from $2.55 a day to $4.55 a day. [More…]

• Clause 42 provides for the incorporation of the rates of additional nursing home benefit, as currently prescribed by regulation, into the Eighth Schedule of the National Health Act with effect from 15 October 1974. [More…]

• There are also a number of provisions in the Bill to effect machinery amendments to the National Health Act to delete provisions relating to the payment of handicapped children’s benefits, to clarify the provisions regarding directions by the Minister under section 73 b and to enable provisions in the National Health Act relating to the supervision of registered organisations to override State laws where the statutes are inconsistent. [More…]

• I now turn to the two matters provided for in the Bill which fall within the portfolio of my colleague the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham). [More…]

• This is yet further evidence of the Government’s determination to provide a high quality health care service and of its acceptance of its special responsibility to assist those members of the community who are sick or disabled. [More…]

• It also empowers the Minister for Health to arrange for the provision of such medical or surgical aids, appliances and equipment as are prescribed in Regulations under the Act on such conditions as the Minister thinks fit. [More…]

• The National Health Act now restricts in some respects the services that can be given to the general public by some dispensaries run by friendly societies. [More…]

• In 1973 we made in direct payments to the States for the purposes of education, health, urban affairs, culture, recreation and housing, $2,449m. [More…]

• Senator Grimes had asked whether Government supporters did not know that the intention of a policy proposal was to station an aircraft permanently in Tasmania for the Royal Flying Doctor Service and also to be available for some social and health welfare work, with particular reference to pensioners who are at the moment discriminated against. [More…]

• Royal Flying Doctor Service aircraft be stationed permanently in Tasmania and be available as well for some normal social and health welfare work, with particular reference to King Island and Flinders Island pensioners who at- the moment appear to be discriminated against by both the socialist governments- State and Federal. [More…]

• Here are the critical words- to omit those provisions which relate to unnecessary ministerial control over health insurance funds and the additional provisions which relate to friendly society dispensaries. [More…]

• We think it would be most disgraceful if the friendly society pharmacies- they are small in number and do provide services for many people who would not, in the past at any rate, have been able to afford to obtain pharmaceutical goods without the existence of friendly societies- were to be destroyed through the introduction of a national health scheme. [More…]

• It is saying something which is consistent with the whole theme of its approach to a national health scheme. [More…]

• The Opposition Parties believe that health services ought to be conducted for profit, whether it is by a private medical practitioner, a private hospital or a private pharmacy. [More…]

• We do believe in co-operative enterprise as far as health is concerned. [More…]

• We do not believe that health is something which ought to be in the hands of private enterprise for individuals to make private profits from, and for that reason we are opposed to the deletion of sub-clause 38 (b). [More…]

• -The Opposition will be taking a certain course of action with regard to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• There is a proposal which will lead to control by the Minister for Social Security over the health insurance funds in this country; there is a proposal which will increase the subsidies for nursing homes; there are proposals which will correct anomalies with regard to handicapped children’s payments 9nd which will widen the provision with respect to surgical aids and medical aids and applicances; and there is a proposal which provides for an extension of full approval rights for certain friendly society dispensaries. [More…]

• The parts to which it is opposed relate to the unnecessary ministerial control that is sought to be gained over the voluntary health insurance funds in this country and the additional provisions which relate to friendly societies. [More…]

• Sitting of both Houses of this Parliament indicated that it is totally opposed to the Government’s proposed national health scheme. [More…]

• Because some of the proposals contained within the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) are related to the voluntary health funds and are some of the steps which would have to be taken by the Government in the implementation of its proposed scheme we have maintained the attitude which we have repeatedly stressed, that is, that we are opposed to the introduction of the proposed scheme. [More…]

• It has been suggested that the Government intends to introduce the new national health scheme on 1 July of next year. [More…]

• It has been of interest to us that there have been discussions between the Government and the voluntary health associations with regard to the insurance funds acting as agents for the Government in the paying of medical rebates under the Government’s scheme. [More…]

• It has been noted that within the last few days the health funds have indicated to the Government that they would not be prepared to accept the Government’s offer and would refuse to act as agents in the way suggested. [More…]

• We understand that some 60 private health insurance funds have decided to reject the offer from the Government to act as agents. [More…]

• We realise that this must place in question the commencing date of the Government’s national health scheme, but we can understand the attitude of the health funds because to have accepted the agency requirements of the Government would have been to place at risk the independence of the health funds and the way in which they have functioned as bodies for voluntary contributions and benefits which have been developed from time to time. [More…]

• In general terms I wish to indicate, at this stage of the parliamentary session, that we will support the positive proposals for assistance contained within the Bill, that we will very strenuously reject the proposals for the control by the Minister for Social Security of the health insurance funds and that we will give our support to the other proposals, as I shall indicate in the Committee stage of the debate. [More…]

• The clauses which we will be voting against and on which we will be dividing are all related to the attitudes we have adopted with regard to the health insurance funds and the other matters concerning the friendly societies. [More…]

• The Government regards all of the provisions of the Bill as being integral to the Government’s purpose in establishing a national health scheme throughout Australia. [More…]

• These include: directors’ interests, direct and indirect, in the securities of the corporation and in contracts with the corporation; the number of persons employed by the corporation; arrangements made by the corporation for protecting the safety and health of its employees and of the public and for protecting the environment; and arrangements made by the corporation for the protection of its consumers. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to the Minister’s decision to establish, without proper local consultation, a community health centre in Centre Road, East Bentleigh in Victoria, at the extravagant cost of approximately $650,000. [More…]

• Is the Minister prepared to review his decision so that scarce funds can be used for other pressing health needs in the district as already sought by the Moorabbin Council, and not for duplicated services? [More…]

• I find it difficult to believe that the Minister for Health has not engaged in proper consultation before he has established a hospital or before he has done anything else. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister for Repatriation and Compensation: In the light of the extensive use now being made of computers in the health and social welfare fields, does the Department of Repatriation and Compensation make use of computers in its hospital service? [More…]

• If passed, the Bills will impose a health insurance levy of 1.35 per cent of the taxable incomes- as determined for income tax purposes- of people residing in Australia. [More…]

• The Bills complement other measures designed to implement the Government’s universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The levy proposed in the present Bills was discussed in the White Paper on the health insurance program published in November 1973, which was preceded by the report of the Health Insurance Planning Committee. [More…]

• Introduction of the levy is timed to coincide with the coming into operation of the main health insurance legislation. [More…]

• A,, aged person exempt from income tax by reason of the special transitional tax rebate will also be exempt from health levy. [More…]

• The general principle is, however, that whatever the level of the income tax rebate in 1975-76, an aged person who is exempt from income tax on account of it will also be exempt from health levy. [More…]

• I should mention, however, that while the levy will be administered and collected under the income tax system and payasyouearn deductions from salaries and wages will be increased in 1975-76 to take account of it, provisions in the legislation require a separate identification of the amount of a taxpayer’s liability that represents health insurance levy. [More…]

• I commend this Bill- the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill- to the Senate. [More…]

• In speaking to the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1974 1 mentioned that the levy is to be imposed on people residing in Australia and that its collection is to be integrated with the collection of income tax. [More…]

• This Bill will ensure that the arrangements for relief of double taxation apply to both income tax and health insurance levy. [More…]

• Our attention was drawn to Article 12 of the Convention, which states: ‘The populations concerned shall not be removed without their free consent from their habitual territories except in accordance with national laws and regulations for reasons relating to national security, or in the interest of national economic development or the health of the said population’. [More…]

• The final thing I want to say is that the further discrimination that has been practised in Queensland is illustrated in the figures of the Department of Health. [More…]

• In 1973-74 the Australian Government allocated to the Queensland Government for Aboriginal advancement programs $9,957,000, of which $2,243,000 was for approved Aboriginal health programs. [More…]

• The sum of $2,439,300 was for the health program, with a further $1,664,000 for community aid projects. [More…]

• Actual expenditure in Queensland on Aboriginal health projects during 1973-74 from funds provided by the Australian Government was only $835,523. [More…]

• 1974 and the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• But if that is the case the Government is equally culpable for its responsibility is to provide the kind of conditions in which home building and other major industries can exist and can remain in some state of health. [More…]

• I recall that just prior to the Opposition parties going out of government the Minister for Health at that time, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, was able to come to an arrangement such as this for nursing homes assistance in relation to pensioner patients. [More…]

• I refer to a matter which has been raised by one of the States, namely that the Commonwealth is ignoring the views of State Ministers which were expressed at the Health [More…]

• This was a contrary view to that which was expressed at the Health Ministers conference earlier this year. [More…]

• It is contradictory because this Bill will establish a system of openended government financing, the system which was used to vilify the voluntary health insurance funds in the Government’s fight to socialise health. [More…]

• In addition, this Bill proposes direct financing of nursing homes thus by-passing the State health departments. [More…]

• The Bill ignores the views of the State Ministers for Health as expressed at their recent conference. [More…]

• The responsibility, which includes matters relating to facilities and standards, will be transferred under this Bill from the Director-General of Health to the Permanent Head of the Department of Social Security who is not a medical officer. [More…]

• These iniquitous committees of inquiry are the very same sorts of things that initiated the revolt of the general practitioners against socialised health schemes. [More…]

• I think that at this stage I should remind honourable senators that the supervision of fees was introduced, not by this Government, but by the previous Liberal-Country Party Government, in amendments to the National Health Act in 1972. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council at its 79th Session on 14-13 November 1974 recommended a ceiling value of SO parts per million and a time weighted average value of 25 parts per million and, wherever practicable, exposure be brought as near as possible to zero concentrations. [More…]

• All Health Ministers are advised of Council recommendations. [More…]

• -On 31 October 1974, Senator Sheil asked me a question relating to statements by the Minister for Social Security that additional money would be allocated to Queensland for health services. [More…]

• The fact is that the Minister for Social Security has pointed out that there would be a substantial allocation of additional money to the Queensland public hospitals system once the universal health insurance program was in operation: Senate Opposition has delayed the introduction of the program. [More…]

• The Opposition was, of course, unsuccessful and it is expected that the ‘Medibank’ program of universal health insurance will be operating from 1 July 1973. [More…]

• The impact of the Government’s initiative will be more apparent in future years in view of steeply rising costs in this vital area of health care delivery. [More…]

• Aboriginal Health [More…]

• It is understood that at 30 June 1974, the Queensland Government held $2.356m as unexpended funds for Aboriginal health projects approved in previous years. [More…]

• Australian Health Insurance Program- Public Hospital Agreements [More…]

• It is the Australian Government’s intention that the Australian Health Insurance Program should come into operation on1 July 1975. [More…]

• Offers to negotiate agreements were made in a letter dated 1 5 August 1 974 from the Prime Minister to each Premier and the Minister for Social Security followed up this initiative with a similar letter to State Health Ministers dated 5 September 1974. [More…]

• In the development of Family Planning initiatives there has been a reluctance, to date, to include Family Planning facilities in the Australian Government funded State Health facilities in Western Australia and Queensland. [More…]

• Dental Health [More…]

• The Victorian Health Minister has indicated that Victoria will not support the proposed Advisory Dental Council of Australia and that a representative for that State will not be nominated. [More…]

• I think it comes within the purview of my colleagues, the Minister for Health, the Minister for Northern Development and the Minister for Social Security, all of whom are Queensland Ministers. [More…]

• Mr Deputy President, may I suggest that the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1974 (No. [More…]

• 2), the Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974 (No. [More…]

• The 3 Bills to which I have referred are levy Bills which will provide funds for the Hayden health scheme. [More…]

• It will be recalled that last week we amended the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• We amended it so that we could reject the provisions which had been made with regard to the control of voluntary health funds. [More…]

• We regarded these proposals as an attempt to ruin the voluntary health funds in Australia and as a first step towards the introduction of the costly and compulsory tax financed system of nationalised health care. [More…]

• I have before me a Press statement which was released on 8 December this year by 3 groups in the community- the doctors of the medical profession, the private hospitals and the health benefit funds. [More…]

• It will be realised that the co-operation of these 3 groups is essential if the Australian Government’s health scheme is to be successful. [More…]

• The most recent poll conducted of the Australian people showed that 56 per cent of the voters want to pay their own way and reject the concept of a compulsory health scheme as has been outlined by the Government. [More…]

• In it he put forward some thoughts which should be considered by the Australian people when they are contrasting the present scheme, which is based on voluntary contributions, and the proposed Hayden health scheme. [More…]

• He spoke of the Woodhouse compensation scheme, which is being dealt with by a committee of the Senate at this time, the Hancock superannuation scheme and the Hayden health scheme. [More…]

• It is interesting to note that the additional burden will fall mainly on the lower income people who are not now contributing to a private health fund scheme. [More…]

• One thing that we ought to do in relation to the present debate about the health care scheme envisaged for this country is to ask ourselves some questions. [More…]

• It is not a matter of saying that we do not believe that there should be a health care scheme or that there should be some scheme which will involve the people in health care and in the arrangements which relate to it but rather a dispute about the means of providing health care. [More…]

• So it is really a debate about the means of proceeding and the way in which to proceed towards obtaining health cover for all the Australian people and the acceptance of what I think both the Government and Opposition see as a goal- the provision of health care. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, has persisted in his contention that this government scheme is the best way in which health care can be provided. [More…]

• The Government has repeatedly talked about the economics of the health scheme which it has introduced. [More…]

• Prior to the suspension of the sitting for lunch I was finalising my remarks on the 3 health Bills which are before the Senate. [More…]

• I want now to refer to the difficulties that a free health scheme produces. [More…]

• The experience in Canada with a government sponsored universal and comprehensive system has been that the demand for health services generally exceeded the supply. [More…]

• I think it fair to summarise the Opposition’s attitude in this chamber as being the same as that expressed by the shadow Minister for Social Security in the other place when dealing with the health levy Bills, namely, that we believe our alternative health scheme would be preferable for the Australian community. [More…]

• Our scheme is based on voluntary contributions to the private health funds, maintenance of the private hospital system and a further development of cover for the some 8 per cent of people in this community whom we believe have not at this stage arranged their own private health insurance. [More…]

• -The debate on the Government’s proposed health scheme has become something of a ‘Blue Hills’ saga. [More…]

• In the course of this long debate over the Government’s health insurance proposals there have been 2 elections at which they have been put to the people of Australia. [More…]

• We were told again today that recent Gallup polls show a larger percentage than last year of the Australian people in favour of the retention of a system of voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that in the 2 years over which this debate has proceeded in Australia, the Opposition has had no alternative health policy but consistently maintained opposition to the Government’s proposals. [More…]

• I welcome the fact that in the Hansard report of the debates in the other place there is recorded for the first time what is described as an alternative health scheme. [More…]

• It involves of course the suggestion that those members of the community who are not currently insured- the figure is put at 8 per cent by Senator Guilfoyle- should be brought into what is an existing voluntary health arrangement. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that for a number of years while the Opposition Parties were in Government they failed dismally in any way to bring those people into the voluntary health insurance scheme despite desperate efforts. [More…]

• It is no solution to the problem to say that we can patch up what is essentially a rotten health structure. [More…]

• This Government at 2 elections received a mandate to put forward its health insurance program. [More…]

• The Government was elected on a particular program about which every voter in Australia was quite clear- that if the Labor Government was re-elected we would get this health insurance program. [More…]

• These 3 Bills, the Health Insurance Levy [More…]

• 2), the Health Insurance Levy Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) are the 3 Bills necessary to bring into operation what is popularly called the Hayden health scheme. [More…]

• As I go round the community I am asked by my constituents: ‘Why do we not have the Labor health scheme operating now? [More…]

• The Labor Government had not prepared all the legislation necessary to make the health scheme work. [More…]

• I am prepared to be corrected, but I think it was in the debate on the National Health Bill which concerned the whole philosophy of the health scheme. [More…]

• It was the National Health Bill which went to the Joint Sitting and was passed by the Joint Sitting. [More…]

• I was making then no such offer with regard to the Health Insurance Levy Bill which sets out to raise the money to finance what I regard to be a thoroughly bad scheme. [More…]

• The Government has gone to the Joint Sitting without all the pieces it needed to put together this jigsaw of a health scheme. [More…]

• She has reminded us very correctly that a recent gallup poll showed that more Australians are in favour of voluntary health insurance than was the case previously. [More…]

• The only reason why we are considering these Bills relating to health insurance levies is that they were not brought in before and were not available at the time of the Joint Sitting. [More…]

• On this side we have been consistently and completely opposed to the whole idea of the Labor Government’s compulsory health scheme. [More…]

• We have made it known that if the Health Insurance Commission were established we would take steps to reverse the scheme and dismantle the Commission if we could. [More…]

• In office, as I said, we would disband the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• What the Government is asking the Senate to pass is a taxation measure which is to provide for individual contributions to the medical health funds. [More…]

• If the Government finances this scheme from general revenue we will have a completely noncontributory medical and health services situation in Australia. [More…]

• It is taking away the contributory side of the public’s responsibility to its medical and health services, which is the opposite of what the Opposition and I want. [More…]

• Despite declarations or opposition from doctors, health funds and private hospitals, the Government’s national health scheme is set to operate from 1 July next year. [More…]

• But in the absence of the health funds paying refunds to patients, it would seem most doctors would have little alternative but to co-operate. [More…]

• A similar predicament faces the health funds which would become obsolete in their present form from the date of the scheme’s introduction, unless they took up the Government’s offer to act as agencies. [More…]

• There is no electoral penalty which will prevent the Government from proceeding, and no gallup polls or threats from any sector of the community will prevent the Australian Labor Party while in office from proceeding with its medical health plans. [More…]

• The Government is attempting to impose a levy by way of taxation to fund its health scheme. [More…]

• My basic reason for opposing them is that I am confident that at present this country cannot afford the cost of the grandiose health scheme that the Government has in its mind. [More…]

• It asks the Parliament to increase taxation further to finance a health scheme to which surveys have shown most people in Australia are opposed. [More…]

• Any health scheme should have several aims. [More…]

• It should offset the individual’s financial burden but I believe that in many cases there should be a slight financial disincentive as it has been shown in other areas of the world that people tend to over use the facilities made available to them and in such a situation the cost of the health scheme becomes disastrously high. [More…]

• Any health scheme supported by a Government should encourage high standards of medical practice. [More…]

• That is the real issue that has to be decided when discussing a health scheme. [More…]

• It is my opinion that these private hospitals play a very important part in the health care of our community. [More…]

• Other countries, such as Sweden and New Zealand, have found tremendous difficulties with their health schemes. [More…]

• So I am totally opposed to this health scheme. [More…]

• We have had a feeling of deja vu in this place for about the last 3 years every time that health insurance Bills are debated. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle stated quite clearly the Opposition’s attitude to these Bills and to the health scheme in general. [More…]

• Senator Hall demonstrated quite clearly that he alone on the Opposition benches reads what Mr Hayden and others of us on this side say about health. [More…]

• Last year, before I was a member of this chamber, the proposed scheme came under some criticism because it was a contributory scheme in that the levy on tax to pay for the health scheme was separated from the general taxation. [More…]

• Mr Hayden made it quite clear then that he wanted the levy kept separate because he did not want anyone to be under the false impression that health care would be free. [More…]

• In the recent debate in the House of Representatives, as Senator Hall pointed out, Mr Hayden said quite clearly that if the Opposition persisted in opposing the machinery legislation to carry out our national health insurance scheme we would have to fund it from Consolidated Revenue. [More…]

• But apparently it was not until Senator Hall came out with his shattering light this afternoon that inspiration suddenly hit the Opposition that this is what would happen and that throwing this Bill out would not necessarily throw out the Government’s health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I would expect Senator Townley to support those vested interests who look after the large national health benefit funds. [More…]

• I would expect him to support the gentlemen in these health benefit organisations who elect themselves; organisations which have been described in a rather quaint way by Mr Chipp as cooperatives, yet give their members no vote; which give their members no say in how their funds are used; which lend their public relations officers to the Opposition during election time; which distribute propaganda paid for by the contributors to their funds, to be distributed by doctors and others during election time without asking for the contributors ‘ permission. [More…]

• Senator Townley reflected on those horrible countries like Sweden, New Zealand and Great Britain which have national health schemes. [More…]

• -That is affected by the health scheme, is it? [More…]

• Ask the people of Sweden or New Zealand or Britain whether they would like their health schemes taken away. [More…]

• Let us remember the words of the President of the New Zealand Medical Association who, when he arrived in Australia, said that he could not understand what the Australian doctors were about, why they were so utterly conservative, why they were so frightened of a universal health scheme. [More…]

• I ask honourable senators to read the letter from the President of the Canadian Medical Association who was most incensed at being misquoted by the General Practitioners Society in Australia which suggested that the Canadian Medical Association did not like Canada’s health scheme. [More…]

• -The English health scheme is not the same as the proposed Australian health scheme. [More…]

• The proposed Australian health scheme is the same as the Queensland scheme on the hospital side. [More…]

• I do not see Queensland senators getting up in this chamber and opposing the Queensland health scheme at the present time or at any time. [More…]

• We know that the health standard in Queensland is almost as good as it is in most other places in Australia. [More…]

• The opposition to this scheme, as it has always been, is to protect the vested interests which control the voluntary health insurance schemes. [More…]

• I am sorry the Opposition is opposing the legislation because this is a good health scheme. [More…]

• This country needs a universal health scheme. [More…]

• If the Opposition forces the Government to fund it out of Consolidated Revenue I suggest that we will do that in order to provide the people of this country with the health scheme they deserve. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle, who led for the Opposition, talked of the higher taxes people would have to pay to finance the Government’s health scheme. [More…]

• People now pay contributions to private health insurance organisations. [More…]

• If a person wants to cover himself for health insurance purposes he has no choice other than to pay. [More…]

• Contribution levels under the present scheme must be approaching- if they have not already reached- levels where many people will experience real difficulty in maintaining health insurance under the present inequitable contribution arrangements. [More…]

• I make it quite clear that these are the essential points of the national health scheme that this Government has been endeavouring to implement to protect all the citizens of this country. [More…]

• For individual citizens, the program will mean automatic health insurance coverage based on a more equitable system of payment, freedom of choice of doctor and the type of hospital care. [More…]

• They will also be able to insure with private health funds against charges raised by public hospitals for intermediate and private ward care and for treatment in private hospitals. [More…]

• Doctors will continue to charge a fee for each service provided and will have a choice in the way they are remunerated through the health insurance system. [More…]

• For the community generally the program will mean a more efficient system of health care financing and, in addition, assistance by way of health program grants for approved organisations providing particular types of health services which are not otherwise covered under health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• Such rejection thwarts the Government in its stated aim to introduce a health scheme of this nature, one which has been stated clearly by the Government in 1972 and again in 1974. [More…]

• As has been pointed out earlier in the debate, which countries would now opt out of a national health scheme? [More…]

• Of course it is necessary to bring in a system which is efficient and which is equitable and which provides for the necessary things that we need in our health and medical services. [More…]

• It is being opposed by the Liberal Party and Country Party senators in this chamber, and history will prove that one way or the other the Australian people will eventually get the sort of national health services that they deserve and that they want. [More…]

• I would much rather see government, State or Federal, and private enterprise come forward with a scheme for putting on markets in countries that need food, the health giving fruit that we grow. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Act 1973 [More…]

• National Health Bill 1974 [More…]

• National Health Bill 1974 [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Act 1973 [More…]

• National Health Bill 1974 [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Act 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Bill 1 973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Bill 1973 [More…]

• subsequently replaced by new Budget Bills (National Health Bill 1974 ( Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1 974 (Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974 (Income Tax (International Agreements) Bill 1974 -Second reading negatived 1 August 1974 (Australian Industry Development Corporation Bill 1974 (National Investment Fund Bill 1974 -Second reading negatived 13 August 1974 [More…]

• ( Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1 974 [No. [More…]

• 2] (Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974 [No. [More…]

• National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• National Health Bill 1974 [More…]

• National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• National Health Bill 1974 -Two amendments on 1 August to provide for direct appeal to a Supreme Court against the Ministers decision and to remove provision for an injunction; agreed to by the House on 2 August. [More…]

• National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) What educational programs are in existence to make doctors, dentists, lawyers, social workers, child health and community nurses, police officers, teachers and others aware of the incidence, problems, and best management for battered children and their families. [More…]

• What preventive health programs exist in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory to predict families at risk of having a battered child. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The difficulties of recognition and management of this syndrome have been considered by the Child Health Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council on several occasions since 1968. [More…]

• In 1973 Council recommended that education programs in case detection and management should be prepared for those involved in health education and welfare of young children. [More…]

• There is now ongoing inservice training for these personnel in the Australian Capital Territory; for example, seminars on the subject have been conducted for staff at health centres. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Facilities in the Australian Capital Territory are the Welfare Branch of the Department of the Capital Territory, the Mental Health Branch and Child Health Section of A.C.T. [More…]

• Health Services, the A.C.T. [More…]

• Facilities in the Northern Territory are available through the Department of Health. [More…]

• I have also approved support for new training programs in epidemiology, community medicine and occupational health. [More…]

• I do not believe that there is any Australian who would say that we should have spent less money on education, pensions, health services or a whole range of other matters. [More…]

• I also preface my question by reminding the Minister that many people who arrived in the major capital cities from Darwin lacked health insurance cover because of the availability of health care from Government doctors in the Northern Territory and that many of them required and still require primary medical care from local suburban doctors, many of whom are treating these people free of charge. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Department of Social Security decided not to give these people automatic cover under the subsidised health benefits scheme? [More…]

• Will he agree that such action would not be difficult to initiate and would be consistent with a commitment to universal accessibility to health care? [More…]

• The provision of health care services and accommodation, including nursing home accommodation, is primarily a Slate Government responsibility. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have obtained some information from the office of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The modernisation of the quarantine station will lead to the consolidation of the quarantine activities of the Department of Health to about 10 acres of the 140 acres now occupied by the station. [More…]

• Mr Health has tried them, as have Conservative leaders in France and West Germany. [More…]

• We said that there would be more money spent on education and health, in the cities, on pensioners and so on. [More…]

• The policy of the Repatriation Commission on the use of acupuncture for repatriation beneficiaries was based on the report which was issued in 1974 by the National Health and Medical Research Council and which followed, as Senator Baume has reminded us, a visit by an investigating team which studied the subject in Korea, China, Hong Kong and the United States. [More…]

• In my answer I said that the only health facilities- in this case, a quarantine station, which was the premises referred to- were at Cape Pallarenda and that a new quarantine station was not being erected but some additions were being made to the existing quarantine station. [More…]

• I caused further inquiries to be made of the Department of Health. [More…]

• The information which has been provided to me is that there are no health facilities of any kind, which would include quarantine stations, under construction at Cape Cleveland. [More…]

• Is this an indication that Senator Prowse ‘s retirement was a political manoeuvre more closely related to the Country Party’s electoral advantage than to his state of health? [More…]

• For instance, to the extent that the Commission wishes to alter existing building codes, health codes and town planning provisions it will have the power to do so. [More…]

• We also dealt with 6 health Bills, and the Australian Industries Development Corporation Bill. [More…]

• What was wrong with the health code? [More…]

• Senator Durack makes the point that this legislation seeks to override- I have written these words down- any law to control health, building and town planning. [More…]

• May we expect a reduction in the excessive Government advertising program costing $1.6m to launch Medibank, and will the Expenditure Review Committee investigate the financial implications of the proposed massive expenditure of some $ 1,400m for the compulsory nationalised health scheme? [More…]

• A determination by the Remuneration Tribunal relating to positions in the Health Insurance Commission, the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, the Law Reform Commission and the Social Welfare Commission. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate is designed to provide for an orderly transition from the present health insurance scheme to Medibank. [More…]

• During that Sitting the Health Insurance Act and the Health Insurance Commission Act were passed. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Act authorises the payment of medical benefits, the Australian Government to enter into agreements with the States for the provision of hospital services, and the making of health program grants. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission Act establishes the administrative structure of Medibank. [More…]

• Medibank has been the subject of a prolonged campaign of deliberate misrepresentation conducted principally by those with vested self interest in the preservation of the present inefficient, inequitable and very costly health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Act makes special provision for pensioners whose financial means are within specified limits equivalent to the present pensioner medical service entitlement limits. [More…]

• For those choosing private treatment in either a public or a private hospital, there will be a $16 a day subsidy towards hospital bed charges provided under the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• Where State governments decline to enter into agreements from 1 July 1975 then, until such agreements are entered into, the present National Health Act arrangements will continue so far as hospital benefits are concerned. [More…]

• First, the Bill provides for cessation of the payment of Australian Government medical and hospital benefits under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Secondly, it provides for the manner in which existing health insurance organisations will phase out their National Health Act operations. [More…]

• Of course, organisations ceasing operations under the National Health Act will be eligible to seek authorisation to conduct health insurance business under legislation, supervising private health insurance, which will be introduced later in these sittings. [More…]

• Increasingly, a citizen’s real standard of living, the health of himself and his family, his children’s opportunities for education and self-improvement, his access to employment opportunities, his ability to enjoy the nation’s resources for recreation and culture, his ability to participate in the decisions and actions of the community are determined not by his income, not by the hours he works, but by where he lives. [More…]

• For generations now, local councils have lacked the financial resources to provide better roads, better sewerage, decent community health services, child care centres and facilities for sport and recreation. [More…]

• There are grants in the area of community health. [More…]

• The whole purpose of this is to give financial assistance under the Australian Government community health program to community based health services and facilities, particularly in areas of need. [More…]

• The community health program aims to provide co-ordinated community based health services covering preventive medicine, early treatment, health education and after-care, in the patient’s neighbourhood wherever possible. [More…]

• Grants for organisations are usually made through State health authorities. [More…]

• Through its financial hegemony it can create better conditions in transport, housing, education and health. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security confirm that benefits will be payable under the Government’s new Medibank health scheme for people who attend an optometrist to obtain spectacles? [More…]

• Amendments which are proposed to be made to the Health Insurance Act will establish an optometrical services committee of inquiry to inquire into the fees and the mode of practice of individual optometrists. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and relates to the medical health scheme. [More…]

• This is possibly more appropriately a matter for the Minister for Social Security than the Minister for Health. [More…]

• 1 from the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare on the continuing oversight of the report of the Senate Select Committee on Drug Trafficking and Drug Abuse. [More…]

• During the debate on the report the Senate resolved that the Standing Committees on Health and Welfare, Social Environment and Constitutional and Legal Affairs should continually oversight the report and recommend from time to time the further measures which might be taken to implement the recommendation or overcome the problems revealed in the report. [More…]

• The Opposition is quite delighted to hold up not only legislation of that nature but also our health [More…]

• Bills, while thousands of people in this country are suffering ill health. [More…]

• The Opposition parties have held up all the health Bills that we have attempted to put through. [More…]

• -It is no surprise to the honourable senator or to anyone else because we have maintained a consistent approach to the national health scheme which has been proposed by the Government. [More…]

• We have opposed it on practical and philosophical grounds and we will oppose consistently any Bills which are related to the introduction of a socialised health scheme in this country. [More…]

• The Bill with which we are dealing tonight is designed to destroy the legislative arrangements which give the voluntary health scheme its existence and because this Bill has that purpose it must be opposed by the members of the Opposition. [More…]

• We have said consistently that the introduction at this time of a compulsory health scheme for the Australian people does not have the support of us, as parliamentary representatives, or of the people upon whom it will be imposed. [More…]

• This Bill prohibits the payment of Commonwealth health benefits after a date to be proclaimed; that is, it removes the Government’s support from the voluntary health scheme which is now serving the Australian people. [More…]

• This Bill also makes it illegal for organisations to continue to provide health insurance after a date to be proclaimed by the Minister. [More…]

• This measure will make illegal the continuity of voluntary health insurance funds as they are and as they serve the Australian people. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) has stated that the health funds will subsequently be re-registered if they desire to be re-registered, but we have no knowledge of the form that that legislation for re-registration would take nor at what time the Minister would permit a re-registration. [More…]

• If we permit the passage of this Bill it would mean that the health funds would be required to discontinue their operations and then their re-introduction for the services which they may give would be at the prerogative of the Minister. [More…]

• It is essential that there are voluntary health funds, even if Medibank does start its operations on 1 July. [More…]

• If Medibank starts on 1 July it will be necessary for the Australian people to have access to some form of health insurance that will cover them for private hospital care. [More…]

• That seems to be overlooked in the present Bill which will dismantle the voluntary health schemes which may be re-introduced and re-registered by the Minister according to his own timetable and in his own way. [More…]

• This Bill also provides for the Government to take over the funds’ liability for nursing home benefits and authorise the Health Insurance Commission to carry on health insurance to ensure that contributions to funds which cannot meet their obligations are covered. [More…]

• We have stressed our opposition to the health scheme. [More…]

• We showed at the time of the Joint Sitting of Parliament that we are still resisting the introduction of a compulsory, nationalised and socialised health scheme in this country. [More…]

• We defeated the health levy Bills which were designed to provide for a levy of 1.35 per cent on each taxpayer in this country. [More…]

• The honourable senator has asked where the Government contributions comes from for the existing health scheme. [More…]

• It has been freely acknowledged that it has been a development which suited the needs of the Australian people and progressively has maintained a system of health care which has served the community. [More…]

• If the honourable senator had listened to the debate on the last occasion that we had to reject a Bill connected with health scheme he would know that we wrote into the Hansard of the Australian Parliament the program that we, as an alternative government, would establish as a voluntary health scheme in this country. [More…]

• It has been an attitude of government to have confrontation with every group in this community which is involved in the introduction of this proposed socialised health scheme. [More…]

• Confrontation has occurred with the medical profession, with the private hospitals, with the ancillary services, with the Australian people themselves, with the private hospital insurance funds and with all those people who are associated with a health scheme and who would be required to cooperate in its implementation. [More…]

• If we are to translate that sort of ideology of socialism into the field of health care and the requirements of the Australian people, it would surely be appropriate for a responsible Opposition to say again to the Government: ‘Retreat from your socialist plans in this country and acknowledge that health care cannot be dismantled overnight’. [More…]

• Why has the Government found it necessary to denigrate every group which is associated with health care? [More…]

• Why is it that it does not acknowledge that there is no provision for the continuity of private hospitals in the present health scheme? [More…]

• If the people of this country require health care, education, roads or any other services they will pay for them. [More…]

• We talk about the way in which we have designed a national health scheme at present. [More…]

• We have never asked whether a national scheme and voluntary health insurance could live together. [More…]

• Perhaps we could improve the existing scheme to provide additional opportunities for health to be delivered to the Australian people. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that of the 2 part-time members to be elected to the Australian Capital Territory Health Services Commission one will be a nursing employee elected by the nursing employees? [More…]

• -I should think that the proposition put forward by the Minister for Health would meet with the approval not only of the Royal Australian Nursing Federation and the other relevant unions but of all those concerned with democracy in industry and the participation of those who work within an industry in the management of that industry. [More…]

• It is a fact that the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, has announced that he proposes that two of the part time members of the Australian Capital Territory Health Services Commission will be elected by the employees, one by the nursing employees and the other by employees other than nurses. [More…]

• He probably would do away with a lot of the Government expenditure on education, health services and pensions- a whole range of things- if he had the opportunity. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact, as announced in newspapers, that the Minister proposes to spend $ 1.8m on publicising what is called, I think, the Medibank health scheme? [More…]

• One would think that one should ask the question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health, but I think I am correct, under this jet lag Government, in addressing my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• Whether the question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health or to the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security is largely immaterial because I happen to have the fortune to represent both these gentlemen. [More…]

• I felt that it was important that this aspect should be stressed at that stage as the Bill with which we are dealing is one which will discontinue the operations of the private health funds in Australia. [More…]

• I recall the fact that the Minister for Social Security, Mr Hayden, has accused the Australian Medical Association of creating a nationalisation myth by its claim that the new scheme is a plan for the nationalisation of health. [More…]

• The major act of nationalisation in the traditional sense to be undertaken by a Labor Government in the next term, will be through the establishment of a single health fund, administered by a Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• I think that we should relate those remarks of the Prime Minister to the establishment of the Health Insurance Commission, which the Government has as part of its health program. [More…]

• The Minister has powers to determine the registration and deregistration of hospitals under section 132 of the Health Insurance Act 1973. [More…]

• I want to refer briefly to ‘A Report On Hospitals In Australia’ which we had prepared by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• In the implementation of the present health scheme I find a big question yet to be answered with regard to the private hospitals in this country- what is their future and what is the intention of government? [More…]

• What will be the future of health care after 1 July? [More…]

• With all of the questions that are still to be answered and all of the steps that should have been taken in consultation instead of confrontation we believe that difficulties will arise at the takeover date by the Government of the health services in Australia. [More…]

• I found it surprising this morning that Senator Guilfoyle is still reading from the early collected works of Gough Whitlam on the subject of health services in Australia when since that time there have been a number of debates and a number of Bills before the Senate, and rejected by it, relating to the proposed National Health Act. [More…]

• The National Health Bill which is before the Senate is designed to facilitate the introduction of the Medibank scheme. [More…]

• When I say ‘some period of time’ I ask the Senate to believe that it is 6 years, because there has now been 6 years of public debate on this question, it is 6 years since the Liberal Government of the time appointed the Nimmo Committee to inquire into health services in Australia and in 6 years nothing has been done in relation to the findings of that Committee, except by this Government in the Medibank scheme. [More…]

• They can be summarised essentially as follows: It found that the existing scheme of health insurance in Australia was complex and incomprehensible to many sections of the community. [More…]

• It found that the voluntary health funds had a high percentage of operating expenses and that their reserves at that time were too high. [More…]

• One would be pardoned for drawing the conclusion that the health care standards of this community are not a matter of primary concern to the Liberal Party. [More…]

• I refer particularly to the health care of migrants in this community who constitute 60 per cent of the admitted possibly one million people in Australia who are not covered by voluntary schemes. [More…]

• That opposition has been maintained through 2 national elections in which, if the electors of Australia were confused about some issues, they knew for sure that if this Labor Government was returned to office it would introduce its national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Basically we have in the Senate today and we have had in the House of Representatives recently the same old, tired criticisms such as that this is a compulsory scheme, as if in a society which provides for compulsion in all sorts of matters involving the welfare of the people a compulsory health scheme above all is in some way undesirable. [More…]

• We still hear talk about the virtues of the private health funds. [More…]

• There are some gleeful pronouncements from the Opposition that the cost of health care is increasing very rapidly in Australia, as if that was some new discovery of unique importance. [More…]

• Everybody knows that the cost of health care is increasing very rapidly in every country with sophistication and economic development equal to that of Australia. [More…]

• He will pay more for health cover even though the sum will not be labelled ‘ health insurance ‘. [More…]

• Every honourable senator in this chamber knows that it will not be labelled health insurance because the Opposition voted against the Health Insurance Levy Bill when it was before the House. [More…]

• Insofar as the health insurance scheme will be free, in the sense in which that word is used in the advertisement, it is the fault of the Liberal Party Opposition in this chamber. [More…]

• Once again if honourable senators opposite want to be reminded of that in this chamber or on the hustings, they will be, because that was the fact of the matter when they blocked the Health Insurance Levy Bill earlier this year. [More…]

• What we have in the Health Insurance Bill before the House is simply a proposal to facilitate the introduction of Medibank and to provide in clause 12 a system of Commonwealth benefits for non-pensioner patients in nursing homes. [More…]

• But it is propping up the health funds as if there were some particular sanctity about them, still talking about doctor-patient relationships and no freedom of choice of doctor, and opposing this [More…]

• The Senate is debating the National Health Bill 1 974. [More…]

• The Bill sets out as a second main objective to render some first aid against its own discriminatory actions which have had the effect of weakening and threatening many of the private voluntary health insurance funds. [More…]

• We Commonwealth, always believed and continue to believe in the place of the voluntary health fund in the system of private voluntary health insurance subsidised by government. [More…]

• It is interesting that I had the pleasure of opposing the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) 2 weeks ago in a public debate. [More…]

• I do not know whether the Minister for Health was speaking on behalf of his colleague, the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden), but he stated that all the funds would cease to exist on 1 July. [More…]

• The Bill provides for the cessation of the payment of Australian Government medical and hospital benefits under the National Health Act after 1 July. [More…]

• If we are to believe what the Minister for Health said in public in Sydney 2 weeks ago, that date is to be 1 July. [More…]

• There are millions of pensioners in this country who count their entitlement to health care under the pensioner medical service as one of their rights. [More…]

• I say again to the Labor Party that there is no reason for abolishing this particular section of the National Health Act and there is no reason for putting pensioners in this kind of peril. [More…]

• The next thing which this Bill proposes is to render some first aid to some of the health funds. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security admits that some of the health funds are in trouble. [More…]

• If we go to page 12 of the report on the operations of the health funds and look at the trading operations of the medical benefit organisations in New South Wales we find that the result is an overall deficit for 25 out of 29 medical benefit funds. [More…]

• These are the rapacious, voluntary health funds which the Labor Party wants to destroy! [More…]

• We have a situation in which the Minister has made it one of his projects to try to cripple the voluntary health insurance system. [More…]

• He advised health insurance contributors in New South Wales not to pay contribution increases. [More…]

• He said that the increases were, to use his own words, a blatant and deliberate attempt to overcharge health insurance contributors. [More…]

• The health funds used the appeal mechanism which was put into the Act by the Liberal and Country Parties in this place. [More…]

• The Minister passed the major burden of the Tribunal’s recommendations on to the voluntary health funds and on to their contributors. [More…]

• We quite deliberately set out to make health insurance attractive by subsidising it. [More…]

• Because of the National Health Act the funds have been unable to increase benefits, to increase contribution rates or to increase the kind of insurance cover they offer, without getting ministerial approval. [More…]

• on 17 February Mr Hayden went on record as recommending Australians to maintain their health insurance cover right up to 1 July, and I hope that all Australians listened to what the Minister for Social Security had to say. [More…]

• If Mr Whitlam called a double dissolution and the Labor Party was defeated, the pensioner medical service could have been abolished by means of this Bill, the voluntary health funds could have been driven to the wall, and the Government’s Medibank scheme might not be in operation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health in the Whitlam Government does not agree with him. [More…]

• The Federal Health Minister, Dr Everingham, conceded to The AJP last month that health care standards for the majority of Australians could be expected to ‘fall slightly’, on introduction of the Government’s Health Bill. [More…]

• The Minister for Health concedes that standards of health care for most Australians will fall slightly when the Medibank scheme comes into operation. [More…]

• The Minister clearly concedes that health care standards will fall and that the private care available under our present system is the best careand, after all, the Minister for Health was a member of our profession for some time. [More…]

• It seems to assume that health care in Australia is rationed by financial considerations. [More…]

• The Minister of State for Health in the House of Commons in the United Kingdom, Mr David Owen, was quoted on 2 February 1 975 in the ‘ London Times ‘ as saying: [More…]

• The health service is a rationed service. [More…]

• There will never be a government or a country that has enough resources to meet all the demands any nation will make on a National Health Service. [More…]

• The reason why there is rationing of health services in Australia is that there is a lack of resources. [More…]

• I have mentioned before in this place that we have adequate resources in some parts of Sydney, for example, and we have an inadequate number of doctors and other health personnel in other areas of Sydney. [More…]

• However, Dr Everingham gives some indication of what is intended when Labor gets complete control of health. [More…]

• The Bill will not give extra freedom to the people who have to pay their doctors’ bills and then get the money back from the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• There is no freedom for me, as a user of health services, if I cannot find somewhere at which to lodge my claim. [More…]

• That being the case will there be a charge on the Health Insurance Commission of something like $40,000 a day just for the agency arrangements? [More…]

• In doing so I refer to the ‘Mercury’ of 14 November last iri which the Minister for Health in Tasmania, Mr Farquhar, in announcing moves in Tasmania to eliminate the choice of doctors at public hospitals from 1 January, said not only that people would lose the choice of doctors at public hospitals in the Labor State of Tasmania but also that it was happening as part of a nationwide scheme. [More…]

• I can do no less than believe the words of the Labor Minister for Health in Tasmania on this matter. [More…]

• We are discussing the National Health Bill, and before the suspension of the sitting I was discussing some of the ways in which this Bill is unjust. [More…]

• I was discussing the fact that doctors do stand to lose some of their freedoms and I instanced the situation in Tasmania where the Labor State Munster for Health, Mr Farquhar, announced, as reported in the ‘Mercury’ on 14 November, that doctors in that State would be paid a sessional rate and that that would eliminate the choice of doctors at public hospitals from the beginning of the year. [More…]

• I would remind the Senate that when Professor Richard Downing recently gave the George Judah Cohen Memorial Lecture at Sydney University he talked about the cost of the 3 Government welfare programs- the Hayden health scheme, the Woodhouse scheme for which Senator Wheeldon is responsible, and the national superannuation scheme- as far as they could be costed at this stage. [More…]

• There is nothing free about the Hayden Medibank health scheme. [More…]

• I believe, as do my colleagues, that the voluntary health insurance funds have served a very valuable purpose. [More…]

• It is as clear now as it was from the first speech of an Opposition member in the first debate on the national health insurance scheme that we have philosophical and practical grounds on which we differ in regard to this scheme. [More…]

• It is sheer humbug to talk about the Government denigrating groups associated with health care when we take into account the campaign that has been run by the Australian Medical Association and the General Practitioners Society. [More…]

• They have used hysterical rubbish to frighten the ordinary people of Australia into believing that if the Government brought in a health scheme that would deal with their ordinary everyday needs, somehow that was bringing in communism. [More…]

• Now I come to deal with the private health funds for which we are supposed to feel so sorry. [More…]

• We should remember how private health funds ever came into existence. [More…]

• They came into existence because people combined to give themselves the assistance they needed and to give themselves the health care they wanted. [More…]

• These private health funds we have today use money that is contributed by many little people and are propped up with government money in increasing amounts. [More…]

• This Bill is part of the national health scheme that we have told the people of Australia during the last 2Vi years we will bring in. [More…]

• It is called the National Health Bill, which is a misnomer. [More…]

• It is a financial Bill and it is simply part of the Australian Labor Party plan to socialise our health by destroying our private medical care. [More…]

• Who will pick the standard- the Department of Health, the Department of Social Security, the patients, the doctors or the State governments? [More…]

• This new kind of health insurance is being rammed down our necks, whether we like it or not or whether we want it or not. [More…]

• We will wind up paying more and getting less, as has happened with all socialised health schemes that have been tried all round the world. [More…]

• Not one nationalised health scheme is a success. [More…]

• All the nationalised health schemes and socialised health schemes are variations on a theme. [More…]

• The only way any government can provide any form of public health service is to ensure that there is a healthy private health service. [More…]

• It is a matter of some wonder to me that this new scheme, which will disadvantage every man, woman and child in Queensland, is being brought in mainly by the Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) and the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) who are Queenslanders. [More…]

• This Bill is a machinery Bill to facilitate legislation to assist in the smooth introduction of the national health insurance program, which we call Medibank. [More…]

• It is interesting that the arguments brought forward in the debates on this Bill and other health Bills changed very little until Senator Baume with an amazing piece of enlightenment informed us today that this Bill would destroy the pensioner medical scheme. [More…]

• Not even the earnest efforts of people like Bill Arthur, assisted by ample funds from the Australian Medical Association and voluntary health organisations, can bring credence to arguments of the Opposition. [More…]

• Combined with this is a sacred duty to preserve the expensive empires which have been built up by the various moguls in some of the voluntary health organisations. [More…]

• They know that those who wish to insure for private hospital treatment will be able, by one conscious effort, to purchase private health insurance to cover them for the difference between public hospital and the private hospital treatment. [More…]

• They know that, come election time, money, literature and a public relations man will be supplied to their parties by the voluntary health funds and that these will be supplied from moneys that have been contributed by innocent people who thought they were putting all their money into insuring against their health needs. [More…]

• I support the speakers on the Opposition side in rejecting it as another attempt by the socialist Government of Australia to inflict upon the people a health scheme which is based largely on systems that exist overseas, systems that have been proved to be second rate. [More…]

• I find it incredible that a government which is faced by a deficit of about $3,600m by the end of this financial year is to rob the people of Australia to pay for a health scheme that will cost, in my opinion, no less than $700m-odd more than the present scheme is costing Australia today. [More…]

• In my view this is against the interests of the health of the Australian community. [More…]

• The introduction of the detoxification units is the subject of a joint study by the Department of the Northern Territory, the Department of Health and my Department- the Department of Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Social Security aware that the British health scheme is in danger of bankruptcy and collapse unless the British Government pours multi-millions of pounds into the fund? [More…]

• Will this Government change its mind on the introduction of a nationalised health scheme in Australia, bearing in mind the facts of the British scheme and the attitudes of the Australian public which are opposed to any such nationalised scheme being introduced into Australia? [More…]

• I have already corrected Senator Rae when he referred to the scheme as a nationalised health scheme, which it is not. [More…]

• Certainly the national health scheme in Britain was introduced by a Labor government- the first Attlee Government. [More…]

• It is a settled part of the way of life in Britain, in the same manner as national health is part of the way of life of virtually all of the countries with which Australia can be compared: all of them have national health schemes. [More…]

• Senator Young says that there is a lot of opposition to a national health scheme in Australia. [More…]

• The overwhelming majority of the Australian people showed very clearly on 2 occasions that they are in favour of our national health scheme. [More…]

• We intend to proceed with our national health scheme in accordance with the wishes of the people who put us here to represent them. [More…]

• I refer, of course, to the other conciliation and arbitration Bill, the 2 Bills relating to the seas and submerged lands, the National Health Bill and the simultaneous elections referendum proposals, all of which have been before the Senate on numerous occasions in the past. [More…]

• When this has been achieved will the Minister arrange to have the findings publicly announced and exhibited, firstly to give the public an exact method of ascertaining the amount of fish that can be eaten without having any adverse effects on the health of members of the public and, secondly, as recent publicity appears to have frightened many people with the resultant fall-off in demand which is seriously disadvantaging many fishermen’s livelihood, particularly in Tasmania? [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall the mutilation in this chamber of the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• As a result of the treatment given by the Opposition to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I am pleased to see that Senator Greenwood wishes to dissociate himself from the Opposition in its approach to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• Fortunately since then the necessary amendment to the National Health Act has been passed and at present the provision of these appliances free of charge to all who need them is being investigated by the Department of Health. [More…]

• with new departures envisaged for the management of health and education. [More…]

• In regard to other important functions such as health and education the responsibility elsewhere of State Government we see no reason why they should not pass eventually to local control. [More…]

• The future health of the arts in Australia hinges on diversity, virility and innovation and widely based community and individual support together with, as I said, a broad based consumer involvement in which people are positively encouraged in the various ways available to the Council to participate, to get to know and to get to appreciate what Australian art has to offer them. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate provides for the removal or reduction of the waiting periods that must be served by 2 classes of new contributors to health benefits funds before they become eligible for fund benefits. [More…]

• This results from exclusion rules applied by private health benefits organizations. [More…]

• The Bill enables a health benefits organisation which is already operating a special account to transfer to that account a pregnant woman who becomes a contributor to the fund. [More…]

• The National Health Act at present provides that these people must generally serve a waiting period of 2 weeks from the time they become unemployed or incapacitated before they are eligible for medical and hospital benefits under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• Government of the operations of medical and hospital benefits organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• The provisions in this Bill are identical to those, relating to the supervision of health insurance organisations, which were included in the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall that the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• However, during the debate in that place the Opposition stated that it was not prepared to support the provisions in the Bill relating to the supervision of health insurance organisations. [More…]

• However, the Government regards the Senate’s rejection of the provisions in the Bill relating to the supervision of health insurance organisations as representing a severe setback in the attempt by this Government to establish provisions for the protection of people’s rights. [More…]

• The people in this instance are the contributors to health insurance funds. [More…]

• The point has been properly taken by some of the major inquiries into health insurance funds in this country, that consumers do not have representation on the bodies managing open funds. [More…]

• This responsibility is all the greater because of the Government’s financial involvement in the existing private health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The health insurance organisations could not have grown to their present significance, nor could they continue to operate, except for the very generous support that comes from government sources. [More…]

• For instance, on average over 60 per cent of the cost of medical services covered by medical insurance is met by direct subsidy by the Australian Government through the health insurance scheme and by indirect subsidy from the same source through tax concessions, which are a cost borne by the Government. [More…]

• The provisions in the Bill before the Senate are consistent with the recommendations of the Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance- the Nimmo Committee- which was set up by the Liberal-Country Party Government and with recommendations from the major investigation carried out by the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs. [More…]

• It is a grave deficiency in the existing provisions of the National Health Act that in an extreme case of a health insurance organisation flouting the reasonable directions of government, only the extremely punitive and unsatisfactory measure of deregistration is really available to Government. [More…]

• As I stated earlier, the arrangements I have outlined are along the lines of arrangements provided for in other insurance legislation and I believe that all contributors to health benefits funds would welcome their enactment as a positive step forward in the protection of their interests. [More…]

• This is an extension of a principle incorporated in the National Health Act by the Liberal-Country Party Government. [More…]

• The special accounts arrangements are authorised by Division 2 of Part VI of the National Health Act. [More…]

• This escalation in Government spending arising from underwriting the activities of health benefits funds through the special account mechanism has occurred at a time when there were extremely large reserves accumulated by the funds. [More…]

• The specific provision is contained in new section 74C and visualises portion of any excessive reserves being credited to the organisation’s special account for the purpose of providing benefits to high drawing members who are those usually most in need of the protection of health insurance coverage. [More…]

• One will represent the interests of health benefit organisations, another the interests of contributors to the organisations and the third member would be a qualified accountant. [More…]

• Honourable senators will readily appreciate that the provisions in the Bill are not related to Medibank- the universal health insurance program. [More…]

• They are designed to enable health insurance organisations to be supervised in a manner that will result in the organisations serving the needs of contributors more effectively. [More…]

• The fact is that the beef industry is based mainly for its health on the ability of overseas consumers to be able to buy the product. [More…]

• Therefore I suggest to the Senate- I propose to follow it up with the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham)- that the National Hospitals and Health Services Commission commission a study of the emotional morbidity which is the sequel of natural disasters of the severity and the scale that Australians in Darwin and southern Tasmania have unfortunately experienced in recent months. [More…]

• I hope that the Government will take this opportunity, through the Health and Hospitals Commission, to have a broad national analysis to determine the extent of medical-social pathology consequent upon natural disaster. [More…]

• Government Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, that a survey of the type 1 have mentioned be carried out. [More…]

• We are in the process of discussing with the Department of the Northern Territory and the Department of Health the provision of a detoxification unit. [More…]

• There is no evidence of which I am aware that there have been any detrimental health effects from mercury which may be found in fish in Australian waters. [More…]

• It should be borne in mind that although the World Health Organisation has made a definitive judgment on this question, in Australia fish does not form a very significant part of our diet. [More…]

• Noting the intention of the Minister to make available facilities in the proposed emergencyaccident centre at the Repatriation General Hospital at Concord to road accident and other emergency cases from a ‘source area to be delineated by the Health Commission of New South Wales’- they are the Minister’s words- I ask: Has the Minister’s discussion with the Health Commission included determination for the sharing of financial responsibility between Federal, State and private sectors responsible for health care? [More…]

• Mr Anthony said that the senators had a very great opposition to the national health scheme. [More…]

• The Opposition parties are determined to fight national health scheme for the reasons I have just given. [More…]

• What I am saying is that Mr Anthony is making an assumption that we will continue to oppose Medibank, and National Health Scheme and we will, he was absolutely correct in that. [More…]

• He was casting his mind ahead to a point where there will be a Supply Bill in the Parliament which would contain an appropriation, supply for next year for the National Health Scheme, and he was making an assumption of the fate of it. [More…]

• The issue for Australians is that they do not know what health scheme they will have, they do not know whether they will have an election and they do not know who will lead the Liberal Party to any supposed election. [More…]

• The fact is that the Opposition parties forced an election which created the ensuing Joint Sitting which gave the Australian Labor Party the full endorsement of its health plans. [More…]

• Directors’ interests, direct and indirect, in the securities of the corporation and in contracts with the corporation; the number of persons employed by the corporation; arrangements made by the corporation for protecting the safety and health of its employees and of the public and for protecting the environment; and arrangements made by the corporation for the protection of its consumers. [More…]

• Staffs of Health Funds are not being ‘encouraged ‘ to leave the funds and become employees of Medibank. [More…]

• Pensioners can have all these facilities provided for them by the Australian Department of Health. [More…]

• -I noticed that it was to be suggested that a cognate debate of the 2 National Health Bills be undertaken. [More…]

• The Opposition will vote in favour of the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• This Bill, which was introduced some time ago by the Minister for Repatriation and Compensation (Senator Wheeldon), provides for new benefits to 2 classes of contributors to health benefits funds. [More…]

• This results from the exclusion rules which were applied by private health fund organisations. [More…]

• This particular Bill now enables a health benefits organisation, which is already operating a special account, to transfer to that account a pregnant woman’s benefits after she becomes a contributor to the fund. [More…]

• The use of the special account for this purpose does give a benefit and a cover to pregnant women who are contributors to a private health fund. [More…]

• The National Health Act at present provides that these people must generally serve a waiting period of 2 weeks from the time that they become unemployed or incapacitated before they are eligible. [More…]

• I indicate that the Opposition accepts the proposals within the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I turn now to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• We now have presented to us this Bill which is styled National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• It is the Bill which refers to the private health funds. [More…]

• The Minister, in introducing the Bill, has said that it provides for more effective supervision by the Australian Government of the operations of medical and hospital benefits organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• There are very wide ranging provisions within this National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I consider that a somewhat interesting statement because it would be important to relate the operation of the private health funds to the proposed Medibank program inasmuch as there are considerable gaps in the Medibank program and private health funds will need to cover contributors who desire to insure themselves against those gaps. [More…]

• It seems to me that the very wide powers and perhaps the intention that these powers suggest for the winding up and management of the health funds do lead into an area where, if this Bill were given assent and were enacted, these gaps could not be covered for the Australian people. [More…]

• Our basic objection to the Bill is, without any question at all, that it does give the Minister absolute and dictatorial powers over the operations in the future of the private health funds. [More…]

• Those powers could be used indiscriminately and for the ultimate or immediate destruction of the health funds. [More…]

• If it were the objective of the Minister to eliminate competition from the health funds after the introduction of the Government’s Medibank scheme, the power to do so would exist under this Bill. [More…]

• There is a provision within this Bill which gives the Minister the power to manipulate the reserves of the health funds. [More…]

• It would also make it extremely difficult for the health funds to provide a program for the future to cover whatever areas of health insurance may be required by the Australian people. [More…]

• If they are to operate commercially and profitably it will be necessary for them to pursue whatever areas of health insurance are required by the Australian people. [More…]

• This would surely be against the Government’s professed desire to have health care reaching each individual Australian in the best possible manner. [More…]

• The provisions which talk about the special account are important but I think what we should draw attention to at this time, in the interests of Australian people, is the need for them to continue to undertake private health insurance for private hospital cover. [More…]

• Without the private health insurance funds operating and without people insuring themselves it will be extremely difficult on 1 July for hospital accommodation to be available as it is required by the Australian community. [More…]

• The private medical profession, which is heavily dependent also on a viable independent health insurance industry, will be deprived of the private hospitals which the profession uses for its patients. [More…]

• Again we believe that this will erode the quality of health care that could be available. [More…]

• These are the reasons why we relate this Bill to the proposed Medibank scheme because we believe that without the operation of private health funds it will not be possible to cover many gaps from the introduction of the medical scheme. [More…]

• The application of the wide reaching ramifications of this Bill to the private health funds during this period of testing and introduction of the complex scheme which the Government proposes places unnecessary difficulties before the health funds at this time. [More…]

• I indicate on behalf of the Opposition that at this time we cannot see that it would be in the interests of the Australian public for such wide ranging powers to be asserted by the Minister over the operations of the private health funds. [More…]

• Both these Bills have been described by the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) as not being related to Medibank. [More…]

• Certainly the first of these 2 Bills, the Health Insurance Bill (No. [More…]

• 2), is not related to Medibank in any way in that it is designed to cure 2 deficiencies in the long standing health insurance scheme in Australia. [More…]

• In the first place, pregnant women are excluded by the rules of private health funds from benefit if they are not members at the time that their pregnancy is incurred or during their pregnancy. [More…]

• Both these matters have been adverted to in the past by reports relating to the operation of the health insurance program. [More…]

• I welcome at this stage the Opposition’s acceptance of the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• With regard to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 3), at this stage I still fail to understand the Opposition’s emotional allegiance to the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• With regard to unsubstantiated fears about private health insurance after Medibank is introduced, it may be said that it has a very tenuous connection in a negative way with the positive aspects of Medibank. [More…]

• I wish to draw the attention of the Senate to one or two matters in relation to the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• For a long time a comment has been made in our society, which has never been answered, that many things are wrong with the administration of the private health insurance funds, that their management expenses are too high and that open funds have failed the community and the contributors to those funds by the lack of contributor representation in the management of the funds. [More…]

• I say that it is disappointing because if one studies some of the documents which have been published since 1969 by various committees and inquiries relating to health insurance in Australia, one finds that these matters have been causes of concern. [More…]

• If one looks at the report of the Senate Select Committee on Medical and Hospital Costs published in June 1970 one finds a reference on page 46 to the departmental policy in relation to private health insurance funds of trying persuasion and co-operation with these funds rather than the sort of controls which are envisaged in the present Bill. [More…]

• The Committee considers that this policy has not been sufficient, and believes that it would be desirable, whenever necessary, to exercise the power of suspension and to withdraw from any suspended organisation the payment of Commonwealth benefits pursuant to section 28 of the National Health Act. [More…]

• At a later stage it was further dealt with in the Green Paper on health insurance in Australia- the report of the planning committee. [More…]

• Still, in April of 1975 we find some reluctance to accept these criticisms of the private health insurance funds and addiction to the position which was adopted in 1 969 by the present Opposition, the then Government, about which nothing was done in 3 years of government after that first report to which I referred was tabled. [More…]

• We should consider at all times the social purpose of the health insurance funds. [More…]

• Their social purpose under the existing health insurance scheme has been to provide benefits for contributors who belong to those private funds. [More…]

• We on this side put it quite simply that that is an abdication of responsibility of government, that it is inconsistent with previous positions adopted by the Liberal Party on this matter, that it is inconsistent with the findings of the Committee of the Senate, that it is inconsistent with the findings of the Nimmo report, and of course and not remarkably that it is inconsistent with the statement set out in the Green Paper on health insurance. [More…]

• I do not find that remarkable at all because that document, in a sense, expresses the Government’s political view on the health insurance situation in Australia. [More…]

• What will this position achieve in terms of the social purposes of health funds? [More…]

• -I agree with the Opposition’s stance in respect of the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) and the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• We find National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• However, we find National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• He said that the Government regarded the Senate’s rejection of the provisions of the Bill relating to the health insurance organisations as representing a severe setback of an attempt by the Government to establish provisions for the protection of contributors to health insurance funds. [More…]

• This responsibility is all the greater because of the Government’s financial involvement in the existing private health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The health insurance organisations could not have grown to their present significance, nor could they continue to operate, except for the very generous support that comes from government sources. [More…]

• There were many problems with the private health funds but, as with many other matters, they could be regarded as teething problems. [More…]

• As legislation relating to Medibank has already been rejected, we believe it is consistent to reject the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I am pleased that the Opposition is supporting the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• It has been obvious for a long time that this was an inadequacy in our health scheme, and at last it is to be corrected. [More…]

• The National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 3), as was the case previously when it was part of National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• Although Senator Button has some difficulty in working out the emotional allegiance of the Opposition to the voluntary health funds, I suggest to him and to others that perhaps this allegiance is not entirely emotional. [More…]

• In particular, during the 1972 election campaign one of the large voluntary health funds supplied free of charge a public relations officer from its staff to work for the Opposition parties. [More…]

• However, as Senator Button has stated, one consistent part of the Opposition’s stand in opposing any change in our national health scheme has been the Opposition ‘s insistence on the preservation of the voluntary health funds as they are. [More…]

• One can recall the mystifying leak of the Opposition ‘s proposals on health before the last election. [More…]

• In the first draft of the proposals Mr Chipp and his committee proposed that there should be consumer representation on the boards of voluntary health funds. [More…]

• I am afraid that I cannot understand this objection to the provision of consumer representation on the boards of voluntary health funds. [More…]

• Voluntary health organisations pose as cooperatives to supply people with health insurance. [More…]

• Mr Chipp has said in debate in the other place that voluntary health organisations are like co-operatives, but they do not act at all like co-operatives. [More…]

• People put money into voluntary health funds- I am sure that most of us here do so- to obtain insurance in times of illness. [More…]

• Voluntary health funds frequently spend large amounts of money on activities which really have nothing to do with voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• This Bill seeks to allow the Minister to ask the voluntary health funds to show cause why they should not be investigated on why they are not acting correctly with their funds. [More…]

• I was a little disappointed at the cynicism of Senator Sheil when he referred to the previous subsidisation and to the present subsidisation of the voluntary health system by the Government. [More…]

• The payment of this subsidy is a good reason why the Government should have some overriding supervisory powers over the voluntary health system. [More…]

• It is important that the Government should have these powers because under the present set-up this is the only way in which the contributors to the voluntary health funds, who are the voters of this country, can get any powers or exercise any supervision at all over these funds. [More…]

• We have heard Senator Baume and others in previous debates say that the voluntary health scheme was a fine scheme and that because they believed it was a fine scheme they supported it and subsidised it. [More…]

• All that the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I return to the point that either the Opposition has an emotional attachment or allegiance, as Senator Button puts it, to the voluntary health funds, or the Opposition is afraid of what will happen to the source of supply of propagandathe provision of people and printing- in future election campaigns. [More…]

• Even when Medibank is introduced and there is still a place for voluntary health funds to insure people for private hospital treatment and for treatment not provided by Medibank, surely then there should be some supervision of these funds by the representatives of the consumers- this Parliament and this Government- to see what the funds do with their money. [More…]

• I think the consumer in health insurance will be the loser. [More…]

• The voluntary health funds will not lose much. [More…]

• But the consumer in health insurance, the ordinary patient in this community, will lose. [More…]

• hear the proposition that is being put regarding the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle, who is leading for the Opposition in this debate, has said that we are supporting the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) but opposing the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• It seems to me that, with the advent of the Government’s proposals which are to apply after 1 July- and it is expected that undoubtedly they will do so- these voluntary funds will not be involved in the direct sense in governmental health, medical and hospital services. [More…]

• I have been a Commonwealth Minister for Health and I know the problems of the organisations that arose from time to time in relation to the voluntary funds. [More…]

• -I rise to support the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• As has been said this afternoon, we have dealt with this Bill and the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I am very glad that the Opposition is supporting the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) and am very sad that it still is not supporting the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) which is aimed at bringing some commonsense into the realms of the health insurance bodies. [More…]

• It is aimed at ensuring protection for the ordinary consumers who do not have representation on the bodies managing the health insurance funds. [More…]

• Their wives may be contributors but those companies certainly are not and they certainly do not represent the ordinary people who rely on this fund for health insurance. [More…]

• These health insurance funds came into being because people believed that it would be a great thing if they banded together in a cooperative way at a time of very great financial commitment when they are ill. [More…]

• The provisions of the Bill are designed to enable health insurance organisations to be supervised in a manner that will ensure that they serve the needs of contributors in a most effective manner. [More…]

• The Government is pleased that the Opposition is not only not opposing National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I am most distressed to find that the Opposition is opposing the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• He referred to the hospital and health insurance funds and various luminaries in the Australian Labor Party who had occupied certain positions. [More…]

• We believe that some of the ills within the existing health benefit funds will be corrected by this measure. [More…]

• Whether or not there is Medibank we believe that there are certain malpractices, for want of a better term- I do not want to imply by that anything of an unlawful nature in the conduct of the existing funds- which will be corrected by the legislation now before the Senate as National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• The Government appreciates the Opposition’s support for National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• I appeal to Opposition members at this last moment to change their minds and support the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• A third parttime Commissioner, Mrs Sadie Canning, is an aboriginal who has detailed knowledge of health and welfare matters affecting the indigenous population. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Does the Minister for Health accept as accurate, statements attributed to him in an article in the Sydney Daily Telegraph of 6 February 1975 by Trevor Kavanagh concerning the value of research into cerebrovascular accidents (strokes). [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The report which was in the Daily Mirror, while reflecting my desire to shift the emphasis away from certain categories of disease of interest to the reporter, omitted my contrasting emphasis on the hazards to which I give greater importance because they deprive an increasing number of younger people of health and of productive years of life; alcohol, the road toll, cigarettes, misused drugs, poor diet, etc. [More…]

• Are moneys in this Fund used for purposes of paying Commonwealth fund benefits or health insurance. [More…]

• What special appropriations of money other than those to the National Welfare Fund, have been made which could be used by a Government health insurance fund. [More…]

• The transactions of the NWF are in essence no more than bookkeeping entries to satisfy the requirements of the Social Services and National Health Acts. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Does the Department of Social Security, or the Department of Health, or any other Government Department, subsidise the Doctors ‘ Reform Society directly or indirectly. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health noticed a report that 6 Queensland doctors have joined the Australian Country Party? [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that the Government of West Germany introduced a regulation earlier this year increasing the permissible limit governing mercury content in fish to one part per million? [More…]

• In view of that and also in view of the recent scientific and medical findings which cast doubt on the validity of the 1971 recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council to limit the allowable mercury content in fish to 0.5 parts per million, will the Minister ask his colleague to recommit this matter to that Council so that it can reassess its recommendations in the light of more recent information on this subject? [More…]

• Accordingly, I shall convey this information to my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the fact that the Minister’s Labour colleague, the West German Minister for Health, has taken these steps, obviously very serious consideration would have to be given to what has been done in the Federal Republic of West Germany. [More…]

• The Department of Repatriation and Compensation is working in conjunction with the Department of Health in the planning of a new pathology unit. [More…]

• It is proposed that the 2 departments- Repatriation and Compensation and Health- will act jointly so that a new service in the field of pathology can be provided more cheaply by the two working together. [More…]

• Personal details and records involving matters such as taxation and health are obvious cases. [More…]

• One might ask with regard to the obligation of the Third Schedule of the legislation why a directors’ report should include matters such as the personal and employment policies of a company, safety, health, environmental and consumer protection measures and employment statistics. [More…]

• It is a fact of economic life that the strength of the economy of a free enterprise society will parallel the health and vigour of its securities markets. [More…]

• I remind him that people with repatriation entitlements to medical treatment are at present disbarred from benefits from voluntary health insurance funds. [More…]

• Will the Minister instruct the Ambassador in Saigon to have discussions with the South Vietnamese authorities on simplifying the passport issuance procedure so ‘that Australia will accept the Vietnamese identity card as identification for entry into Australia, provided the people concerned have a visa and health clearance? [More…]

• Reported levels for the larger cities in Australia of carbon monoxide and oxidants are up to four and five times the World Health Organisation’s long term goals. [More…]

• Perhaps I can digress for a moment to relate to the Senate that numbered among the officials whom I had on my staff at that time were the present Australian Minister for Defence, the Attorney-General of Tasmania, a senior officer of the Education Department of Tasmania and a senior health inspector in the State of Tasmania. [More…]

• If they do not wish to cast one because of ill health they will not have to do so. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether he is aware that many Australians suffering serious illnesses are visiting certain faith healers in the Philippines, some at least of whom appear to be total fakes? [More…]

• Will the Minister cause an inquiry to be made in order to ensure that proper warnings can be issued to those persons who may be tempted to seek medical relief from this particular source and thus give them the opportunity to retain their savings and perhaps at the same time prevent further health deterioration? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has condemned the use of the Tronado microwave machine in the treatment of cancer. [More…]

• Included in this group is the National Health and Medical Research Council which has been regarded as an authoritative body on the matter. [More…]

• I shall certainly refer this matter to the Minister for Health and ask him to have his Department make an inquiry into the report of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to the report of a working group on diet and coronary heart disease published today by the Academy of Science and commented on publicly by the group chairman, Professor R. J. Walsh. [More…]

• I shall see that the question is referred immediately to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Amendments to the National Health Act, passed by Parliament during the current sittings, give legislative authority for the implementation of a home dialysis scheme and the provision of stoma appliances free of charge to those who need them. [More…]

• The provision of stoma appliances free of charge to all who need them is being investigated by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• There are of course persons- these are areas in which I imagine a judicial committee would look- who are pharmaceutical chemists and who have received payments under the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• There are medical practitioners who have received payments under the provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• 6m for the Colombo Plan; some money for child migration; a small amount to health insurance; $25m appropriated for interim expenditure for loss and damages caused by Cyclone Tracy. [More…]

• It specifically sets out the sum of $335m on health insurance, which is on a basis of a 5-month interval, indicating a commitment for the full year of $800m for the new health scheme. [More…]

• The cuts I have spoken of include the big spending but politically sensitive areas of education, health, urban and regional development, and social security. [More…]

• 2 provide some $35 8 m to launch Medibank on 1 July and thereby give expression to the health and medical policy which gestated in the Labor Party in the late 1960s and which was presented to the electorate at the 1 972 election and which was a central feature of the double dissolution election last May. [More…]

• Only a few days before Sir Charles made that statement the Health Minister in the State Government, Mr Baxter, had unilaterally cancelled a meeting with Mr Hayden that was scheduled for the 1 8th. [More…]

• The first dispenser of ‘Newspeak’ was the State Health Minister, Mr Baxter, who stated, according to the ‘West Australian’ of 14 March that he had squeezed three important concessions out of Mr Hayden. [More…]

• The third concession was that any residual gap between the private health insurance refund and the doctor’s bill would remain tax deductible. [More…]

• We have cleared the way for the continued operation of health insurance organisations . [More…]

• The Green Paper on the health insurance program of April 1 973 did recommend that private health insurance be prohibited but in a Press statement issued on 18 September 1973 Mr Hayden said: . [More…]

• Private health insurance funds will be able to offer coverage against the costs of intermediate and private hospital accommodation, and medical costs to the extent that they are not covered by benefits under the program. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and the Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• Has the Government claimed that hospital treatment in standard wards will be free in those hospital systems participating in the hospital side of the Government’s health insurance scheme? [More…]

• Has Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health, now announced that Canberra residents treated in standard ward beds by doctors of their own choice will pay a hospital surcharge of $20 a day for their accommodation, and that free standard ward care will be available only to those treated by salaried doctors? [More…]

• He saw the evil of this filthy war and, despite the fact that he was in very serious ill health, he resigned from the Liberal Party and sat in this chamber as an independent senator. [More…]

• I should, however, point out that the Hospitals and Health Services Commission is expected to report in the near future on the provision and operation of health transport services, including ambulance services and on the need for Government financial assistance. [More…]

• I inform the Senate that the Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, is attending the 28th World Health Assembly in Geneva and will be absent from Australia until 1 7 June. [More…]

• In his absence, the Minister for Environment, Dr Cass, will act as Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Minister noted that the Labor Government’s Medibank advertising program, which is being paid for by the taxpayer, claims that Medibank is a free service, when in fact all taxpayers will be obliged to fund not only their own health needs but also those of people who, for one reason or another, do not pay taxes? [More…]

• Already one colleague, Senator Milliner, has had a slight health problem as a result of the strain and pressure of this place. [More…]

• It is not the same type of appropriation Bill as the Budget, under which can be raised such questions as why immigration spending is not higher or why health spending is not higher and under which the matter of refugees and so on can be raised. [More…]

• As reported at page 467 of the Hansard record, I drew the attention of the representative of the Joint House Department, Mr Hillyer, to the conditions of heating, the conditions of health, the lack of ventilation and the excessively dry atmospheric conditions in this building. [More…]

• I turn to the Department of Social Security and I see, under divisions 596 and 598, that the Health Insurance Commission will require $22. [More…]

• We have these enormous amounts for the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Are they the complete 5-months requirement for the new national health scheme? [More…]

• He mentioned food aid, compensation to the victims of Cyclone Tracy, the Aboriginal Loans Commission, the Health Insurance Commission and the Australian Coastal Shipping Commission, but he did not mention a word about that significantly large item, the Advance to the Treasurer. [More…]

• Division 596.1 refers to the payment of $22.7m to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• I take it that the money is for the running expenses of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• This is sought for payment to the Health Insurance Fund established by the Health Insurance Act of 1973. [More…]

• I assume that that sum represents 5 months supply for the introduction of the national health program. [More…]

• Does it include arrangements that have been made with regard to agents who are to be paid for acting on behalf of the Health Insurance Fund? [More…]

• I would be grateful if the Minister in charge of the Bill would answer the inquiries I have made relating in particular to the Health Insurance Commission in the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• We have increased them in the areas in which it is necessary to increase them, such as education’, social security, health, and urban and regional development. [More…]

• She asked for some clarification of divisions 596 and 598 which are related to funds for the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• As all honourable senators know, and as they realise, this is the first occasion on which the Health Insurance Commission has had to make an estimate of its requirements, and the Government does not know precisely what demands are to be made upon it for payments under the scheme. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Victorian Minister of Health recently instructed an advertising agency to prepare an advertising campaign seeking to explain to the Victorian people why they would not be in Medibank on 1 July? [More…]

• I understand that the Victorian Government, as part of its campaign to deny the people of Victoria proper health services and in order to further its own narrow, dogmatic and ideological ends, did wish to enter into an advertising campaign against the Australian Government. [More…]

• I also understand it did ask the Hospitals and Charities Commission to provide information to an advertising agency which the Victorian Minister for Health had engaged as to why the Victorian Government should not participate in Medibank. [More…]

• What is planned, so far as the Commonwealth is concerned, in the way of a contribution to any emergency health service which may be proposed and developed and to emergency services of any other nature, such as child care facilities on the eastern shore where now, because of the problem of transport, people are away from home longer and their needs in relation to child care may be greater? [More…]

• They severed all ties with their country of origin, brought all their diseases and ill health with them, to undercut 80 000 Australians for jobs. [More…]

• A father killed by a drunken driver, or an industrial accident, or ill health, leaves a family to battle it out. [More…]

• The Department of Health is pleased about what is being done about the disease. [More…]

• If the health authorities can get to the disease in the early stage they can cure it without any deformity occurring. [More…]

• One big program which the Government will be introducing this year and which has the approval of the Parliament is the Health Insurance Program- Medibank. [More…]

• That is putting it in a nutshell, yet we hear honourable senators opposite becoming alarmed and indignant when this Government is proposing schemes to subsidise health services. [More…]

• They think it is all right to subsidise the Post Office but it is not all right to subsidise health services. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: ( 1 ), (2), (3) and (4) I refer the honourable senator to the answer to Question No. [More…]

• However, much of the high cost quoted is related to incineration of quarantinable garbage as laid down by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Department of Transport with the Department of Health is actively pursuing the question of the necessity for incineration of specific categories of garbage and whether such categories could be disposed of at the airport by alternative means at a reduced cost. [More…]

• I will give figures which go back to 1969-70, and from them we will see whether, if the quantum argument is the key argument, this Government is doing more than it should reasonably do, bearing in mind its massive programs under way in the areas of education, health, social security, urban development- such as Albury-Wodonga- and many other initiatives taken by this Government which I am sure the majority of Australians would agree were long overdue. [More…]

• I desire to address some remarks to division 853- Capital Works and Services- subdivision 1, Plant and Equipment, Department of Health. [More…]

• I believe the amount mentioned in the Minister’s answer to me, $250,000, is a start, but I would make a plea that this expansion program be hastened and that a realistic estimate of national needs for these factors be undertaken by the Department of Health. [More…]

• I have noticed that there is an advance of $2%m for plant and equipment under the Department of Health in one of the Supply Bills and I should think that might be an adequate way to examine the matter. [More…]

• We should have these facilities for giving treatment in emergencies and we should be able to offer these people the same health care as we offer the rest of the community. [More…]

• the Commission is satisfied, after he has undergone a medical examination required by the Commission, as to his health and physical fitness; [More…]

• -As the owner of 2 dogs and a cat I was as concerned as Senator Mulvihill on receiving this information about the spread of rabies and I promptly referred the matter to the Minister for Health who has provided me with an answer which I think does relate to a very important subject of concern. [More…]

• The answer which has been provided by the Minister for Health is to the following effect: The main risk of importing rabies into a country is by the importation of infected dogs, cats and certainundomesticated animals, for examples, monkeys. [More…]

• If any honourable senators are aware of any breaches- all of us are concerned, particularly people engaged in agriculture- I would ask them to advise me so that I can pass the information to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health has the final responsibility in making a recommendation to the Government. [More…]

• Will the Minister cause an investigation to be made into the cause of the delay, now approaching some 12 months, in the Commonwealth Crown Solicitor’s Office in Hobart advising the Health Department in relation to certain matters involving some five chemists in northern Tasmania who are alleged to be possibly in breach of the health regulations. [More…]

• The ACTING DEPUTY PRESIDENT- I will convey that request because to reflect on a person’s health is hitting below the belt. [More…]

• I think it is rather interesting to note that in this regard the HBA is proposing that to get these benefits people who subscribe at present to the HBA continue to pay the present family rate of $ 1 .82 a week even after Medibank commences, despite the fact that the Minister for Social Security has said quite clearly that the Government would refuse to register any private health insurance fund which provided this socalled medical gap insurance of more than 1 5 per cent. [More…]

• In fact it may well come within the responsibility of Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Minister for Social Security (Mr Hayden) have reiterated this Government’s intention that benefits for optometrical consultations would be introduced within this Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• Benefits will be payable for services by participating optometrists in accordance with Part II of the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• The Bill provides for this to be achieved by the inclusion of four new items, relating to professional attendances by participating optometrists, in Part I of Schedule I to the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• They will also remove the limitation existing under the present health insurance scheme where Australian Government benefits are not payable for a professional service resulting in the prescription of spectacles. [More…]

• This will be achieved by the inclusion in the common form of undertaking of a provision whereby the participating optometrist will undertake to make arrangements, in accordance with sub-section 20 (3) of the Health Insurance Act, for the assignment of benefits in respect of these patients. [More…]

• These bodies are to have similar roles, and are to be established and function similarly to the Medical Services Committees of Inquiry and the Medical Services Review Tribunals, already authorised by the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• It will be taken up as part of a comprehensive review of similar types of decisions, already authorised by the provisions of the Health Insurance Act, being considered by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal. [More…]

• In conjunction with authorising the new optometrical benefit arrangements, the Bill also repeals existing section 13 of the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• In line with the philosophy of the Medibank legislation as a whole, the purpose of this Bill is to extend to all Australians an improved system of health benefits. [More…]

• We believe in universal availability of health services as a right and that belief commits us to make changes in the existing pattern of benefits. [More…]

• The lack of benefits for optometrical consultations has been an obvious flaw amongst the very many other deficiencies of the present scheme of health insurance but nothing had been done about it by the previous LiberalCountry Party Government. [More…]

• When we came to plan a national, equitable and universal health insurance program we saw that optometrical benefits not only should, but could, be included by a Government which had a real commitment to progress. [More…]

• -These advertisements were developed by my Department for the Australian Capital Territory Branch of the Family Planning Association as a result of the Association being funded in this regard by the Australian Department of Health. [More…]

• In other areas- and I refer particularly to departments and authorities requiring specialised equipment in such fields as defence, telecommunications, transport and health- the departments or authorities will continue to be in a position to define their requirements and specifications and to undertake, by arrangement with the Commission, such activities as the inspection and storage of their goods. [More…]

• Policies and programs, which vitally affect families and children, are already spread over several departments including Social Security, Health, Tourism and Recreation, Labor, Aboriginal Affairs and Education. [More…]

• It will be recalled that a committee comprised of the health, education, social welfare, youth, sport and recreation and local government departments in Victoria as well as representatives of the voluntary sector was set up so that an overall State program could be placed before the Commonwealth Government for the support of the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• Victoria has also established a consultative council on maternal and child health under the chairmanship of Professor Clarke. [More…]

• What we are aiming for is a co-ordinated and integrated approach to the health, education and welfare of young people. [More…]

• At times he may be required to mortgage his health. [More…]

• Some that come to mind are the Copyright Act sections 167 and 172, the Income Tax Assessment Act sections 263 and 264, the Industries Assistance Commission Act sections 34 and 35, the National Health Act sections 127 to 129, the Prices Justification Act sections 23 to 26, the Public Accounts Committee Act sections 13 to 15, the Royal Commissions Act sections 2 to 5, the Trades Marks Act sections 1 19 to 12 1 and, of course, the Trade Practices Act sections 155 and 160, to which Senator Greenwood adverted in his remarks. [More…]

• They were not trying to do anything except convince the government of the day that they needed justice in respect of their tribal land rights, the health of their children, employment opportunities and better health for the community generally. [More…]

• Although research is not referred to very much in the Bills before us there is a need for the research side of the industry, about which we have just received a report, to give very careful attention to the importance of good husbandry and health. [More…]

• I think it is necessary for the industry to get all the assistance it can in order to maintain its healthy state. [More…]

• It is important, for the future and long term health of the industry, that this aspect be watched with every-increasing care. [More…]

• Will Medibank refunds of 85 per cent of scheduled fees be available to these organisations in respect of services rendered by such salaried doctors or will it be necessary to dismiss the doctors and then allow them to resume practise on a fee for service basis in order to generate health insurance benefit payments? [More…]

• Amendments to Articles 34 and 55 of the Constitution of the World Health Organisation, adopted by the twentysixth World Health Assembly on 22 May 1973 and accepted for Australia on 1 1 March 1975. [More…]

• If you take up a modern volume of the reports of the Queen’s Bench Division, you will find that about half the cases reported have to do with rules of administrative law; I mean with such matters as local rating, the powers of local boards, the granting of licences for various trades and professions, the Public Health Acts, the Education Acts, and so forth. [More…]

• 1 ) Press publicity during June will invite registration by persons who do not receive Health Insurance Cards. [More…]

• The only services specifically excluded from benefits under the Health Insurance Act are medical examinations for the purposes of life insurance or admission to membership of a friendly society. [More…]

• That the proposal to amend the retiring age provision to age 65 only is a retrograde provision certain to be detrimental to the health and general welfare of persons affected by the Bill; fails to perceive the accrued benefits to the Community at large, the Government and the Public Service by the responsible retirement of those persons, recognising that their best years have been spent in service of the community and that they should have the opportunity of moving out of the service to the wider community for leisure and or other meaningful occupations. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I simply ask whether the Minister will see that the Department of Health and the Department of Foreign Affairs ensure that in future false information is not given overseas the effect of which could result in the decimation of the Australian dog population if rabies is not controlled. [More…]

• I do not know whether the Department of Health misinformed the Department of Foreign Affairs or whether the Department of Foreign Affairs misinformed somebody else. [More…]

• I intend to ask the Minister for Health to make inquiries as to who was responsible for all this and, as far as one can, to see that such an episode does not take place in the future. [More…]

• I refer to the fact that on 1 July, a month from Sunday, the national health scheme will come into operation. [More…]

• Has the Minister seen the pamphlet which is misleading to contributors, which can be described only as a rip off of money for the private insurance funds, and which ignores the fact that the Government’s national health scheme will be operative from 1 July this year and that it covers the whole of the Australian population? [More…]

• If the Hospital Contributions Fund in New South Wales or any other fund wishes to offer additional services, I do not know that it is any responsibility of mine or of the Government’s to say that the funds should not make those offers, provided people understand what is being made available to them by the Australian Government’s health service. [More…]

• The further assistance that the honourable senator is seeking on behalf of the Royal Flying Doctor Service is, I believe, a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Health, to consider. [More…]

• National Health Act [More…]

• -The Bill before the Senate seeks to amend the Health Insurance Act of 1 973. [More…]

• This is the culmination of many years of effort on the part of Australian optometrists for the inclusion of benefits for their patients under the national health scheme. [More…]

• The original national health scheme, of course, was conceived by Dr Earle Page and when it was drafted in the early 1 950s an anomaly existed because a benefit for a refractive examination was to be paid only to the patient of a medical practitioner. [More…]

• Since then members of the health committee of the Liberal and Country Parties have worked towards the inclusion of optometric benefits in the health scheme, and last May it formulated a policy to enable this to happen. [More…]

• Suffice it to say that the profession is one of high ethical and academic standards, world recognised and well equipped to deal with its special role in the field of health care. [More…]

• Optometrists, of course, are controlled under the State health Acts and there is a specific definition of the practice of optometry in the legislation of the States and, of course, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The optometric profession is the only profession working in the field of health care which overlaps the medical profession in the services provided. [More…]

• For this reason there has been some antagonism between the 2 professions with respect to the inclusion of a non-medical optometrical benefit in the national health scheme. [More…]

• On the contrary, whenever this subject has arisen I have tried to demonstrate as clearly and as fairly as I can the role of ophthamology and optometry in health care. [More…]

• 1 ) Have claim forms been designed and prepared for use in the Medibank health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Do the claim forms used by the present health insurance funds include a space for such information. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1)1 am not aware of any large scale surveys into the natural levels of mercury and mercurials in the total Australian environment. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Food Analysts Sub-committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council has assessed a number of methods for the determination of mercury in fish and has recommended that the method used by the Australian Government Analytical Laboratories should be used as the standard method. [More…]

• Section 24 of the Health Insurance Act 1973 specifically excludes premises which are used, or are to be used, exclusively or principally for the care or treatment of mental illness or mentally defective persons and are under the control of, or the subject of a grant for maintenance from, either the Australian Government or a State government. [More…]

• It should be explained that Medibank was designed basically to replace the existing inadequate health insurance scheme with a more equitable and effective system. [More…]

• In view of the enormity of the task the Government decided not to extend the program initially into wider fields of health care. [More…]

• Consequently, as insurance cover for State mental hospital patients was excluded under the existing National Health’ Act provisions, it was also excluded from Medibank. [More…]

• There was no undertaking contained in the White Paper “The Australian Health Insurance Program’ as inferred by the honourable senator. [More…]

• At the same time, in response to approaches by State Health Ministers I wrote to them with certain proposals designed to eliminate the existing charges being raised against these patients. [More…]

• However, I draw your attention to a Press statement issued by the Australian Ministers for Health following their annual conference in Perth on 8-9 May 197S. [More…]

• It was announced that a working party, comprising representatives from each State as well as from the Australian Departments of Health and Social Security and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission would be formed. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Have voluntary health insurance funds proposed a new benefits scale of medical insurance which would cover the gap between doctors’ actual fees and the rebate to be paid under the Government’s health insurance program. [More…]

• and (2) All medical benefit organisations registered under the National Health Act who wish to provide insurance as from I July 1975 in respect of those portions of medical fees that are in excess of Medibank medical benefits are required under that Act to submit their rules covering such insurance for approval by the Minister for Social Security before they are operative. [More…]

• Family Health Insurance cards have been prepared by Medibank from records supplied by the Department of Social Security, relating to all children for whom Child Endowment is currently being paid to a parent or guardian. [More…]

• and (2) All medical benefit organisations registered under the National Health Act who wish to provide insurance as from 1 July 1975 in respect of those portions of medical fees that are in excess of Medibank medical benefits are required under that Act to submit their rules covering such insurance for approval by the Minister for Social Security before they are operative. [More…]

• 1 ) and (2)1 would explain to the honourable senator that when the present health insurance scheme was framed, generally State psychiatric or mental institutions did not raise charges. [More…]

• Under Medibank the major objective is to provide comprehensive cover against medical and general hospital services to everyone in the community, in contrast to the present inadequate health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I would like it made known through that the Australian Government has been active in the area of mental health. [More…]

• This assistance is not only restricted to the construction of mental hospitals for the provision of mainly custodial care but has been used for community mental health services such as day hospitals and early treatment centres. [More…]

• I would again like to draw the honourable senator’s attention to a press statement issued by the Australian Ministers for Health following their annual conference in Perth on 8-9 [More…]

• May 1975, when it was announced that a Working Party, comprising representatives from each State as well as from the Australian Departments of Health and Social Security and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, would be formed. [More…]

• We will soon have a system whereby we will have a drove of medicos for our health and a drove of lawyers to engender endless litigation throughout the country financed by the Government. [More…]

• There has never been a real interest in the Parliament in tariff policy and its effect upon the economic health of the nation. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by saying that in the policy speech in 1 974 the Prime Minister offered to provide half the funding for the new general hospital in Launceston, and I understand that the Tasmanian Government agreed to that arrangement. [More…]

• The planning of the hospital is now proceeding and the Australian Government is doing everything that it can, through the Department of Health and its Minister, Dr Everingham, to speed the development of this project. [More…]

• The steering committee includes representatives from the Australian Departments of Health, and Housing and Construction and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• Senator Grimes would no doubt know, as a senator who lives in Launceston, unlike some people who have recently taken an interest in that area, that the Australian Government announced in 1974-75 Budget a 5-year hospitals development program of capital assistance to the States for the development of public hospitals and other health institutions. [More…]

• When the Government introduces measures on matters such as health, welfare and education it receives tardy and qualified censure from the Opposition members. [More…]

• b ) to identify persons as eligible for pharmaceutical and other benefits under the National Health Act and other Australian Government legislation; and [More…]

• Cedel Products (Australasia) Proprietary Limited (health and beauty aids) [More…]

• Despite growing fears about his health, Senator Milliner continued to work in the interests of his State, and he died at his office desk. [More…]

• When he was first elected to this chamber his health was not the very best, but he carried out his parliamentary duties in the manner of someone who had never experienced ill health in his life. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission). [More…]

• Because of ill health suffered by the wife, the couple were transferred to Alice Springs. [More…]

• Has the Attorney-General noted that the Labor Government’s Medibank advertising, which is being paid for by the taxpayer, claims that Medibank is a free service when in fact all taxpayers will be obliged to fund, not only their own health needs, but also those of people who, for one reason or another, do not pay taxes. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It relates to health insurance. [More…]

• 135, which relates to the designation of certain hospitals by the Health Insurance Commission and proscribes them so that Medibank benefits will not be payable to patients in those hospitals. [More…]

• I inform the Minister for Social Security (Senator Wheeldon) that we have today dispatched a telegram to his Department informing him of the concern felt by the Health and Welfare Committee of the Opposition Parties about the possibility that the regulation may have the effect of excluding from benefits private and intermediate patients who might rightfully think they are entitled to this cover for their medical care. [More…]

• She will be long remembered for untiring service as a member of various Senate and joint parliamentary committees, which included chairmanship of the 2 important committees concerned with health and welfare. [More…]

• Her deep interest in health and welfare matters led to her becoming Chairman of the Standing Committee on Health and Welfare in 1970. [More…]

• This was reflected in her service on the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I think it is appropriate that I, as Minister for Social Security, should say something about the death of Dame Ivy Wedgwood because she was certainly conspicuous during her membership of the Senate as one most interested in health and social welfare. [More…]

• She was involved in after care work for 15 years and on the day of her death was presiding on the board of that Hospital when she suffered a setback to her normal good health. [More…]

• She was a member of the Senate Select Committee on Health and Hospital Costs and was appointed by the members of that Committee as its Chairman. [More…]

• She was the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Especially in her work as Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Health and Hospital Costs 1 came to acquire the utmost respect for her sincerity, ability and dedication. [More…]

• I think it fair to say that when he was the Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister for Health a very long, drawn out and detailed debate took place in this Parliament on amendments to the National Health Act proposed by the then Government. [More…]

• I believe that her memory will be retained for ever by posterity not only for the work that she performed as a member of the Senate committees to which I have referred but also in respect of the national health legislation that subsequently was enacted by this Parliament. [More…]

• For example, telecommunications charges will increase by 28 per cent but that the price of steel has increased by 37 per cent, health services by 35 per cent, general charges relating to motoring by 38 per cent, and newspapers by 30 per cent. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It does seem that some doctors are making claims more frequently than they did under the previous medical schemes and this is imposing some heavy clerical burdens on some of the offices of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• There are safeguards which can be exercised to ensure that there are not abuses and the Health Insurance Commission and the Department of Social Security are constantly watching the situation. [More…]

• The success or otherwise of a request for leave to have a reply to a question read in the chamber depends very much on the intellectual capacity or the physical or other health of members of the chamber. [More…]

• The Bill cannot be viewed in isolation but must be considered in the context of the proposed national compensation scheme, the national health scheme, the national superannuation plan and the national investment fund, if legislation for it is ever reintroduced into the Parliament. [More…]

• He said that the first act of traditional nationalism of the party in its first term was nationalisation of the health services. [More…]

• I refer to the idea that governments know better than people how they should do things, how they should spend the money on education, health and other factors. [More…]

• As a medical practitioner supported by a government health fund, underwritten by that security, of course, he can prescribe the method by which the insurance industry is to be governed. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) took part. [More…]

• It concerned a working party which has been set up in the Department of Health from within the Department to examine some of the matters. [More…]

• The report has gone to the Director-General of Health and to the Minister for Health and at the present time is awaiting Cabinet attention. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Parliament House, CANBERRA, A.C.T. [More…]

• I gather that Mr Can has been making very grave allegations against a Dr de Souza and a Mr Piesse of the Department of Health, who were alleged to be engaging in intrigues of some kind. [More…]

• They deny that, and the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham), has said that he has full confidence in them and that, far from keeping secret the report of these people in order in some way to damage the members of the Hearing Aid Council, he has not published the report at the request of some members of the industry. [More…]

• Apparently a request was made to the Minister for Health that the result of the inquiries by Dr de Souza and Mr Piesse should not be made public. [More…]

• Senator Baume has provided me with a copy of a letter written by 5 clinical audiologists to the Minister for Health on 23 April in which they requested the opportunity of taking part in the inquiry. [More…]

• I shall see that the remarks of Senator Baume are passed on to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is interesting to note that, despite the fact that we have found it necessary to cut back on expenditure in the public sector, if one looks at the record one sees that in the last year of the Liberal Government- 1971-72- of the total Budget outlay 25.2 per cent was spent on health, welfare and repatriation and that in the first year of the Labor Government such expenditure rose to 28.2 per cent. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has he been able to obtain any further information about the alleged approach to the Minister for Health by a group of audiologists requesting an investigation into the activities of the hearing aid industry? [More…]

• If we were to turn to other distinguished people who have held these views we might recollect that there was a meeting of Australian Health Ministers in Melbourne in 197 1. [More…]

• -That was a conference of Health Ministers in 1971. [More…]

• One tends to forget, in the light of his subsequent activities, that Senator Greenwood was once the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In fact he was the Australian Minister for Health at that conference which issued the declaration, without a dissenting voice, in favour of the replacement of the honorary system by the sessional payments system. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate contains provisions relating to the furnishing of information to the Department of Health by manufacturers or distributors of pharmaceutical benefits and is consistent with a recommendation of the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Prices, which inquired into the effect of the December 1972 revaluation of the Australian dollar. [More…]

• In its first report of November 1973 the Committee recommended, among other things, that: the National Health Act be amended to allow the Department of Health to obtain cost and financial information in respect of products in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme. [More…]

• At present there is no power under the National Health Act requiring manufacturers or distributors of pharmaceutical benefits to supply information about costs to the Government and consequently the Department of Health depends on negotiations to try and achieve fair and reasonable prices for pharmaceutical benefit items. [More…]

• The health inspector in my shire most probably would not let it be passed with the type of heating and cooling systems it has. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) announced the Government’s intentions in this regard on 24 July 1975. [More…]

• Health Act by increasing patient contributions for general benefits from $1 to $1.50 and for benefits supplied to beneficiaries under the subsidised health benefits plan from 50c to 75c. [More…]

• Fortunately the rises in the wholesale prices of drugs listed under the pharmaceutical benefits scheme have not been as great as for the more Labor- intensive health services. [More…]

• Following the 1972-73 inquiry into pharmacy earnings, costs and profits carried out by the Joint Committee on Pharmaceutical Benefits Pricing Arrangements, the Minister for Health announced on 24 July 1975 that chemists would receive higher dispensing fees to be paid in part retrospectively to 1 July 1973. [More…]

• The other point to which I would direct the honourable senator’s attention is the press statement issued by the Australian Ministers for Health following their Annual Conference in Perth on 8-9 May 1975, when it was announced that a Working Party comprising representatives from each State as well as from the Australian Departments of Health and Social Security and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission would be formed. [More…]

• If not, as the Director-General is required under section 76a-( 1 ) of the National Health Act to furnish him with the report ‘as soon as practicable after the thirtieth day of June’, would he ascertain why the report has not been received almost a year later. [More…]

• and (3) The report is prepared from the annual returns of the medical and hospital benefit organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Both the ADEC and PBAC have kept a close scrutiny on the level of usage of the drug and the Department of Health will continue to exercise close surveillance where doctors appear to be prescribing chloramphenicol as a benefit for minor infections regardless of the warnings which have been repeatedly issued concerning this antibiotic over the last 20 years both in Australian and International medical literature. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Act provides that the medical benefit for any medical service in a State shall be calculated at 85 per cent of the scheduled fee for that service in that State, subject to a maximum difference of $5 between the benefit and the scheduled fee. [More…]

• The Bill amends the amounts of the patient contribution for general benefits under the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) in his second reading speech pointed to the fact that in the past 4 years prices generally have increased by 53.8 per cent. [More…]

• The Opposition makes some comment in that regard, because the Scott Committee originated from an arrangement made by the previous Government when Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson was the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In 1971 when I was Minister for Health I brought down legislation which had the effect of increasing the contribution by 100 per cent. [More…]

• I think we have reached the stage in politics at which Rudyard Kipling’s words have some variations, because we now have a situation in which the present Government is doing the thing for which it belaboured the then Government and me as Minister for Health. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle referred to the fact that in 1971 I was Minister for Health, and I negotiated an agreement with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia in relation to these charges. [More…]

• in reply- I appreciate the comments that have been made by Senator Guilfoyle, who always speaks in a most moderate and sensible manner on the subjects she discusses, even if I am not necessarily in agreement with her, and Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson whom we all remember as a most distinguished Minister for Health. [More…]

• Certainly I have not applied, and I have given instructions that my Department shall not apply, any pressure to any of those doctors who use the other 2 methods which are lawful under the Health Insurance Act for the billing of patients. [More…]

• I am advised by officers of the Department of Health regarding the Scott Committee that the original agreement which was entered into by the previous Government with the Pharmacy Guild provided that the inquiry into pharmacy earnings, costs and profits in the financial year 1972-73 would form the basis of new rates of remuneration. [More…]

• We choose this course at the expense of some desirable government programs because we place first priority on restoring Australia’s health. [More…]

• I am suggesting that that $500mprobably much more- will be made up by cuts of millions of dollars in health services. [More…]

• Not the least of these cuts, of course, will be the cuts in health services with the emasculation of Medibank. [More…]

• In the field of health there are many new initiatives and there is provision for the consolidation of many of the initiatives that have been taken over the last 2Yi years. [More…]

• Under Health it is stated: [More…]

• Direct outlays from the Budget on health are estimated to rise from $1,283.5 million in 1974-75 to $2,777.6 million in 1975-76 . [More…]

• Estimated outlays on health are equivalent to 12.7 per cent of total estimated outlays in 1 975-76. [More…]

• Ex-servicemen and women can expect this year to have expenditure on health costs increased by $12. [More…]

• Housing, education, transport and health are now at risk under this Government. [More…]

• The overwhelming strategy of the Budget is to combat inflation, to restore confidence to the private sector, to maintain the essential aspects of the Government’s program in education, urban development, health and social welfare and to redistribute the burden of taxation. [More…]

• It is not the sort of equality of opportunity about which this Government is concerned and it is not the sort of freedom or equality of opportunity which thousands of Australians who benefited from these programs in education, health and matters of that kind have achieved in the last two or three years. [More…]

• Those would be specific priorities for the Oppositionto restore economic health and reduce unemployment and inflation. [More…]

• At least we do not have the sort of health roulette that we had under the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia and the Medical Benefits Fund of [More…]

• Medibank is not the end of the world as far as our health scheme is concerned. [More…]

• I challenge Senator Cotton and other people on that side to refute this statement: If by some stretch of the imagination in a decade hence they become the Government they will not be game to change the concept of the Medibank system, any more than the Conservative governments in Britain were game to tamper with the Attlee Government’s achievement of a national health scheme. [More…]

• I say this: We were committed to vast social reforms, and we have attempted them in the field of health and social security. [More…]

• He has also enabled the Government to continue with its welfare policy, particularly in the fields of education and health. [More…]

• Mr Calder then went on to question whether Australia could afford to spend billions of dollars on health, education, Government insurance and- this is the crunch point- compensation. [More…]

• Further, there has been a consistent drive towards the nationalisation of health in this country, regardless of the unknown and spiralling cost to the taxpayer. [More…]

• Not only is that an imposition on the taxpayer but also it is an imposition on the freedom of choice of the community in the area of health care and health provision. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the expression of fears that it may be impossible to maintain adequate medical staffing in the Darwin Hospital? [More…]

• I ask Senator Baume to put the question on notice and I will undertake to ask the Minister for Health to let the honourable senator have a reply as quickly as possible. [More…]

• On arrival in Australia a number of evacuees were found to be in poor health and are now receiving special medical attention. [More…]

• Alternatively, the other course is to obtain a cheque from the Health Insurance Commission payable to the doctor. [More…]

• I know of health inspectors in Western Australia who have gone around supermarkets checking the freshness and the quality of goods and who have been unable to understand the type of open date coding systems being operated at the moment. [More…]

• It would be self-defeating if the system of wage indexation were to attempt to insulate the community from tax measures designed to redistribute resources for the benefit of the community in the form of improved public facilities in fields such as education, health, welfare, personal benefits urban improvement and so on. [More…]

• It has increased by almost $ 15m the Budget allocation in the field of health services, mainly to support Medibank. [More…]

• I think at some time or other the people of this nation will make a decision about who is playing with defence, who is playing with the rural industries, who is playing with health and who is playing with education, as against who is being completely honest about those things. [More…]

• That completely ignores the fact that between $900m and $ 1,000m would still need to be spent this year under the old private health insurance system. [More…]

• That challenge is to present economic policies that would restore to good health a sick and shattered economy, an economy that is bedevilled by the twin evils of inflation and unemployment, but an economy shattered largely because of the policies that this Government has followed over the past 3 years. [More…]

• Having quoted those figures I want to come back to the question of productivity which is the key to the restoration of economic health. [More…]

• Will the Minister, in the light of these references, inform the Senate of the cost to the Australian Government of the so-called ‘voluntary private and noncomprehensive health insurance schemes’ prior to the introduction of Medibank? [More…]

• The voluntary non-comprehensive health scheme which existed before would not have existed if it had not been for massive contributions of Federal Government money- approximately $ 1,000m during the last financial year. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the recent reported statement by Dr Gray of the Victorian Anti-Cancer Council pointing out that efforts to discourage young people from smoking are failing because of the effect of glamorous advertising of certain brands of cigarettes which are now heavily purchased by the young? [More…]

• The general cuts which took place with regard to the National Health and Medical Research Council unfortunately were part of the general Budget cutbacks in the public sector. [More…]

• I can only ask people, when they become aware of matters like this, to advise the Health Insurance Commission, the Department of Social Security or me, and we will take what action can be taken if there has been a breach of the law. [More…]

• I would hope that, subject to the normal health checks, all of them would be allowed to stay in Australia; but I think that to expect us to have made decisions about this matter at this stage shows a niggling and unworthy attitude on the part of the Opposition. [More…]

• Are we to cut back our community health program for which a great amount of money has been made available? [More…]

• 1 think all honourable senators must respect Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health, who had the courage to speak about the damage that smoking and drinking alcohol do to the general health and minds of our people. [More…]

• One would think, surely, that the health and welfare of people in the future, and ways of preventing them from getting things like cancer and heart disease, would be very important. [More…]

• We have made improvements in social security and the health services so that no one need fear financial loss or expenditure on medical care through being ill today. [More…]

• There was no revenue as a result of better health benefits or better education benefits and we got to the stage at which in this Budget there had to be, one could say, a curtailment of the ambitions of Ministers. [More…]

• So this seems to confirm, in my mind, that the proposed rebate system in the Budget clearly discourages any form of thrift, any form of selfhelp, any form of encouragement by providing tax benefits to individuals whether those individuals seek to help themselves through life assurance or spending on health, education or other matters. [More…]

• The health checks on evacuees from Timor arriving in Australia, as are the checks on all other people arriving from overseas, are the responsibility of the quarantine officers of the Department of Health. [More…]

• As soon as it was known that evacuees would be arriving in Darwin from Timor the Department of Health was alerted. [More…]

• I am informed that after consultation with the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine the Department of Health sent special instructions to the chief Australian medical officer in Darwin about the medical and quarantine procedures to be adopted. [More…]

• State government health authorities were contacted and it is understood that where they considered it necessary they carried out further checks. [More…]

• Have private insurance organisations which operate in the Australian Capital Territory been endeavouring to persuade people through advertising and other means to take out health insurance at higher levels than they need? [More…]

• Certainly any future publicity by the MBF, or by any other Fund which cares to do it, should make clear to those people to whom it is directing its advertisements the options that are open to them within the Australian Capital Territory in obtaining the benefits of the health insurance legislation. [More…]

• Has his attention been drawn to the August 1975 edition of the Health Economics Bulletin, which states that the Canadian Government, faced with skyrocketing expenditure for hospital and medical benefits, has announced that it will change the basis on which its national health program is financed and is demanding that the provinces in Canada find cheaper ways of providing health care? [More…]

• I have not seen that particular report, although I have seen recently statements made by the Canadian Minister for Health, Monsieur Lalonde, in which he has said, possibly in another context, how well the health benefit system in that country is working. [More…]

• As I understand it, the Canadian national health system to a very large extent is a co-ordination of a number of provincial health systems. [More…]

• In fact, the Labour Government in Saskatchewan introduced a national health scheme quite some years ago, I think before the Federal Government in Canada had moved to any great extent on the matter. [More…]

• I dare say that that is one of the obvious things which would be affecting the price of health services, as it is affecting the price of everything else. [More…]

• In a short time in the Senate we will be debating a Bill designed to ensure privacy in regard to computer records kept by the newly formed Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Furthermore, even without that knowledge, to walk adjacent to one’s neighbour’s property and to analyse the pasture its health will indicate to the trained eye the rate of application of fertiliser per acre per annum, for how many years it has been applied and whether other trace elements have been thrown in periodically. [More…]

• During the course of those discussions this morning with the Leader of the Opposition, Senator Guilfoyle, the spokesman for the Opposition on health matters, joined the discussion and said that she was anxious to move the notice of motion standing in her name on the notice paper to disallow an ordinance relating to health. [More…]

• That the amendments of the Health Insurance Regulations, as contained in Statutory Rules 197S No. [More…]

• 1 35, and made under the Health Insurance Act 1973-1975, be disallowed. [More…]

• 135 with regard to the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• 135 purports to provide that in respect of the service rendered to a patient in a public ward in the hospitals set out in Schedule 2 the organisation having control of each hospital is a prescribed organisation for the purposes of section 17 ( 1 ) (b) of the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• Part II of the Health Insurance Act provides for the pay ment of medical benefits, being 85 per cent of a specified fee or, in particular cases, an amount which is $5 less than the specified fee in respect of medical expenses incurred because of professional services, that is, medical services. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Science and Consumer Affairs: How does the Government justify the retention of a media propaganda machine of 800 people at a cost of over $60m when the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation is being forced, because of lack of funds, to reduce its numbers of scientists to 300 people, particularly in view of the fact that many of the Organisation’s research programs deal with matters related to the nation’s health? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will he consult with his colleague with a view to prohibiting in the Australian Capital Territory the sale to children of imitation cigarettes in the form of sweets which are packaged like real cigarettes and labelled ‘Fags’, as these lollies are a great inducement to children to become addicted to the health destroying habit of smoking? [More…]

• I have seen lollies take a number of shapes, some even more indecent than that of cigarettes, but I will certainly take the matter up with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Certainly this is something which the Health Insurance Commission has to continue to study, but the anomaly to which Senator Sheil refers is a result of the deliberate attempts- I put it as strongly as that- by some of the so-called voluntary funds to sabotage Medibank. [More…]

• That the determinations of the Remuneration Tribunal relating to the Secretary to the Postmaster-General’s Department; Australian National Railways Commission; Commissioner for Community Relations; Commissioners under the Environment Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act 1974; Road Safety and Standards Authority; Director of National Parks and Wildlife; Aboriginal Hostels Ltd; Schools Commission; and Health Insurance Commission, tabled this day, be disapproved. [More…]

• Consequent upon the Government’s decision to disapprove the determinations passing on the 3.6 per cent wage adjustment and in order to treat office holders within the jurisdiction of the Remuneration Tribunal consistently, I also have moved to disapprove the determinations of the Tribunal in respect of the Secretary to the PostmasterGeneral’s Department, Australian National Railways Commission, Commissioner for Community Relations, Commissioners under the Environment Protection (Impact of Proposals) Act 1974, Road Safety and Standards Authority, Director of National Parks and Wildlife, Aboriginal Hostels Ltd, Schools Commission and Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• i.e., what we now call ‘the social wage’- so-called free’ education, health services, heavily subsidised public authorities’ housing- mounted astronomically, and were not covered by contributions. [More…]

• I agree with the honourable senator, but it is not possible to persuade the average working man in this country, or in fact a lot of other people, that smoking is a health hazard. [More…]

• I realise that the Government acted on the advice of the National Health and Medical Research Council whose findings were made in 1970-71. [More…]

• I believe that Italy accepts 7 parts per million as not being a health hazard. [More…]

• There is no other evidence to support the contention that one part per million is a health problem. [More…]

• If the honourable senator studies the World Health Organisation recommendations he will find them interesting because one part per million is acceptable. [More…]

• The only State which has policed this regulation is South Australia which now allows one part per million mercury content, which world experts accept as not injurious to the health of people. [More…]

• Another benefit in the field of social welfare which is part of the Australian Labor Party’s policy is in health care. [More…]

• The national health scheme has been introduced. [More…]

• More than one million people in Australia out of the population of 13 ‘A million now have a health coverage which they did not have and could not afford previously. [More…]

• We have introduced a medical health scheme in which everybody participates, irrespective of income, and we have more or less abolished the iniquities that existed because under the previous method of income tax assessment amounts paid to the voluntary medical health funds were a tax deduction; therefore those on higher incomes had greater benefit than those on lower incomes. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Social Security and Minister for Repatriation and Compensation: In view of the current interest, both in top level salaries and in the cost of health insurance programs, can the Minister confirm that the Director of the Hospital Contribution Fund of Australia in New South Wales, Mr Turner, and the General Manager of the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia Ltd in New South Wales, Mr Cade, have recently had salary increases raising their annual earnings from $3 1 ,500 to $50,000? [More…]

• Can the Minister present the Senate with a run down of the salaries and allowances of executives of all or any of the major private health insurance funds? [More…]

• The funds are not obliged under the National Health Act to give me that information but I think that this is a matter of public interest and I intend to write to the funds and ask them for details of the salaries and allowances which their executives receive and of any recent changes in the salaries and allowances. [More…]

• They are functioning under the National Health Act and I believe that the people are entitled to know what they are getting when they pay their money. [More…]

• Is this not an exploitation of our taxing system in that a higher import price affects the profitability of an Australian company, the Australian consumer and the national health scheme to which the company is a major supplier? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Can he advise the Senate of any initiatives or proposals that are currently being considered for the treatment of the disastrous effects of trachoma amongst Aborigines? [More…]

• -The Minister for Health recently gave me some information relating to efforts to eradicate trachoma which, as Senator Keeffe has said, is a disastrous disease. [More…]

• The Department of Health did draw attention to the problem of trachoma in a statement which it made to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• At that time discussions were already in progress between the Department of Health and the College of Ophthalmologists, the purpose of which was to develop some proposal aimed at minimising the effects of this disease. [More…]

• Any proposal that the Australian Government decides on in this matter can be developed only in consultation with the State health authorities. [More…]

• Health expenditure and health delivery services were not good, despite the proclamation made by some members of the medical profession that we have the greatest health service in the world. [More…]

• Greece, and Great Britain, whose health scheme is so often condemned in this country. [More…]

• It seems to me that the warning on the cigarette packet could easily be changed to ‘Smoking is a wealth hazard ‘, rather than a health hazard. [More…]

• health and education services to be extended; [More…]

• This is further evidence of the fact that despite the opposition of intractable opponents of Medibank it is winning acceptance and every day we find that more people and more organisations have come to the conclusion that national health insurance is here and here to stay. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to the payment of patients’ accounts by Medibank. [More…]

• I, rather than the Minister for Health, am responsible for this matter as Minister for Social Security. [More…]

• Certainly my Department, the Health Insurance Commission and I are trying to economise as far as we can on postage and, indeed, on anything else. [More…]

• Remarks in the annual report for the year 1972-73 of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission indicated that the Commission was concerned about certain aspects of its operations, and the Committee sought further information from CSL and the Department of Health. [More…]

• On the other hand it has to undertake essential public health activities and, in addition, it is confined to the purely biological sphere which, because of its sensitivity, is the least commercially viable. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What is the number of second division officers employed in the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I preface my question by saying that no doubt the Minister is aware that the Australian Council of Social Services and the 8 State and Territory councils of social services, which have a total membership of over 2000 non-government health and welfare organisations and whose purpose is to carry out and promote programs to eliminate poverty and promote the well being of disadvantaged groups in our society, are at present in financial difficulties. [More…]

• It did occasion me some distress that a Dr Lionel Wilson should be asked by officers of the Health Insurance Commission to forge somebody else’s signature. [More…]

• Subsequently Dr Wilson spoke to a senior officer of the Liverpool processing centre of the Health Insurance Commission on 28 August. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 76a of the National Health Act 1953-1975, 1 present a report on the operations of the registered medical and hospital benefit organisations for the year ended 30 June 1 974. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Senator WHEELDON-The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This matter is being examined by the Poisons Schedule Sub-committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• 674) Senator Baume asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• ) The addition of any substance to foods is very strictly controlled in Australia and the Food Additives subcommittee of the National Health and Medical Research Council assesses applications for the use of food additives. [More…]

• 1 ) Five people are employed in the Department of Social Security, and seven people in the Health Insurance Commission in journalist positions. [More…]

• There is one such person employed in the Health Insurance Commission and one in the Social Welfare Commission. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission 1 Director, Public Relations-$ 17,676 1 Journalist Grade A-$ 15,397 4 Journalist Grade A-$ 1 2,565 2 Journalist Grade B-$ 10,647 [More…]

• We have been assured by the PRG special representative in Hanoi that Mr Whitlock is in good health but we do not yet have any clear indication of when he will be released. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether he is aware of a circular letter from the Joint Committee on Voluntary Proprietary Medicine Advertising Code which claims that the new controls over the advertising of therapeutic goods on radio and television, which were introduced on 1 September 1975, will result in a deterioration of the quality of television and radio programs, will have an adverse effect on the profitability of the media, advertising and pharmaceutical industries, will add to our country’s economic problems and will require patients to see their doctor more frequently. [More…]

• These new controls were agreed to by Australian Health Ministers at a conference in August last year. [More…]

• Whatever the consequences may be for advertisers, all of the Health Ministers- they represented all the major political partiesagreed that there has to be some sort of restriction on the type of advertising which was being carried out in Australia. [More…]

• Although, as I have said, I do not believe that this is going to bring about any serious reduction in the amount of advertising or have any terrible effects on the commercial broadcasting industry, even if it were to have some effects on them I think that most honourable senators would agree that the effect which the previous latitude allowed to advertisers of therapeutic products was having on the health of the Australian people was a more important consideration than the profits of commercial broadcasting stations. [More…]

• I believe that if natural minerals are being exploited for a profit motive the environment ought to be protected, the health of the workers ought to be protected, decent standards and working conditions ought to be the order of the day and there ought to be a fair return of profit to the Australian people. [More…]

• The harmful chemical content of the smoke is above World Health Organisation standards. [More…]

• We have had instances of this previously in Australia in which certain chemicals coming out of smoke stacks at mining developments have killed the vegetation, have damaged the health of the people living in the vicinity and have damaged the health of the workers. [More…]

• Education, health, repatriation and social security were the areas in which the Liberal Party would never bend in favour of the underprivileged in the community. [More…]

• It is not often that I rise to support a member of this Government but I rise today partly as a doctor as well as a senator for New South Wales to support some of the things which Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health, has been saying for a considerable period of time. [More…]

• Professor Hetzel from Monash University has written an excellent book, Health in Australian Society and has given figures and graphs to prove that as average intake of alcohol goes up the incidence of alcoholism rises; that is to say, we are all more likely to become alcoholic or have an alcohol problem as drinking patterns change in Australia. [More…]

• We know that those who have stopped smoking have improved their health statistics, have had the death rates amongst them lowered and have shown benefits. [More…]

• In 1 974 a report was published by the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare entitled ‘The Health Consequences of Smoking’. [More…]

• If we go to the Particulars of Proposed Expenditure for the Department of Health we find under division 325.3.09 that the appropriation for anti-smoking education has been decreased from $319,000 to $75,000. [More…]

• We have a Government which should know what are the effects of smoking on the health of our society and which is prepared to take an extra $75m in excise but which is not even willing to give any of it back in terms of money for education. [More…]

• Is the Government so disinterested in preventive health care that it actually slashes the allocations for those health programs that can help to mitigate a few of the social effects of these drugs? [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Dr Everingham, has frequently spoken to the Australian nation about the problems that these drugs are causing. [More…]

• Until these Bills are matched by some commitment from the Government to provide something extra for anti-smoking programs, for support for the Australian Council on Smoking and Health and for drug education programs and unless we have a program to give help for alcoholics in industry, I think the Government must accept the fact that it is taking blood money from the victims in Australian society who will die and suffer on the roads and in the hospitals from tobacco and alcohol abuse in the years ahead. [More…]

• There are representatives of the Queensland Health Education Council, the National Trust and the Keep Australia Beautiful Council. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) 12 in all- 10 employed by my Department, 2 by Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• Department- 1 position of Director of Public Relations $ 1 7,062; I position of Assistant Director of Health Relations $15,962; 5 positions of Journalist, Grade A1 with salaries of $15,397 (4), $14,815 ( 1); 2 positions of Journalist, Grade A $12,862;1 position of Journalist, Grade B $11,169. [More…]

• Capital Territory Health Commission- 1 position of Journalist Grade Al $15,397; 1 position of Journalist Grade A $ 1 2,565. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: ( 1 )-(3) ADAPs Ltd- Computer Service Organisation was engaged to provide programming expertise to assist in the development of urgent ADP projects at a cost of $248,433. [More…]

• A full-time consultant in Family Planning has been engaged for a period of 12 months at a cost of $20,000 and a part-time consultant on Aboriginal Health was engaged for a period of 12 months at a cost of $ 10,800. [More…]

• For example, a number of private medical practitioners have been engaged for short periods to provide specialist medical services in the Northern Territory, otologists are employed as consultants on a sessional basis by the National Acoustic Laboratories throughout Australia and pan-time lecturers are engaged from time to time to assist in teaching at the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health confirm the statement attributed to Dr Everingham that one in five Australians requires psychiatric treatment at some time in his or her life? [More…]

• I do not know whether it would fall within the jurisdiction of the President or the Usher of the Black Rod or whether a resident psychiatrist ought to be made available to senators, but I shall take up this matter with the Minister for Health and see whether provision could be made to have any of the problems worrying Senator Bessell and his colleagues dealt with under Medibank. [More…]

• The funds of the Health Insurance Commission are totally separate from the funds which are involved in the provision of aged or disabled persons’ homes and hostels. [More…]

• It is a problem which existed under the previous National Health Act arrangements and it is a problem which does require some resolution. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Does all promotional literature to be issued with drugs for human use require approval of the Therapeutic Goods Branch of the Department of Health before printing and distribution. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The Director-General of Health may require all promotional literature issued with imported drugs for human use to be submitted for approval before printing and distribution. [More…]

• However such information could be sought under the proposed amendments to the National Health Act as per the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Further details may be found in ‘Toxicity of Industrial Metals’ by E. Browning, published in 1961, ‘Mercury in the Environment’ (CRC Press), published in 1972, ‘Health Hazards of the Human Environment’ (World Health Orgainzation), published in 1972, and ‘Health Effects of Environmental Pollutants’, by G. L. Waldbott, published in 1 973. [More…]

• The Japanese epidemics drew attention to methyl mercury poisoning as a public health problem and directed research towards the environmental pollution aspects. [More…]

• Although my attention has not been drawn to reports from Finnish scientists, I am aware of studies by Swedish scientists, reported in Archives of Environmental Health, Vol. [More…]

• The United States Federal Register of 6 December 1974, reported that, in 1970, a study group of 10 scientists concluded, on the basis of their experience in Sweden and Finland where there had been a great deal of investigation regarding mercury hazards, that the FDA action level of 0.5ppm was a sound basis for the protection of the health of the public. [More…]

• I am aware of a report by Dr Yamaguchi and others at the Kurume University School of Medicine in Japan, published in the United States Health Services and Medical Health Administration Health Reports in October 1 97 1 . [More…]

• The report said that the actual effect on the health of people of alkylmercury from fish caught in a natural environment will have to be examined in detailed intensive studies. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has recommended that the Australian and State Departments of Health should undertake a further ‘market basket’ survey along the lines of previous surveys conducted during 1970 and 1974. [More…]

• Registration information which is held to establish that a person rendering the professional service is a Medical Practitioner as defined by the Health Insurance Acf. [More…]

• to (5) These matters are the subject of the Health Insurance Bill (No. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I have asked that further information on these references be obtained and that the National Health and Medical Research Council examine the matters. [More…]

• An expert sub-committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council has recently completed an examination of health aspects of: [More…]

• The sub-committee comprises a number of health experts and includes representatives of industry and trade unions. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council will shortly consider a draft Australian Code of Safe Practice developed by the sub-committee and proposals to inform industry and workers of the hazards associated with VCM and PVC. [More…]

• Can the Minister assure the Senate that, despite the fact that Victorian public hospitals are faced with the withdrawal of the services of all sections of the medical profession unless a compromise plan is reached over surgeons’ working conditions, the majority of people in Victoria who voted for a proper medical health service will be properly catered for? [More…]

• I have no advice at the moment as to what the Health Insurance Commission proposes to do with regard to the matter raised by Senator Baume, but he has drawn it to my attention and I will accept his word that doctors are proposing to do this in an effort to assist the public purse. [More…]

• I will see that his suggestion is conveyed to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The answer to the question relating to the total staff employed by the Health Insurance Commission, which covers Medibank, is that as at 26 September the Commission employed 3844 people. [More…]

• The question as to how long does ‘temporary’ cover may be answered by saying that the continued employment of temporary staff will be examined progressively in the light of the experience which the Health Insurance Commission has in administering Medibank. [More…]

• A figure was estimated in January 1975, after most of the private funds had refused to enter into agency arrangements with the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it true that some drugs listed under the national health scheme are accompanied in Australia by less comprehensive literature than is required in the United States and other nations for exactly the same drugs? [More…]

• My Department is initiating action to develop a long-term program to meet the health needs of Aboriginals in the area and permanent housing proposals have been under active consideration. [More…]

• Health Insurance in Canada (Question No. [More…]

• Did the Minister admit in the Senate on 4 September 1975 that he knew little of financial problems facing the Canadian Health Insurance Scheme; if so, will he undertake to acquaint himself with the present and projected state of health insurance finances in Canada and make the information known to the Senate. [More…]

• In replying to a question from Senator Marriott on 4 September 1975 I advised that I was not aware of the particular problems that were being experienced in relation to the financing of the Canadian Health Insurance arrangements but that inflation was an obvious factor that would be affecting the price of health services. [More…]

• How does the Government justify the retention of a Media propaganda machine of 800 people at a cost of over $60m, when the Commonwealth Scientific and Research Organization is being forced, because of lack of funds, to reduce its numbers of scientists by 300, despite the fact that many of the research programs deal with matters of the nation’s health. [More…]

• Our information is that he is still being held and that he is in good health. [More…]

• I shall ask the Minister for Health to let me have that information and provide it to Senator Sir Magnus Cormack and the Senate. [More…]

• I shall take this up with the Health Insurance Commission and if I find that this discrimination is being engaged in I shall take whatever steps I can to see that it ceases. [More…]

• I further ask: Is membership of the World Health Organisation and of the World Meteorological Organisation by the 2 Vietnams an indication of their separate entities as a government? [More…]

• His belief would change from day to day depending on what was good for the health of the Labor Party. [More…]

• How would Senator Carrick like to attend city areas and to knock on doors specifically to explain his party’s electoral policy by saying to those people at the door: ‘I do not think you should have as much say as country people in making laws which are before Federal Parliament concerning a loan Bill, a national health Bill, the Interstate Commission Bill, and the Ombudsman Bill.’ [More…]

• I cannot for the life of me see how we can say to a city person: ‘You shall have a devalued vote in relation to whether there will be a certain type of national health scheme. [More…]

• Both electors must seek the same thing and that is a proper and adequate health service for themselves and their families. [More…]

• We say to every Australian who lives in a city that his or her vote on questions such as health and welfare, taxation and so on is worth half the value of a vote of a person who lives in the country. ‘ [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Has his attention been drawn to a letter from a research officer at the Australian National University to a patient who had sought psychiatric advice in the Australian Capital Territory, and to a letter from Dr Peter Hughes of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly relating to this matter? [More…]

• Since this on face value could indicate gross disregard for the confidentiality of medical records in the Australian Capital Territory and of information about the identity of Australian Capital Territory residents seeking psychiatric advice, will the Minister as a matter of urgency and preferably before the estimates for Australian Capital Territory Health Services are examined tomorrow, obtain clarification of these matters and of procedures existing to protect confidentiality of records and the identity of patients in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• At no stage did she go to the Kippax Health Centre. [More…]

• Soon afterwards she received this letter, which means that the Psychiatric Service people are giving information to Kippax Health Centre regarding names and addresses of patients who have sought psychiatric help, and these are being passed onto the University Social Psychiatric Research Unit . [More…]

• At the University and some of the Health Centres, we are studying the effect of stress on people ‘s health. [More…]

• The staff at the Kippax Health Centre are helping me contact new patients, whom I then see for about an hour, either at home or at the Health Centre. [More…]

• It is clear from that letter that the Kippax Health Centre provided this information to Mrs McAuley at the Australian National University, but I do not think the situation is quite as clear as has been stated by Dr Hughes, because the letter that - [More…]

• Psychiatric Services gave the information to the Kippax Health Centre. [More…]

• All that is clear is that the Kippax Health Centre, with which the patient informs us she had no dealings, provided the information to somebody at the Australian National University. [More…]

• I am asked by Senator Baume to find out how that information was made available to the Kippax Health Centre. [More…]

• If it was not provided to the Centre by anybody under the authority of the Minister for Health, then of course I cannot provide that information. [More…]

• I do not know at this stage how the Kippax Health Centre got the information. [More…]

• Psychiatric Services has, to answer these questions if they are raised tomorrow at the relevant Estimates Committee, to take what steps I can take, and to ask the Minister for Health to take what steps he can take to see that information of this kind is not disclosed. [More…]

• Can he inform us what will be the result of such irresponsible action on the functioning of the Health Insurance Commission and on its operating costs? [More…]

• I have seen the article to which the honourable senator refers in which the Australian Medical Association apparently advises its members not to include the provider code on the forms which they submit to the Health Insurance Commission on their stationery. [More…]

• They are: the Department of Social Security, whose estimates the Committee examined for about 2 ‘A days; the Department of Repatriation, which came very well prepared and whose estimates were dealt with quickly; and the Department of Health, whose estimates went through in about half a day. [More…]

• If we go to the estimates for the Health Insurance Commission- that creation of a modern Utopia; the Government’s panacea for all ills- we find that the Government has grossly underestimated the size of its commitment to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• We were told that the Health Insurance Commission was to have 3500 permanent and 200 temporary employees and that the salary estimate for them was $25.5m. [More…]

• On the other hand, Mr Connor issued a statement suggesting that he retired because of ill health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: In view of what appears to be a growing practice of inducing births in office hours- that is between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.- would he inform the Senate whether the Australian Medical Association supports such a practice? [More…]

• I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health and obtain a detailed answer for Senator Melzer. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -There have been discussions between officers of the Department of Tourism and Recreation, the Department of Health and the Department of Social Security on this matter. [More…]

• In the interests of national health they must accept some sort of reasonable approach to wage increases. [More…]

• Health Insurance Bill 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Bill 1973 [More…]

• Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974 Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1974 Income Tax (International Agreements) Bill 1974 National Health Bill 1974 [More…]

• Hospitals and Health Services Commission Bill 1973 [More…]

• National Health Bill 1974 (No. [More…]

• National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• We drew attention to the fact that the problems of health, taxation, strikes and all the subjects that we debate in this hothouse in Canberra are as important to the man living in the city as they are to any other Australian, but the Liberal Party and the Country Party in this Senate rejected that legislation. [More…]

• The New South Wales Health Commission provides hospital care at Wilcannia Hospital with visits by a doctor three times a week plus emergency provision. [More…]

• An Aboriginal health worker has been employed since early 1973 and a nursing sister working specifically on Aboriginal health from 1970 until January 1974, when the position became vacant and again since mid 1974. [More…]

• During the period November 1974 to February 1975, the New South Wales Health Commission, using Australian Government funds, provided a free supply of fresh fruit and vegetables to Wilcannia Aborigines. [More…]

• A reply has been provided for me by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is unaware of any research being undertaken specifically into the possible ill effects of induction which has no definite medical justification. [More…]

• I think the Senate will recall that at the Joint Sitting of both Houses of the Parliament on 7 August last year the Health Insurance Act and the Health Insurance Commission Act, which established the Health Insurance Commission, which operates Medibank, and which provided for the payment of the benefits that are available under Medibank, were passed and that subsequentlyon 1 August and 1 1 December last year- 2 Bills which were presented by the Government were rejected by the Senate after having passed through the House of Representatives. [More…]

• Those 2 Bills were the Health Insurance Levy Bill 1974 and the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1 974, which in fact provided for a special levy to pay for Medibank. [More…]

• It casts doubts over the whole integrity and understanding of Mr Chipp and the Opposition on the question of health services. [More…]

• I ask the Leader of the Government in the Senate: In view of the Prime Minister’s statement on Four Corners last Saturday that he acted immediately he knew that Mr Connor had misled the Parliament, will the Minister confirm that Mr Connor resigned not because of ill health but because his resignation was demanded for misleading the Parliament? [More…]

• Both the payment of nursing home benefits under the National Health Act and payments to religious and charitable homes to meet operating costs are deficits under the Nursing Homes Assistance Act and payments are made under the National Welfare Fund which will not be affected by the current situation. [More…]

• In the Budget it was announced that the rates of nursing home benefits payable to patients in private nursing homes and approved under the National Health Act would be increased from the first pension day in November, which is 13 November. [More…]

• A Bill to amend the National Health Act to provide for these increases will be introduced into the Parliament this week, and. [More…]

• Last Friday about 550 000 cheques and assignment claims were on hand in the various offices of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The information relates to the period between the date of receipt of the claim by the Health Insurance Commission and the date of the preparation of the cheque. [More…]

• I am quite convinced that in a short while, when the Health Insurance Commission has had an opportunity to settle down and eliminate the problems which I think can be fairly described as teething troubles, the objective of a 5-day average for the payment of claims will be quite easily reached. [More…]

• The Department of Health now has community health sub-centres available and operational in both Rokeby and Risdon Vale. [More…]

• -In speaking to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• My colleague, the honourable member for Murray (Mr Lloyd), the shadow Minister for Health, has outlined the Opposition ‘s approach to the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• The Committee recommended that the National Health Act be amended to allow the Department of Health to obtain cost and financial information in respect of products in the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. [More…]

• It is questionable whether the Joint Committee on Prices had a complete understanding of all the information available to the Department of Health as it negotiates with pharmaceutical manufacturers and suppliers. [More…]

• National Health Act, as there is virtually no limitation on the extent and character of the information which the Director-General may require. [More…]

• It is for these reasons that the industry and the Opposition seek to find some understanding of the Government’s requirements and place some stress on the need for a provision for an appeal to an independent arbitrator against decisions of the Department of Health or the pricing bureau within the Department of Health relating to pharmaceutical negotiations. [More…]

• The Bill would turn the Director-General of Health into virtually a drug dictator who could make or break a pharmaceutical company by using the 3 faceless men in his pricing bureau. [More…]

• As evidence of that I could table a graph that appears in the Health Economics Service Bulletin which is in the September issue of the journal Modern Medicine. [More…]

• Under this Bill, the Director-General of Health and his three faceless men in the pricing bureau would have huge powers. [More…]

• I wish to speak briefly to this Bill, a Bill which contains provisions to require manufacturers and distributors of pharmaceuticals in Australia to give information on the costs and overheads of their products so that the Department of Health, when considering the inclusion of the drugs in the pharmaceutical benefits scheme, will have more information to enable it to reach an agreement on price. [More…]

• The Committee therefore recommends that the National Health Act be amended to make it mandatory for companies to provide the Department of Health with cost and financial information. [More…]

• They were said about the Bill in another place and were corrected by the Minister for Health (Dr Everingham) in that place. [More…]

• I would hope that the Minister representing him in this place can confirm his corrections and reassure some of us, particularly on the point of confidentiality of the information which is given to the Pharmaceutical Benefits Pricing Bureau of the Department of Health. [More…]

• I am sure that we can get confirmation of that from the Minister representing the Minister for Health in this place. [More…]

• Before the suspension of the sitting for dinner we were debating the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• It is a Bill to enable officers of the pharmaceutical pricing bureau of the Department of Health to negotiate in a fair manner with the various pharmaceutical manufacturing and distributing firms. [More…]

• The Opposition wants the Pricing Officers Bureau of” the Department of Health to work in the dark. [More…]

• The Senate is debating the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security (Senator Wheeldon) stated in his second reading speech that the Department of Health depends on negotiations to try to achieve fair and reasonable prices. [More…]

• We can no longer develop accurate mortality figures for diphtheria, polio and whooping cough because the development of drugs through the private pharmaceutical industry has had an enormous effect upon the health of Australians, particularly the children. [More…]

• Drug costs before the introduction of Medibank in this country represented about 10 per cent of our total expenditure under the national health scheme and of that 10 per cent the companies received half. [More…]

• If we look at the annual report of the Department of Health for 1973-74, we will find that the most frequently prescribed drugs on the pharmaceutical benefits scheme were analgesics, the pill, broad spectrum antibiotics and penicillin. [More…]

• The Department of Health accepts the fact that the situation is highly competitive and could give no evidence of collusive practices in Australia. [More…]

• Statistical data supplied by the Department of Health showed that major manufacturers tend to concentrate their output in certain types of drugs and to supply large proportions of the market for that product. [More…]

• I would be grateful if those who disagree would address themselves to clause 3 of the Bill and to proposed new section 102A(b) which is sought to be added to the National Health Act. [More…]

• What we are debating now relates to the National Health Act and the obtaining of information from the pharmaceutical companies so that the Australian Government, that is the Department of Health, in negotiating the prices of drugs will have information available to it which will enable it to approach the matter in a sensible way with all the information which is necessary to make some rational decision about what prices ought to be paid for the drugs which are being obtained and provided by way of pharmaceutical benefits to the Australian people. [More…]

• It recommended quite clearly that the Department of Health should be able to obtain this information. [More…]

• The Industries Assistance Commission is at present undertaking its inquiry and the information which it will require to achieve an understanding of the problems of the industry in Australia is the same sort of information as to costs and other financial considerations which this Bill would make available to the Department of Health. [More…]

• The information which would be obtained under the provisions of the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• In the same way, the Commission’s information would not be made available to the Department of Health. [More…]

• There is a provision in the principal Act which preserves the confidentiality of information which is obtained by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Further, you will be aware of the importance to the State of the special Commonwealth support programs in financing a number of essential social services- for example, Karmel Grants for Education; Medibank payments for Health and Hospital Services. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• With the increasing importations of foodstuffs from overseas, particularly Taiwan and China, what procedures are laid down by the Department of Health for inspection of food factories in those countries? [More…]

• What certification do those countries supply as to standards of health and cleanliness in their food factories? [More…]

• I ask Senator Sheil to put the question on notice so that I can get a detailed reply from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Since March there had been 3 Ministers for Foreign Affairs, 3 Ministers for Defence, 3 Ministers for Health, 3 Ministers for Education and Science, 3 Attorneys-General, 2 Treasurers, 2 Ministers for Labour and National Service, 2 Ministers for Immigration, 2 Ministers for the Navy, 2 Ministers for Housing, 2 Ministers for Aboriginal Affairs and 2 Ministers for Supply. [More…]

• There was also a Senate committee inquiry into various aspects of health insurance. [More…]

• There is a parallel between the national health scheme of the Attlee Labour Government in Britain and some of the innovations of this Government. [More…]

• Surely the only thing which can defeat this man is a board, change in Melbourne, poor health from the pressures of the job, or a drop in sales. [More…]

• I remember last year or early this year in this chamber the Opposition rejecting a charge for Medibank, yet the Opposition spokesman for health last week or early this week said that the Opposition would bring one in. [More…]

• I remind people of the number of Prime Ministers, Ministers for Health, Ministers for Defence and all of these things which Senator James McClelland pointed out here today. [More…]

• The Bills that have been passed include the Australian Housing Corporation Bill, the Australian Industry Development Corporation Bill, the Australian National Railways Bill, the Conciliation and Arbitration Bill, the Customs Bill, the Customs Tariff (Anti-Dumping) Bill, the Customs Tariff Validation Bill, the Dairy Produce Bill, the Dairy Produce Sales Promotion Bill, the Dried Fruits Export Charges Bill, the Fisheries Bill, the Grants Commission Bill, the Health Insurance Bill, the Loans (Australian Shipping Commission) Bill, the Loan (War Services Land Settlement) Bill, the Pig Slaughter Levy Bill, the Pig Slaughter Levy Collection Bill, the Pig Industry Research Bill, the Pig Meat Promotion Bill, the Postal Services Bill, the Postal and Telecommunications (Transitional Provisions) Bill, the Urban and Regional Development (Financial Assistance) Bill, and the Wool Tax Bills Nos 1 to 5. [More…]

• Decreases in the health services section of the index associated with the introduction of Medibank for medical services in all cities and for hospital services in all cities except Sydney and Brisbane have had a marked effect on the total index for this quarter. [More…]

• I seek clarification as to what effect on the consumer price index the health services and medical costs component has had. [More…]

• Is the Minister able to give information as to what would have been the movement in the consumer price index if the health services and medical costs component had not been taken into account in the manner which he has outlined? [More…]

• Of course, in this same Budget the basic essentials show that 37 per cent of the funds are earmarked for the Government’s health, education and welfare programs. [More…]

• I can only say with regard to those difficulties that I was ultimately given the reason- many months afterwardsthat there was a health condition which prevented Mr Pavlovic senior from leaving Yugoslavia. [More…]

• The Prime Minister should go to the people and ask them whether they want to have a choice of vocation, whether they want to have a choice of education, whether they want to have a choice of health services, whether they want to have a choice of the type of house and place in which they live and whether they want to be able to own their own homes. [More…]

• The Minister was further asked whether he would present the Senate with a rundown of the salaries and allowances of officials of all or any of the major health insurance funds. [More…]

• I may say that it does seem that although the salaries of the executives of the health insurance funds are paid from the contributions of their members the funds obviously are going to continue to refuse to divulge to their members what salaries are paid to those executives out of the funds that are contributed by the members. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission is an autonomous statutory commission. [More…]

• In any event, as I understand it, the actual leasing of office space is handled by the Department of Urban and Regional Development, at the request of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Already the nation is being burdened with Labor’s enormously expensive health and rehabilitation programs- [More…]

• For example, the Therapeutic Goods Act already makes provision for the Minister for Health to determine standards for therapeutic goods and for their packaging and labelling, and to prevent their distribution if they do not comply with those requirements. [More…]

• The Therapeutic Goods Standards Committee, the Therapeutic Goods Advisory Committee, and the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee, have been established to advise the Minister for Health in his administration of that Act. [More…]

• Health. [More…]

• It is intended that the Authority in exercising its functions will not disturb either the existing procedure for the determination and application of standards for therapeutic goods by the Minister for Health or the functions of the bodies established under the Therapeutic Goods Regulations. [More…]

• The Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council, which includes representatives of State governments, consumer interests and the food industry, has for many years carried out the function of formulating food standards. [More…]

• Clause 7 (2) of the Bill will enable the Consumer Protection Authority to take advantage of the expertise and experience, in the health field, of the Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council; and in transport, the Road Safety and Standards Authority and the specialist advisory committees of the Australian Transport Advisory Council. [More…]

• Within the meaning of the Health Insurance Acts, medical expenses are not incurred in respect of professional services rendered by medical practitioners in either of the following circumstances: [More…]

• In fact, these tables have been rejected because they do not comply with the specific guidelines which have been set down for the approval of such ancillary health insurance which the private funds can offer. [More…]

• The Government has an obligation under the National Health Act to protect the contributors to these private funds. [More…]

• That obligation is specifically made clear in the National Health Act. [More…]

• All the other funds have complied with the guidelines of the Government under the National Health Act. [More…]

• The purpose of the new arrangements is, of course, to improve the quality and availability of health care and to rationalise and make more equitable the financing thereof. [More…]

• Claims for damages in respect of inconvenience, ill health, etc., will not be allowed. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The guidelines, which were agreed at the 1974 Australian Health Ministers’ Conference, came into force on 1 September 1975 for advertisements submitted on or after that date. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) With reference to the Australian Government’s Community Health and Community Mental Health, Alcoholism and Drug Dependency Programs, what voluntary organisations have requested financial assistance from the Minister’s Department for the establishment or maintenance of a federal headquarters. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answers to the honourable senator’s questions: [More…]

• Applications for financial assistance under the Community Health Program, which now encompasses the earlier Community Mental Health, Alcoholism and Drug Dependency Program, are not recorded with specific reference to the nature of the project for which funding is sought. [More…]

• With reference to the Australian Government’s Community Health Program and the earlier Community Mental Health, Alcoholism and Drug Dependency Program, voluntary organisations which have been allocated grants for the establishment or maintenance of a national headquarters are detailed at (2) below. [More…]

• All Medibank premises are leased; the Health Insurance Commission does not own any premises. [More…]

• The building at 77 Collins Street, Hobart, which is occupied by the Health Insurance Commission Medibank- is owned by the Australian Government. [More…]

• It is not the property of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission has shown some interest in buying this building. [More…]

• As at this stage, the premises are not owned by the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• They are rented by the Health Insurance Commission from the Australian Government. [More…]

• As I have said before they cover matters such as: Salary and wages for public servants and other employees of departments and of statutory authorities; student assistance programs; health services, including amounts for the operation of the Australian Capital Territory and Northern Territory hospitals; employment training and assistance and expenditure on projects for the relief of unemployment; maintenance of Australian representation abroad; payments to international organisations; aid programs; grants for aged persons homes and hostels; defence services; the reconstruction of Darwin. [More…]

• health and education) and it may be either conceptually misleading to allocate them to one or another; or a group might devote their time partly to one program and partly to others and it would be practically difficult to allocate their cost to the different objectives they serve. [More…]

• It is the responsibility of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has informed me that at this stage he is unable to say what the decision will be or when it will be made. [More…]

• I can only assume that, if the Pharmacy Guild does intend to abide by its ultimatum and if a decision has not been made by the Minister for Health by tomorrow, a writ will be issued and the matter will be settled elsewhere. [More…]

• I am afraid that this is a problem upon which I can shed no light, other than to provide the answer which has been given to me by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I further ask: Is membership of the World Health Organisation and of the World Meteorological Organisation by the two Vietnams an indication of their separate entities as a government? [More…]

• The DRV was admitted to membership at the World Health Assembly last [More…]

• MB Circular 75, distributed by the Department of Health in April 1970 under the previous Governent, explains the policy, and that it is in accord with the views expressed by the Federal Assembly of the Australian Medical Association as reported in the supplement to the Medical Journal of Australia of 24 November 1975. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 33 of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission Act 1973 I present the Auditor-General’s report on the statement of receipts and payments for the Hospitals and Health Services Commission for the year ended 30 June 1975. [More…]

• This is what destroyed the Australian Labor Party’s attempts last year to control inflation and which led me to the view that there was no policy which could be introduced by the then Government which would have restored the economic health of the Australian nation: The people of Australia had lost confidence in the economic management of that Government. [More…]

• Unless we have incentive amongst the small people-the individuals, the small businesses, the individual employees, the people who generate the real wealth of the community- we will not have economic good health. [More…]

• I believe that they are policies which are likely to achieve significant results in restoring economic good health not only to that industry but also, in a spin-off effect, to so many other industries. [More…]

• The information is briefly this: The World Health Organisation has designated 7 April 1 976 as World Health Day and this day will be devoted to the prevention of blindness under the slogan ‘foresight prevents blindness’. [More…]

• However, the Government support for research into the problem of eye disease is being provided from funds made available to the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• The Minister for Health expects, perhaps later today, to be making a statement with regard to these matters. [More…]

• -I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by saying that no doubt the Minister is aware that many people would like to know the makeup of and what chemicals have been added to any of the food that they eat. [More…]

• Does the Minister know of any recommendations from the Department of Health or of any directions to food companies to list the components of foods and any chemical that may be added, whether it be flavouring, colouring or as a preservative? [More…]

• I am not aware of any discussions or considerations that have been undertaken recently by the Minister for Health with regard to the matters raised, but I assure the honourable senator that I will obtain an answer to his question for him. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• He makes sure that adequate health facilities are available to his children and to his spouse. [More…]

• The women’s health refuges do not know whether in the future they will be able to provide facilities for the people who come to them in their hour of need. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister make a recommendation to the Australian Broadcasting Control Board that, as an alternative to the present slogan, these facts be used: ‘Medical authorities advise that smoking, drinking and monogomy are health hazards’. [More…]

• Has work on the national animal health laboratories at Geelong been stopped pending a decision on whether the project will proceed? [More…]

• I acknowledge the importance of the proposal to build the animal health laboratories at Geelong. [More…]

• I believe that the importance to this country of its exports and the health of most primary industries very much depends upon our having a top security animal health laboratory. [More…]

• The original responsibility for the control of the areas into which the fruit fly might spread rests with the Department of Health. [More…]

• I turn to the area of health and the care of aged persons in Victoria. [More…]

• Psychiatrists in Victoria are now on strike because the State Minister for Health will not talk to them. [More…]

• In the past 20 years of Liberal Government many changes have taken place; but in the area of public expenditure, in the area of public responsibility accepted by both the Liberal Party and the Labor Partymatters such as transport, education, health, care of old persons, the environment and so on- there has been really nothing which anybody, I believe, could report with pride as a matter of political management. [More…]

• For example, there were community committees for health centres, school boards with representation from parents, students and teachers and community representation on vital bodies such as the committee which allocates emergency housing to distressed families. [More…]

• But just as the benefits of Labor’s social reform policies were quickly felt in the Territory- for example, in the reduction in the price of land, the establishment of an Australian Legal Aid Office, community health centres, women’s refuges, cheaper loans for home buyers, child care services and land rights for Aboriginals at Wreck Bay, so also the detrimental effects of the present Government’s ill conceived anti-Canberra policy are already causing distress and hardship to people living here in the seat of government. [More…]

• Health care programs have been frozen. [More…]

• Until very recently, women in our society, through a variety of formal barriers, traditional prejudice, and sheer neglect by policy makers, were denied equal access with men to education, health care, job training, employment, wage justice- in all, to the possibility of real independence. [More…]

• While such fields as defence, foreign affairs and some areas of national resources and trade are logically handled nationally, I feel that the Commonwealth should reduce its interest in such fields as health, housing, education and the environment. [More…]

• On 6 February this year the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, announced that a charge of $10 was to be made for hearing aids provided by the Government. [More…]

• On 6 February this year Mr Hunt announced that the concession under which subsidised health beneficiaries receive their pharmaceutical benefits scheme medicines at half price was to be discontinued. [More…]

• I refer to frivolous cosmetics and health damaging cigarettes, not to mention, of course, the environmental damage which the production of many of these commodities causes. [More…]

• This Bill will amend the National Health Act to implement certain decisions taken after its review of expenditure in the public sector, and announced on 4 and 6 February. [More…]

• As in the past, eligible pensioners- that is those holding a pensioner health benefits card- will not be charged for their pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• Secondly, the Bill provides for the removal of the pharmaceutical benefits concession for beneficiaries under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• The introduction of these Medibank arrangements in all States and Territories throughout Australia has rendered the medical and hospital assistance component of the subsidised health benefits plan redundant. [More…]

• The Bill will remove the concession and will also repeal the redundant provisions of the Act authorising the subsidised health benefits plan itself. [More…]

• This increase, together with the removal of the concession for subsidised health benefits plan beneficiaries, will result in a saving of $5.6m in this financial year, and $24m in a full year. [More…]

• Thirdly, the Bill provides, for the termination from 1 April 1976 of Commonwealth hospital benefits, authorised by Part V of the National Health Act. [More…]

• With the introduction on 1 July 1975 of Medibank medical benefits authorised by the Health Insurance Act, the payment of Commonwealth medical benefits authorised by the National Health Act was ceased. [More…]

• -The Opposition intends to oppose the National Health Bill 1976, the first Bill which has passed to the Senate from another place in this Thirtieth Parliament. [More…]

• The Bill seeks to amend the National Health Act by increasing from $1.50 to $2 the patient’s contribution for pharmaceutical benefits and to remove the pharmaceutical concession enjoyed by some beneficiaries under the subsidised health scheme. [More…]

• In fact, the Bill will terminate the subsidised health plan benefits. [More…]

• The Bill also seeks to bring to an end certain Commonwealth health benefits rendered redundant by Medibank. [More…]

• We, like Government supporters and like most members in the Parliament, agree with the principle that benefits in the fields of social security and health should go to those in need. [More…]

• Our objections to the Bill lie in the provisions of clauses 12, 13 and 14 which seek to increase to $2 the contribution by patients for pharmaceutical benefits and to remove the concession previously available under the subsidised health plan. [More…]

• For a family which is on the subsidised health benefit the increase will be very considerable. [More…]

• To reply to this argument as did the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in another place that such people can go to an outpatients clinic and there obtain medical benefits free or get their drugs at a reduced fee in some States is, I believe, completely unrealistic. [More…]

• The subsidised health benefit plan has always been unsatisfactory. [More…]

• The subsidised health plan did not work well for many reasons. [More…]

• Primarily this was because it was a hurriedly conceived scheme, conceived at a time when the inadequacies of the previous Government’s health insurance scheme in Australia were becoming obvious. [More…]

• We had had the Nimmo report and the controversy between the Australian Medical Association, the then Government and the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• Barriers were thrown up very quickly against the Labor Party’s proposals for an adequate national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• We believe in lifting the financial barriers to health care in this country. [More…]

• We believe in an integrated health and social security service and, therefore, we recognise the inadequacies of the subsidised health plan and accept that its high administrative costs were a difficulty. [More…]

• -The Senate is debating the National Health Bill which is, in fact, part of the Government’s program for economic recovery in this country. [More…]

• The second reading speech of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) made it clear that eligible pensioners will continue to be able to obtain their drugs free of charge. [More…]

• I was delighted to see the Minister for Health in another place promise that such an inquiry was to be instituted. [More…]

• After all, administrative costs- I believe $1.3m was the amount- were a factor considered in making the decision to withdraw the special pharmaceutical benefit for those on subsidised health benefit costs. [More…]

• I have always taken the view that the providers, whether they be the Private Hospitals and Nursing Homes Association, State Ministers of Health or the Pharmacy Guild, have a lot of expertise which can be brought to bear on the question of the costs of a scheme like the pharmaceutical benefits scheme. [More…]

• Prior to the suspension of the sitting, the Senate was discussing the National Health Bill and the amendments proposed to the National Health Act by the Government. [More…]

• I am now going on to the subsidised health benefits. [More…]

• Department of Social Security of the Department of Health who are already engaged specifically in the area of the subsidised health benefits plan and administering the $2 and the $5 payments that will apply when the National Health Act is amended, will find themselves retrenched or transferred, or subsequently in some way either have to accept a downgrading from their present levels or ultimately become unemployed? [More…]

• This Bill, the purpose of which is to amend the National Health Act, has 3 aspects. [More…]

• I suggest to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) that when economic circumstances improve this aspect must be reviewed with the objective of at least paying regard to the high cost to the patient. [More…]

• At the moment he seems to be somewhat disadvantaged although provision exists whereby if a doctor considers it is in the patient’s interest, the doctor may obtain an authority from the Director of Health in any State to enable him to prescribe increased maximum quantities and to give repeat prescriptions which will provide one month’s treatment or 2 repeats for a patient at a cost of $2 for each month’s supply. [More…]

• The second point of this Bill relates to the removal of pharmaceutical benefits under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• They have not been referred to in the Bill and are associated with the Department of Health. [More…]

• I think that this aspect was explained quite well by the Minister for Health in his second reading speech when he said that the extra cost to the contributors to these organisations will be very small. [More…]

• I can remember it being pointed out in debates on the national health scheme that many doctors knew that more expensive medication than they were giving their patients would go a long way towards alleviating the condition the patients suffered and in some cases towards saving their lives or prolonging their lives but that they did not prescribe those medications because they knew that their patients could not afford them. [More…]

• We thought we were having a health scheme under which people could go about their affairs with dignity and could front up as human beings who were ill and be treated for their illness and not as human beings who had money and were given first class treatment or human beings who did not have money and therefore had to be content with second class treatment. [More…]

• The whole idea behind a national health scheme is to provide all people, irrespective of where they live or how much they earn, with a decent and proper health scheme which carries with it dignity and care. [More…]

• Not even the private health funds would guard people in situations like that. [More…]

• In supporting this Bill which amends the National Health Act, I want to make 3 points briefly. [More…]

• Perhaps it is difficult in the social welfare or health areas that such measures have to be considered and taken. [More…]

• If we as a community are to continue to provide a high standard of health care delivery, the resources that we have- and we must recognise that these resources are limitedmust be managed as efficiently as possible in the interests of the community as a whole. [More…]

• For example, in the Australian Capital Territory we have what I believe to be a very effective system of health care. [More…]

• In conclusion, I emphasise that the measures proposed in this Bill to amend the National Health Act must be kept under scrutiny to ensure that hardship does not ensue for the disadvantaged in the community such as pensioners. [More…]

• In this respect I refer particularly to measures in the Bill which provide for the removal of the pharmaceutical benefits concession for beneficiaries under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• However, I believe that the Bill indicates the Government’s determination to overcome the economic crisis so that ultimately we as a Government will be in a better position to provide more extensive health and social security benefits for the community as a whole and particularly for the disadvantaged. [More…]

• The first statement was provided by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) on 4 February this year. [More…]

• This increase, together with the removal of the concession for subsidised health benefits plan beneficiaries, will result in a saving of $5. [More…]

• It seems to me that some people will shun health care as they did before the previous Government introduced Medibank. [More…]

• With the subsidised health medical benefits scheme the low income earners and the disadvantaged will suffer. [More…]

• These clauses have the effect of adding 50c to the existing prescription charge of $ 1 .50, making it $2, and removing the health benefit prescription subsidy. [More…]

• As the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) said, we recognise that there are deficiencies in the subsidised health benefit plan. [More…]

• The statement issued on behalf of the Minister for Health ( Mr Hunt) on 4 February last stated: [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, said today that the Government aimed to cut the cost of the pharmaceutical benefits scheme by $34m in a full year. [More…]

• This increase, together with the removal of the concession for subsidised health benefits plan beneficiaries, will result in a saving of $5.6m in this financial year, and $24m in a full year. [More…]

• The figures in the second reading speech which the honourable senator has quoted refer to the increase in the patient contribution and to the removal of the concession under the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• So the discrepancy between the higher figure that the honourable senator quoted in the speech of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) on 4 February and the figures shown in the second reading speech relates to the drugs which will be removed from the list. [More…]

• I would have liked to have heard from the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) what practical steps the Department of Health is taking to reduce the bureaucratic expenses that are involved in servicing the benefit. [More…]

• in reply- I thank members of the Senate who have contributed to the debate on the amendments which have been introduced by the Government to the National Health Act. [More…]

• It will be recognised that the Bill deals principally with 3 points- the increase of 50c in the patient contribution; the removal of the 75c concession for persons on subsidised benefits, this not applying to eligible pensioners; and the redundant provisions of the National Health Act. [More…]

• There was quite a deal of discussion on the subsidised health benefits part of the scheme. [More…]

• Members of the Opposition had 3 years in government in which they could have devised a more effective plan for the subsidised health benefits. [More…]

• The discussion that we have heard from honourable senators opposite with regard to devising a more appropriate way of implementing a subsidised health benefit plan still lacks a constructive approach from the members of the now Opposition. [More…]

• All honourable senators are assured that eligible pensioners and repatriation beneficiaries will not be disadvantaged by reasonof the increase in the charge to the general patient or the abolition of the subsidised health benefit plan. [More…]

• Reference was made to members of the staff who are employed in the subsidised health benefits section. [More…]

• I advise honourable senators that the administrative savings in relation to this benefit would be minimal, as the main administrative costs are associated with the inspection of private health insurance funds on our behalf. [More…]

• In 1975 the Department of Health and the Public Service Board, jointly, with an independent firm of management consultants, carried out an efficiency study of the administration of the pharmaceutical benefits scheme within the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health is proceeding with the implementation of those recommendations. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) asked the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee recently to review the benefits list to see whether some items might be deleted without impairing the general range of benefits available, in the light of the Government’s current need to reduce the costs under the scheme. [More…]

• The Committee has made recommendations to the Minister for Health for the deletion of some items and changes to the listing of some other items. [More…]

• I am sure that the Minister for Health would welcome constructive comments in relation to improving or restructuring, the administration of the scheme. [More…]

• It is acknowledged that it is a very costly benefit scheme- costly in terms of administration and costly in terms of the part of the revenue of this country which is directed to a scheme to assist people in health care. [More…]

• Under the provisions of the National Health Act such prescriptions for non;pensioners are deemed not to be prescriptions for pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• Removal of the concession for the subsidised health benefits plan will result in the savings of $5.6m this financial year and $24m in a full year. [More…]

• I take it that the figures which Senator Colston said were released by the Minister on 4 February relate to all the amendments that are being made to the pharmaceutical benefits scheme and not only to those which relate directly to the subsidised health benefits plan. [More…]

• It is all very well the health departments in the various States telling us that unless one provides a toilet that is 2 feet high and there are windows that are 4 feet off the ground one cannot open a child care facility but the point is that for years people around the corner and down the street have minded children and for years those children have managed to deal with toilets that are a little higher than those at home and they do not seem to have come off the worse for it. [More…]

• Because ordinary people in Australia at last were getting close to living decent lives, with decent wages, with an education system that was starting to educate them and not turn them out as factory fodder, and with a health scheme which meant that people did not lie awake at 2 o’clock in the morning wondering how on earth they were going to pay the medical bills and wondering whether it might not be better if people who were ill died. [More…]

• Those 2 committees were the Committee on Health and Welfare, which I believe was presided over by the late Senator Dame Ivy Wedgwood, and the [More…]

• crushed or broken ribs, and it would be detrimental to the health of that person to submit to a breath test or breath analysis, then a blood test will be taken at the hospital. [More…]

• Health Services. [More…]

• Is it not right that the States which are close to the people in relation to education, health, housing, the law, police and municipal affairs should have the right to adequate money and freedom of action in spending that money? [More…]

• In the light of the fact that the Minister’s colleague in another place, the Minister for Health, reversed his decision to abolish the free hearing aid scheme, will the Minister say whether she is prepared to consider her decision to abolish the funeral benefits for age pensioners? [More…]

• I should also make clear to honourable senators that nothing in this proposed procedure will in any way affect present or future social security or health benefits. [More…]

• Restoring economic health will be a slow process; as Prime Minister Trudeau said to the Canadian people in December last: [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It will be realised that the making of recommendations in the terms suggested by the honourable senator would fall within the capacity of my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Although this may cause some degree of hardship to some manufacturers in the short term, it was not possible on this occasion to delay the implementation of the policy which was announced by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I shall refer to the Minister for Health that part of the question which asked whether a recommendation would be made by the Minister and he will take the action that he considers to be desirable. [More…]

• As I understand the position at present with regard to family planning clinics, since the introduction of Medibank those clinics are able to provide their services free of charge to patients because of the health benefit grants which are made available to the organisations which provide this service. [More…]

• This is the punch line- in relation to health, social services and other welfare services. [More…]

• I ask the Minister how the closing off of the Welfare Fund as suggested by the Government serves the legal purposes of the Fund which are supposed to relate to health, social services and other welfare services? [More…]

• The remainder of the question could be referred to the Minister for Health who, I am sure everyone understands, is at present reviewing the whole of the Medibank operation. [More…]

• Special legislation to cover the disposal of radioactive material is under consideration by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• People will say that Mr Hamer, who may be charged with some responsibility in these matters, is a nice guy but the important thing about responsibility in politics is that sometimes in addition to having a nice guythey are good to have as neighbours to help you burn your rubbish and things like that- it is also important to have tough guys who are prepared to tackle the problems, who are prepared to tackle the problems of local government in Victoria, who are prepared to tackle the problems of health in Victoria, who are prepared to stand up to industrialists who are polluting Mordialloc Creek, who are prepared to sack the Health Minister who has presided over the most disastrous 3 years of the administration of the Victorian health policy and who are prepared to stand up on educational issues which affect the people of Victoria. [More…]

• The principal benefit of meat inspection is associated with public health and as such the cost of maintaining the public health must be borne by the whole community . [More…]

• I shall pursue the public health myth peddled by the honourable member for Darling Downs a little further. [More…]

• charge and as’ such it is not a public health measure. [More…]

• We know also that pressure comes from importing countries, as has been pointed out by Senator Primmer, to ensure that the health of the beasts slaughtered is of the highest quality. [More…]

• I doubt whether the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) who represents in the Senate the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) will be able to give me a definite answer on the plea that I make. [More…]

• If that is not possible, I ask her to take back my comments to the Minister for Health to see whether in fact anything can be done. [More…]

• The first document from which I quote is a Press statement by the Minister for Health dated 27 February in which, amongst other things, he said: [More…]

• I ask the Minister whether she will either comment on this suggestion or take it back to the Minister for Health to see whether the Government can reconsider its decision on this benefit. [More…]

• What kind of reassessment did he want the Department of Health to make? [More…]

• I just emphasise that it seems to me that all the savings in all the field of health and social security are going to be aimed at catching a few people who may have abused the system, to save a small amount of money. [More…]

• I think the time has arrived when the Government should give consideration to establishing an appeal body from decisions of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee so that if and when a drug is removed and a medical practitioner, scientist or health authority feels that the community at large can receive the benefit of it- obviously in the case of the matter raised by Senator Colston this evening there is a difference of opinion between 2 medical practitioners in the chamber- an appellant body should be able to weigh up, consider the evidence and assess it on behalf of the community in general. [More…]

• I feel sure that my colleague the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) will read with interest the debate which has been conducted on this matter of cows’ milk substitutes in the Senate this evening. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether advantage was able to be taken of the relaxed conditions introduced by the Minister for Health in the previous Government pertaining to the importation of semen to enable the commencement of such a coarse wool breed in this country? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have some information from the Minister for Health with regard to staffing at the Darwin Hospital. [More…]

• I will refer the details of the questions that remain unanswered to my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I understand that the Health Insurance Commission has received no official complaints about it. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -I have no information from the Minister for Health that would enable me to answer the question that has been directed to me. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister may be aware that the Health Education Council in Western Australia has a publication entitled, ‘How Clanger Molloy caught the clap and gave it to his girlfriend’. [More…]

• As reports indicate that the incidence of venereal disease is increasing throughout Australia, as the Premier of Western Australia has declared the publication pornographic without reference to the State-appointed Indecent Publications Committee and as there is a great need for constructive advice to be made available to all sections of the community on this matter, will the Minister give consideration to approaching the Health Education Council in Western Australia to obtain the ‘Clanger Molloy’ series and assist in the distribution of the same on a national basis through the Department of Health? [More…]

• I shall refer them to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health able to say whether it is proposed to cut back on community health programs as part of the current economy drive? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of any cuts in the current community health program which is operated at present by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission? [More…]

• As Minister representing the Minister for Health, I am unable to give information to the honourable senator on community health centres, but I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer as soon as possible. [More…]

• I immediately rang Mr Enderby and the then Minister for Health. [More…]

• This raises the question of whether an inquiry into the field of health is needed to ascertain whether there was some negligence. [More…]

• Ill health forced him to discontinue his trade and that is the reason for his being in NEAT. [More…]

• There is the case of a 44-year old nurse who was forced to retire from nursing due to ill health. [More…]

• I want to refer tonight to the Government’s savage moves to bring about savings in health areas. [More…]

• I will quote from some of the Press statements which have been issued in past weeks by the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt. [More…]

• The Government of which I was proud to be a supporter did a magnificent job in trying to spend money in order to bring about a better health situation in Australia. [More…]

• At present the Australian Radiation Laboratory- a Health Department body- procures and distributes the kits which are mainly used for examination of the thyroid. [More…]

• I think this is one illustration that the health of the community is of no concern to the Fraser Government. [More…]

• The National Acoustic Laboratories, another Health Department body, supplies aids to pensioners and young people under the age of 21 as well as to Repatriation beneficiaries and Defence Force members. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Ralph Hunt, said today the $ 1 0 charge for hearing aids implied by the decision would not be imposed because it would cause undue hardship. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, said today that he had asked the Medibank Review Committee, chaired by Mr Austin Holmes, to pay special attention to diagnostic services in the course of the committee’s review of Medibank. [More…]

• I am sure that the people who need the health program do not know where they are with this Government putting out Press statements on the health services willynilly. [More…]

• But in spite of those difficulties … the Department of Health still had a responsibility to ensure that the Government (and hence the taxpayers) paid fair and reasonable prices for drugs listed as Pharmaceutical Benefits. [More…]

• Of course, the health of this nation does not mean as much to this Government as a few bags of superphosphate for the wealthy primary producer does. [More…]

• I wish to quote a comment made by the shadow Minister for Health, Dr Cass, who would know more than Senator Cormack about the medical benefits and the need for them by the people of this community. [More…]

• But the point is that it will permit the Department of Health to better advise the Government on the real cost of pharmaceuticals in this country. [More…]

• I welcome his concern for health. [More…]

• There are the health screening organisations to which people go and have a lot of tests done on themselves. [More…]

• It is a waste of money and a lot of the money is paid through the health insurance system. [More…]

• The current delay is probably because X-rays from Rome are forwarded to the Department of Health officers in London for clearance. [More…]

• He supplied the additional information at that stage that because of Miss Leombruni ‘s ill health there are strong emotional factors in the case. [More…]

• Mr President, my question may require the attention of the Minister representing the Prime Minister and 3 other Ministers, namely, the Minister representing the Treasurer, the Minister representing the Minister for Health and the Minister for Science. [More…]

• Some might find it surprising that a senior Minister in a government which purports to be a free enterprise government, which purports to believe in competition between assorted suppliers and which, indeed, according to its rhetoric sees such competition as being crucial to the health and survival of the free enterprise system, should find such competition disturbing. [More…]

• He made a number of points concerning health services and health care delivery in this country. [More…]

• Last night I discussed Senator McLaren’s first point, which was that he felt that unless we had a proliferation of diagnostic services, health care in Australia would suffer. [More…]

• The mere availability of tests is not in itself any indication that they have any effect on health care delivery or health care standards. [More…]

• One of the problems which the Government is facing is that there has been a proliferation and a clear overuse of diagnostic tests with far too little return in the way of improved health care statistics. [More…]

• Senator McLaren made 2 other points about health care delivery in his contribution last night. [More…]

• He sought to assert, perhaps by implication, that there has been a loss of salaried staff and that under the Australian Labor Party Government efforts were made to retain salaried staff to the benefit of the community and community health. [More…]

• It drew attention to what the health services provided and it made recommendations concerning hospital staffing. [More…]

• I have been a member of 2 Senate Estimates committees, each of which has concerned itself with the question of health services in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• If Senator McLaren wants us to believe that the Government of which he was a member put a high value on hospital staff and staff salaried positions and if he wants us to believe that these salaried positions are needed to maintain a good standard of health care, let him explain to the Senate why his Government has virtually destroyed one of the hospital systems and has diminished the number of salaried doctors available in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Let us make the position quite clear: The same difficulties apply to the other great Commonwealth health system but to a lesser degree. [More…]

• It is essential that we recognise at this time that the Australian pharmaceutical industry is in a very bad situation We have had in this country over several years a highly effective price controlling mechanism within the Department of Health. [More…]

• Senator McLaren will doubtless remember that the prices of almost all pharmaceuticals prescribed under the pharmaceutical benefits scheme have dropped- they have not stayed steady; they have been dropping- because of the effectiveness of the pricing bureau within the Department of Health. [More…]

• All I want to see is that the Department of Health carries out a complete review of the profitability of the drug industry and makes sure that it gets a fair go. [More…]

• Senator Baume became very excited about the remarks of Senator McLaren, whom he considers knows nothing about the situation in the health field in this country. [More…]

• I am not one of those doctors who believe that one has to be a doctor to know something about the health problems of this country. [More…]

• There are many more patients than doctors and patients also have a very good idea about some of the things that are going on in the health field in this country. [More…]

• Senator Baume became very excited about the second point, I believe it was, that Senator McLaren made about the remarks of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in a Press statement concerning salaried people leaving Commonwealth hospitals. [More…]

• It is to me intolerable that the community should accept responsibility for a health cost structure without thorough justification of the cost-effectiveness of the investigational apparatus it is purchasing and sustaining. [More…]

• I certainly share Senator Baume ‘s distaste for the health screening organisations which are set up in generalalthough not always- to make a lot of money. [More…]

• This will require the close cooperation of health authorities, of the profession and of the community. [More…]

• I accept, as does everyone who thinks about this matter accepts, that we must be conscious of the economic cost of health care and must stop abuse. [More…]

• Then we shall succeed in getting a proper health service in this country and we will stop the arguments that have been carried on over the years about funding and about individual freedom. [More…]

• Therefore I agree with the assertion of the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, that at the present time there is no reason for the continuation of government ownership of Fawnmac and that greater benefits will accrue to the country by returning the group to private enterprise. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is not within my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health to need to justify the subsidies that are given to tobacco growers in this country. [More…]

• As far as any announcement with regard to radio and television advertising of cigarettes and tobacco is concerned, the Minister for Health has made his statements. [More…]

• The reference to the proposed legislation relates to the fact that the State Ministers for Health at their meeting in 1975 agreed to work towards some uniformity of legislation in this matter. [More…]

• Socially, they were given health benefits and education benefits which they would otherwise not have had. [More…]

• They also are concerned because they believe that the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, is discussing ways of providing more specialist services- not necessarily free services- at the hospital with the private specialists in the Territory and representatives of the AMA but not with the salaried specialists who are already working in the hospital. [More…]

• They have endeavoured to see the Minister for Health to discuss their concern with him; but, so far as I know, to date they have not been successful. [More…]

• I hope that the Minister for Health becomes aware of my remarks and addresses himself to this problem very quickly. [More…]

• Funds will continue to be made available for housing, education, employment, health, legal aid etc. [More…]

• Funds to continue to be made available for housing, education, employment, health, legal aid, etc. [More…]

• Will give priority to extra Ahoriginal field workers and advisers in health education and community development. [More…]

• Other areas in which women needed the establishment of some sort of community centre were the areas of health, shelter, refuge, counselling and rape. [More…]

• But I suppose that it is a bit hard for men to understand that there are times when women want to talk to people who understand exactly what their health problem is- and that is not a man. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen a statement by Dr R. Munro Ford, who is the Chairman of the Asthma Foundation and also the Chairman of the College of Allergists, protesting about a new requirement that asthma and allergy sufferers pay between $5 and $6 for each new prescription which they require for antihistamines. [More…]

• Will the Minister be good enough to ask her colleague the Minister for Health to consider meeting the Chairman of the Foundation? [More…]

• I will refer the request for consultation with Dr Ford to the Minister for Health in an endeavour to obtain some relief for the people who are required to pay the sums which have been outlined by the honourable senator. [More…]

• I understand that this is a recurrent expenditure and is a heavy burden, and I feel sure that the Minister for Health will be receptive to the request to arrange a consultation with Dr Ford. [More…]

• Whilst this mode of travel might be good for the officer’s health and strikes a blow for the anti-pollution cause, why was an allowance for the replacement of worn out bicycle tyres refused to this officer, who has now left the inspectorate? [More…]

• Government policies which influence mortality are posited primarily on the desire to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the community and their effect on population growth is incidental. [More…]

• The areas in which this confusion exists include health services, transport, employment and housing. [More…]

• My male colleagues who do no more, and sometimes do a darned sight less than I, in general have an unpaid housekeeper for whom they claim not only the $364 deduction but also any additional expenses involved in the health and welfare of their spouse. [More…]

• However, it is felt that refuges for women and children made homeless by domestic conflict are funded under the community health program which is administered by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• The arrangement with regard to women’s refuges is being reviewed by the Department of Health and the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• As the honourable senator knows, the women’s health centres and refuges, as we refer to them at the present time, come under the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• As a government we recognise the role of the States in the provision of health care services. [More…]

• If there is any further information which I am able to offer with regard to my program for homeless persons or the women’s health centres and refuges I shall obtain it for the honourable senator. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the National Health and Medical Research Council involved in analysing food samples to determine the level of pesticides and heavy metals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• A report of such a survey carried out in 1974 was received by the National Health and Medical Research Council at its Eighty-first Session in November 1975. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I shall obtain the information for the honourable senator in more definition from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This resulted in detailed investigations being made by the Northern Territory health authorities into sterilisation procedures involving Aboriginal women in Northern Territory hospitals between 1 January 1973 and 31 December 1973. [More…]

• We could have many more health centres not only in places like Canberra- which I admit has actually less need for health centres than other places in which they do not exist- but also in inner city areas in our big cities and in rural areas. [More…]

• We could have specialised health centres in areas where there are specialised medical needs. [More…]

• They have reported that Colbert was receiving medical attention from the prison authorities last week and his state of health now remains steady with no further deterioration. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that a meeting convened by the World Health Organisation was held at Manila in the Philippines early this week and that the purpose of the conference was the consideration of medical aid for Indo-China? [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister for Social Security as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -I was not aware of the facts referred to by the honourable senator with regard to the growth of population of this area, but I am aware that the question of funds during 1 975-76 to make a start on a health centre at Rosebery to be operated by the Montagu Medical Outfit is still under consideration by the Government. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Australia is now involved in some 30 development assistance programs covering telecommunications, roads, railways, port rehabilitation, irrigation schemes, plant quarantine, animal husbandry, water supplies, public health, education and so forth. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I cannot think of any incentive to the rural sector likely to return so much to the nation in both soil health for the future and in terms of straight economic returns. [More…]

• Senator Scott himself has been talking about such emotive issues as soil health. [More…]

• The honourable member for Angas (Mr Giles) then produced a lot of claptrap and rustic romanticism about the health of our soils, as though soil fertility or soil health, whatever that means, was an end in itself. [More…]

• If we were really concerned about feeding the world’s hungry, apart from swinging over to grain production and away from pastoral pursuits, we would not launch campaigns designed to persuade Australians who already suffer from overeating to endanger their health further by consuming more eggs or butter or milk or what have you. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This is being co-sponsored by several bodies including the National Heart Foundation, the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Life Insurance Medical Research Fund of Australia and New Zealand, the Ramaciotti Foundations, the Raine Medical Research Foundation and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Government has, through the National Health and Medical Research Council, contributed $100,000 to this project during the 1973-75 triennium and will contribute $70,000 during the 1976 calender year. [More…]

• Through the Hospitals and Health Services Commission’s Planning and Research Program it contributed a further $28,548 in 1974-75. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission operates 148 nursing beds at Allambee Nursing Home and 64 nursing beds in the Community Health Block at the Woden Valley Hospital. [More…]

• For its part, the Commonwealth Government is continuing the implementation of an occupational safety and health program developed by a Committee comprised of representatives from the Public Service Board, the Department of Employment and Industrial Relations (Chair), Department of Construction, Department of Industry and Commerce and the Australian Postal Commission, the Australian Council of Trade Unions, the Council of Australian Government Employee Organisations and the Committee of Chief Inspectors of State Labor Departments. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia offered to pay out Medibank rebates at its members’ offices throughout Australia; if so, when was the proposal first put to the Government. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• to (3) The proposal by the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia was made by way of a submission directly to the Medibank Review Committee which was established by the Government. [More…]

• The Committee will be examining closely the numerous submissions it has received from groups and individuals interested in the financing and delivery of health care in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The following table indicates the amount of money that has been paid to each of the States under the Medibank Hospitals Agreements from the Health Insurance Fund for the period from the date of entry of each into the scheme until the end of February 1 976. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is there likely to be considerable confusion among doctors about items which will not be on the National Health Scheme list after 1 April 1976. [More…]

• If it is, will the Government reverse this decision in the light of claims by several chemists that doctors will continue to prescribe drugs no longer on the National Health Scheme list because of outdated drug manuals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Is today being celebrated as World Health Day, the theme being ‘Foresight Prevents Blindness’? [More…]

• It will be recognised that in answer to a previous question- I believe the question was asked by Senator Baume- I mentioned World Health Day. [More…]

• The Government has many programs which would be directed towards the health of Aboriginals in general. [More…]

• I shall seek further information from the Minister for Health with regard to any specific programs which may be connected with trachoma. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen the Press report in the Melbourne Herald of Saturday last in which it is stated that there is an annual rate of upwards of 1000 school girls in Victoria between the ages of 12 years and 17 years undergoing abortion operations? [More…]

• The article further mentions that the Federal Department of Health has no statistics which indicate how many abortions are being charged to Medibank, because the abortion figures cannot easily be separated from gynaecology operations covered by the benefits schedule. [More…]

• I will refer his question to the Minister for Health, who no doubt will act upon it if he deems it desirable to do so. [More…]

• Is she aware specifically that hospitals, health centres, special schools for the deaf and other handicapped children and special classes for the deaf in regular schools are unable at this stage to offer an effective number of hours of speech therapy for those in need of it? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question which is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health follows from that asked by Senator Tehan regarding a revelation in a Melbourne newspaper on Saturday last that at least 1000 schoolgirls between the ages of 12 years and 17 years are aborted in Victoria in any one year and that the likely total number of abortions in Victoria in any one year is in the vicinity of 20 000. [More…]

• However, I shall refer this specific question to the Minister for Health to see what decision can be taken. [More…]

• Its first task will be to make recommendations on the manner in which unwarranted invasions of privacy which at present exist and for which there is potential on large-scale administrative operations such as health insurance may be guarded against. [More…]

• Why should their privacy be invaded any more than the privacy of the medical practitioners, the chemists and the patients under the medical health schemes who receive benefits? [More…]

• The Department of Health has advised that no surveys have been conducted in the Northern Territory on the subpect of child abuse but the general view is that the overall situation is about the same as applies in southern states except so far as the Aboriginal population is concerned where the problem does not exist. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Were comments made in New Zealand last week, and reported in the Townsville Daily Bulletin of 13 March 1976, by the General Manager of the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia, Mr John Cade, that in future health insurance funds in Australia will handle more Government business at a greatly reduced administrative cost to the nation. [More…]

• Does this mean that the Government intends handing over some of the functions of Medibank to the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Montagu Medical Union located at Rosebery on the west coast of Tasmania currently has before the Government a proposal for financial assistance to replace the quite inadequate and out of date health centre which serves a substantial and growing area of the west coast region of Tasmania? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Commission commented that student counselling and student health services were inadequately housed and that funds should be provided to construct about 1400 m! [More…]

• The level of recurrent funds allocated to the student counselling and student health services is a matter for detemination by the University of Queensland. [More…]

• Indeed, it is clearly stated in its health and education policies that the Federal Government will maintain its national concern for these great issues. [More…]

• I indicated then I was seeking information from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am awaiting opinions from the Department of Health in this country which is the appropriate body to which I would refer. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Have further resignations been received from the Department of Health in Darwin because of the conditions indicated in the report? [More…]

• I remind the Senate that when we came into Government the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) said that we would maintain essential programs in health, education, welfare and matters of this kind. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• What legislation and/or other administrative authority, at either State or Commonwealth level, enables the closing of States’ borders to stop the movement of primary produce and /or animals when an area within one State is declared a health risk, as with the recent outbreak of poultry disease in Victoria. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has press coverage been particularly given to submissions from the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia and the Australian Council of Social Services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I am in no better position than the honourable senator to determine whether particular press coverage has been given to the submissions from the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia and the Australian Council of Social Services. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Pharmacy Guild of Australia notified its members of a $ 1 00 levy to establish a $500,000 fund for the purpose of fighting the Government on national health issues. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Pharmacy Guild of Australia made a suggestion that the Department of Health establish an ombudsman or a properly constituted grievance committee under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme in order that complaints may be thoroughly investigated. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The Department of Health agreed to supply approved chemists with pre-printed Repeat Authorisation Forms but, due to staff limitations and the lack of funds to cover the additional costs, implementation has been deferred. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• But I shall undertake to relay this question to the Minister for Health and obtain information without any delay to give to the honourable senator. [More…]

• This Centre was recently established to form part of the general health services available to women from the Women’s Health and Community Centre, Perth. [More…]

• The Rape Crisis Centre works in close co-operation with the West Australian Department of Health. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, by saying that the Minister for Health said on 8 April in another place, in reply to a question on notice, that the Commonwealth Government had decided to reduce by 10 per cent the proportion of its contribution to the school dental scheme. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: Has the Minister for Health discussed this reduction with the State Ministers? [More…]

• Does the Government intend to see that some sort of standard specification for microwave ovens is set up to protect public health and safety? [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that laxative drugs are no longer available as pharmaceutical benefits for pensioners and that this means that all laxatives have been removed from the free list for pensioners? [More…]

• They have said that it was impossible to provide the finance to develop the services which they were required to create in their States in the enormously expensive areas of education, health, public transport, roads and so on. [More…]

• It does not like the idea of being responsible for national programs of education, development, health, roads and a whole range of other things which should be the responsibility of a Federal government, not matters which it hands over to the States, saying to them, as the Liberal Party document says: ‘If you want these things, then you pay for them ‘. [More…]

• I will read from that document, because Senator Wriedt said that it proves that the Government will abdicate its responsibilities on education, health and social welfare and that it will not take the responsibility any more; it will give it to the States. [More…]

• if the great issues of national and local concern such as education, health, social welfare, housing and urban development are to receive maximum intelligent attention . [More…]

• Our concern for education, our concern for social welfare, our concern for health will be as strong as or stronger than ever, but will not bring about the duplication, the waste, the extravagance, the standover tactics of the Labor Party; we will not ourselves tie up the States and local government in bureaucratic trivia; we will work out a co-partnership which will be more efficient, more economic, which will save the taxpayer’s money, which will define the responsibilities of Federal, State and local government, which will show the taxpayers where their money is going and which, because of the responsibility of government, will bring about more efficiency and less taxation.’ [More…]

• When you get the Health Commission, everything will be all right’. [More…]

• I believe that under the Fraser Government’s federalism policy the States will now be obliged to assume responsibility for the administration of many programs in the areas of health, education, welfare, transport and urban and regional development, without being provided with the financial capacity to fund these programs. [More…]

• These responsibilities may be returned to the States without the Australian Government allocating the resources to meet attendant expenses in areas such as health, legal aid and urban development. [More…]

• I remind the Senate and the people who may be listening to the broadcast of these proceedings that in the State of New South Wales- that is the matter which the Labor Party has debated in this chamber today- in 1 1 years of Liberal-Country Party Government, there have been great advances in the areas of education, health and hospital facilities, decentralisation and communications. [More…]

• An alternative effect is-I believe this is happeningthat some people are neglecting their health care because they cannot afford the costs. [More…]

• Department of Health, [More…]

• However since December we have faced one financial burden after another because of the function of the Health Department. [More…]

• Most recently- this is the event which gives rise to my remarks tonight- one member of the salaried specialist service resigned and the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, was reported in the Canberra Times of 21 April as having said that he would not replace that specialist until the Medibank Review Committee made its recommendations. [More…]

• This decision removes the choice of patients at Canberra Hospital to have the free health service. [More…]

• I wrote to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) some weeks ago supporting the request by the salaried specialists to have an interview with him to discuss their future careers and also the future of the service they are providing. [More…]

• But she made some very specific statements about initiatives taken or not taken by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and about actions which he had or had not taken but which she thought were necessary. [More…]

• I am glad that Senator Ryan has some concern about health care in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• She referred to the activities of the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt. [More…]

• The honourable senator is wrong in what she said about the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The letter is addressed to the Minister for Health, the Honourable R. J. D. Hunt. [More…]

• Senator, you have come into this place and made statements about our Minister for Health. [More…]

• It was most helpful to have the opportunity to meet with you recently, and to discuss the problems of health care delivery in the A.C.T.- [More…]

• The letter which is from the Staff Specialists Council indicates that it met with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It appears that he is concerned about health services in the A.C.T. [More…]

• Many of us share her concern about health services in the A.C.T. [More…]

• I wish to refer to matters raised by 2 senators concerning the portfolio of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• If any other specific questions have been brought to the attention of the Senate, I shall see that they are referred to the Minister for Health for his reaction and so that the information which has been requested can be provided. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Hospitals and Health Services Commission has supported the visit to Australia by Dr Don Wilson, Director, R. S. McLaughlin Examination and Research Centre of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, Canada. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I ) The Health Insurance Commission’s claims processing systems include inbuilt controls designed to detect coding and data entry errors which may be submitted for computer processing, with the result that the services so affected arc usually rejected for further clerical examination. [More…]

• The percentage of claims which have been rejected by the Health Insurance Commission month by month because of incomplete information supplied by claimants is shown in Tables 1 and 2 below. [More…]

• These statistics are of necessity presented in two complementary parts- that is, rejected claims and rejected servicesbecause of the Health Insurance Commission ‘s claims payment policy not to reject benefits for the entire claim unless there is insufficient information provided for every service on the claim. [More…]

• The percentage of claims rejected month by month (in terms of the total claims processed each month) by the Health Insurance Commission because of incomplete information provided by claimants: [More…]

• The percentage of services (not included in the claims in table 1 ) rejected month by month (in terms of the total services processed each month) by the Health Insurance Commission because of incomplete information provided by claimants: [More…]

• The foregoing figures do not take into account any claims which may have been returned to claimants by Health Insurance Commission cash payment centres or agent funds because of the need for additional information. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission is continuing its training program aimed at correcting any deficiencies which may exist insofar as present staff are concerned and at ensuring that all new staff are adequately trained. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical Benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• I will give the Minister for Education a rest by directing my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the Senate last evening I did make a statement on behalf of the Minister for Health in which I spoke of meetings and consultations which he had had with the Australian Capital Territory Branch members of the Australian Medical Association and with the Staff Specialists Council. [More…]

• I just say that I shall refer the matters to the Minister for Health to determine whether what the honourable senator has told me is accurate with regard to the meeting which was the subject of debate in the Senate last evening. [More…]

• In public health, 4 times the amount of money was spent than was spent by the previous government in 1972-73. [More…]

• In the field of health-I do not think anyone would disagree that money should be spent on public health- there was a great increase in expenditure. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• All reports received from the U.S.A. on this matter are being referred to the National Health and Medical Research Council for consideration and possible recommendation as to the future availability of chloroform containing compounds in this country. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I draw the honourable senator’s attention to the 1974-75 Annual Report of the Health Insurance Commission, pages 12-13, which makes reference to the agency arrangements undertaken by the Commission and which was tabled in the Senate on 3 March 1976. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical Benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• In conjunction with the Minister for Health I would be prepared to undertake consideration of the matters that have been raised by the honourable senator with regard to patients requiring dialysis treatment. [More…]

• I shall certainly subject the matters that have been raised by him to the consideration of my colleague the Minister for Health and myself. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -I am aware that the Minister for Health made some statements with regard to medical research, I think about a week ago. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I asked also whether an inquiry could be initiated by the Department of Health to find out whether the treatment at the Alice Springs Hospital was the best treatment that could be given to people in the outback who have no other recourse to medical services and who rely on the Alice Springs Hospital. [More…]

• Minister for Health, the Minister for the Northern Territory, the Minister for Police and Customswhich was me- and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• The advances that were possible in Australia in areas such as education, health services and employment opportunities were not for their generation. [More…]

• Certainly the introduction of Medibank maintained the level of health benefits available to pensioners and increased them in some cases. [More…]

• Surely they are entitled at this stage of their lives to things that we all take for granted for ourselves, such as economic security, adequate health services and dignity. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) How many of the staff of the Health Insurance Commission have medical degrees from Australia or overseas. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• Why was the administration removed to the State Health Department which I believe has limited administrative structures and no experience in these services? [More…]

• Is it expected that the Health Department will be able to complete processing the applications and allocate the funds by the end of this financial year? [More…]

• They were recommended by the Victorian advisory committee and the administration of them has not been transferred to the Health Department, but to facilitate the early arrangements for these projects the Health Department will be working closely with the community groups. [More…]

• It was to facilitate matters that the Victorian Health Department was to work actively with the community groups concerned. [More…]

• There has been no transfer or removal of responsibility to the Health Department. [More…]

• To facilitate arrangements and the purchase and approval of buildings in accordance with the State Department of Health requirements a close relationship between the State Department of Health and the community bodies was established. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Treasurer seen the headlines in the Tasmanian newspaper Mercury declaring that drastic cuts in health and welfare spending and a reduction in taxation would be part of a mini-Budget considered this weekend at a special meeting of the Cabinet Economic Committee? [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of a recent program broadcast by the Australian Broadcasting Commission regarding a Dr Feingold and the diet treatment that he has formulated for hyperactive children? [More…]

• I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health, endeavour to obtain further information and put forward the recommendation that has been made in the question. [More…]

• This matter concerns my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health to see whether he has any information about the points raised in the question. [More…]

• Your Committee was disturbed at the lack of progress in the improvement of the social, moral and health standards existing in these communities of Aboriginal fringe dwellers. [More…]

• Health standards have certainly improved now. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Some States are looking at the extent of present services with a view to the inclusion of further items in terms of good health practices. [More…]

• The brief that was given to the committee with which I have a close association- the Government Members’ Health and Welfare Committee- was for its members to look at the 2 Acts concerned and to have wide-ranging discussions and consultations with regard to the matters that had arisen through the inconsistencies in the Acts. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Social Security aware of the growing public concern about maintenance of the Medibank health scheme? [More…]

• Can she give an unqualified assurance that the operation and efficiency of Medibank in providing universal health cover for all Australians regardless of their ability to pay will not be directly or indirectly jeopardised by the current steps to cut public expenditure? [More…]

• In view of the fact that health and hospital funds have no computers but still work with manual type recording and assessment methods, does the Government expect these funds to be administered more economically and efficiently than Medibank? [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health noted reports to the effect that nurses in the Australian Capital Territory are anxious that a full-time commissioner with a nursing background be appointed to the Australian Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health has been having discussions with the Australian Capital Territory Health Commissioner. [More…]

• Due to possible changes in Medibank and other things that may need to be resolved, it will be at the time when those things are being considered that the Government will examine the whole structure of the Australian Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to the very extensive deletions and other restrictions to the pharmaceutical benefits list and the recent increases introduced by the Government. [More…]

• Is the Minister able to advise whether the Minister for Health has considered the many representations from eminent doctors, other people and members of this Parliament in respect of numerous prescriptions which are necessary for the good health of citizens and which have been specially urged upon the Government by those bodies? [More…]

• The Government’s first priorities for development have been and must continue to be land development, housing, and health and education facilities. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to a report from the National Health and Medical Research Council indicating that there are excessive levels of vinyl chloride monomer in some vegetable oils marketed in plastic containers. [More…]

• What steps have been taken by the Department of Health to acquaint the manufacturers of containers of the danger and to insist upon modifications to packaging that will adequately protect the health of present and future Australians. [More…]

• Will vegetable oils marketed in cans be free of any known mutagenic or other health risk. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• At this time there are no indications of any form of health hazard to humans from the presence of VCM occurring in foods in [More…]

• Steps were taken by the Department of Health which resulted in complete co-operation from the plastics industy and the Plastics Institute of Australia with satisfactory results. [More…]

• As far as our present knowledge extends, edible oils marketed in conformity with NH&MRC recommendations and State and Territory regulations are free from mutagenic or other health risk. [More…]

• 3 HEALTH [More…]

• A wide range of grants-in-aid to health, education and welfare organisations. [More…]

• Commonwealth relating to pensions, allowances, endowments or benefits; (in) the Director-General of Health for the purpose of the administration of any law of the Australian Capital Territory or ofthe Northern Territory which is administered by the Minister of State for Health; [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Department of Health received details of reports issued by the Ralph Nader Organisation in the United States of America that seriously call into question the safety levels of chloroform used in toothpaste. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It has also been referred to the National Health and Medical Research Council who will take up with the Australian Government Analyst the question of a study of brands of toothpaste on sale in Australia. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the New South Wales Health Commission investigating the first details in relation to hospital costs since the introduction of Medibank. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Advise has been received from the New South Wales Health Commission that the first details of hospital costs in N.S.W. [More…]

• Health Commission is taking steps to ensure that all claims and payments to medical practitioners under the modified fee-for-service system are made in accordance with the ‘benefit’ rates approved for the services provided. [More…]

• It would be inappropriate for me to comment on this matter while the Medibank Review Committee is still conducting its examination of the health scheme. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• To what extent does the Australian Government support international programs for eradication of malaria through bodies such as the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Preventive measures against the introduction of malaria are incorporated in the general operations of State and Territory Departments of Health and apart from specifically identifiable items such as tablets issued for malaria prophylaxis, it is not possible to cost these preventive measures separately. [More…]

• Australia is generally supportive of, and has a continuing interest in, World Health Organisation proposals for a concerted attack on tropical diseases, including malaria. [More…]

• Australia was represented at the World Health Organisation/United Nations Development Program Meeting held at Geneva in October 1975 in connection with a Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases. [More…]

• The development of the Special Program will be considered at the Twenty-ninth World Health Assembly which is being held in Geneva 3-21 May 1976 and at which Australia is represented. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Most of the equipment and furniture purchased can be used for other functions of the Department of Health in the event of them not being required in the future for the purpose for which they were originally purchased. [More…]

• Was it claimed in the British Medical journal, The Lancet, that anxiety has lately been expressed over the possible dangers of radiation from microwave ovens; if so, what action is the Government taking to (a) investigate this possible hazard, and (b) establish a standard specification for microwave ovens, to protect the public safety and health. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that no qualified quarantine officer is at present stationed in the north west of Western Australia? [More…]

• Director of Health in Western Australia, the north-western Kimberley region is a low risk area- whatever that means- and no risk is involved, why was it considered advisable to post a senior quarantine officer at Port Hedland before October of last year where a dispute about the so-called medical condition of the officer formerly stationed at Port Hedland has occurred? [More…]

• At that time I referred to a statement that had been made by the Minister for Health, I think towards the end of April, in which he talked of the numbers of doses of the vaccine which were available and the fact that the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories did not direct the way in which the quantities available were disseminated throughout Australia. [More…]

• I give that assurance because the Minister for Health has asked that the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories ensure that as the vaccine becomes available supplies are distributed equitably throughout the country. [More…]

• The Department of Health is watching the overseas situation and there is no indication that the virus will reach Australia this winter. [More…]

• However, the Department of Health is watching the situation and every effort will be made to ensure that it is. [More…]

• If there is any further information which I can obtain from the Minister for Health I will see that the honourable senator receives it. [More…]

• I have no information from the Minister for Health with regard to the number of doctors who have been investigated or those who he claims should be brought to justice for illegal practices under the Medibank program. [More…]

• I am sure that if there is any information available on this matter, the Minister for Health will release it. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask whether the Minister is able to give an assurance that the legislation, which is a potentially important public health measure, will still be introduced and that all advertising of cigarettes will cease on television and radio as planned later this year. [More…]

• -The Minister representing the Minister for Health will be aware that the Department of Construction is building a hospital creche at Nhulunbuy for the Department of Health. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that studies carried out by Dr Joan Woodhill of Prince Henry Hospital in Sydney and others have demonstrated a high incidence of vitamin deficiency amongst pensioners? [More…]

• Will the Minister review this decision with a view to improving the general health of pensioners in the community? [More…]

• ‘Psychotropic substances’ is a term used to refer to substances that have the capacity to produce a state of dependence and central nervous system stimulation or depression resulting in hallucinations or disturbances in motor functions, thinking, behaviour, perception or mood and, in respect of which, there is evidence of a likelihood of abuse so as to constitute a public health and social problem. [More…]

• I have been very concerned about matters concerning the Department of Health. [More…]

• There are 2 things that irritate me about Departments of Health, wherever they are. [More…]

• Firstly, there are the medical administrators in the Departments of Health. [More…]

• My complaint is directed fairly and squarely at the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) who is in another place. [More…]

• I have some information from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) which I feel it would be appropriate to give at this stage. [More…]

• I will refer the other matters which have been mentioned by the honourable senator to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• -Let me make it clear that the Government certainly would want to do everything it could to remove any jeopardy regarding industrial health, whether it is from carting uranium or working with sandstone or whether it is a question of silicosis or any of the other pulmonary diseases. [More…]

• Certainly I shall direct the attention not only of Mr Street but also of the Minister for Health to this matter. [More…]

• Spending on essential Education, Health and Welfare programmes will be protected against inflation. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Transport Advisory Council have also emphasised the urgency for improved air quality monitoring. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Government also has a responsibility to meet World Health Organisation Guidelines with regard to standards and approaches to monitoring. [More…]

• Now that it is proposed by the Government to introduce another form of health insurance, has any survey been made of the future building requirements of Medibank? [More…]

• I will obtain whatever further information I can from the Minister for Health and make it available to Senator Sir Magnus Cormack and to the other members of the Senate. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen the report of the State Minister for Health in Tasmania, who is indulging in a campaign to create feelings of panic in the citizens of that State by suggesting that everyone could be paying up to $1,000 a year for health insurance and that hospital fees for a woman having a baby will cost her $500, if the State agrees with the new proposals? [More…]

• I have not seen the statement of the Minister for Health in Tasmania. [More…]

• If a person chooses to take out approved private hospital and medical insurance with a private health insurance fund the amount payable, which is yet to be determined by agreement with the private health funds, is expected to be approximately $350 a year for family coverage. [More…]

• Is it a fact that, in answering a question put to her during her recent appearance on Monday Conference about the role of the Government back benchers’ committee on health and welfare, the Minister replied that consultation with the health and welfare committee is a constant matter? [More…]

• In view of this apparently close relationship between the Minister and the Government back benchers’ committee on health and welfare under Senator Baume from New South Wales, can the Minister explain the statement by the honourable member for Hotham, reported in the Press on 24 May 1976, that the first news he, as a member of this committee, had of the Government’s intention to foist the Australian Assistance Plan on to State governments was the Minister’s Press statement of 21 May 1976 which was issued in Darwin? [More…]

• In other words, the general centralist philosophy was to be rejected and the machinery which had been established to grapple with so many of the national problems in fields such as education, health, roads and regional development had to be brought down as much as possible, or destroyed as much as possible, under the federalist policies of this government. [More…]

• There is a widening certainty that the gross national product does not measure health or happiness, dignity, compassion, beauty or delight, and that these are, if not all inalienable rights, at least worthy aspirations. [More…]

• I cannot believeand I am sure that a proper analysis ofthe economic package will reveal this fact- that transferring, for example, $ 100m which would otherwise be spent by the Australian Government into the pockets of 50 000 different consumers throughout Australia- those same dollars which would have been spent nationally in the social welfare program, the urban program or in the sewerage program, or by transferring those funds to a State for its health scheme- or by putting it into the pockets of 10 000, 20 000 or 50 000 individuals, will have any sort of stimulative effect on our economy. [More…]

• As I said earlier, a health scheme has to be contributory. [More…]

• Basic medical cover plus intermediate ward care in a public hospital will cost 2.5 per cent of taxable income plus about $2.80 a week for a family, payable to a private health fund. [More…]

• We do not know what the cuts are in Aboriginal affairs and health. [More…]

• Surely the trade union movement, as has been clearly evidenced, already is sharing with all the other people of the Commonwealth in the greater amount of public funds spent on education, health and welfare and other matters to the detriment of the Budget. [More…]

• Medibank had become accepted by Australians as a national health insurance scheme which was working efficiently and providing universal health cover in a very satisfactory way. [More…]

• Will private health insurance funds be expected to take over or can people stay in Medibank? [More…]

• Why is a system of universal health insurance which is working well going to be disbanded at such an early stage- one might say at the very stage when it had started to work efficiently and provide the sort of service it was intended to provide? [More…]

• How can the Government claim that the new Medibank measure is an economy measure, a measure which will reduce the cost of Government health services, when the Government cannot possibly know at this stage what its new measures will cost because it cannot possibly know how many people will stay in Medibank and how many people will opt out? [More…]

• In the Australian Capital Territory we have the specific problem of the health centres, which were operating in a very economic and efficient way to provide a range of health services to the community. [More…]

• Although the honourable senator claimed that that meeting of the Australian Capital Territory Association did not represent all the doctors who were members of the ACTMA, and that indeed was the case, it was the case because the people organising the meeting refused to send notices of the meeting to doctors working as salaried specialists or working in health centres. [More…]

• That is the kind of manipulation of the community’s need for health services which has been carried on by some elements of the ACTMA in Canberra. [More…]

• I consider that it is the most irresponsible action possible to bring to this country people who have an expectation of reasonable living standards when they cannot be housed, when health sevices are in a mess and when there is no employment for them. [More…]

• The NCDC, as the national capital planning body, is now solely responsible for the national capital and many of the planning difficulties, whether they be difficulties associated with schools, or health centres or simple landscaping problems in new suburbs, will be overcome with planning by the Commission. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to the results of a survey on The Physical Health of Aboriginal Adults in Bourke, New South Wales by Dr Max Kamien, published in the Medical Journal of Australia of 10 April 1 976; if so, does the survey conclude that 79 per cent of all Aboriginal adults in Bourke in 197 1 were in need of medical attention. [More…]

• What steps has the Department of Health taken since 197 1 to ensure the provision of more effective health care for the Aboriginal adults living in the Bourke area of New South Wales. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The provision of health care in the Bourke area of New South Wales is primarily the responsibility of the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• The Commission is concerned at the low health status of Aborigines in the area and attributes this to multiple deprivations in the socioeconomic sense, especially the high rate of unemployment and associated alcoholism. [More…]

• This situation will not be overcome by health means alone. [More…]

• However, with Commonwealth Government financial assistance, the Health Commission has endeavoured to take special measures to alleviate the health situation of the Aborigines in the area and these include the employment of a medical officer and of a nurse and full-time Aboriginal health worker. [More…]

• In addition, a community health nurse and a nursing aide, in respect of whom some Commonwealth funding is provided under the Community Health Program, and who operate out of Bourke, provide assistance as required. [More…]

• Further, the introduction of Medibank with effect from 1 July 1975, has removed some of the financial constraints that might otherwise have restricted health care for Aborigines in the area. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• Report would lead to lower standards, conflicting with health requirements and that the higher influx of imported frames would only lead to a higher degree of inflation and a further ‘rip off’ to the Australian public. [More…]

• I assume that, in conjunction with the Minister for Health, a statement could be made outlining the work the committee will do. [More…]

• Despite the reply given yesterday to the question about the possibility of people in Tasmania paying up to $1,000 a year for medical and hospital benefit insurance, I ask the Leader of the Government in the Senate: Will the Prime Minister consider placing a moratorium on the new health and medical proposals pending a referendum of the people to test whether the Government has a specific mandate to wreck the Medibank concept? [More…]

• Will it be assessing the changes on family income structure following the recent announcement by the Government, and the disabilities suffered by those families whose incomes have been diminished as a result of the Medibank levy and health fund payments, the removal of tax deductions on mortgage loans, probable cost increases arising from the slashing of Government programs and foreshadowed indirect taxation? [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If so, will the Minister have discussions with State Ministers for Health on this matter? [More…]

• I will refer the matter of chiropractic registration to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As has been suggested in the question, it would be a matter also of discussion with State Health Ministers. [More…]

• -Mr President, on behalf of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare I present a report on the outstanding references of the former Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Spending on essential Education, Health and Welfare programs will be protected against inflation. [More…]

• We know too that, despite the assurances of the Prime Minister, the education, health and welfare programs all have been cut and that all the Labor initiatives which had been developed and which were so progressive have been hamstrung and almost eliminated. [More…]

• Health benefits were affected and there was a great onslaught on pharmaceutical benefits with deletions from the free list. [More…]

• Health services have been reduced by $100m, including those pharmaceutical items I have talked about. [More…]

• Yesterday, in response to questions asked of a Minister in another place about the suggestion by organisations that Medibank could well cost a family man another $10 a day and, in addition, that many officers of the health benefit societies would be dismissed, the Minister stated that the position was still obscure and that he could not tell people about it. [More…]

• They will be affected by the greatly decreased expenditure on hospital facilities, on community health projects, on transport, on roads and on local government facilities generally. [More…]

• In these cases any benefits received from the child endowment proposals and any benefits received from tax indexation are wiped out straight away by the Medibank levy or, in the case of many of them, by the need to insure privately with the voluntary health funds, as many of them wish to do. [More…]

• They have a great need for the provision of sewerage, road works, hospitals, community health centres and child care facilities in general. [More…]

• There is to be a cut of $200m in transport expenditure and hospital and community health spending is to be cut. [More…]

• I also believe, in accordance with the acceptance by my party of the notion of a mixed economy in which the health of the private sector is a pre-condition for the provision of services by the public sector, that the profit level, especially in the manufacturing section of our society, had sunk to a point where retained earnings were not sufficient to provide the necessary investment to preserve competitiveness and safeguard jobs. [More…]

• But as we know from the Lynch package, Medibank as we understood it- as everybody in Australia understood it- is destined for destruction, and some sort of an emasculated version of a national health scheme will be introduced. [More…]

• We were told that it did not matter that there were one million people in Australia who were not insured or covered by health insurance. [More…]

• The result of it for the Australian people will be confusion, a 2- tiered health system and the cost of implementation of the levy will be very considerable and confusing indeed. [More…]

• One of the excuses is that people should have freedom of choice, for goodness sake, between 2 health insurance funds, that is, freedom of choice as to who is going to pay your medical bills. [More…]

• If you get out of Medibank for that and you want private health insurance as well to cover intermediate wards and so on in hospitals, you can pay $435 a year for the privilege of having those 2 systems of medical coverage made available to you. [More…]

• But the difference between the estimated cost of belonging to a private fund for full health cover of $350, and the cover provided by Medibank plus extra cover for intermediate ward and so on, is some $85. [More…]

• What is happening is that Medibank is not to be killed off with one blow; it is to suffer a slow death as many of the patients under Medibank, and private health insurance for that matter, have suffered over many years. [More…]

• That is another important example of the sort of humbug which is inherent in some of the details of this economic statement, where ideological factors which have possessed senators on the other side of the Senate in relation to Medibank, have possessed people like Mr Fraser in relation to not only health insurance but also various other areas and have possessed people like Senator Withers in relation to the Australian Broadcasting Commission really come to the fore. [More…]

• The health of our community is one of the most important issues that confronts this nation. [More…]

• I believe further in the course of action taken by the Government in seeking to provide freedom of choice for the Australian people between the private health institutions or Medibank, or some sort of balance between the two. [More…]

• It is to be reined in on health and on welfare. [More…]

• It is to become a complex system which I doubt very greatly Senator Walters could explain to us, and so far the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has been unable to explain to anybody’s satisfaction. [More…]

• If inflation is the primary evil and everything else- childcare, legal aid, health, Aborigines, unemployment- must all be sacrificed to this great goal of destroying inflation, how does one explain the proposition that we should all go out and spend? [More…]

• I think that is shown by the fact that even in the heyday of Medibank during the term of the Labor Party Government so few people actually left the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• The fact that Medibank was introduced in this way will not create a 2-tier system of health care in Australia, as was claimed in another place yesterday. [More…]

• The new system will give people a wider choice of the type of health insurance that they can obtain. [More…]

• Under the National Health Amendment Bill, the medical insurance companies will have certain conditions imposed upon them. [More…]

• There is still a 2-month qualifying period for entry into the private health funds, but during this time patients will be covered by Medibank. [More…]

• Similarly, at the other end of the scale, if people opt to get out of the private health insurance funds, the private funds will cover them for 2 months and that will be followed up by cover from Medibank. [More…]

• This is another important provision because previously pensioners were well cared for but people in private health insurance schemes were disadvantaged. [More…]

• One of the most difficult areas to be settled now will be to renegotiate the Medibank agreements with the States, in particular with my State of Queensland which has had a free health scheme for over 40 years. [More…]

• A person who takes out insurance from an approved health insurance company is exempt from the Medibank levy. [More…]

• In summary, I state that the advantages of the new and balanced health insurance program are that it will create a substantial decrease in government expenditure and also in the size of the public sector. [More…]

• Medibank has been retainedthat is, universal health care coverage- for both medical and hospital care. [More…]

• There is the provision of incentives which will help to control the continuing long term escalation of health care costs. [More…]

• 4), which covers largely the capital works area; the economic policy statement which was introduced in the Senate last Thursday evening and took something like 1 Vi hours to read; the legislative measures that come out of that statement, such as the education proposals and the general area of health and Medibank; and the statement on defence policy. [More…]

• Senator Carrick dealt at length with the general proposals dealing with education, Senator Guilfoyle dealt with the proposals in relation to health and Medibank and Senator Withers put down a statement on defence. [More…]

• The Standing Committee on Agriculture has established a specialist Working Party comprising representatives of CSIRO; the Australian Departments of Health, Primary Industry, and the Northern Territory; and the State Departments of Agriculture for New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia. [More…]

• I shall invite the Minister for Transport to talk to the Minister for Health to see whether we can get something of an authoritative nature to make available to the Senate. [More…]

• Included in the considerations of Estimates Committee E were the Northern Territory health services, and I thank the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) for the care she gave to obtaining answers to a number of questions. [More…]

• Division 330, subdivision 3, Department of Health, is the one to which I am addressing myself specifically. [More…]

• It is therefore an area to which I always direct a certain amount of attention in relation to health services. [More…]

• As the Minister has been kind enough to make clear to me in answers to questions throughout the year, the Government has inherited a very bad situation from the last Government with regard to staffing in the’ Northern Territory health services. [More…]

• That points up the very serious situation which exists in the health services available to the citizens of the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The provision of health services in the Northern Territory depends on a lot more than doctors. [More…]

• It depends on a whole range of health personnel, as well as physical resources, but it is the health personnel about whom I am concerned at the present time. [More…]

• At page 9 of the report of Senate Estimates Committee E it is indicated from extra information provided by the Department of Health that it is not only medical salaries that are not competitive. [More…]

• For a trained nursing sister, who is the backbone of a health service in an area like the Northern Territory, the upper limit in the Northern Territory of $8,219 is only just above the lowest limit of salary paid to the same person in Western Australia. [More…]

• I am aware of the very strenuous efforts that have been made in some cases to seek work value studies to try to do something about the non-alignment of salaries in the Northern Territory health services. [More…]

• I urge the Minister, who has been very kind in helping me with information about medical salaries and about the steps being taken to upgrade them, to draw to the attention of her colleague the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) the salary differential which applies to nurses. [More…]

• I know that Dr Gurd, who is the Director of Health in the Northern Territory, has on many occasions approached the Government and the Commonwealth Public Service Board. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) appreciates the situation. [More…]

• I am sure that when adequate salaries are paid many of the health facilities in the Northern Territory will alter. [More…]

• The case is supported by the Department of Health. [More…]

• I think it would be agreed by all that what has been said with regard to the disparity of salaries for nurses in the Northern Territory has made it extremely difficult for us to have the level of medical and health service that we desire for the people of the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The matter is at present before the Commission and it has the support of the Department of Health. [More…]

• 9m in 1973-74 to $33m last year; Department of Education general services rose from $3 1.5 m to $50.9m; and Department of Health general services expenditure rose from $ 15.6m to $27. [More…]

• The third point I would like to make is that the disease presents a quite serious public health hazard. [More…]

• In 1 970, at a meeting of the Australian Agricultural Council, an animal health committee was formed to co-ordinate a nation-wide campaign. [More…]

• It was pointed out some five or six years ago in a report by an expert committee of the World Health Organisation that the disease is found around the world, in goats, sheep, water buffalo, pigs, yaks, reindeer, caribou, and even polar bears. [More…]

• That aside, it does have very serious effects on the health of any person who happens to contract it. [More…]

• Quarantine laws, health laws, and excise laws are some of the various devices that are used. [More…]

• This Bill, in association with other Bills I shall shortly present, introduces the health insurance levy and other taxation arrangements necessary to implement the modifications to Medibank. [More…]

• In brief, a health insurance levy of 2.5 per cent of taxable income is to be imposed. [More…]

• That there be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare the following matter: Evaluation of the adequacy of Australian health and welfare services with particular reference to- [More…]

• 1 ) standards of performance and provision of health and welfare services; [More…]

• mechanisms for evaluation of the effectiveness and efficiency of health and welfare services; and [More…]

• requirements for ongoing evaluation as an integral part of the development of health and welfare programs. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, who is responsible for quarantine matters, concerns the presence of the oriental fruit fly in Australia. [More…]

• As the question had some specific areas on which the honourable senator required comment, I shall refer it to the Minister for Health and obtain some information from him. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate is one of a number of Bills which are designed to authorise modifications to the health insurance program, Medibank. [More…]

• The Government is concerned to develop the most effective and efficient system of health services delivery and to ensure that every Australian has adequate access to high quality health care. [More…]

• It has achieved universal coverage, but at the expense of largely disregarding the need for economy and efficiency in overall health care expenditures by the individual and the community. [More…]

• It provides few incentives to economy in the use of health services, either on the part of the consumer or, more particularly, on the part of the medical profession which has a key role in determining overall health costs. [More…]

• The Government’s proposals follow a comprehensive review of the operation of the health insurance program. [More…]

• The funds for health services flow from both the public and the private sectors. [More…]

• These rises have been associated with an increase in the proportion of the gross domestic product devoted to health from 5.2 per cent twentyfive years ago to an estimated 6.5 per cent. [More…]

• Total expenditure on health in Australia are estimated at $4, 700m in 1975-76 and $5,400m in 1976- 77. [More…]

• The health insurance program is not concerned with all health services costs. [More…]

• It does this not only for those who need assistance with their health care costs, but also for those who can afford to pay for themselves. [More…]

• Indeed, voluntary health insurance only contributed 8 per cent of the money that went towards meeting health costs in 1975-76, while in 1972-73 voluntary health insurance contributed 14 per cent. [More…]

• These proposed changes are designed to provide immediate savings to the Budget by encouraging people to take out their own health insurance with private insurance organisations, and by requiring those who choose to remain in Medibank and who are able to contribute towards the cost of their hospital and medical care, to do so. [More…]

• However, it is proposed, as a general principle, that those who choose to remain in Medibank will be required to contribute towards the cost of their health care by paying a levy of 2.5 per cent of their taxable incomes or by paying contributions to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Briefly, people will continue to be eligible for the benefits of Medibank unless they have private insurance with a health benefits organisation registered under the National Health Act which will provide them with protection against the fees for the range of health services covered by Medibank. [More…]

• I want to emphasise that the only difference between coverage by Medibank and coverage under the standard private health insurance tables will be that Medibank will provide cover for treatment in public hospitals rendered by doctors engaged by the hospitals, whereas the standard private insurance tables will relate to shared accommodation in public or private hospitals with treatment by doctors engaged by the patient. [More…]

• It is consistent with the approach that medical benefits under the Health Insurance Act should be directed to assisting individuals, that Medibank, through the payment of medical benefits in cases such as workers compensation and third party cases, should not relieve insurers of their liabilities. [More…]

• It has been widely suggested that direct billing of Medibank by doctors, which is authorised by sub-section 20 (3) of the Health Insurance Act, should be discontinued in order to reduce abuses. [More…]

• For pensioner health benefits recipients, practitioners will be asked to accept the Medibank medical benefits in full settlement. [More…]

• Section 18 of the Health Insurance Act at present prevents the payment of benefits for diagnostic services (pathology and radiology) to private patients in public hospitals. [More…]

• The Bill provides therefore for the repeal of this section of the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• Visitors will in future be informed that they are personally responsible for any health costs and will be advised to take out appropriate private insurance to cover their stay. [More…]

• Health care costs have been growing rapidly both in Australia and in most countries overseas. [More…]

• The Government expects the profession to establish review arrangements in close consultation with the Department of Health. [More…]

• This Bill relates principally to private health insurance organisations. [More…]

• Before I do this, however, I want first to outline the Government’s proposals as they will affect both the people who choose private health insurance and the health insurance organisations. [More…]

• People who choose to insure themselves and their dependants for benefits in accordance with the standard hospital and medical benefits tables provided by organisations registered under the National Health Act, will be exempt from payment of the Health Insurance Levy. [More…]

• The changes being introduced by the Government will ensure a continuing role for private health insurance organisations. [More…]

• In the United States of America, health insurers have made substantial progress in developing methods of monitoring the usage of services, in cooperation with the medical profession, in order to eliminate unnecessary expenditure and so restrain costs to contributors. [More…]

• We have considered whether it would be desirable to permit commercial insurers to undertake health insurance business in Australia, in order to provide greater competition and to stimulate the adoption of new techniques to monitor usage and control costs. [More…]

• However, for the time being we have decided not to take this step and will restrict health insurance business to non-profit organisations. [More…]

• Provisions in the Bill will enable registered organisations to expand their activities to include the provisions of medical, hospital and other allied health services to contributors. [More…]

• The provisions will assist in creating an environment in which health maintenance organisations might successfully operate. [More…]

• In future registered medical and hospital benefits organisations will be required to provide benefits for all contributors to the standard benefits tables regardless of their state of health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health proposes that detailed arrangements for the pool will be discussed with the registered hospital benefits organisations. [More…]

• The Government’s primary concern is to ensure that the benefits provided by organisations to contributors to the standard benefits tables are adequate, and that funds do not limit membership so as to discriminate against people who are regarded as poor health risks. [More…]

• Although I would anticipate that they would be used only rarely, except perhaps at the instigation of organisations which might apply to have a fund wound up, I believe that contributors should have the security of such provisions under arrangements deliberately designed to achieve universal health insurance. [More…]

• There are many provisions in the National Health Act which have become redundant. [More…]

• I am confident the Government will obtain the ready co-operation of registered health benefits organisations which will have an important role to play in providing health care protection for a significant percentage of the Australian community. [More…]

• In my second reading speech on the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1976I explained that people would be able to choose to pay the Health Insurance Levy of 2.5 per cent of their taxable incomes, contribute to the standard benefits tables of registered medical and hospital insurance organisations, or contribute to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate provides for persons to contribute to the Health Insurance Commission on behalf of themselves and any dependants. [More…]

• Precise contribution rates will be determined when the contribution rates of the major private health insurance funds are known. [More…]

• Of course, there is the philosophic problem which relates to nationalising anything and when we look around the world at the evidence to support the nationalisation of industries, and I think of the British steel industry which is losing something like stg9m a week and of nationalised health services in many countries, there does not seem to be much support for the suggestion that nationalisation of itself will be any solution in this area. [More…]

• Their eligibility will depend only on economic viability and satisfaction of the usual health and character checks. [More…]

• His nomination for the entry of his mother-in-law was not rejected and she is eligible to migrate provide she meets normal health and character requirements. [More…]

• Through reform of the finance and functions of local government our local government policy seeks to increase the independence and expand the role of local government in health, social welfare and community affairs. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The following Australian experts, outside the Department of Health, were involved in the formulation of recommendations leading to the decision to introduce a quarantine withholding period for certain imported cheeses- [More…]

• Dr A. K. Lascelles, Chief, Division of Animal Health, [More…]

• Animal Health Laboratory [More…]

• Mr R. W. Gee, Director, Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) What is the function of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• If the answer to (2) is in the affirmative, has Dr Bain presented any report; if so, (a) did the report contain a recommendation that a National Ambulance Council be sei up and financed by contributions from the Australian Government and the various State Governments, (b) is the Department of Health studying any such proposal, and (c) when would the Department expect to complete its consideration. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The functions of the National Health and Medical Research Council are: [More…]

• to inquire into, advise and make recommendations to Australia and the States on matters of public health legislation and administration and on any other matters relating to health, medical and dental care and medical research; [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) What is the progress of the Departmental review of the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme announced by the Minister for Health on 25 February 1 976. [More…]

• Will the Department of Health, in making this review, be consulting with the Australian Medical Association, the Pharmacy Guild of Australia, and the Australian Pharmaceutical Manufacturers’ Association to obtain their sub.misions to such a major review. [More…]

• If no consultation is undertaken, will the Minister take steps to ensure a discussion paper is prepared by the Department of Health and comments sought from representative organistions who participated in the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, including consumer groups. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Is the Department of Health aware of an expected influenza epidemic in North America caused by another new mutation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Department of Health is watching the A/Swine influenza position overseas very closely and there is no indication that the virus will reach Australia this winter. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This matter has been under examination by the Public Health Advisory Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council and a recommendation will be forwarded shortly for consideration by that Council. [More…]

• This means that any refugees who are the spouses, dependent children or parents of Austraiian residents would be approved as migrants provided they met the normal health and character requirements for migrants. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Minister been requested by the Australian Medical Association to amend regulations which require medical practitioners to endorse prescriptions for Subsidised Health Benefits Plan recipients with their Subsidised Health Benefits number; if so, what action has so far been taken on this request. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Subsidised Health Benefits Plan in respect of the supply of pharmaceutical benefits was abolished as from I March 1976. [More…]

• The development of a full CPI for Darwin, on the other hand, would involve the establishment of a wide range of price collections in fields of consumer expenditure other than food including, for example, clothing, household supplies and equipment, housing, fares, motoring, health services, recreational goods and services. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will obtain the answer that is required from the Minister for Health and see that the honourable senator is advised on the matter. [More…]

• As I understand it, the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health will be undertaking those negotiations with the States to ensure that our agreements with them enable the standard of health care and hospital care to be maintained at a level that is desirable in the Australian community. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer the Minister to her answer on behalf of the Minister for Health on 27 April to my question on notice relating to the Medibank Review Committee inquiry. [More…]

• I will seek guidance from the Minister for Health as to his intentions with regard to any reports which he wishes to table in the Parliament. [More…]

• Air pollution levels in some of our cities are approaching, and on some occasions have already exceeded, safe community health levels set by the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• Where high levels of pollution occur, the cost of such pollution is met by the community in the form of higher health bills and work absenteeism, lowered property values, and general loss of amenity. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Transport Advisory Council have also emphasised the urgency for improved air quality monitoring. [More…]

• -The Minister may need to ask the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) for the information. [More…]

• We want to know particularly whether the Medibank premium is going to be fixed by some calculation of the Government on costs, or is it going to be fixed at a figure relating it to the charges of the private health funds? [More…]

• In other words, it seems at the moment that it is fixed at $50 below what the private health funds are expected to offer for intermediate insurance. [More…]

• If the private health funds find that they can only offer that insurance for $400 a year, is the premium for Medibank going to go up to $350 a year? [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has said that the aim of the exercise is to get 50 per cent of the people out of Medibank. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has further stated that the precise contribution rates will be determined when the contribution rates for the major private health insurance funds are known. [More…]

• I can see that he is trying to determine whether we will decide what the contribution rate will be prior to the major private health insurance funds deciding what their premium will be. [More…]

• These matters are the subject of negotiation at the present time between the Minister and the health funds. [More…]

• Negotiations with the health funds are proceeding on that basis at the present time. [More…]

• If it is going to be accepted that in future the private funds will be allowed to increase their premiums once, twice or three times a year, then I understand that the premiums we will be expected to pay to remain in Medibank will escalate at the same rate as the private health funds’ premiums are increased. [More…]

• I think that what has been said is an unfair representation of what was said by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and by me. [More…]

• In making an explanation to the honourable member for Oxley (Mr Hayden) in another place on 27 May the Minister for Health said that the premium of approximately $300 that was set for the standard Medibank package, as it is called, will provide a family with public ward accommodation in a public hospital and also with benefits covering 85 per cent of the scheduled medical fee. [More…]

• That is the figure with which the private health funds will need to compete if they are to attract any of the community into their funds. [More…]

• It is not a matter of our allowing the health funds every so often to change their rates and us competing with them. [More…]

• It is for the health funds to be competitive with Medibank. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has mentioned that that will be the approximate cost of the benefits that have been described. [More…]

• In essence the Bills before the Senate at the moment represent in basis the Government’s proposals to dismantle the health insurance program which was initiated by the previous Government. [More…]

• These proposals have been introduced with the excuse that there is some necessity to cut government expenditure in the field of health insurance and under the phoney pretence that the new proposals will provide freedom of choice in the field of medical care. [More…]

• We will maintain Medibank and ensure that the standard of health care does not decline. [More…]

• We submit that these proposals in fact will greatly increase the administrative costs of and the difficulties in health insurance in this country. [More…]

• They will increase the total cost of health care and will cause confusion and uncertainty in the minds of patients; they have done that already. [More…]

• Together with the cuts in hospital expenditure and the cuts in community health expenditure they will downgrade the standard of public health care in Australia. [More…]

• Injustices will be done to low income earners and, especially in Victoria where the provision of public ward beds is inadequate, the proposals will force low income earners to pay more than their fair share for health care. [More…]

• Further, we believe that the proposals will remove the possibility of gaining important statistical data to plan for the future and will limit the ability of health authorities to detect those doctors- however few they may be- who rip off the public purse and the individual’s purse by their immoral behaviour. [More…]

• We do not oppose those measures which have as their aim the more effective registration and regulation of the private health funds, nor do we oppose those measures which will enable the Health Insurance Commission to prevent insurance companies and others involved in workers’ compensation insurance and other fields from gaining benefit from the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• We certainly do not oppose the measures to increase the regulation of and the conditions imposed upon registration of voluntary health funds. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Levy Bill provides for a levy of 2.5 per cent of taxable income on all incomes above a minimal level. [More…]

• This premium has been set up by the Government on the assumption that the voluntary health funds will supply intermediate ward cover and medical insurance at $350 per annum. [More…]

• The premium is apparently set at a level of $50 below the existing voluntary health fund cover with the deliberate intention of forcing- I do not believe we should be euphemistic and say encouraging- people into the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• Exemption can also be obtained from the levy by purchasing private medical and hospital cover from the voluntary health funds, thus severing all connections with Medibank. [More…]

• This great change in the health insurance scheme of this country is to be made only 10 months after the scheme started. [More…]

• This is not surprising, I believe, when we consider that the pamphlet was drawn up by the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), assisted by the honourable member for Macarthur (Mr Baume) who is an expert at producing documents like this. [More…]

• The effect of the tax levy and the health insurance premium on the consumer price index in this country is interesting. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission will have problems continually altering its records and programs. [More…]

• The voluntary health funds I am sure have indicated to honourable senators opposite the problems they will have which will increase their difficulties of keeping records. [More…]

• They will have to notify the Health Insurance Commission of who is in and who is out and will have to provide proof for taxation purposes of who is in and who is out of the scheme. [More…]

• Nobody can be helped now until he has some idea of what the voluntary health funds will do. [More…]

• Perhaps the reason is that the Government and the funds realise that in his 1969 report Nimmo ‘s comments on the inefficiency of the various voluntary health funds were accurate. [More…]

• The aims of Medibank and the various CommonwealthState hospital agreements were to introduce a universal health scheme-I do not think anyone will question that they did this-to introduce an equitable system of health insurance compared with the gross inequities of the old scheme which combined a flat rate contribution and tax deductions which were of more benefit to the high income earners than to the low income earners; to give the States a better deal in funding hospitals; and to provide an administratively efficient scheme. [More…]

• The total cost of health care in this country will not be altered by the new changes. [More…]

• -The health funds, I might add, are not producers of goods or of wealth. [More…]

• It is inevitable that the new system of health insurance will increase the total cost of health care- the toal cost to the community, that is, Senator Walters. [More…]

• The Government may be able to point proudly, as I am sure it can, to book entries of public expenditure and say that costs have been reduced but it certainly will not be able to in view of the predictions of certain members of the Government when increased administrative costs of departments other than the Department of Health are taken into account. [More…]

• Inevitably the public will pay more in toto through the plethora of voluntary health funds and through the increased cost of private care. [More…]

• The system of health care we have in this country is not efficient, I believe. [More…]

• The charging of specific fees for specific operations and treatment leads to the performance of unnecessary procedures, a fact recognised all over the world and even in the home of free enterprise, the United States of America, where the development of health maintenance organisations has caused a new look in medical practice. [More…]

• It is known by all doctors, and admitted by more and more, that the incidence of all sorts of operations is higher under a fee for service system than under a system of health maintenance organisations or salaried service. [More…]

• Propaganda by honourable senators opposite and by some members of the Australian Medical Association, particularly members of the General Practitioners Society in Australia, is aimed deliberately and falsely at holding up private health care as the most desirable and efficient form of health treatment. [More…]

• The provision of health maintenance care in both private and public form is the only way forward for health care in this country. [More…]

• The provision of economic disease prevention and treatment programs will come but while they are coming I suggest that the provision of equitable universal health insurance, as is provided by the present Medibank system, is essential and should not be destroyed by the sort of philosophical prejudices of those who seek to perpetuate the archaic differences of the past. [More…]

• Until the voluntary health funds can produce figures we will not know what is happening. [More…]

• In some States, because of low medical fees, the intermediate fund premiums of the voluntary health funds may well be as low as the suggested Medibank premiums. [More…]

• They depend on the ability of the health funds to produce a service at a low enough premium which we believe is a doubtful ability. [More…]

• This proposal does nothing for the standard of health care. [More…]

• In fact, it will increase the total cost of health care. [More…]

• The Senate is debating cognately 6 Bills, namely, the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill, Health Insurance Levy Bill, Income Tax (International Agreements) Amendments Bill, Health Insurance Amendment Bill, National Health Amendment Bill and Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill, which together form the basis of the Government’s new proposals for health insurance. [More…]

• The new Minister for Health in New South Wales, Mr Stewart, actually went so far as to say that people in New South Wales would now be forced to carry the full burden for heavy costs of health care without any Federal financial assistance. [More…]

• The core of Medibank is that every Australian should have health insurance cover. [More…]

• No Australian will be left without health insurance cover. [More…]

• We are retaining the universal health insurance cover for all people in Australia. [More…]

• We all know that the honourable member for Prospect has never ceased to speak his mind about health insurance matters and to criticise the Medibank program when he wishes to do so. [More…]

• Our concern that it will provide a lesser health service at greater costs remain. [More…]

• We are concerned about the costs of the previous Government’s health insurance program and the future cost implications of it. [More…]

• We will maintain Medibank, and ensure that the standard of health care does not decline. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission remains; the core of Medibank remains. [More…]

• In looking at Medibank we have had to set the right that we believe people have to choose or not to choose to be involved in a program, against the needs of society for an effective health insurance program. [More…]

• I appreciate the point of view they put forward but, on balance, I believe that this is an instance where we must put the total needs of society first and where the question of compulsion on all Australians to have some form of health insurance cover, as was proposed in Medibank and as we promised to maintain, must take precedence. [More…]

• We have decided that all Australians should have some health insurance cover. [More…]

• We have moved away from the position where those of our friends and other citizens who wish to opt out of health insurance entirely should have that right. [More…]

• Given that compulsion in health insurance, we can ask the question: Need there necessarily be uniformity? [More…]

• It is totally irrelevant and unimportant whether that cover is provided through the Health Insurance Commission or by some other insuring agency. [More…]

• Our concern is to see that all Australians are covered by health insurance and we have taken steps to ensure that those who want to provide their health insurance cover outside the Health Insurance Commission should have the option to do so, provided the voluntary funds can offer some suitable package. [More…]

• We are creating an opportunity for the voluntary health organisations to put up a scheme and we do not care what they are going to charge. [More…]

• We want the Australian people to have the choice of going to the Health Insurance Commission if they so wish or of going to the funds if they so wish. [More…]

• I have never understood why we should be so keen on seeing public resources used to pay the health care costs of those who wish and are able to pay for themselves. [More…]

• If I wish to pay for my own health costs and if those costs are no longer concessional deductions against my income tax, this represents a choice on my part as to how I will use extra disposable income in my possession. [More…]

• After all, the extra cost is not in terms of health care. [More…]

• This is entirely proper and entirely healthy. [More…]

• It was a dual system of national health insurance with the Government helping an insurance commission to offer one package and the private funds offering the other. [More…]

• He was one of the 2 architects of the health insurance program which this Government introduced. [More…]

• So we have Scotton and Deeble, the architects of the health insurance commission, expressing their support for the options we are putting forward. [More…]

• Is it to make sure that every Australian retains a universal entitlement to health care? [More…]

• As the members of the Australian Labor Party pointed out to us on a number of occasions in the past, it will identify the health cost to taxpayers. [More…]

• It will reduce the drain on the public sector in the provision of health care. [More…]

• I hope that the Labor Party will acknowledge now that it should support the imposition of a health insurance levy as it did 2 years ago. [More…]

• The only other major point to be made is that the program we have advanced is the first one which offers any prospect of cost control in health care. [More…]

• Unless the voluntary health funds can offer packages which are competitive with those offered under the government scheme, people will not buy them. [More…]

• The debate in Australia has been about health insurance. [More…]

• But our main concern has remained the quality , of health care. [More…]

• The question of quality care will be resolved by a number of things apart from health insurance. [More…]

• The health insurance program which we have proposed is just, fair, comprehensive and above all retains the core of the Labor Medibank program because we promised that it would. [More…]

• Perhaps we have loosened the grip of government on the health insurance care of all Australians. [More…]

• I begin my contribution to this debate by quoting from the Press release put out by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) dealing with the Government’s action on Medibank. [More…]

• Although Medibank in its present form has serious weaknesses it has achieved universal coverage but at the expense of largely disregarding the need for economy and efficiency in overall health care and expenditures by individuals and the community. [More…]

• Three weeks ago the Health Commission reported on Medibank. [More…]

• My friend who has just resumed his seat- I refer to Senator Baume- in dealing with health services mentioned his feeling that the Government is in danger of giving lesser health services at greater cost. [More…]

• Unduly high proportions of contributors’ funds are absorbed in operating health funds. [More…]

• Private health funds’ administrative costs at the moment run in the order of 15 per cent. [More…]

• Speaking of economies and the actions of medicos, I point out that if all doctors charged at the moment the full amount as they will under the private health insurance funds, instead of receiving 85 per cent under bulk billing, the extra cost will be $30m. [More…]

• How Senator Baume can guarantee that, I do not know because it is reported also that the amount of money involved depends on an averaging of all private health insurance fund contributions. [More…]

• I remind honourable senators that, for all the administrative costs that they paid out, the private health funds that existed before Medibank- there is no evidence to show that this situation has changed -could not tell us how many contributors they had or what age or sex those contributors were. [More…]

• Private health care funds in 3 States have stepped up Press and radio advertising campaigns to ‘keep our name before the public’ until new contribution rates are announced and major TV campaigns launched. [More…]

• Who pays for this choice of “private health funds? [More…]

• People have more sense than the Government, I am afraid, and long ago they decided that they did not really want to pay out money to provide them with the health insurance cover and find that money spent on full page advertisements in the daily newspapers. [More…]

• Apart from the charges to contributors that have increased month by month when the private health insurance funds held a monopoly, they also received a Commonwealth subsidy which they do not like to talk about and which the Government has not brought up. [More…]

• The subsidy to the private health funds in the last year before the operation of Medibank was $ 1 ,000m. [More…]

• The people of Australia, through government subsidies or their own contributions, were subsidising the construction of buildings, overseas trips and the purchase of private aeroplanes- the whole build-up of private empires by what was a total of 113 and now is a total of 73 private health insurance funds. [More…]

• It has been reported that the Government will not now subsidise the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• So what will be the cost of those private health insurance funds to the contributors? [More…]

• So one’s mind boggles as to what the actual cost of private health insurance will be in the future. [More…]

• The Government is sending the people of Australia back to the inconsistencies, vagaries and pettiness that went on while the private health insurance funds held the field and, I remind honourable senators, back to the days when moral judgments were made by private health insurance funds as to whether they would make payments and when refunds were refused because a service had come from a salaried or sessional doctor, even when it was in areas in which no private doctors were available. [More…]

• The private health insurance funds made no provision for illnesses that ran for longer than 12 weeks. [More…]

• One could have been paying contributions for year after year but when one had the misfortune of oneself or a member of one’s family becoming very seriously ill with an illness that went on for month after month one received no assistance from the private health insurance funds, despite the amount of money that one had paid in. [More…]

• It has a stated desire to promote competition between Medibank and the private health funds, which is a stupid, moneywasting exercise that will benefit nobody. [More…]

• There will have to be rigid policing in this respect, otherwise how will those providing the services know whether people are in the levy fund- that is the Government fund- or a private health insurance fund? [More…]

• Pity the worker who moves from one area to another or who changes jobs and, as used to happen, believes that all firms take out money for medical insurance, only to find to his sorrow when he needs assistance from Medibank or the private health insurance funds that his payments had stopped months before? [More…]

• All that confusion, all that extra cost and all that inefficiency were part of the only health insurance funds that they knew and when the Medibank proposition was put before them they overwhelming supported it. [More…]

• Are they interested in private health funds building empires? [More…]

• To quote my friend Senator Baume, the Prime Minister said that it would maintain Medibank and that the standards of health care would be maintained. [More…]

• So, for the purposes of the election, it said: ‘We will maintain Medibank and the standard of health care will be maintained’. [More…]

• People are being enticed, because of cost, to go back to the private health funds and by the time they find out that the private health funds are in no way better than they were- in fact, that they will be providing less care than they provided previously- the Government will have found it necessary to wind up Medibank because obviously it is not needed and the choice will be between the type of second-class pensioner medical service that we had before and the inefficient, wasteful, over-priced private funds that we had prior to Medibank. [More…]

• The unions know that that very large proportion of people in the community welcomed Medibank, welcomed its efficiency and economy and welcomed the fact that it took the terror out of being ill and took the terror out of having to pay excessive private health insurance funds, and because they care for their members and because they know that 74 per cent of the people of Australia want Medibank retained they are going in to bat for it. [More…]

• I ask it to promote Medibank for the millions, not millions for the private health funds. [More…]

• -The Senate is debating cognately a group of 6 Bills, all of which implement matters within the portfolio of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) which were foreshadowed in the statement of the Treasurer (Mr Lynch) which was debated in the Senate last week. [More…]

• There would be access to health care for everybody because cover for medical and hospital costs would be assured. [More…]

• Senator Melzer also dealt with the 73 private health funds and their staff. [More…]

• Naturally, when looking at the broad picture of all government departments, including the Department of Health, the Government rightly took the decision that as health costs were $ 1,400m or 6.4 per cent of the total Budget, and the forward estimate for 1976-77 was $2,000m, there had to be some limit or the country would go into bankruptcy. [More…]

• The alternative was that money which was needed in other areas of government would be spent on health. [More…]

• When one considers total expenditure on health in Australia, which was $4, 700m in 1975-76 and $5,400m in 1976-77, action was needed to modify Medibank, and that is precisely what this Government has done. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health said, in the case of those people who pay only the Medibank levy and those just mentioned who, because of their low incomes, do not pay the levy, the States will be asked to continue to make single room accommodation in public hospitals available without extra charge where a patient’s medical condition indicates that this is essential. [More…]

• I suppose that the private health funds and Medibank could be likened to the 2-airline system which operates in Australia, where Trans-Australia Airlines and Ansett Airlines of Australia operate side by side. [More…]

• In the plans to reduce government expenditure by approximately $2,600m, the heaviest burden of expenditure cuts are among those to which we on this side of the chamber accorded the highest priority, and universal health care is perhaps the most important area in the cuts to which I have referred. [More…]

• The Government’s decision to force half the Australian people back into private health funds can only be interpreted as breaking, in the most blatant manner, the Liberal-Country Party’s assurance to the Australian people in November and December 1975 that Medibank would be retained and strengthened. [More…]

• The 2.5 per cent levy on incomes to fund Medibank, which is nearly double the figure proposed by Labor- I am not arguing about the levy that we were going to introduce, Senator Baume- I believe will serve only to make a mockery of the previous Government’s aim of universal and equal health care for all Australians. [More…]

• Senator Baume also mentioned that the New South Wales Minister for Health had made a number of statements dealing with Medibank. [More…]

• The New South Wales Minister for Health has made the very important statement that the proposed new scheme will mean the existence of one private health care system for the wealthy and an inferior, inadequately financed public health care system for everyone else. [More…]

• Perhaps more appropriately this is a government firmly committed to ensuring that a financial bonanza goes the way of the implacable foes of universal health insurancethe private health funds. [More…]

• As Senator Melzer said, about 73 private health funds are still operating in the Australian community. [More…]

• I must say that I am terrified when I think of the 73 computers being used by the private health insurance companies and the 73 lots of duplication as referred to earlier by Senator Melzer. [More…]

• I believe that speakers from this side of the House have pointed out quite clearly that our objective is to provide a universal health program in Australia with a far greater choice than has existed previously. [More…]

• I would have thought that the former Labor Government would have used the United Kingdom health scheme as an example. [More…]

• This has resulted in the emergence in that country of a private health fund called BUPA-I think it is the British United Provident Association. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators, 56 per cent of the patients in Sweden belong to private health funds. [More…]

• I have already spoken to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) about them and I must say that he is always ready to listen to any proposition that is put to him. [More…]

• I want to deal for a moment with some clauses of the National Health Amendment Bill that I believe do present some difficulties for the funds. [More…]

• Proposed new section 73BA ( 1 ) ( k) of the National Health Amendment Bill 1976 states that as a condition of registration of an organisation ‘the organisation will comply with any direction of the Minister under this Act served on the organisation’. [More…]

• However, I suggest to the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) that she take these matters up with her colleague the Minister for Health with whom I have already discussed them. [More…]

• I support the Bills and trust that the Minister will convey that message to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -We are debating the 6 health Bills which affect the operation of the Medibank system and the Medibank levy. [More…]

• By Medibank we mean and the community recognises a universal health coverage- a system of universal health insurance. [More…]

• Medibank as a national health insurance system is working remarkably well; so well that the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) and the coalition parties included it in their election platform. [More…]

• Medibank is successful in providing automatic health insurance for everybody. [More…]

• Let us think about the situation with regard to health insurance then. [More…]

• They were not covered by any kind of health insurance. [More…]

• Because of the high cost, administrative confusion and the lack of health insurance cover for many people, the Labor Government introduced Medibank. [More…]

• Medibank is not a health system. [More…]

• It is not a system of health services. [More…]

• It is not nationalised health. [More…]

• Medibank is simply a system of universal health insurance which gives automatic cover for health and medical charges to all Australians. [More…]

• Even though there were a number of obstructions to the implementation of Medibank, as a health insurance system it cannot be claimed to be costly. [More…]

• Certainly, as Medibank is administered, running costs consume only 5 per cent of contributions as opposed to 15 per cent to 20 per cent of contributors’ money which was consumed in administrative costs under the private health schemes. [More…]

• There can be no doubt that the Medibank system of health insurance is less costly than the old private system. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, is investigating this matter but that sound data is not yet available. [More…]

• Certainly the Government has intentions in this regard, but it cannot possibly know these things because it is still unknown what requirements the private health insurance funds will have by way of subsidies and what fees they will set for particular kinds of packages. [More…]

• Until those things are known the Government cannot ascertain how many people will be covered for health insurance through the public Medibank system. [More…]

• How can anyone make decisions as to what course of action to take in respect of health insurance when these imprecise speculations represent the only information on which they can base their decisions? [More…]

• Other increases in costs will undoubtedly arise from the establishment of a dual system of health insurance. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, has announced that it will probably be necessary to review the premium annually. [More…]

• It seems to me that there will be a need for a proliferation of forms, calculations and computations to work out just what each citizen is required to pay by way of health insurance cover, either private or public, each year. [More…]

• These costs were not incurred, as I have said, in the actual running of the health insurance program; they seemed to stem largely from the very rapid increases in doctors fees over the last few years and the increases in hospital charges. [More…]

• There is nothing in the present proposals which show a genuine commitment by the Government to control doctors fees or to rationalise the provision of health services by a commitment to sessional, rather than fee for service payments where it is medically desirable. [More…]

• The costs incurred by the community in its need for health services will continue. [More…]

• It rationalised the collection of health insurance contributions; it rationalised the payment of rebates to people; it offered convenient and efficient methods of allowing doctors to claim if they wished to bulk bill; and it generally spread the cost of the provision of health services equally throughout the community. [More…]

• The effects of the latest proposals on individual members of the community apart from the effects on a person’s health, are, I think, very disturbing. [More…]

• Will private patients find that they have to pay for services at present offered free at health centres, such as those in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• Will this result in a 2-class system of health care in Australia- one for the rich and one for the poor? [More…]

• As any possible answer to these questions at this stage are not reassuring, to say the least, we on this side of the chamber persist in our opposition to the Government’s proposals and strongly condemn its efforts to destroy the efficient and popular system of automatic and universal health coverage which was established by the Labor Government when it set up Medibank. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has given an undertaking that this time lag will be used to enable the Government to discuss the details of the Bill with the voluntary health funds and other interested parties. [More…]

• It will enable those who can afford to pay for their health care to pay for it. [More…]

• As honourable senators have pointed out previously, the only compulsion is for someone to remain in a scheme, either Medibank or a private health system. [More…]

• I point out to Senator Melzer that if a person opts out of the private health system, that person will come back under the Medibank system. [More…]

• They can either pay for their health cover with their taxes or join the private health funds if this is what they want to do. [More…]

• The new modifications create fair competition between the Government Medibank scheme and the private health schemes. [More…]

• This gives the lie to the distorted and exaggerated claims by some Labor Party members, such as Mr Farquhar, the Minister for Health in my State of Tasmania, that Medibank will cost in the vicinity of $1,000 a family. [More…]

• I only hope that the Tasmanian people realise that an election is imminent and that this is the reason the Minister for Health in that State is coming out with these exaggerated comments. [More…]

• The third is staying in Medibank, paying the levy and an additional estimated $2.60 a week for private health insurance for hospital cover for a family. [More…]

• The fourth option is opting out of Medibank altogether and joining a private health scheme. [More…]

• Also it is proposed to repeal section 1 8 of the Health Insurance Act to allow diagnostic services such as X-rays to be performed on private patients who for some reason or other find themselves in public hospitals. [More…]

• This has always been the aim of the private health funds and the Government. [More…]

• The private health funds will act as a vehicle to enable individuals to exercise that noble quality which has been notably lacking in society today, namely, that of personal responsibility for a person ‘s own welfare rather than relying on the State. [More…]

• We will maintain Medibank and ensure that the standard of health care does not decline. [More…]

• As Senator Sheil has said, let us ask the people of Queensland, who at the moment have some of their health services provided to them free, how they are going to feel about paying a levy of 1.35 percent. [More…]

• I tried to make some calculations about how many people would opt out because of what the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said a couple of weeks ago. [More…]

• About half the population would choose to have their health insurance wholly within private funds. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, added to the confusion Yesterday when he said that people earning more than $14,000 a year would be better off in a private fund. [More…]

• But that is the figure that I arrived at just using the sort of guesstimate that apparently the Minister for Health has used. [More…]

• I believe that most of the higher charges to the community will occur because of management expenses within the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• If one goes back and looks at what the Nimmo Committee said in 1969 about the management expenses of the private health insurance funds one gets a fair idea of what they are in terms of a percentage of the contribution income. [More…]

• That being the case, in terms of efficiency alone the Australian community would be far better off, looking at it in a businesslike way, if all health insurance fund payments were collected through Medibank because less would be spent on management expenses through Medibank. [More…]

• I have been informed also that returns from the health insurance funds will be forwarded to Medibank so that Medibank will know whether a particular person in the community is covered by a health insurance fund. [More…]

• Certificates will have to be presented to the Australian Taxation Office by health insurance funds so that the Taxation Office can be assured that people do not have to pay their 2.5 per cent levy. [More…]

• I believe that the people of Australia want a simple and easy to understand system of health insurance. [More…]

• I was making the point that people want a simple, easy to understand system of health insurance. [More…]

• People want health insurance, but they want to be able to understand it quite easily. [More…]

• There is always a certain amount of emotion when we start to talk about health or housing or employment. [More…]

• I think that we all have the same concept of health and the handling of it- we all expect to have the best of health and the best of health services. [More…]

• Because several Bills are being debated cognately I would like at this stage to indicate that I will be addressing myself to the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1976. [More…]

• The third provision exempts taxpayers who have appropriate insurance cover with a registered health benefit organisation, such as the Medical Benefits Fund of Australia Ltd, and who are prepared to pay a premium of $350 a year. [More…]

• The rich are the ones who should pay most to meet the general cost of keeping the nation in good health just the same as they are now obliged to meet a greater share per dollar earned than the poor need for the cost of defence, roads, schools and other items of public expenditure. [More…]

• If one wishes to exercise an option and take out private health insurance for intermediate hospital cover the extra cost is $135. [More…]

• I repeat that the total cost of Medibank cover for a family is $300 plus $135 in private health insurance for intermediate cover, making a total of $435. [More…]

• However, if one opts out of Medibank and takes out cover with the private health insurance funds for private medical care and intermediate hospital cover the premium required is $350. [More…]

• The provisions of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1976 which was introduced into this chamber by the Minister for Social Security, Senator Guilfoyle, took care of that $30m rip-off to insurance companies. [More…]

• I enthusiastically support Senator Grimes, the shadow Minister, in his opposition to this measure on health benefits. [More…]

• I am deeply concerned with the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill and the Health Insurance Levy Bill because they could mean the abandonment of something which has operated in Queensland for many years; namely, the free hospital scheme. [More…]

• I have discussed this matter with the present Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and while he has not given any indication of acceptance of the suggestion, I do not feel that he is hostile to it. [More…]

• On a number of occasions in this Senate I have said that if there was one thing that the Labor Government had a mandate to do- during the life of the Labor Government there was a lot of discussion about what it had a mandate to do- it was to do something about a national health insurance service in Australia. [More…]

• In the three or four years leading up to the introduction of Medibank there was continual discussion in the Australian community about what freedom of choice in terms of health care meant. [More…]

• It was suggested by the then Opposition that, as a result of the introduction of Medibank, people would be denied freedom of health care choice not only at the hospital level, where there is an argument to be put on that score, but also at the private practitioner level. [More…]

• I find it very strange that after this period there is once again a discussion about what freedom of choice in relation to health insurance in Australia means. [More…]

• The freedom of choice which is being offered by the Government in this legislation is the freedom of choice of the private health funds to rip it off Australian citizens. [More…]

• He is still waffling away about this alleged freedom of choice which the Liberal Party proposes to offer the Australian people in relation to their health insurance. [More…]

• Let us look at the sort of freedom of choice in relation to health insurance which was offered by the private health funds in Australia prior to Medibank. [More…]

• The LiberalCountry Party Government in the 1970s appointed the Nimmo Committee of Inquiry into Health Insurance. [More…]

• The fact of the matter is that it was the Nimmo Committee which talked about the private health funds in these terms: That they were inefficient; that they were undemocratic insofar as their members were concerned; that they offered no genuine freedom of choice to the Australian people; that there were too many competing funds, and that they were wasteful for that very reason. [More…]

• That is what the Nimmo Committee, which was appointed by the Liberal-Country Party Government, said about the private health funds, and it is the private health funds to which this Government now is offering freedom of choice. [More…]

• The second is that freedom of choice, if it exists, is being offered to the private health funds, and the Nimmo Committee so eloquently expressed the capacity which the funds had to offer that freedom of choice to the Australian people. [More…]

• It involves the question of the escalating costs of health care in the community. [More…]

• It was suggested all through the debate during the time of the Labor Government that somehow Medibank really would be responsible for escalating the cost of health care. [More…]

• The fact of the matter is that none of us on either side of the Senate have really faced up to the essential things which are causing the escalating costs in health care. [More…]

• Of course, the essential things which are causing these vastly rising costs, quite apart from the personnel involved in health care, are the rapid technological advances which are being made by medicine and which are being used to keep people alive perhaps after they should no longer be alive. [More…]

• In all the honourable senator’s speeches and in most of Senator Walter’s interjections there has been the suggestion that the rising costs of health services is somehow something to do with the Labor Party. [More…]

• So long as technology continues at the pace at which it is continuing now, so long as pathology services become so involved and more costly as they are becoming every day, and so long as doctors’ incomes continue to spiral on an open market, we will have difficulties in relation to the problem of delivering health care in the community. [More…]

• So long as we continue to debate in the Senate whether people working under awards administered by the Conciliation and Arbitration Commission should receive $3 a week extra but we are quite happy to enjoy an income which is amongst the top 3 per cent of incomes paid in the community, as are the incomes paid to lawyers and doctors, we will never solve these problems of escalating health costs or of escalating legal costs. [More…]

• The other important point which I seek to make following on those comments is that so long as we have a fee for service system, so long as we continue to operate as we are in this area and so long as we continue to reject the notion of an incomes policy for anybody except those on award wages, we will have these problems in health care delivery and we will have these problems with a legal service, and so on. [More…]

• Finally, let me say one other thing: I believe the health of every Australian to be a national responsibility. [More…]

• I do not believe national responsibilities are fulfilled by our looking after the interests of private health funds in the way the Government proposes. [More…]

• I was hopeful that the Government would have seen fit in pursuance of its apparently egalitarian objectives in regard to the cost of health care to impose a levy with a much higher cut-off amount than was suggested by the ALP when we were in government. [More…]

• We have been debating the 6 Bills which provide for the modifications to Medibank while retaining the principle of universal coverage for health care. [More…]

• I believe that at this stage of the debate I should remind everyone that what we are talking about is a health insurance levy of 2.5 per cent of taxable income to be imposed on those people who remain in the Medibank scheme. [More…]

• I think that what we should be talking about is universal coverage for health care and not whether we should have one scheme in which people have only a standard care that may be appropriate for some people but not for all people and which eliminates any alternative which they may have. [More…]

• It is for this reason that a very high proportion of the Australian people, despite the Medibank scheme, has chosen to be partially insured for those other aspects of care which they required to give them security of health care when they needed it. [More…]

• He did make it clear that there is now a compulsory cover for health insurance. [More…]

• But I think it would be understood that at the cost of Medibank as we have experienced it over the past 12 months a 2.5 per cent levy is realistic, fair and one which only partially covers the cost of the very costly health insurance which we do have in this country. [More…]

• Senator Jessop brought forward some points which concern him with regard to the National Health Amendment Bill and the concern that he had with regard to some of the measures that related to the private health funds. [More…]

• I know that he and other members of the Senate have had discussions with the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• The Minister has given me his assuranceand I know gave this assurance to the honourable senators concerned- that during the next 3 months every effort will be taken to consider carefully the provisions of the Bill, to overcome some of the objections which have been raised with regard to it and to make sure that the Bill which relates to the private health funds is one that can have the support and understanding of everyone in its objectives. [More…]

• Indeed, in relation to all of the legislation which has been introduced with regard to the Medibank proposals, I know that the Minister for Health would welcome close consultation with individuals, with professions and with all of those people who may have representations to make when the full effect and understanding of the complex nature of the legislation is known by the community. [More…]

• It is important in the plans that we have for health care in this country that low income families not be deprived of the quality of health care that we would want to see for everyone. [More…]

• I know that Senator Wood has had consultations with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• There is to be no opting out altogether from health insurance any more. [More…]

• I do not want to comment at great length about the other matters that were raised by Senator Button, but I do say that we accept that there are escalating costs in the field of health care. [More…]

• I could talk about the incomes of doctors, which Senator Button mentioned, and I could talk about the interests of the private health insurance funds, but I think that what we are really talking about is the best way by which we can give adequate and improving health care to the Australian community. [More…]

• They also provide an opportunity for the health funds to attempt to be competitive with the Medibank scheme. [More…]

• I do not believe that the Australian people will be convinced that they should have one form of health cover or another unless they are convinced that it is the one which best suits them and their families. [More…]

• It involves more than the Department of Social Security with its relief, because child care, transport, education, housing, health and legal aid are all involved in getting over this problem. [More…]

• I do not think quite frankly that an additional $3 a week will compensate an Aboriginal parent if he or she despairs at their children’s health as it deteriorates. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) How many staff have been transferred, or are to be transferred, from the Department of Social Security to the Department of Health as a result of the changes undertaken since December 1975. [More…]

• How many of these staff, dissected by their levels, and staff at central office were employed in the subsidised health benefits plan administering the $2 and $5 payments under the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• to (3) When appropriate amending legislation is passed two Divisions and one Branch from the Central Office of the Department of Social Security and a Branch from each of its State Offices will be transferred to the Department of Health as a result of changes in administrative arrangements announced in December 1975. [More…]

• Part of its Central Office ADP Branch and other support staff will also be transferred to the Department of Health. [More…]

• Because of normal staff wastage that wilt continue to occur from these areas up until the transfer actually takes place, it is not practicable to be precise about the number and levels of staff who will take up duty in the Department of Health. [More…]

• That the Health Insurance Commission be empowered to offer medical insurance cover at the level currently offered, and hospital cover for accommodation in standard, intermediate and private wards of recognised hospitals and approved private hospitals with no financial disadvantages to members of the public who wish to exercise a true freedom of choice by staying with Medibank as their chosen method of health insurance. [More…]

• Under the proposed Health Insurance Scheme starting on 1 October those members of the public who wish to stay with Medibank and take out additional hospital insurance are to be disadvantaged financially by $85 per annum compared to members of the public who wish to insure solely with a private health insurance fund for medical and hospital cover, and your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Australian Government will empower the Health Insurance Commission to offer all forms of hospital insurance cover. [More…]

• I think it was clear to all honourable senators what the Government’s proposals were with regard to Medibank and that the Government’s plan was to enable those who wished to remain in Medibank to do so and those who wished to have access to private health fund insurance to have an opportunity to do just that. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, by remarking that on 26 May citizens of Rockhampton read in their morning newspaper that the Minister for Health had said that there was no dangerous shortage of influenza vaccine in Australia. [More…]

• It is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and it relates to influenza vaccine. [More…]

• But I am able to say as Minister representing the Minister for Health that it is a fact that the very heavy public demand for flu vaccine this year is attributed to the publicity in the Press on influenza epidemics in the northern hemisphere earlier this year. [More…]

• This has resulted in many healthy adults requesting supplies of the vaccine where its use by these persons is on medical grounds of a lower order of priority than its use by persons in the more vulnerable groups. [More…]

• I will draw the attention of the Minister for Health to the question and to the opinion that seems to be implicit within it. [More…]

• Community services where persons involved in health and social welfare meet to work together, e.g. [More…]

• health/welfare centres, mental health, rehabilitation, and family planning services. [More…]

• He was asked to investigate social-medical aspects of poverty including the community services where persons involved in health and social welfare meet to work together, for example, health and welfare centres, mental health, rehabilitation and family planning services; the relationship between poverty and major illnesses in the community of a socialmedical nature; and any associated matters relevant to the above and to the general objectives of the inquiry. [More…]

• Mr Martin’s report deals with the more important community services at the health and social welfare interface and covers such major issues as community health services, mental health services, disability and poverty, alcoholism and drug dependence, the health of newborn children and infants, family planning, and dental health services. [More…]

• The Commission found that disadvantage associated with poverty in the social /health field is heightened for minority groups culturally different from the mainstream of Australian society. [More…]

• Of particular interest to the Department of Social Security are recommendations dealing with the Australian Government Rehabilitation Service, fringe benefits of a health nature for social security pensioners and beneficiaries, and the particular needs of migrant and ethnic minorities. [More…]

• As the Prime Minister has already announced, the Government has found that the agreements, which were negotiated by the previous Government, are in a form that is not authorised by the Health Insurance Act 1973-1975. [More…]

• Payments will be made as block grants to the States and on such terms and conditions as the Treasurer determines after consultation with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• However it will be a condition for the payment of grants that information at present provided to the Health Insurance Commission in relation to claims for daily bed payments will continue to be provided. [More…]

• Under sections 33 and 34 of the Health Insurance Act, these payments are limited to private hospitals in States that are parties to hospitals agreements. [More…]

• The other aspect which concerns me about the tenor of the debate and some of the claims which have been made is that the Government may find justification in this legislation for cutting down on other kinds of public services such as the provision of health services, education services, community facilities and housing, to name a few. [More…]

• Access to good education and good health care and the availability of reasonably priced housing will also improve, perhaps even more significantly improve, opportunities for poor families. [More…]

• The support services of adequate housing, health and so on are important to the way in which a family is able to give security to the children who are its responsibility. [More…]

• The objectives that parents have for their children should be those that lead them to undertake the responsibilities that lead to sound education, to adequate health and care and to the other opportunities which only parents are able to make possible for their children for their future development. [More…]

• Health and Welfare. [More…]

• As the Treasurer announced in his statement in the Parliament on 20 May, the decisions should be seen as but the latest instalments in the Government’s continuing policy to restore economic health and at the same time to improve the living standards of less well-off sections of the community. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The Health Insurance Act provides that where medical expenses are incurred in respect of a professional service rendered by a legally qualified medical practitioner, medical benefits are payable in accordance with that Act. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister’s attention been drawn to an article in the Brisbane Courier Mail of 10 May 1976, in which it is claimed that statistics provided in a paper to be presented by two Brisbane medical practitioners to an international ear disease conference in the United States of America in May indicate that only thirty per cent of Aboriginal children in Queensland have normal hearing; if so, has the Department of Health undertaken any research that would indicate the extent of ear abnormalities amongst Aboriginal people in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In general, except in the Northern Territory where the Depanment of Health has the direct responsibility, financial assistance to State Departments of Health and research workers is provided through the Depanment of Aboriginal Affairs following consultation with my Department. [More…]

• From 1968 to 1972 the Office of Aboriginal Affairs, as it then was, provided funds fora research program- ‘Field and Hospital Studies into the health of Aboriginal Children’ conducted by the Depanment of Child Health, University of Queensland. [More…]

• This investigation, which was conducted jointly by the Depanment of Child Health and the Audiology Section of the Speech Therapy Department, Queensland University, resulted in the development of a Hearing Conservation and Treatment Program for Aboriginals, funds for which were and still are provided by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• The diagnosis and treatment of ear disease and hearing defects are an integral part of the Aboriginal Health Programs which are funded by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Any suggestion of any threat to human health, in whatever degree and however minor might be the threat, is worth investigating. [More…]

• A view is being put around that the introduction to commercial flying of Concorde aircraft raises a new factor in the world and a new threat to health. [More…]

• I said that if there is any possible threat, however minor, to the health of people it ought to be investigated. [More…]

• I wanted to say that there was no new experience to the world in terms of potential threat to health in the flight of supersonic aircraft and that, in perspective, the military aircraft, if there is a threat, must constitute a much greater threat to the ozone. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am aware that the Pharmacy Guild has made representations to the Minister for Health with regard to the remuneration paid to its members for the supply of pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• It will be recalled that in April the Minister for Health, on behalf of the Government, made an offer to the Pharmacy Guild of an increase of 5c a prescription in chemists’ professional fees retrospective to 1 July 1973 to wipe the slate clean for the past and to pave the way for agreement on a further review of chemists’ remunerations. [More…]

• Nevertheless, in order to facilitate a review of chemists’ remunerations in the future, on 2 1 April the Minister for Health invited Guild representatives to meet with the Government as soon as possible and to provide him with joint recommendations on several matters. [More…]

• For example, in 1973 we allocated $30m under the States grants rural reconstruction scheme; in 1975 we allocated $56m for the construction of an animal health laboratory in Geelong; in 1 973 and 1974 we allocated over the 2 years $4.6m for a fruit growing reconstruction scheme; in 1975 we allocated $5.68m for the apple and pear stabilisation scheme; in May 1973 we made available in the form of 2 lots of rural credit allocations to farm development loan funds $104m at very favourable interest rates, and then a term loan fund allocation of $ 1 90m; on 4 December 1974 by way of financial assistance to the beef industry, which was at that stage apparently beginning to show signs of decline, we allocated $20m; in 1975-76 we added another $8m. [More…]

• The Government was determined for ideological reasons to dismantle the system of health funding we have in this country. [More…]

• However the State governments, including the conservative State governments led by Mr BjelkePetersen, Mr Hamer and Sir Charles Court, did not like this and they pointed out to the Commonwealth that they already had written agreements, and they made threatening noises and told the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) just where they stood. [More…]

• Air pollution levels in some of our cities are approaching, and on some occasions have already exceeded, safe community health levels set by the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• Did the Department of Overseas Trade complain bitterly to the Department of Health over the Department of Health’s failure to adequately consult it over the new controls on cheese imports, as claimed in the Queensland Country Life dated 29 April 1976. [More…]

• Did the Department of Health adequately brief the Department of Overseas Trade on the new controls prior to their announcement. [More…]

• The Department of Health did not brief the Department of Overseas Trade on the new controls prior to their announcement. [More…]

• Quarantine matters are dealt with by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health provided adequate briefing to the Department of Overseas Trade shortly after the announcement. [More…]

• Aboriginal and Islander Community Health Service. [More…]

• Aboriginal and Islander Community Health Service. [More…]

• I am sure that all honourable senators look forward to the time when Senator Greenwood’s health will be sufficiently improved to enable him to lead an active life and that they join with me in expressing our best wishes. [More…]

• What health services are currently available to the Aboriginal community at the Pantijan cattle project. [More…]

• Health services currently available to the Aboriginal community at Pantijan are provided by the Royal Flying Doctor Service chaner for regular clinic flights and evacuation of serious patients. [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Government considered the recommendations contained in the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs on Aboriginal Health in the south-west of Western Australia; if so, which of the 19 recommendations has the Government accepted in full, or in part, and what number has it rejected, or not acted upon. [More…]

• 1 ) The Report has been considered by the Aboriginal Affairs Co-ordinating Committee of Western Australia and recommendation 7 (a) of the Report for an expansion of the Co-ordinating Committee ‘s membership, and recommendation 7 (b) for establishment of a Health Sub-Committee, have been implemented. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Medical Service field staff consult at a training level with major hospitals and liaise with Community Health Services field staff informally. [More…]

• Community Health Services has recently conducted seminars for field staff in Kalgoorlie and Port Hedland which should promote more effective consultation in the future. [More…]

• The Community Health Services Director is a member by standing invitation of the Medical Committee of the Aboriginal Medical Service. [More…]

• Community Health Services, with an increased Aboriginal field staff, has local contact with communities throughout the State. [More…]

• Community Health Services is making a baseline health study of Aboriginal people. [More…]

• Community Health Services conduct Health Education programs in schools and the Education Department is currently reviewing the effectiveness of the program. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Medical Service provides health education at the AMS Centre. [More…]

• The terms of this recommendation are now receiving priority attention from the Aboriginal Affairs Coordinating Committee Health Sub-Committee which includes representatives of the Alcohol and Drug Authority, Community Health Services and the Department for Community Welfare. [More…]

• The Alcohol and Drug Authority in conjunction with Community Health Services, Department of Corrections, Aboriginal Medical Service and Aboriginal organisations is developing proposals for management and treatment of habitual drinkers. [More…]

• Health and hygiene courses are available. [More…]

• The Department of Education is now reviewing the health education program for schools and communities in conjunction with the Community Health Services with a view to upgrading the service as required. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Affairs Co-ordinating Committee has authorised its Health Sub-committee to invite the Community Recreation Council to participate in its activities. [More…]

• The Ministers were accompanied by Mr A. Ridge, Minister for the North-west, Perth; Mr B. Dexter, Secretary, Department of Aboriginal Affairs, Canberra; Mr F. Gare, Director, Department of Aboriginal Affairs, Perth; Mr K. Maine, Director, Department of Community Welfare, Perth; Dr L. Holman, Director, Community Health Services, Perth; Dr J. Rowe, Assistant Principal Medical Officer, Medical Department, Perth; Dr W. Langsford, First Assistant Director-General, Australian Department of Health, Canberra; Mr K. Jones, Secretary, Department of Education, Canberra; Mr J. Booth, Senior Social Work Supervisor, Kimberley Division, Department of Community Welfare, Perth; Mr M. Hepburn, Social Work Supervisor, Kimberley Division, Department of Community Welfare, Derby; Mr D. Cavanagh, Private Secretary to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs; Mr Z. Kovacs, Journalist, ‘West Australian’, Perth. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Queensland Branch of the Australian Medical Association requested the National Health and Medical Research Council to ban phenacetin from compound analgesics; if so, what action has been taken on the submission to date. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The submission accompanying the request is under consideration by the Medicine Advisory Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• In addition, analgesics are receiving the attention of the Public Health Advisory Committee of the NH and MRC. [More…]

• Is the Commonwealth Statistician arranging a conference to discuss rationalisation and development of health data collection in Australia; if so, (a) what is the exact aim of the conference, (b) when is it to be held, and (c) what is the estimated cost of the conference. [More…]

• The Statistician did arrange such a Conference, at the request of the 1975 Australian Health Ministers’ Conference, on the advice of the Hospital and Allied Services Council. [More…]

• the nature and scope of problems currently associated with health data collection, including consideration of deficiencies and areas of overlap; [More…]

• c) action that might be taken to rationalise and improve present and future health data collection and analysis activities. [More…]

• A formal Report of the Conference has been produced and is to be discussed at the 1976 Australian Health Ministers ‘ Conference. [More…]

• Has the Government of Italy invoked regulations requiring a health certificate on the import of Australian hides; if so [More…]

• Since February 1976, a number of Australian shipments of hides have been detained by Italian authorities because of the absence of accompanying health certificates required under Italian Government regulations. [More…]

• asked the Minister represent ing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Has the Department of Health been able to estimate the number of employees of Medibank who are likely to become redundant as a result of the alterations to Medibank announced by the Treasurer on 20 May 1976; if so, what are the estimates for each State and the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It is not possible to estimate at this stage what Medibank ‘s future staffing requirements will be, but in the light of the further announcement that Medibank will be able to offer private health insurance in competition with private health funds it is not expected that the question of redundancies will arise. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Financial support for medical research is provided through the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• $482,533 (this amount excludes emoluments to the positions of Director of Aviation Medicine and Assistant Crown Solicitor which are met from the Departments of Health and Attorney General respectively). [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• If so, has the Department of Health investigated the vaccine for possible use in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That Medibank has proved to be the cheapest and most efficient means of bringing health care to Australian citizens and that the citizens of Australia have received Medibank as a great and valued social reform. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved itself to be a far superior system of health care than was offered by the private funds prior to July 1975. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will observe the promise made by the Prime Minister in his policy speech that ‘We will maintain Medibank and ensure the standard of health care does not decline’. [More…]

• Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate, in Parliament assembled, should ensure that the agreements entered into between the Commonwealth and the State of Queensland should be maintained and that Medibank should not be altered either in cost or complexity so that it may no longer be available to all people of Australia as a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• That we deplore the confusion generated by the Government’s proposals to radically modify the system of health insurance in Australia; [More…]

• That the Government’s actions will lead to a two-class system of health care and thereby creating a division in Australian society; [More…]

• That the unnecessary duplication of health insurance funds created by Medibank and private organisations both operating will lead to gross administrative inefficiency, waste and increased costs. [More…]

• Will the reduction result from a more strict work test on applicants for unemployment benefit or does she expect an epidemic of good health to overtake the country and the reduction to occur in sickness benefits? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she is in a position to confirm or deny, or whether she can prevail upon her colleague in another place to confirm or deny, a report which was made to me by a member of the medical profession that the Medibank private health insurance scheme provides for 32 days accommodation in a private ward of a hospital as compared with 300 days accommodation in a private ward under the private hospital benefit funds. [More…]

• I leave it for my colleague, the Minister for Health, to answer the specific matters which have been raised. [More…]

• The desire of the Government is that Medibank private insurance be competitive with private health funds. [More…]

• My National Country Party colleagues join me in wishing him health and happiness in his welldeserved retirement. [More…]

• A country is fixed up by recognising that it is sick and adopting methods to bring it into a state of health. [More…]

• The balance was to be expended by other departments with which the Department of Aboriginal Affairs acts in close collaboration such as the Department of Health, the Department of Education for study grants, secondary grants and special programs in the Northern Territory, and the Department of Housing and Construction in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• In conjunction with his colleagues the Minister for Education (Senator Carrick), the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and myself, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs (Mr Viner) is reviewing the relationship between widespread Aboriginal unemployment and the social consequences, in many cases disastrous for communities in remote areas, of the payment of unemployment benefits. [More…]

• In conjunction with my colleagues the Minister for Education and the Minister for Health, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs is considering and reviewing the needs of Aboriginal people in those areas against the background of the coalition parties’ policy statement. [More…]

• Psychotropic substances’ is a term used to refer to substances that have the capacity to produce a state of dependence and central nervous system stimulation or depression resulting in hallucinations or disturbances in motor functions, thinking, behaviour, perception or mood and, in respect of which, there is evidence of a likelihood of abuse so as to constitute a public health and social problem. [More…]

• The political prisoner of Vladimir prison, Yakov Suslensky, whose health has been undermined by the continuous detention to the extent that in June 1976, during the visit of his wife, he could not come out by himself- he was supported by the arms- when he made an attempt to tell his wife about his illness, the controller who was present during the visit, prohibited him to do so, or else he would stop the visit. [More…]

• Already the above-mentioned political prisoner of the Vladimir prison, Yakov Suslensky received back his letter to his wife, so that he would excise from the text his complaint regarding the state of his health. [More…]

• The proposed legislation amending the Health Insurance Act 1973-75 leaves Medibank contributors disadvantaged with regard to cover for hospital treatment. [More…]

• Your petitioners humbly pray that the proposed legislation be amended to allow Medibank to compete on equal terms with the private health insurance organisations. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved to be the cheapest and most efficient means of bringing health care to Australian citizens and that the citizens of Australia have received Medibank as a great and valued social reform. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved itself to be a far superior system of health care than was offered by the private funds prior to July 1975. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will observe the promise made by the Prime Minister in his policy speech that ‘We will maintain Medibank and ensure the standard of health care does not decline’. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved to be the cheapest and most efficient means of bringing health care to Australian citizens and that the citizens of Australia have received Medibank as a great and valued social reform. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved itself to be a far superior system of health care than was offered by the private funds prior to July 1973. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will observe the promise made by the Prime Minister in his policy speech that ‘We will maintain Medibank and ensure the standard of health care does not decline ‘. [More…]

• Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate, in Parliament assembled, should ensure that the agreements entered into between the Commonwealth and the State of Queensland should be maintained and that Medibank should not be so altered either in cost or complexity so that it may no longer be available to all people of Australia as a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• That we deplore the confusion generated by the Government’s proposals to radically modify the system of health insurance in Australia; [More…]

• That the Government’s actions will lead to a two-class system of health care and thereby creating a division in Australian society; [More…]

• That the unnecessary duplication of health insurance funds created by Medibank and private organisations both operating will lead to gross administrative inefficiency, waste and increased costs. [More…]

• It appears that certain private health funds are setting out to confuse the people of Australia in advertisements placed in daily newspapers by misquoting the cost of Medibank Private and the benefits gained. [More…]

• I think it would be agreed that it frequently does go undetected and even when it is identified by health or welfare officers or others it may not be reported to legal or other authorities. [More…]

• Any specific program developed would need to be framed in co-operation with the relevant Commonwealth and, if necessary, State welfare, health and other authorities. [More…]

• The Australian Government provided, and I understand still provides, significant finance and /or meets operational expenditure for education and health services, and the existence of the Territory Administration, the airfield and other related services on Cocos provide indirect benefits to the Home Island community and the Estate. [More…]

• health and education services to be extended; [More…]

• It is a fact that the Budget makes provision for $750,000 to be spent on family planning but this money is distributed through the Department of Health and not through the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• The results of this investigation are currently being examined by the Department of Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the findings of the Nimmo committee of inquiry into health insurance funds, does the Minister regard the attitude expressed by Mr Derrick Shaw, General Manager of the HBA, as reported in today’s newspapers, to the effect that rates would be reduced on the basis of using existing contributor reserves, as being a proper attitude for a private health fund to adopt? [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• There is nothing I wish to add to the answer that I have given except to say that any rates that are set by private funds are required to be approved by the registration committee of the Department of Health. [More…]

• On behalf of the Minister for Health I make it clear that those pensioners who hold pensioner medical service cards will not be liable to pay the Medibank levy. [More…]

• However, on the basis of information contained in the National Health and Medical Research Council’s findings, which were referred to in the report, the health risk to boxers may well be a matter which should be investigated further. [More…]

• Prior to the introduction of Medibank by the former Government pensioner medical service card holders did have a cover for their health services. [More…]

• In this connection the Government has agreed that the Minister for Health should pursue with State Health Ministers their proposals to work towards uniform legislation to control cigarette advertising in areas where the Commonwealth has no constitutional power. [More…]

• In his chapter entitled Health and Welfare Services in the book Towards a New Australia under a Labor Government, Bill Hayden- then in Opposition- wrote: [More…]

• The administration of Labor’s comprehensive health and welfare program will require the setting up of new organisations. [More…]

• I simply draw to the attention of honourable senators that there is an increasing concern about evaluations of health and welfare programs in Australia and a reference was given by the Senate to one of the standing committees for evaluation of health and welfare programs. [More…]

• With regard to the co-ordination of health and welfare and the formulation of a national plan on health and welfare, I draw attention to the operation at the present time of the health and welfare task force, which is looking closely at matters of health and welfare and which soon will be reporting to the Government on ways in which there can be co-ordination between those and other departments with related responsibilities. [More…]

• However, I believe that in the future hostels and other sorts of homes and nursing homes should come under a total scheme for care of the aged, using not only special facilities provided in retirement villages or aged persons’ villages or whatever they may be called in the various States, but also facilities such as health centres and rehabilitation and recreational facilities that already exist in the community and are there to be used by the whole community, including the aged. [More…]

• The Henderson Commission of Inquiry into Poverty has derived the kind of data which makes it quite clear that aged persons do not have the resources to care for themselves in terms of money, they do not have the family support and their health is inevitably going downhill. [More…]

• A large number of recommendations had to do with domiciliary support, rent rebate programs, community health programs and home repair programs. [More…]

• That we deplore the confusion generated by the Government’s proposals to radically modify the system of health insurance in Australia; [More…]

• That the Government ‘s actions will lead to a two-class system of health care and thereby creating a division in Australian society; [More…]

• That the unnecessary duplication of health insurance funds created by Medibank and private organisations both operating will lead to gross administrative inefficiency, waste and increased costs. [More…]

• The figures have been properly rectified to include 2 things: An adjustment for pre-payment in health spheres, which was paid immediately before the end of June and which applied to this year, and also an adjustment for unemployment relief. [More…]

• As from 1 October, such veterans will have to pay the Medibank levy unless, like any other citizen, they opt for one of the alternative forms of health insurance from either Medibank Private or a private health fund. [More…]

• Repatriation beneficiaries eligible for relief from payment of the levy and who wish to avoid the taxation deduction which would otherwise apply may arrange that by lodging the health insurance levy exemption claim with their employers. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen the reply of the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, to a question asked in the other place yesterday in relation to the community health program in Victoria? [More…]

• Mr Hunt said that the Government in no way had abandoned the community health program and that he had asked officers of his Department to consult Victorian authorities to ensure that no restrictions were imposed in Victoria that were not absolutely necessary. [More…]

• If this is the case, I should like to know why the St Albans Community Health Services Society at St Albans in Victoria, after at least 2 years of negotiation on the building of a centre in that suburb, would have received a letter from the Victorian Hospitals and Charities Commission dated 23 July 1 976 which in part states: [More…]

• I did not see the answer given by the Minister for Health to the question yesterday, but I am aware that the community health program in the Budget of this Government this year has been allocated funds which have gone in block grants to the States. [More…]

• I am not aware of the letter that was received by the St Albans Community Health Services Society in Victoria with regard to the deferment of its project. [More…]

• I shall seek from the Minister for Health information on that and any other matters in which the honourable senator may be interested. [More…]

• Concessions are essential to the continued health and efficiency of the rnining and petroleum industries. [More…]

• The Prime Minister has promised the people of Australia that within 3 years the economy will return to good health and the unemployment situation undoubtedly will improve. [More…]

• The facts are that the private sector of the economy is crucial to the health of our economy. [More…]

• Funds will continue to be made available for housing, education, employment, health, legal aid etc. [More…]

• That cut concerns the health, education, welfare and employment of people. [More…]

• I am sure that all those Aborigines who are deprived of satisfactory health care, welfare benefits, education and housing while the Government determines the ‘indiscriminate spending’ will be eternally grateful. [More…]

• We have also seen it in the area of health. [More…]

• Programs on health for young people on Friday mornings have been cut. [More…]

• I am aware of the concern about lassa fever and I have some information from the Minister for Health which I can give to the honourable senator. [More…]

• The Department is in touch with Health authorities in other countries, so that persons entering Australia who have been in contact overseas with any suspects can be traced rapidly. [More…]

• Medibank Private insurance must give to ensure Australian people are covered for health care. [More…]

• I will refer to the Minister for Health the specific matter in regard to Queensland and obtain information for the honourable senator. [More…]

• These are particularly housing, health, employment and education, all of which are interdependent. [More…]

• Among other things we have to contend with education systems and health services which inadequately serve our real needs, with the meanest standards of housing and, especially where Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders live in isolated communities and settlements, deficient community infrastructure services. [More…]

• I wish publicly to say ‘thank you’ to everybody who assisted the Committee in those 2 areas, particularly the specialists in the various fields of anthropology, health, education and so on, who went to very great lengths to produce documents setting out their views in specialist areas which assisted the [More…]

• Honourable senators will be aware that the handicapped children’s benefit was first introduced in 1968 under the National Health Act 1953-1968 and was incorporated in the Handicapped Persons Assistance Act 1974 when the Act was passed in 1974. [More…]

• We did this because of the known health hazards associated with tobacco and cigarettes and the incontrovertible evidence relating to those health hazards in relation to lung disease and heart disease. [More…]

• I notice that the Minister has referred to the fact that approaches have now been made to State health Ministers to see whether a consistent approach can be developed in relation to the banning of cigarettes and other products of that kind in other forms of the media. [More…]

• In a sense, I suppose, it results in unfairness and a degree of sloppiness in the administration of what might be described as a health program or a preventive medicine program in relation to the effects of tobacco and cigarettes. [More…]

• I suppose the answer to their question is that they constitute the first cab off the rank in terms of relative freedoms, because the evidence against the product of the tobacco industry in terms of health seems to me to be absolutely compelling. [More…]

• I do not think there is any doubt in the world about the health problems that are associated with cigarette smoking. [More…]

• I submit that this legislation probably would have been better if it had been prepared in consultation with the States and more on a health basis than within the portfolio of the Minister for Post and Telecommunications (Mr Eric Robinson). [More…]

• The provision became effective from 1 January 1 973, at which date it was obligatory on licensees to ensure that the warning Medical Authorities warn that smoking is a health hazard’ followed each advertisement for cigarettes and cigarette tobacco on broadcasting and television stations. [More…]

• The Labor Government adopted the attitude that if that form of smoking was a health hazard then, using the powers that were available to the Government, it should take action to ban that sort of advertising in media under the control of the Australian Government. [More…]

• I as Minister for the Media, and my colleague Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health, had discussions with officers of my Department and his Department and with highly competent officers, if I might say so, of the Australian Broadcasting Control Board. [More…]

• One can cast one’s mind back to the days when Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson was the Minister for Health when by his direction as Minister all advertisements had to have the footnote ‘Smoking is a health hazard’. [More…]

• Having said that, when one considers the revenue aspect of radio and television stations one also has to consider very seriously the health of this nation. [More…]

• I think it would be wrong of the Government, even though one can express concern about the revenue aspect for the electronic media, to go on encouraging cigarette smoking when the facts are clearly showing it is doing so much damage to the health of so many people in this country. [More…]

• I think it is only right that this Government has continued the previous policy which was initiated by Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson when Minister for Health finally to abolish and ban the advertising of cigarettes and cigarette tobacco. [More…]

• I emphasise that we must look at the whole situation rationally and accept the fact that whilst we are prepared no longer to support something that is injurious to the health of our community we will not totally abolish any opportunity for companies to give their support to the sporting bodies of this country. [More…]

• There would be very little point in my arguing the merits or otherwise of the legislation because I feel and am convinced that alcohol and driving are every bit as dangerous to health as smoking. [More…]

• Even within the rather peculiar value system of the present Prime Minister, one would wonder what the rationale would be for reducing spending on Aboriginal health programs by $lm. [More…]

• One would have thought that even in the judgment of values by the Prime Minister the expenditure of money on Aboriginal health programs would be seen as a good investment. [More…]

• This is not because people like the Prime Minister are usually very concerned about the health or welfare of people in any way. [More…]

• If money is spent on Aboriginal health programs- on actions that are likely to reduce the incidence of infantile disease, debility and so on- it will not be necessary to hospitalise more people later or perhaps to keep more of them in gaol later. [More…]

• It is not really surprising that we should be significantly concerned in areas of social security and national health. [More…]

• It was in the days of Sir Earle Page back in the 1930s that Australia first involved itself with a national health scheme. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• How effective does the Department of Health consider the vaccine to be. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health issued any recommendations to parents relating to the advisability of having their children vaccinated against measles. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It has also declared the health of all people is a basic human right. [More…]

• Believing that women have a major need for adequate, low-cost health care, the undersigned declare their wholehearted opposition to the changes intended by the present Government to Medibank, and affirm that any changes should be designed to further liberalise the original scheme, not to weaken it. [More…]

• I refer to the Superannuation Act, the National Health Amendment Act, the Broadcasting and Television Amendment Act and the Industrial Research and Development Incentives Act. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In Brisbane alone hundreds of people a month- in some months maybe thousands of people- receive these vaccinations from the Department of Health free of charge. [More…]

• It has also declared the health of all people is a basic human right. [More…]

• Believing that women have a major need for adequate, low-cost health care, the undersigned declare their wholehearted opposition to the changes intended by the present Government to Medibank, and affirm that any changes should be designed to further liberalise the original scheme, not to weaken it. [More…]

• That Medibank, as set up in July 1973, has proved to be the cheapest and most efficient means of bringing health care to Australian citizens and that the citizens of Australia have received Medibank as a great and valued social reform. [More…]

• That the above-mentioned form of Medibank has proved itself to be a far superior system of health care, than was offered by the private funds prior to July 1 975. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will observe the promise made by the Prime Minister in his policy speech that ‘We will maintain Medibank and ensure the standard of health care does not decline’. [More…]

• We submit that the current changes to Medibank negate the original philosophy; they introduce and encourage a tiered form of health care which relates more to the wishes of health care providers than the needs of the consumers. [More…]

• It has also declared the health of all people is a basic human right. [More…]

• Believing that women have a major need for adequate, low-cost health care, the undersigned declare their wholehearted opposition to the changes intended by the present Government to Medibank, and affirm that any changes should be designed to further liberalise the original scheme, not to weaken it. [More…]

• Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate, in Parliament assembled, should ensure that the agreements entered into between the Commonwealth and State of Queensland should be maintained and that Medibank should not be so altered either in cost or complexity so that it may no longer be available to all people of Australia as a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• That reduction of the age limit from six years to eighteen months for patients eligible to receive cows’ milk substitutes as a Pharmaceutical benefit under the schedules of the National Health Act will cause serious financial hardship to many families; [More…]

• Will this mean that exemption from paying the levy will not apply to those choosing Medibank standard in contrast with those choosing Medibank Private or private health fund insurance? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 76a of the National Health Act 1953 I present the annual report on the operations of the registered medical and hospital benefits organisations during the year ended 30 June 1976. [More…]

• There is a committee to look at the care of aged and infirm people and there is a committee to look at health, welfare, community developments and community based programs. [More…]

• It has the portfolios of Health, Transport, [More…]

• I turn now to the health care system. [More…]

• My colleague Senator Grimes, who is the Opposition’s spokesman in this area, has on several occasions been able to blow the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) to pieces over the types of pamphlets which are supposed to be supplying information to the public. [More…]

• Even though the private health funds are able to offer bargain prices at the moment, they will not be able to do so when their reserves run out. [More…]

• I understand that submissions are being prepared, which should go to Cabinet some time shortly, recommending that the Government hand over virtually all health care to the gentle touch of the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly. [More…]

• The last time the Assembly had control of health they did not do a very good job at all. [More…]

• The Authority will provide for and administer Aboriginal health services in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The Joint Committee on the Northern Territory recommended that all State type functions, including health, should be vested in the one Federal Minister. [More…]

• Apparently the majority group has expressed a view to the appropriate department and which will be accepted by the Cabinet, that it wants to participate in the control of health services. [More…]

• Funds for health have been reduced. [More…]

• It has cut down expenditure in many fields, including accommodation for the aged, homeless persons, Aborigines, hospitals, health- all sorts of capital works. [More…]

• The same applies to the welfare health task force set up to find a job for a couple of displaced public servants. [More…]

• It ought to be clearly understood in this chamber and around Australia that in the area which I see as being fundamental to social welfare, that is in the area of the health of the economy and in the restoration of full employment, the Government has done an enormous amount in the time which it has had. [More…]

• They require the money that was made available to them last year for women’s refuges, health care centres and the like. [More…]

• BUDGET CUTS TO WOMEN’S REFUGES AND HEALTH CENTRES ARE BETWEEN 35-50 PER CENT OF LAST YEAR’S FIGURES. [More…]

• A survey conducted in July 1 976 by the Mental Health Association for the New South Wales Government, showed - [More…]

• Whereas taxation information has to be made available to the private health funds. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved to be the cheapest and most efficient means of bringing health care to Australian citizens and that the citizens of Australia have received Medibank as a great and valued social reform. [More…]

• That Medibank has proved itself to be a far superior system of health care than was offered by the private funds prior to July 1975. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will observe the promsie made by the Prime Minister in his policy speech that ‘We will maintain Medibank and ensure the standard of health care does not decline’. [More…]

• The question is about alleged misleading information in a booklet produced by the Commonwealth Department of Health: How to Choose the Health Insurance Cover That’s Right for You. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Has the Government’s attention been drawn to the latest issue of the A.M.A. [More…]

• How do I pay for my Health Care after October 1? [More…]

• As far as private insurance is concerned, we would be wanting to see it put before the Australian people that Medibank private insurance is able to compete with private health funds for many of the services. [More…]

• If any advertising is misleading I feel sure that the Minister for Health will take action. [More…]

• I draw to the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health the announcement yesterday that medical practitioners have agreed to limit fee increases for 1 977 and that they have agreed to reduce fees for pathology services. [More…]

• I am aware of the statement made yesterday by the Minister for Health and I think, as has been stated in an answer to a question, those are the facts. [More…]

• The restraint by the doctors in the level of fee increases is welcomed by all who need to pay for the medical and health services of this country. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to the new Medibank arrangements. [More…]

• It would be understood that the funding for rape crisis centres is a matter for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I also mention the changes in the National Health Act to substitute ‘the Permanent Head’ for ‘the Director-General of Health’. [More…]

• In referring briefly to some of the hardships which are imposed by the Budget I should like to mention, first of all, what has been done in the field of health and social welfare. [More…]

• Expenditure in real terms on health services has been reduced by some 12 per cent over the last year of expenditure under the Federal Labor Government. [More…]

• It is equivalent to an expenditure of $ 165m annually and it affects particularly adversely the community health program, the school dental program and the family planning program. [More…]

• The situation is compounded by the fact that the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, which we understand is shortly to be abolished, has estimated that some 15 to 20 per cent of Australians are living in areas which have totally inadequate community health services. [More…]

• The health services for Aborigines have been allocated Sim less than in 1975-76 despite the fact that the present Attorney-General (Mr Ellicott), when he was the Opposition spokesman on Aboriginal Affairs, promised before the last general election that there would be no cut whatsoever in the moneys to be made available for Aboriginal services. [More…]

• I have very grave doubts whether Senator Withers yet knows whether he is going to take out additional cover with Medibank or with a private health fund. [More…]

• As I said, this was done contrary to promises that were given and was done as pan of a general program of undermining health services for the Australian people. [More…]

• There certainly are countries which have much more lavish social services and much higher expenditure on education and health than Australia has. [More…]

• There is nothing wrong with the Scandinavian universal health system. [More…]

• I come to my third example of areas which are of some worry because they are uncertain areas under the Budget, namely, the community health centres area. [More…]

• The States have indicated to the community health centre organisations, which want to build and which have been promised money for some years now, that no further ventures will be financed this year. [More…]

• It would be a great shame if money were not used in such areas, in a non-inflationary way, to encourage the building of community health centres which could be operative in the relatively near future. [More…]

• Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate, in Parliament assembled, should ensure that the agreements entered into between the Commonwealth and the State of Queensland should be maintained and that Medibank should not be so altered either in cost or complexity so that it may no longer be available to all people of Australia as a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Treasurer the following question: Is it true that unless Commonwealth employees have filled in a health insurance levy exemption claim form- that is the yellow one that has not always been available at places where it should have been- and lodged it with their employer by Thursday this week they will have the 2Vi per cent levy deducted from their pay for October and not have it repaid to them until after the end of the financial year? [More…]

• Further, as individuals do not have to join the health funds of their choice until the end of this month, will the Government see that its employees are not forced to make this loan to the Taxation Office which of course pays it back but does not pay it back with interest as many people feel it should? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is usual for warnings to be given in the media by the various authorities concerned with public health in the States. [More…]

• Details of the action to be taken to warn the public will be discussed with State health authorities at the meeting of the Public Health Advisory Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council, which is to be held on 16 and 17 September 1976. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Social Security, concerns domiciliary nursing care and it refers to the application of section 58e of the National Health Act. [More…]

• As it is 4 years since this matter was brought into the Parliament, I ask the Minister whether she will be good enough to discuss it with her colleague the Minister for Health with a view to reducing that limitation? [More…]

• Thi Health Insurance Levy Assessment Act 1976 which received royal assent on 4 June 1976 authorised an increase, in appropriate cases, ir the amount of provisional tax liability foi 1976-77 to incorporate a component represent ing health insurance levy. [More…]

• Under that legislation the Commissioner of Taxation is empowered to refrain from increasing the amount of provisional tax payable to include the levy component if, from the information that he has or obtains, it appears that the taxpayer has exercised his option to take out private health insurance cover or is likely to do so. [More…]

• Appropriate procedures have already been devised to effect this arrangement and the Commissioner of Taxation has also sought the assistance of tax agents by asking them to indicate in their clients’ returns whether they have exercised their option to take out private health insurance. [More…]

• A taxpayer who has opted out of Medibank and who receives notice of provisional tax payable which includes a component of health insurance levy may apply to the Commissioner for a variation of his provisional tax payable. [More…]

• Act, which is deemed to have come into operation on 19 January 1976; the National Health Amendment Act; and the Roads Grants Act. [More…]

• In addition to the committee which at the present time is inquiring into the care of the aged and infirm, the Government has appointed a task force to examine welfare services and community-based welfare programs in the health, welfare and community development areas. [More…]

• Unfortunately I do not have it with me but it was from the headquarters of the Aborigines and Islanders Community Health Service in Brisbane and said that because of the cutbacks in government expenditure on Aboriginal affairs, in future Aborigines would have to pay for their own prescriptions. [More…]

• Is this fair to the Aboriginal people who for reasons beyond their control are not able to do the things they would like to do in their own Health Service? [More…]

• Our funds have been slashed to the extent that there will be no new acquisitions this current year which means that a number of people will continue to live in old motor cars on the banks of creeks or on the commons of country towns, will continue to go to their friends in overcrowded homes that some Aboriginal people do happen to have, will continue to cause health hazards in those homes because of overcrowding, will continue to cause problems for the Aboriginal people who happen to be living in those houses because of neighbours complaining and health authorities saying that they cannot live there. [More…]

• As with education facilities, medical assistance generally is concentrated in city or regional areas and thus Aboriginal people and their families need to visit these centres to obtain health care. [More…]

• Still, health is one of many problems besetting Aboriginal people, alcohol is another. [More…]

• Many of such people are forced to sleep in unsanitary and hazardous conditions in parks, railway stations, culverts and abandoned cars at some personal and health risk or are forced to overcrowd family or kin resident households possibly causing anxiety, financial difficulties, and stress for all concerned. [More…]

• Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Health (through third parties)- alcoholic rehabilitation programs [More…]

• State and Federal Departments of Health- General health care programs are often ineffective in the face of overcrowding and poor living conditions. [More…]

• The cost of ineffective education, health and employment programs which are rendered ineffective by the lack of suitable accommodation for the Aboriginal client group [More…]

• To conclude, the provision of hostels is not an isolated activity which can be increased or decreased at will because the effectiveness of so much other Aboriginal Affairs expenditure relates to or hinges upon of all such programs to the Aboriginal community would improve measurably with a continuity of hostel acquisition particularly as it relates to other government outlays on Aboriginal employment and training, secondary and study grants, alcoholic rehabilitation, hospital and health services and the care of young children. [More…]

• This is consistent, too, with the underthetable agreement being made by the Australian Department of Health and a National Country Party dominated Legislative Assembly in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• A secret deal is being made to take over the health of the people in the Northern Territory for administration by a commission. [More…]

• A critical complication is caused by sewerage seeping to the natural water contained in the swamp, posing a continual health risk to the community, particularly to adventurous children. [More…]

• Health authorities are reticent in providing information on how many people have been stricken by this virus in the past few years. [More…]

• However if we look at the Budget we will see that the health programs through Aboriginal organisations will be maintained at the same level. [More…]

• The suspension of capital works for Aboriginal development normally carried out by the Departments of Health, Education and Construction was also reflected in the balance of the reduced figure- in line with the Government’s decision to limit Capital Works . [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs aware of an article in the Medical Journal of Australia setting out details of a study carried out by a medical team from Brisbane’s Mater Children’s Hospital and the Queensland Department of Health? [More…]

• Will the Minister take appropriate action to investigate the health care methods used under the direction of the Queensland Department of Aboriginal and Islander Advancement and if necessary make available additional funding and medical teams to overcome the infant mortality rate which is now double the current mortality rate in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• I am aware of many of the facts relating to Aboriginal health and mortality. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation is familiar with the laboratory tests employed to ensure that these imports comply with Australian quality and health standards? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As it is not known how long it will take for a determination to be made if the matter is referred to the Trade Practices Commission, will the Minister ascertain as quickly as possible whether the Health Insurance Commission can produce information for the public to refute the 8 incorrect and damaging assertions about Medibank cover compared with cover by HBA? [More…]

• I will refer the question to my colleagues the Minister for Health and the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. [More…]

• We want to see that accurate information is given to the public throughout Australia so as to enable people to make a choice as to what health insurance they require for themselves and their families. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health provide the Senate with details of the World Health Organisation conference in Geneva, held from 3 1 August to 7 September, relating to the preservation of foodstuffs by irradiation, which I believe was found to be dangerous? [More…]

• I do not have the information immediately available with regard to the World Health Organisation conference or the irradiation of foodstuffs. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer. [More…]

• The family to which I referred, Mr and Mrs Green of Lock, is in a fairly awkward position because Mr Green does not enjoy good health. [More…]

• At page 646 of Hansard I referred to Medibank and I want to refer to it again because today I received a letter from the Minister for Health, dated 15 September. [More…]

• You will have received several Press statements concerning the new health insurance arrangements which take effect from 1 October, together with a supply of the booklet ‘How to choose the Health Insurance that ‘s right for you ‘. [More…]

• I have now forwarded to you separately further material which will assist in dealing with public inquiries about the new health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• Medibank pamphlet and rates calculator if applicable to your State and notes from the Taxation Office on tax aspects of health insurance. [More…]

• I would be grateful for your continuing co-operation in providing information about the new health insurance arrangements in your electorate. [More…]

• With only 16 days to go before we must all toss a coin and decide which health scheme to join, it is not very reassuring to know that Health Minister Ralph Hunt still has his problems. [More…]

• Since March we have had 3 Ministers for Foreign Affairs, 3 Ministers for Defence, 3 Ministers for Health,’ 3 Ministers for Education and Science, 3 Attorneys-General, 2 Treasurers, 2 Ministers for Labour and National Service, 2 Ministers for Immigration, 2 Ministers for the Navy, 2 Ministers for Housing, 2 Ministers for Aboriginal Affairs and 2 Ministers for Supply. [More…]

• Honourable senators may recall that when introducing the National Health Amendment Bill 1976 the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) stated, in another place, that the provisions in the [More…]

• Bill would be fully discussed with registered health benefits organisations in view of the sinificance of the provisions for those organisations. [More…]

• At the time when the Bill was being debated I also gave an assurance, on behalf of the Minister, that during the winter recess the provisions of the Bill would be carefully considered in the light of the comments made by honourable senators and members, and others, with the objective of achieving the most suitable arrangements for conducting private health insurance. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate provides for further amendments to the National Health Act which the Government is proposing as a result of its discussions and deliberations during the winter recess. [More…]

• The Government proposals for reorganising Medibank, have we believe, made the first real attempt to come to grips with the enormous escalation in health costs, while maintaining the principle of universal health insurance. [More…]

• When introducing the National Health Amendment Bill 1976, 1 indicated to honourable senators that the cost of this hospital-only insurance for a person remaining in Medibank standard was estimated at $ 1 35 a year or $2.60 a week- at the family rate- and would be payable in addition to the levy. [More…]

• When the contribution rates for Medibank private health insurance were being determined it became apparent that the family contribution rates for the standard hospital benefits tables would exceed $2.60 a week. [More…]

• The decision to vary the existing reinsurance account provisions was made following discussions with representatives of registered health benefits organisations and the changes are designed to cause the arrangements to operate more equitably and efficiently. [More…]

• As a result of the Government’s decision that the Health Insurance Commission should operate registered hospital and medical benefits funds, it is not considered necessary for the Minister to have the power in all situations to direct an organisation to accept a person as a contributor. [More…]

• However, it is considered that the Minister should have the power to direct an organisation to accept a person as a contributor, where he is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds to believe that the person was not accepted as a contributor to a standard benefits table on health grounds. [More…]

• These amendments are necessitated by the inclusion, by the National Health Amendment Act 1976, in section 4, of a revised definition of ‘contributor’ which does not include a reference to dependants of contributors. [More…]

• The Bill also provides for the continuation of Commonwealth payments in respect of late claims lodged by contributors to any organisations deregistered, with effect from 1 October 1976, under the transitional provisions in section 42 of the National Health Amendment Act 1 976. [More…]

• The Bill provides for the repeal of schedule 2 to the Health Insurance Act 1973, which sets out heads of agreement and for a new Schedule to be substituted. [More…]

• It is envisaged that the committees established to give effect to that head will comprise Commonwealth and State officials and that the budgets and variations to the budgets formulated by the committees will be subject to approval by the Commonwealth Minister for Health and the relevant State Minister. [More…]

• I wish to remind honourable senators that a privately insured person in this context is a person who is covered for benefits in accordance with both the standard hospital benefits table and the standard medical benefits table operated by health insurance organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Government announced, during June 1976, its decision that the Health Insurance Commission should be authorised to carry on private health insurance business in competition with the private health insurance organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• It further provides that the Commission, in carrying out this new role as a registered organisation under the National Health Act, shall be subject to all the provisions of that Act and regulations relating to the conduct of medical and hospital benefits funds by registered organisations. [More…]

• The Commission therefore will have the same rights and obligations under the National Health Act and regulations as other registered organisations. [More…]

• The Government proposes that to the greatest extent practicable the Commission should use the same staff, buildings and equipment in carrying out its private health insurance functions as it uses for its other functions. [More…]

• The Bill therefore provides for the Commission to determine, and whenever appropriate, re-determine, principles in accordance with which it is to apportion to its private health insurance functions and its other functions, costs related to its functions as a whole, such as salaries. [More…]

• These principles are to be subject to approval by the Minister for Health who shall consider the advice of the Auditor-General in relation to the principles before approving them. [More…]

• The Bill further provides for the Commission to determine notional amounts of expenditure it would have incurred in respect of its private health insurance functions had it not been an authority of the Commonwealth and exempt from taxation. [More…]

• Examples of these costs that private health insurers have to meet are payroll tax, sales tax, stamp duty and rates. [More…]

• The Bill also provides that the Minister may pay amounts to a State, a State authority or local governing body equivalent to the amounts which he considers would have been payable to them in connection with the Commission ‘s private health insurance operations had the Commission not been an authority of the Commonwealth and exempt from taxation. [More…]

• Separate financial statements are to be prepared, in the form approved by the Treasurer, for the Commission’s private health insurance operations and its other functions. [More…]

• The Bill provides for the financial separation of the Commission’s private health insurance operations to be reinforced by providing for the Commission to maintain separate bank accounts for those operations from 1 April 1977. [More…]

• There is provision in the Bill for the Commission to receive capital advances out of moneys appropriated by the Parliament to enable it to establish and conduct its private health insurance operations. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate also provides for the Commission to borrow moneys with the approval of the Treasurer for its private health insurance operations and for it to invest moneys standing to the credit of its hospital and medical benefits funds. [More…]

• The Government’s intention is that the Treasurer would provide such guarantees only in the early years of the Commission’s private health insurance operations before it has built up reserves which it could give as security for its borrowings. [More…]

• I consider that the framework within which the Government proposes the Commission operate as a registered health insurance organisation will enable it to compete on equal terms with other registered organisations. [More…]

• The Bill provides for the repeal of existing Part 1 1a of the Act which provides for persons to be exempted from the health insurance levy by becoming Medibank contributors. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister for Social Security in her capacity as Minister for Social Security or as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Social Security in her dual capacity as Minister for Social Security and Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It refers to Medibank and health insurance. [More…]

• Would the Minister consider discussing with the Minister for Health the need for a wide television campaign which would make known to the ordinary citizen the options which are available and upon which he should decide, so that more could be aware of the action which they should take to complete their obligations? [More…]

• I shall draw to the attention of the Minister for Health the matter raised by the honourable senator. [More…]

• It is understood that there has been for some time a campaign to advise people of the options and benefits now available either in the Medibank or the private health insurance systems. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• However, I shall draw this matter to the attention of the Minister for Health and obtain an answer as soon as possible. [More…]

• Can the Minister assure the Senate that persons who have not lodged health insurance levy exemption forms with their employers by today, and who subsequently purchase private health insurance on or before 1 October, will not have to make an extended loan to the Taxation Office if the levy is deducted from their salary? [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that Dr John Herron, the Chairman of the Australian Surgeons Association in Queensland and- if one can believe the Brisbane Telegraph- the leading contender to replace Mr John Moore as Queensland State President of the Liberal Party, has publicly advised people not to join Medibank Private? [More…]

• In view of the widespread publicity given to Dr Herron ‘s attack on Medibank Private at a crucial time when all Australians are reaching their decisions regarding personal health insurance, will the Minister take this opportunity to repudiate Dr Herron ‘s warnings on what he has referred to as ‘the long term implications’ of Medibank Private? [More…]

• As an alternative, it gives choice to people if they wish to insure with private health funds. [More…]

• I shall examine the other matters raised by the honourable senator and refer them to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is this not a distortion of the facts, as the Government already has allocated $2.5m to the State for community health services and women’s shelters come within that category? [More…]

• It is a fact that in this year’s Budget the Government gave block grants to the State governments for projects which had been developed under the community health program. [More…]

• In giving block grants to the States the Commonwealth Government announced that it places emphasis on the development of community based health services. [More…]

• In the field of health care the Government believed that there was room for a major devolution of responsibility and, as a consequence, gave the block grants that I have mentioned. [More…]

• This Bill, together with another that I shall introduce shortly, seeks Parliament’s agreement to some changes in the health insurance levy arrangements that were approved earlier this year. [More…]

• This authority will be exercised to exempt pensioners who are entitled to pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• Pensioners who have an entitlement to pensioners health benefits will, like people covered by repatriation and Defence Force arrangements, be freed from the levy. [More…]

• Age pensioners entitled to pensioner fringe benefits, as well as repatriation beneficiaries are Service personnel, will thus continue to receive the special consideration that has long been extended to them in the field of health care. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Against this increase were offset reductions in the cost for services which will not be eligible for medical benefits as a consequence of the changes made in the health insurance arrangements to apply from 1 October 1976, e.g., services to overseas visitors to Australia, workers compensation, motor vehicle third party insurance. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The following details concerning domiciliary nursing care benefit have been supplied by my colleague, the Minister for Health: [More…]

• I might add by way of explanation that this benefit is paid on a ‘per fortnight’ basis commencing from the beginning of the first pay-period following the date of receipt of the relevant application in the Department of Health and continuing until the end of the pay-period in which eligibility ceases. [More…]

• -The question might well be directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health as the main body of it applies to the health of the Australian public. [More…]

• It seemed to me that it would be a major contribution to the health of the Australian community, particularly that of children, if we were to publicise the fact that on that day ABC television would directly telecast the eclipse. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• What is the Minister for Health proposing to do in the near future to avoid dangers arising out of this civil war between doctors to the health of Canberra residents, not to mention any member of this Parliament who may have the misfortune to fall sick in this city? [More…]

• The report by Professor Hughes of the working party has been sent to the Capital Territory Health Commission, the Australian Capital Territory Medical Association and the Staff Specialists Council for consideration and report to the Minister for Health by 24 September. [More…]

• Before making any decisions on the recommendations contained in the report or making the report generally available the Minister for Health feels that he should await the comments from the Commission and the other 2 bodies. [More…]

• They made various statements, scurrilous and possibly defamatory, against dedicated people working within the Department of Health in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Other erroneous statements such as: No Aboriginal people being employed by the Department of Health ‘ were made. [More…]

• In fact, more than half of the people employed within the Department of Health are Aboriginal people. [More…]

• They comprise hospital assistants, health workers, a nursing sister and also a traditional healer. [More…]

• However, I understand that the Department of Health staff organisations wish to check the This Day Tonight program and have requested a copy of the interviews but have been refused by the ABC. [More…]

• I accept it also because in my own duties as Minister for Education I find myself, in common with the Minister for Health and the Minister for the Northern Territory, constantly associating with the health activities in the Territory. [More…]

• I make it perfectly clear that those who tend to say in the first place that the Aborigines are not involved in government mattersin health, education or otherwise- are in fact not accurately reporting the scene. [More…]

• -The Senate is debating together the second readings of the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976, the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976 and the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The name of Medibank may well remain but there will be a return- this is one stage in that return- to the concept of health insurance which we had before the election of the former Labor Government. [More…]

• For a long time the Labor Party proposed a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The proposal was opposed implacably by members of the present Government, by the Australian Medical Association and some other medical organisations, and was violently opposed by the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• We were told of the inevitable deterioration of health care in this country. [More…]

• It had consultations with professional groups and health funds and compromises were made. [More…]

• It acknowledged that Medibank had indeed become a part of our health scene and was accepted by the community. [More…]

• In more recent weeks Medibank offices and health fund offices have been flooded with confused people. [More…]

• Such is the Government’s haste to placate the private health funds which assisted it so much with finance and other help during the election campaign. [More…]

• For instance start from clause 1 of the first Bill, the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The health insurance funds will get the kudos and they want it and need it because the main basis of their advertising and the main attraction that they think they have for the community is that they can provide intermediate cover. [More…]

• Clause 20 of the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The Government wishes to encourage people to join private health funds and we will have words to say later about whether that is desirable. [More…]

• The Government is again subsidising the private health funds. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• This racket has been the bugbear of health insurance costs in this country for many years. [More…]

• It certainly attempts to overcome a very great problem in health insurance in this country. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• It gives the statutory corporation, Medibank, the right to take part in private health insurance in this country. [More…]

• Hence the voluntary private health funds survived very well on private hospital insurance. [More…]

• Private health insurance will now be available from a statutory body and we are beastly careless about this. [More…]

• Perhaps it is a result of the experience of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) in dealing with the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• We know that Prime Ministers and Ministers for Health since the days of Prime Minister Gorton have had a rough time with the voluntary health funds, have had a very bad time trying to negotiate with them and have suffered from the mischievous, corrupt and inaccurate advertising in which these groups have taken part against governments of both political persuasions. [More…]

• There is some hope for the conservatives on the opposite side, because yesterday Senator Townley roundly criticised the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health for taking out their private insurance with Medibank Private. [More…]

• Senator Townley said that the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health, in taking out their private insurance with Medibank Private, were supporting a socialist organisation. [More…]

• The Bills, apart from correcting the mistakes of the Government’s previous hasty action, do nothing to encourage a rational health care system in this country. [More…]

• Perhaps they were not intended to improve health care in this country. [More…]

• They certainly do nothing to cut the costs of health care in this country. [More…]

• When we are talking about the 2 later Bills we will talk about this and the effect of the changes on the total cost of health care in this country. [More…]

• The Bills do nothing to encourage the development of rational health care, nor do they do anything to encourage even the discussion of new methods of health care, new approaches to the delivery of health care in this country. [More…]

• The Government has encouraged further the breakdown of such development by refusing to fund community health centre programs, thus destroying another avenue of health care in this country. [More…]

• Every country, including the United States, realises that one of the biggest problems in health services is unnecessary operations, unnecessary pathology and unnecessary prescribing. [More…]

• In the minute left to methere will be plenty of time in the Committee stage- I just want to say that these Bills encourage the expansion of the fee for service system, they discourage people from utilising the public health system, they dismantle Medibank as the public knows it and as the public has come to accept it, they pander to the desires of the voluntary health funds in this country to accumulate vast sums of money and to utilise that money in a manner which is not to the benefit of their contributors. [More…]

• I rise to support the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• Now, through Medibank, patients can opt for their own doctor in a hospital of their choice, in a bed of their choice, and have the additional choice of a private health fund if they so desire. [More…]

• Proper business procedures had to be introduced, and one of the economic problems that had been created was the health scheme which was turning into an economic dragon with an insatiable appetite and which threatened to devour massive slabs of our revenue. [More…]

• Therefore the Government had to reorganise the health scheme in an economic package. [More…]

• I think that we often lose sight of the fact that the health scheme is part of a three-fold economic package including the family allowance and tax indexation. [More…]

• As I appreciated the urgency of these Bills because of budgetary considerations and the desire of the Government to implement administrative changes by 1 October I offered no resistance to these measures, having had an assurance from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and Senator Guilfoyle that those objections would be obviated during the Budget session. [More…]

• It appears that either the clauses which I queried in the original debate have been directly amended to cover the points raised relating to health funds or the effects of amendments to other sections of the Act will meet previous objections. [More…]

• True to his word, the Minister for Health examined the measures during the winter recess and has now presented changes which meet all major objections. [More…]

• If these costs could be assessed separately, Medibank Private could then be absolutely competitive with private health funds. [More…]

• However, I would be grateful if the Minister for Health would keep this matter under review in the hope that ultimately he will find a way to overcome the compulsion for these people to belong to Medibank when they object through religious beliefs to attending a doctor or going to hospital. [More…]

• These Bills when passed will provide the foundation for a more effective and rational health service in Australia. [More…]

• I thank the Minister for Health and Senator Guilfoyle for their cooperation in re-examining the passages that previously were of concern to me and other honourable senators. [More…]

• High Quality Health Care for You and Your Family. [More…]

• Senator Grimes outlined how the Liberal and National Country parties have maintained continuous opposition to the Labor Party’s universal health insurance schemes. [More…]

• He outlined how the Labor Party when in Opposition put forward proposals for a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The head or Australia’s private health funds has urged every doctor throughout the nation to persuade his patients to boycott Medibank Private. [More…]

• Mr W. K. Moon, president of the Voluntary Health Insurance Association, representing 57 private health funds, sent a letter to all doctors as the battle to attract contributors by October 1 heats up. [More…]

• But the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has stated that the Committee’s comments and decisions were considered when the Government was working out its revised Medibank scheme. [More…]

• The Minister for Health gave details of proposed modifications. [More…]

• This statement went on to say that medium and low income earners could remain in Medibank by paying a levy and, in addition, could pay an extra premium to a private health fund for insurance cover only. [More…]

• There is a number of other aspects in the changes announced on 20 May, one of which was that from 1 October this year, when the new Medibank is to take effect, premiums or levies for health insurance, whether paid to Medibank or to a private health fund, would no longer be tax rebatable. [More…]

• On 8 June, only shortly after we had gone into recess, the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health jointly announced that Cabinet had decided to allow Medibank to offer intermediate and private hospital accommodation insurance for those people who wished to take out full cover with Medibank. [More…]

• Thus, Medibank would be able to compete directly with the private health funds at the intermediate or private bed levels. [More…]

• On 22 July 1976 the Minister for Health announced that a ceiling of $300 per annum had been set on the 2 te per cent levy which previously had been open-ended. [More…]

• They want a simple and effective health system. [More…]

• I make that point because one of the members of the House of Representatives, Mr Donald Cameron, who lives in the same city as I do, when speaking in the debate on the Health Insurance Bill (No. [More…]

• As I said, the constituents I represent want a simple and effective health system. [More…]

• Confusion, uncertainty, disquiet and a fair measure of anger- this is the mood of the country as the October I starting date approaches for the patched-together national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The new health scheme is a monstrous touch-up of Labor’s extravagant Medibank proposals meshed with the old private funds in a highly unsatisfactory compromise . [More…]

• I should have thought that the Opposition, the perpetrators of nationalised health, would have been more pleased with the action the Government has taken than its members have shown in the debate. [More…]

• Indeed, they are all required to supply an immense amount of statistical data to a huge central computer- data which is largely irrelevant to peoples’ health care, but certainly data which can lead to a lot more government control of patients and government control of the medical profession. [More…]

• I should have thought that the Opposition would think that Medibank, that is Medibank (Private), was on a self destruct course at the moment, particularly if it were forced into open and free competition with the private health funds. [More…]

• No bureaucratic fund could be expected to provide services at the cheaper cost of the private health funds. [More…]

• I remind honourable senators of a quotation I have previously made in the Senate, that is that socialised health is the keystone in the arch of a socialised state. [More…]

• I think that eventually there will be peer review groups for anybody who charges for delivering or performing any health service, particularly if government has anything to do with subsidising that service. [More…]

• As I said, the PSROs are being brought in on the specious grounds that they will elevate our health care. [More…]

• Actually, when one looks at these Bills one sees that they merely institute a health insurance system and have nothing to do with health care. [More…]

• I submit that our health standards in Australia are among the highest in the world today. [More…]

• It brought in Medibank not to give us better health but to give the Government control of the people. [More…]

• -Before the sitting of the Senate was suspended for dinner I was saying in regard to the 3 health insurance Bills before us that the present Government inherited the Medibank scheme from the previous Labor Government. [More…]

• This Government spent a lot of time, work and thought on revamping the whole scheme so that the people of Australia can have a wider choice of a better set of health insurance companies than they had before. [More…]

• The idea was to give back to the people control of their health care. [More…]

• I had been making the point that we must be careful not to go down the road followed by other countries which have strict Government control of all their national health schemes. [More…]

• The big thing for the whole country is to go for better health care. [More…]

• Finance is one thing but health is another. [More…]

• They were introduced in those countries on the basis that they were going to elevate health standards but experience over the last 10 years has shown that far from elevating them they have depressed them. [More…]

• It introduced Medibank not to give us better health care but to give it greater control over people. [More…]

• The second reason for which they were introduced was to accredit not only doctors and their surgeries but also hospitals, laboratories and equipment- indeed, all buildings and equipment or anything else used to deliver health services to people. [More…]

• Honourable senators can see that before any of these PSROs can operate they have to gather a mass of information that is totally irrelevant to the standard of health care achieved. [More…]

• We will not get better health care as a result of these PSROs. [More…]

• On the contrary, I think we will get worse health care. [More…]

• While on that point I would like to refer to what the Department of Health has required from the medical insurance companies. [More…]

• The Australian Department of Health sent a circular to medical insurance companies informing them of the data that would have to be supplied, and supplied on a service-by-service basis. [More…]

• I think we can profit from the experience of people overseas, because they have been through some miserable times as a result of government interference in health care. [More…]

• Let us hope that now, with this scheme, Australians can go on to better and better health care. [More…]

• I wish honourable senators good health. [More…]

• I refer to a misuse of the health services, not by the people who require the services but by the doctors who supply the services. [More…]

• A substantial section of the profession, not the whole of the profession, misuses the system to the disadvantage of the community and to the disadvantage of the government of the day which must meet the costs of a health care service. [More…]

• Surely the health care system of this country ought not to be denied the right to see that there is no abuse economically or no abuse of the standard of service. [More…]

• We are not speaking about a health delivery service as such. [More…]

• The rapid escalation of costs, the lack of self-discipline inherent in the system and the Opposition’s paranoid concern for controlling people, in their health care right down the line- these things are the most evident aspects of that blueprint that Labor drew in May 1974 and which would have wreaked disaster upon this country in the years ahead. [More…]

• Fortunately the Fraser Government was elected in December 1975 and it has approached the issue from an administrative point of view having due regard to the concerns that are really worrying the people- the cost of their care, their choice and the real interests that they have in choosing their own form of health care. [More…]

• One of the main objections to the previous private health care system was that it possibly did not meet the needs of those with longer term chronic illnesses. [More…]

• The pool will meet the costs of their health care for the full year. [More…]

• It is interesting to note that 30 per cent of pensioners are still insured privately, so even persons on incomes of their level are still interested in choosing the form of health care that they want. [More…]

• Yet we find that today even 70 per cent of the people are still carrying private health insurance- 15 months after Medibank came into being. [More…]

• We have the most efficient private health care funds. [More…]

• The Mutual Hospital Association Ltd and the National Health Services Association of South Australia are the most efficient private insurers in Australia. [More…]

• Mr Hayden-we cannot quite figure out these days whether he is shadowing Defence, Treasury, Health or any other departmentreferred to private hospitals as surgical mills. [More…]

• He referred to them as though they were in a way a sort of parasite on the health system. [More…]

• Obviously private hospitals have a very important part to play in the overall health scheme in Australia. [More…]

• The whole system as it is now envisaged by providing both for private and public hospitals will make sure that costs are minimised in those areas and that choice and a standard of health care at a maximum level are maintained. [More…]

• The identification of the cost via the imposition of the levy will certainly make sure that individual subscribers to the health funds have due regard to the costs which they are incurring in the health area. [More…]

• This, of course, will impose its own system of control on the costs of running the health scheme throughout Australia. [More…]

• Costs have risen massively in the health area since 1972. [More…]

• On comparing my own average costs over the year I find that whereas in 1972 I was spending net after tax $200 on health care by way of contribution to a private fund and payments to doctors in hospitals, today the costs have escalated to something like $500. [More…]

• In regard to the total cost of health care in 1972, 1 make the point that whereas in that year costs for health care throughout Australia, including medical benefits and hospital benefits, were of the order of $390m, it looks as though for 1976 the total will be nearly $ 1,960m. [More…]

• The private health funds were providing benefits for a range of activities whereas Medibank last year was providing one standard benefit. [More…]

• The Government proposals for reorganising Medibank, have we believe, made the first real attempt to come to grips with the enormous escalation in health costs, while maintaining the principle of universal health insurance. [More…]

• The Bills which are currently being debated by the Senate are 3 of those 5 Bills which legislate for the Government’s proposed changes to the Medibank health and hospital policy. [More…]

• Nevertheless, I do not think it will be denied that this particular Government is more than sympathetic to the views of the Australian Medical Association, the medical profession in general and, in particular, the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• Secondly, of course, the Government by its own publicly stated intention hopes to force 50 per cent of the people out of the existing Medibank scheme and back into private health insurance funds. [More…]

• He gave his opinion that the estimate of the additional administrative costs incurred by the complexity and the confusion arising from the Government’s legislation on these health and medical Bills would double the administrative costs of providing health services. [More…]

• As recently as 1 5 August, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) issued a statement saying that all pensioners currently paying income tax would be subject to the Medibank levy. [More…]

• No suggestion was contained in it of provision being made in the legislation for the Health Insurance Commission to enter into competition for private insurance. [More…]

• On the major statement on this issue made by the Minister for Health on 20 May, the Government’s case appeared to rest almost entirely on the belief stated by the Minister that the imposition of a levy or, alternatively, the payment of an insurance premium would impose some discipline and restrictions upon the use, or particularly, the misuse, of medical services. [More…]

• It was argued by the Minister for Health that when people could see that they actually had to pay for these services the hypochondriacs would cease pestering doctors and doctors, because they wanted to maintain private practice and the fee for service systems, would cease encouraging patients to demand superfluous medical services or superfluous surgery and so on. [More…]

• It was argued by the Minister for Health and has been argued by a number of Government spokesmen since that the fact that people would be paying either a levy or a premium would deter these practices, firstly by the hypochondriacs and secondly by the venal doctors. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has argued and the Government has based most of its case on a naive belief that the hypochondriacs will stop pestering doctors because they believe that if they pester the doctors more the health insurance premium that they are paying will rise microscopically. [More…]

• Dr Richardson, the honourable member for Tangney, asserted that what doctors called ‘iatrogenic’ illness was caused by Medibank and similar health insurance schemes. [More…]

• It was argued by Dr Richardson that every country in the world that had a scheme similar to Medibank was rampant with iatrogenic illness and that this was caused by health insurance and so on. [More…]

• What he neglected to mention and what totally destroys the argument he tried to put forward is the fact that the United States is held up by the medical profession in this country, the United Kingdom and by those reactionary sections of the medical profession anywhere in the world where a national health scheme operates as a perfect model of the practice of medicine incorporating the system of free enterprise. [More…]

• When members of the Liberal Party raise the argument of freedom of choice they usually look back upon the preMedibank system of health insurance as some sort of ideal or model which ought to be followed in respect of freedom of choice. [More…]

• The simple fact about the pre-Medibank health system was that everyone was compelled to pay taxes to support it. [More…]

• Everyone is compelled to pay into the pool but only those who join the so-called voluntary health insurance societies are entitled to get anything out of it. [More…]

• Their purpose is to amend the national health legislation. [More…]

• This legislation provides a true national health cover. [More…]

• From 1 October this year, for the first time, the Australian community will be covered for every health care, every health need and every choice of health insurance. [More…]

• The cost of health care for those who cannot afford to pay, such as those on low incomes, the pensioner carrying a pensioner card and the repatriation recipients who have always had free health cover, will be met. [More…]

• All of these people will be automatically covered for health care. [More…]

• However, those who have in the past paid for Medibank and, indeed, paid heavily through their taxes- I remind honourable senators opposite that the figure is $ 1,400m- will still be paying for Medibank, but they will know that their health care is not free. [More…]

• It is the first time I have heard any Labor senator admit that we have not had free health care. [More…]

• I assure honourable senators that people really thought they had free health care. [More…]

• Many is the time I have been asked: ‘How can we pay after we have had free health care?’ [More…]

• Many members of the Opposition said that the Government should bear full responsibility for health cover, that people should have no choice at all and that all hospitals should be government owned. [More…]

• Approximately 70 per cent of people are still insured with private health funds. [More…]

• Another criticism of Opposition senators is that this legislation will create a second-class health system; yet in the same breath they say that the critically ill patient is best treated in the big public hospitals. [More…]

• We have seen statements by supposedly responsible leaders such as this: ‘People would be forced to pay $ 1 ,000 a year for health insurance ‘. [More…]

• -This was said on 27 May this year by the Minister for Health in Tasmania. [More…]

• He said people would pay $1,000 a year for health insurance. [More…]

• The fact remains that those who join private health funds will pay 70 per cent of their total health cover. [More…]

• Those who pay the levy and choose to join the hospital funds will pay 40 per cent of their total health cover. [More…]

• Those who pay the levy only will pay only 1 8 per cent of their total health cover. [More…]

• The reason for the levy, as I have said, is that it will allow people to know whether health care escalates unreasonably, and they will be able to have some say. [More…]

• This covers many pensioners, as Senator Messner has said, who, for whatever reason, declare their priorities in health care. [More…]

• The Government has decided to pay a subsidy to private health funds. [More…]

• However, if honourable senators remember, when this Bill was first introduced in May it was stressed by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) that during the winter recess it would be considered in detail and that consultations would take place with all interested parties- the funds, the unions and the hospitals. [More…]

• I now would like to refer to the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• Regarding payments for pathology services, I would like to point out to Senator Grimes, although he is not in the chamber at the moment, that the Australian Medical Association also brought the anomalies of the previous Government’s legislation to the notice of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I heard a number of Government senators say that freedom of choice- the private health fund system- is the best. [More…]

• I think that every Government senator ought to be forced to read a page a night of the report on health insurance which was known as the Nimmo report of March 1 969. [More…]

• The operation of the health insurance scheme is unnecessarily complex and beyond the comprehension of many. [More…]

• When the hospital and health funds in New South Wales were arguing how much of their reserves would have to be set aside to meet rising costs and how much they would boost their premiums, Senator Greenwood said to me: ‘If I have my way they will be much more democratic’. [More…]

• The private monopoly health insurance funds were not interested in giving a better deal to their members of funds. [More…]

• I had 20 years of good health. [More…]

• I suppose that good health is attributable to divine providence, or perhaps a person is lucky. [More…]

• I have heard one or two honourable senators say that the Opposition is trying to shackle the legal profession and that health services will suffer. [More…]

• In their coal mines and steel works, with a socialised health system, they have better treatment as far as on the spot attention is concerned than we have in Australia. [More…]

• I submitted to a former Minister for Health, Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, information that I received in Belgium about regional authorities. [More…]

• There are a lot of people like me who enjoyed good health for 20 years but when we had genuine claims on HCF or MBF we were diddled out of them. [More…]

• If we had justice in this country, and I suggest this to the Health Ministers, we would bring those people to the bar of the Senate and ask them to explain how they swindled people like me as they did. [More…]

• I suppose we will have another debate on other aspects of this subject but it is not a very happy commentary on a country in the southern hemisphere to reflect on the brawling that has occurred in order to bring in a form of health insurance which, as Senator Grimes has pointed out, has been accepted in Europe since the time of Bismarck. [More…]

• We have retained some of what we struggled for in relation to better medical and health coverage. [More…]

• I would like to go on record as personally congratulating the Minister for Health, the Hon. [More…]

• It had its grandiose scheme for national health for all people in this nation. [More…]

• It was to be free to everybody, but there is no such thing as a free health scheme for everyone. [More…]

• Medibank naturally will have to compete with the private health funds but it will compete on equal terms and on an even footing. [More…]

• There will be no favouritism for either Medibank or the private health schemes. [More…]

• As we all know, competition is healthy and ensures a much better end product to the consumer. [More…]

• In the past the private health funds were free of competition but with the introduction of our Medibank it will be a competitive matter, not as it was under the previous arrangements. [More…]

• The private funds will have to look to ways of increasing their efficiency and decreasing their overheads to remain viable and to be able to deliver to the community an attractive health package at a realistic cost. [More…]

• There are many people within the community who perhaps will not be able to afford to pay for a health scheme of any kind but the Government in its wisdom has taken care of this. [More…]

• It is not the Government’s intention to emasculate Medibank nor is it the intention to force private health funds out of business by unfair competition from a Government-controlled body. [More…]

• Rather the intention is to promote a good health service for all Australians at reasonable cost. [More…]

• No one will, dispute that health costs are increasing throughout the world. [More…]

• As I said earlier, Senator McLaren, there is nothing free in any kind of health service; you have to pay for it whether you like it or not. [More…]

• The Government has shown that it has in mind that pensioners, the infirm and the low income earners should be provided with a health service at no cost to them, and surely those on the other side of the Senate, including Senator Georges, could not object to this relief to those who are genuinely in need. [More…]

• The overall effect of the new Medibank arrangements is that everybody will pay more for health insurance than he paid in the past-by way of the Medibank levy, by way of premium or by way of private insurance. [More…]

• It is true that free health cover is not being provided under these new arrangements. [More…]

• As the subject of choice has been aired at such length in this debate I should point out that there is absolutely no choice available now to the Australian citizen with respect to whether or not health insurance will be taken out. [More…]

• At this stage Australians must have health insurance of some kind. [More…]

• At this stage we have legislation which will lock Australian citizens into one or other health insurance scheme. [More…]

• There is some kind of choice offered between different types of health insurance but there is no choice to have no health insurance at all. [More…]

• I find it quite ironic that it is from the Government that speaks so much about freedom of choice and the rights of the individual that we have this system which locks people into one or other health insurance system. [More…]

• It was put to me quite forcibly by a constituent of mine that she had a much greater choice under the Labor scheme and even a greater choice in the sense that the Liberal Party uses the concept in the pre-Labor scheme under which a person could have no health insurance cover at all. [More…]

• Now every individual must be in one or other health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The top priority of the Labor Government in establishing its Medibank scheme was to ensure that every Australian had adequate health insurance and that that health insurance was paid for by the most equitable means. [More…]

• As it turned out it was paid for out of general revenue which I consider to be the most equitable means of sharing throughout the community the burden of the cost of the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• However, it seems to me that the main effect of the new arrangement is to restrict the choice available to Australians with regard to health insurance, to increase the cost and, of course, to increase confusion generally. [More…]

• After careful consideration by CAGEO’s Federal Officers of your Health Minister’s 20 May announcement and consequential and related Bills and other statements, we are impelled to the conclusion that if your Government proceeds with its proposals in their original form, Medibank health insurance will be less financially attractive to a large proportion of middle income earners and /or higher income earners. [More…]

• The proposed imbalance in the cost of health insurance is recognised in the following statement contained in the pamphlet: ‘Medibank and You- It’s Your Choice’ (May 1976 R75/1434), and I quote: ‘However the cheapest way to obtain the same cover (medical plus intermediate hospital) will be to buy medical and hospital insurance from a private fund for about $350 a year’. [More…]

• I believe- the Minister representing the Minister for Health in this chamber (Senator Guilfoyle) may be able to confirm this-that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has already received one telegram from the Gippsland Medibank office saying that it is unable to cope, with its present staff levels, with the demand being made on its office because of the new arrangements. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The other point I wish to raise in connection with this Bill relates to the arguments we have heard from honourable senators opposite in this debate that they are setting up some sort of free enterprise system and that in relation to private health insurance there will be a free market system and costs will be settled. [More…]

• It has been pointed out by one of my colleagues in another place that, for example, in Queensland one private health fund is offering for $380 complete cover which is similar to what is being offered by Medibank plus Medibank Private. [More…]

• In the meantime the chronically ill person continues to contribute to the private health fund which at that point does not have to continue to meet the expenses for which the person is insuring. [More…]

• The head of Australia’s private health funds has urged every doctor throughout the nation to persuade his patients to boycott Medibank Private. [More…]

• -Indeed, that was Mr W. K. Moon, President of the Voluntary Health [More…]

• Insurance Association, which represents 57 private health funds. [More…]

• But that does not mean that the private funds will bear the entire costs of the medical services available to people in private health funds. [More…]

• Even though supporters of the Government might like to talk about paying for what we use and might like to say that we cannot get anything free and make comments like that, by going entirely into a private fund a person certainly is not cutting himself off from access to the very expensive and excellent public health facilities which are available and which now will be paid for substantially from contributions to the standard Medibank fund. [More…]

• A number of health centres were established where salaried doctors were able to provide, not free services, I agree, but services for which no charge had to be made at the time. [More…]

• In the Australian Capital Territory we had the development of a new, progressive, up to date health system. [More…]

• People had the choice of their own practitioner, of fee for service doctors at the health centre, and of salaried doctors at health centres. [More…]

• Some health centres will now have to start charging fees. [More…]

• So what was developing into an extremely progressive, convenient, efficient and, above all, excellent kind of health service so far as the community was concerned, will now be undermined in a very serious way by the new arrangements. [More…]

• The situation now for family planning services is that either they will have to require a cash payment, which many of the patients will not be able to provide, or they will need to know what sort of health insurance scheme the patient is insured with which will be a breach of confidentiality as far as some wives and daughters are concerned. [More…]

• That is another example in the Australian Capital Territory of the very disruptive effect on community based health services of the Government’s Medibank changes. [More…]

• The effect has been to increase the cost of health insurance and thus of health care for every Australian. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The erection of a health centre on Groote Eylandt, at Alyangula, has been included in the current Works Program 1976-77 at an estimated total cost of $800,000. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have received representations from the Northern Territory regarding the fact that it is anticipated that, because of the present establishment of staff for the Department of Health and also because of the likelihood of further cuts in the number of staff throughout the Northern Territory, the Department of Health may not have sufficient staff to operate facilities such as health projects under construction and nearing completion in Darwin, Katherine, Alice Springs and other places. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that within the overall Department of Health staff ceiling it has been possible to provide the Northern Territory division with additional employment capacity in this financial year. [More…]

• Plans are being prepared to ensure that all essential health facility projects will be opened this financial year. [More…]

• Every endeavour is being made to ensure that adequate health services are maintained in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• It has been difficult in the past to recruit and retain sufficient health staff for the Northern Territory. [More…]

• I shall inform the Minister for Health of the honourable senator’s interest in this matter. [More…]

• The Minister for Health deals with the recurrent expenditure of nursing homes. [More…]

• However, I am happy to answer the question as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Before this debate was interrupted last night I was saying that health care in Australia- or any other country, for that matter- is one of the most perplexing problems that any government can have. [More…]

• I think all of us want to see that the health needs of the population are satisfied. [More…]

• I said also that in a modern community the cost of providing the health services that all the people want- I use the word ‘want’ rather than the word ‘need’ because some people tend to want many more services than they need- becomes so prohibitive that a line has to be drawn somewhere between what the Government is prepared to pay for and what the people themselves should be prepared to pay for. [More…]

• During the last weeks I have spoken to many people about health insurance and have found that a fair deal of confusion is abroad. [More…]

• I believe also that the man in the street will be pleased to see the Government attempt to rein in expenditure on health, because he realises that there cannot be an entirely free health scheme. [More…]

• The complexity of health care services- they are complex because in a country such as Australia they have to cater for so many different groups in the community- results in complicated legislation. [More…]

• No doubt, in the next few years other amendments will have to be made to the National Health Act to cater for the changing needs of the community. [More…]

• -In deference to Senator Brown, although we are not on the air I will say that I have been a member of a private health fund. [More…]

• Several factors have influenced my decision: Firstly, I believe in the free enterprise sector and I support the free enterprise health funds in the same way, 1 suppose, as I support the free enterprise airlines, whenever I can, rather than the government enterprise. [More…]

• Over past years we have seen some 70 per cent of Australians retain some form of private health insurance, and I believe a great many of these will remain in the private funds. [More…]

• This legislation has been introduced in accordance with a promise made by the Government following discussions with different groups, the health funds, the Australian Council of Trade Unions and other interested parties. [More…]

• It is interesting to see that, in spite of the levy that all honourable senators on the Labor benches have been complaining about, the Government’s contribution to health will still be of the order of $1,1 20m. [More…]

• Most of the money for health care comes from those who already pay high taxation. [More…]

• So we rightly have those people in the community who can afford to do so paying towards the health care of the less fortunate. [More…]

• -People on higher incomes are paying more tax to the State and to the Commonwealth; so they are contributing more than the average towards, the health care of the country and therefore towards the less fortunate. [More…]

• It is interesting to see that those members of the Labor Party who once upon a time complained with great gusto about the number of health funds have not complained nearly as often or as loudly about the establishment of Medibank private insurance. [More…]

• Medibank private insurance is a registered organisation subject to all the rules and regulations that relate to the conduct of private health funds under this legislation. [More…]

• Unless there is, the costs of health care in the community tend to get right out of hand. [More…]

• But it is also true that if people go to the doctor as often as they want to go, without any cost to themselves, it puts a strain on the health services which the country cannot stand. [More…]

• It is then likely that t he number of deaths that would result directly from the stretching of the health services of the country would be higher than the number of deaths that would result from a slight financial disincentive. [More…]

• It is a human nature that if one pays towards something one will try to get a return from it- in this case from the health services. [More…]

• We need a slight financial disincentive to stop over-use yet we still have to allow those without the means to receive the health care they may need at any time. [More…]

• Health care costs can cripple any government. [More…]

• The level of spending on health care in any country or the amount that any country can afford to spend on health care will always be hotly debated. [More…]

• I hope that gradually the people of Australia come to realise j lust how much of their taxation dollar is being spent on health care. [More…]

• The ruining of the economy by way of the health scheme which has been shown to happen in almost every other country with such a scheme would have played right into the hands of those subversive people who would like to see the country ruined. [More…]

• It was proposed in May of this year that those who used the health services should contribute something towards their cost. [More…]

• In that way people will perhaps begin to understand just how much the health scheme costs and will use it only when necessary. [More…]

• Most of the people I have spoken to seem to have decided to continue with the health fund to which they have contributed for a long time. [More…]

• If people saved their doctors’ bills and found that they did not exceed $40 in doctors fees, they would not claim from the fund or Medibank, and this would help to reduce the multitude of small claims, the processing of which must add up to a great pan of the cost of the operations of the health funds and the entire scheme. [More…]

• If we could reduce the number of claims that people are making on the schemes I believe we could reduce the cost of operating our health system. [More…]

• -The Senate is in the process of debating three of 5 Bills which will have the effect of disabling the proven and efficient Medibank health insurance scheme which was introduced by the Labor Government. [More…]

• I shall read from the second reading speech, on the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The Government proposals for reorganising Medibank have, we believe, made the first real attempt to come to grips with the enormous escalation in health costs, while maintaining the principle of universal health insurance. [More…]

• My belief, and I believe it is borne out by examples, is that the true reason for the Government’s assault on Medibank has nothing to do with health insurance and nothing to do with the health of the community. [More…]

• Senator Townley, along with other honourable senators, simply mouthed religiously in a parrot-like fashion outrageous assertions based on the false assumption that Medibank itself is responsible for the escalation in the cost of health services. [More…]

• It was designed to provide a reservoir of funds to pay for the health services of the community, both medical and hospital. [More…]

• If one takes into account those 2 sources of delivery of health services to the community and has regard to the substantial increases in those service costs, one can understand why there has been such an increase in the cost of health services.. [More…]

• It cannot be laid at the door- I repeat, cannot be laid at the door- of Medibank as a health insurance scheme. [More…]

• We talk about actual economies of a health insurance scheme. [More…]

• It is not a health scheme, it is a health insurance scheme. [More…]

• In other words, the purchasing power of those health insurance services was reduced by an average of 15c in the dollar, and as high as 22c in the dollar in some instances. [More…]

• Put another way, for every $100m collected by the voluntary health insurance funds $15m had to be written off as administrative charges. [More…]

• He said among other things: ‘We will maintain Medibank and will ensure that the standard of health care does not decline ‘. [More…]

• It would be fair and reasonable to assume that when he said that, he wanted the people to believe that the Medibank to which he was referring was the universal health insurance scheme introduced by the Labor Government.The people were entitled to believe that. [More…]

• We will maintain Medibank and ensure that the standard of health care does not decline. [More…]

• He obviously intended that the Australian community should believe that he was referring to the universal health insurance scheme that the Australian Labor Party produced. [More…]

• I was pointing out also the extent of the exposure and public scrutiny which our health insurance program received prior to the introduction of the legislation which brought about what is now known and what has been known for over 12 months as Medibank, It was subjected to Vh years of public debate and at least 3 elections- those in 1972, 1974 and 1975. [More…]

• Now I want to refer to the second reading speech of the Minister for Social Security on the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• He used the words ‘while maintaining the principle of universal health insurance’. [More…]

• Our program was known and advocated as a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Once anything was done to disturb that universality, no one could still claim, as the Minister claims and as the rest of the Government supporters claim, that the present scheme and the basic concept of the universality of Labor’s original universal health insurance scheme are one and the same thing. [More…]

• It would seem that Senator Sheil does not concur with the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) or the Prime Minister. [More…]

• I should have thought that the Opposition, the perpetrators of nationalised health, would have been more pleased with the action the Government has taken than its members have shown in the debate. [More…]

• First of all, I want to deal with the part relating to nationalised health’. [More…]

• Do I have to repeat that what we are talking about is not the provision of a health scheme as such? [More…]

• To introduce the term ‘a nationalised health scheme’ is to misrepresent and, I believe, in a calculated and deliberate way, to distort the truth and confuse people. [More…]

• Obviously honourable senators on the Government side did not accept that we received a mandate from the people to introduce a universal health insurance scheme. [More…]

• I see no reason why health services should be separated and dealt with differently from the provision of funds from Consolidated Revenue for defence, for schooling, and one could go on ad nauseam. [More…]

• The rapid escalation of costs, the lack of self-discipline inherent in the system and the Opposition’s paranoid concern for controlling people, in their health care - [More…]

• That argument cannot be sustained, nor can it be sustained that we had a concern over controlling people in their health care. [More…]

• With the introduction of Medibank for the first time we provided a scheme which enabled people to have access to standard ward treatment and medical services which they had not been able to afford under the previous arrangements of private health insurance schemes. [More…]

• I assure honourable senators that this position is not peculiar to Victoria because Victorians are no less intelligent than people in other States- puzzled about the Government’s new Medibank scheme, are jamming health office switchboards. [More…]

• HBA, the State’s biggest health fund, is being swamped by 1400 calls a day. [More…]

• In summary, it could be said that the assertion by the Government that there was need for these changes so that it could come to grips with the enormous escalation in health costs cannot be sustained. [More…]

• Medibank has nothing to do with health services as such. [More…]

• Our Government attempted to do something about the delivery of health services by establishing community health centres but health services are separate and distinct from the provision of money to pay doctors and hospitals for the services they provide. [More…]

• Being realistic, we do not anticipate that we will be successful because of the number in this and the other place but I can assure honourable senatorsand this can be recorded in Hansard for- all Australians to see- that when, not if, we are returned to government in 1978 we will restore health insurance to the people of Australia based on the original concept of Medibank, with improvements that may be found necessary to increase the value and efficiency of the system. [More…]

• Senator Grimes, in leading for the Opposition, said that nothing in the new arrangements would improve health care delivery or contain costs. [More…]

• Nothing in the previous Medibank scheme as introduced by the Labor Government was intended to improve health care delivery or to contain costs. [More…]

• I believe that experience in other countries has shown that, where there is this type of scheme, eventually the burden becomes too heavy to carry, the scheme itself becomes reduced and ultimately health care itself is diminished. [More…]

• Private health insurers are competitive and they will be looking to keep the contributions as low as possible. [More…]

• The monitoring of utilisation, the availability of proper services at the level of care needed and a co-operative arrangement with the professional providers of health services are all inbuilt features of Medibank Mark II, if one likes to define it that way. [More…]

• It is true to say that universality will exist in relation to health insurance because everybody in this country will have a cover. [More…]

• That letter was written before the Government made the significant decisions to allow Medibank to operate as a private health benefit organisation and to introduce ceilings on the levy. [More…]

• The point was made that people seeking attention at health centres will have to have cash in hand to pay for services given. [More…]

• The Health Commission will attempt wherever possible to bulk bill the private health insurance funds. [More…]

• Levy payers and those eligible for Medibank benefits will not be charged and the family planning organisations will receive health program grants. [More…]

• There will be unbillable persons with private health insurance. [More…]

• In these non-billable cases, the Government will pay health program grants to cover the costs of the family planning clinics. [More…]

• Those provisions were contained in the new part 6a of the National Health Amendment Bill 1976 which was passed in June. [More…]

• Part 6a of the National Health Amendment Act contains provisions empowering the Minister to appoint an inspector to investigate the affairs of the registered organisation and for the funds operated by such organisations to be placed under judicial management and to be wound up by the Australian Industrial Court. [More…]

• Certainly this is a new concept in the Government’s administration of the health insurance scheme but it was considered to be necessary under the modified Medibank arrangements. [More…]

• To honour the Government’s commitment to the maintenance of universal health insurance it is essential that persons electing to contribute to private organisations receive basic benefit entitlements. [More…]

• On the other hand, we know that the private health insurer has a direct relationship with each patient and contributor whether that patient is in a public or private hospital. [More…]

• I believe that, in a scheme of health insurance cover reaching an expenditure of $ 1,500m or $2, 000m or whatever the top level of cost may be, the costs ensuring choice and information are rightly an expenditure of public funds. [More…]

• We oppose this clause because what the Bill refers to as a reinsurance account is referred to by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and today by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) repeatedly as a reinsurance pool. [More…]

• The aim of the series of Bills now before the Senate- the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976, the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976 and the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976- and the Bills still to come before the Senate which are the Health Insurance Levy Assessment BUI (No. [More…]

• 2) 1976 and the Health Insurance Levy Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1 976, is to encourage the development of private health care and voluntary health funds in this country. [More…]

• The basic aim of the Bills is obviously not to cut the total cost of health care. [More…]

• We believe that the $50m reinsurance pool, as the Minister for Health and the Minister for Social Security insist on calling it, is merely a $50m subsidy to the private health funds. [More…]

• The former Labor Government was accused of trying to hide the cost of health care by submerging it in Consolidated Revenue by taking it out of the taxation funds. [More…]

• The Opposition now accuses the Government of trying to hide the cost of intermediate health care in the case of those who are chronically ill and who wish to go into intermediate wards by burying it in a reinsurance pool which is made up from Consolidated Revenue. [More…]

• I regard this action as one more attempt on its part to try to destroy the private health funds. [More…]

• One of the conditions applied to the activities of the private health funds at the moment is that they shall apply a community rating; that they shall allow anyone to take out insurance with them. [More…]

• But people require health insurance cover to help meet that cost. [More…]

• Then she went on with the nonsense that Mr Fraser came out with about the relative percentages of people on different incomes who pay for their health care. [More…]

• We then have the situation in which the taxpayer in this country subsidises private health insurance. [More…]

• It is a $S0m donation to the private health funds so that they can advertise that they will cover people for all their illnesses. [More…]

• We are opposed to government promotion of private health care which is more expensive and more inefficient than any other form of health care in this country. [More…]

• It appears that the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) conveniently overlooked the fact that the accumulated assets of the private health insurance funds stood, I understand, at about $250m. [More…]

• The Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) at the Premiers Conference, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) at his meetings with State health Ministers, and Commonwealth officials at their meetings with State officials have all made it clear that the Commonwealth Government will meet 50 per cent of the net operating costs of recognised hospitals based on agreed budgets. [More…]

• They have made known that a standing committee in each State, comprised of Commonwealth and State representatives will meet in March and November of each year to formulate the budgets and variations thereto for the consideration of Commonwealth and State health Ministers. [More…]

• The committee will do this having regard to the principles and factors taken into account in the formulation of that approved budget and variations and, having regard to the net operating costs, will bring forward further recommendations concerning this retrospective period to health Ministers for their consideration. [More…]

• Throughout the second reading debate and during the Committee stage of the Health Insurance Bills we expressed our concern that the whole aim of the Government’s exercise has been to promote private health insurance to the detriment of public health care. [More…]

• We believe also that the term ‘ Medibank ‘ used in respect of the Health Insurance Commission as it will be amended by the Government and in the words ‘Medibank Private’, is a misnomer, a plagiarism and a corruption of the term we had before. [More…]

• We believe that it would be better if Medibank Private or the Private Health Insurance Commission were completely separarate and had a separate name. [More…]

• -I probably have said this before: In the 2!4 years that I have been in this Parliament I seem to have spent much of my time debating legislation relating to health insurance and Medibank. [More…]

• In June we debated at length the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill (No. [More…]

• We were told by members of the Government that those Bills represented the new Medibank; that this was the new style of health insurance which would solve all sorts of problems, not only in respect of health insurance but also in respect of inflation, disposable income and just about everything else that was going. [More…]

• The most spectacular thing that the Health Insurance Levy Assessment (No. [More…]

• The levy has had a chequered career in the history of health insurance in this country. [More…]

• When Labor was in office and introduced the original national health insurance scheme in the form of Medibank we were going to introduce a levy of 1.35 per cent of taxable income which we believed would give people some indication of what they were paying for health care. [More…]

• Because of the predictions that were made about a national health insurance system we believed it would give us a better chance to get the appropriate legislation through the Parliament. [More…]

• For the benefit of those who have made such predictions so often in this chamber and some who have even made them during this debate, I repeat the predictions that were made about what would happen if we introduced a national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Secondly, we were told that the universal health insurance scheme would lead to a breakdown in doctor-patient relationships. [More…]

• We were told that health costs would become catastrophic. [More…]

• This was always a false and incorrect argument because health costs are not just the costs incurred in paying the general practitioner or the hospital. [More…]

• They include the administrative costs involved in running the hospitals and the various voluntary health insurance agencies, the various costs of tests associated with medicine, and paramedical costs. [More…]

• One of the beauties of the scheme introduced by Labor was its administrative simplicity and its simplicity for the citizens who needed health insurance. [More…]

• I, like anyone else, realise that the 1.35 per cent levy would not have paid for all the voluntary health insurance and that it really would not have demonstrated very well to people what they were paying for. [More…]

• But when the then Opposition threw out the legislation to introduce a levy we accepted the fact that we would have to fund Medibank- the national health insurance scheme- from Consolidated Revenue. [More…]

• As we have said repeatedly, we believe the provision of an adequate standard of public health care to all citizens is a reasonable issue for government to be involved in. [More…]

• When voluntary health insurance was paid out of Consolidated Revenue, people were contributing roughly on the basis of” their ability to pay. [More…]

• The people who ran our national health insurance scheme- our Medibank- ran it very efficiently and were congratulated by Ministers from both the present Government and the previous Government on their ability, conscientiousness and effectiveness. [More…]

• No honourable senator has attempted to explain how Medibank Mark II, Mark III, Mark IV, Mark V or whatever- we have lost count of the number- will cut the cost of health care. [More…]

• Nobody can explain how a simple administrative system which was funded out of Consolidated Revenue and gave people a choice of just Medibank or Medibank plus private or intermediate hospital cover would not be less expensive than the proposed system whereby people have to make numerous choices, paymasters have to know from whom to take the levy and from whom not to take it, the Taxation Office has to know who is paying the levy and who is not, and the Health Insurance Commission has to know who is paying the levy and who is not. [More…]

• Under this scheme people will join private funds, have their operations and get out of hospital and the health funds will have to catch up with those who opt in and opt out of schemes. [More…]

• We think that this is a very strange way to go about providing a national health scheme. [More…]

• He does not even believe in voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• Senator Townley said that Medibank Private, the Government’s own proposal, is a socialist measure and that the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) ought to be ashamed of themselves for joining Medibank Private because it is a socialist measure. [More…]

• The only doctor bashing that has gone on in this debate in the last 2 days has been, I believe, carried out by me, Senator Georges and perhaps a couple of other Opposition senators who have pointed out that any over-utilisation of our health system relating to operations, excessive prescribing or excessive pathology tests is a result of the actions of doctors who control those services. [More…]

• The Melbourne Age, a number of other newspapers, the Opposition and other people who have looked at the situation believe that the prime motive of the Government in introducing a levy and making the changes that it has made to the Medibank scheme, many of which we believe to be unnecessary, is to cause many people- 50 per cent, 60 per cent, or even 70 per cent, I think Senator Walters believes it will be- out of the public health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The result will be that the Medibank computers and the Medibank administrative set-up under the Health Insurance Commission will be underutilised. [More…]

• As a result of the Government’s action, the number of people who will pay more for their health insurance will increase. [More…]

• The pensioners were worried about how much they would have to pay because the last Medibank booklet produced said that pensioners may have to pay the levy even if they have a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• Mr Lynch rang the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, and Mr Hunt said: ‘I am sorry. [More…]

• Only 4 weeks ago the Government made a decision, one with which we of the Opposition agree, after all that time following the decision in May to introduce the scheme, to exempt the pensioner health benefit card holders. [More…]

• Mrs Irene Ellis, secretary of the pensioners’ association, had to tell the Treasurer of Australia and the Minister for Health what was going on. [More…]

• The Minister said: No, they will not, not if they have a pensioner health card.’ [More…]

• The only provision in the legislation is for regulations to exempt people from the levy- for instance, pensioners holding a pensioner health card and other non-specified, unknown, low income earners. [More…]

• We give notice that we intend to move an amendment to put in the legislation a provision that pensioners who hold a pensioner health card should be exempt form the levy. [More…]

• I want to know who else is exempt apart from the pensioner health card carriers. [More…]

• Under the original health scheme and under the present health scheme one could change freely from one health fund to another. [More…]

• We view this matter with some concern because it has been suggested not only by members of the Opposition, not only by people involved with the National Health Insurance Commission but by Mr Cade, who normally - [More…]

• We genuinely believe that if the Government wants the private health insurance funds to compete with each other and wants people to have a choice, they should have a choice other than the first choice of the fund which they join. [More…]

• The Herald’s point is that if a man does not pay the health insurance levy his wife is denied her right to free Medibank insurance, because, as Mr Lynch admits, the rule is that, for exemption from levy to be available to anyone with a family, the family must be covered by private insurance.’ [More…]

• Last year I hoped we had finished this long series of health insurance debates. [More…]

• -The Senate is debating the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) and the Health Insurance Levy Bill (No. [More…]

• Senator Grimes stated that he had been in favour of a health insurance levy. [More…]

• They have done their best to denigrate those who provide health care and those who provide insurance against the cost of health care. [More…]

• This debate really complements those which took place earlier this year when the issue of a’ health insurance levy was debated and resolved in the Senate. [More…]

• The Government, as it promised, after 20 May has taken the opportunity of consulting those who will be involved in a health insurance levy. [More…]

• We have consulted with the health funds which have to administer the levy. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that health costs are considerable and that each Australian will see his or her family doctor on an average of about 40 times between birth and adulthood. [More…]

• In a few moments, when I come back to identify costs, honourable senators will find that probably only half the costs of health care are attributable to services rendered at the level of primary care. [More…]

• It is the cheapest part of our health care systems, service for service. [More…]

• In August this yearabout 3 weeks ago- the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare published a document entitled Forward Planning for Health, Fiscal Years 1978 to 1982. [More…]

• In it the Department set out to identify the reasons why health care is becoming more expensive. [More…]

• It is not enough for any honourable senator to try to analyse the cost structure of health care in Australia and very conveniently to forget the considerable contribution to expenses from the public hospital sector and the private hospital sector. [More…]

• If honourable senators opposite wish to attack the kind of medical system under which we operate, if they wish to allege that the rise in costs is due to our fee for service system, at least they should recognise that there is no perfect method of paying for health services or private medical services. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that the health centres program to which Senator Grimes referred was an initiative of the McMahon Liberal Government. [More…]

• It was our Government that commenced the construction of health centres, just as it was a Liberal government in New South Wales that built the health centre at Mount Druitt. [More…]

• We started it in part of our search for a pluralistic solution to the problems of health care. [More…]

• I am appalled by the repeated allegations that the private health insurance funds are inefficient; that they are unduly expensive; and that their cost structure does not compare with that of Medibank. [More…]

• That is how much money has been allowed for the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• One might ask: Against that $5 8m how much does it cost to administer the private health funds? [More…]

• We are dealing with the health insurance levy legislation which sets out to impose a levy of 2.5 per cent on taxable incomes. [More…]

• Senator Grimes went to some pains to tell us that his personal belief was that a levy was the appropriate way to fund health insurance. [More…]

• We can ask why a levy is necessary, why we need a levy to help pay for the cost of health care in this country? [More…]

• We want some involvement by the consumers of health care so that they will appreciate the cost of providing health care. [More…]

• Health care costs for medical and hospital services in this country are quite astronomical. [More…]

• I return to the United States document Forward Plan for Health, issued last month by the United States Departments of Health, Education and Welfare. [More…]

• It has by now become obvious that the only significant constraint on today ‘s health care delivery system has nothing to do with technology, logistics, or resources: it is economic. [More…]

• If we were willing and able to put an unlimited amount of funds at the disposal of a national health insurance system, we could meet virtually every conceivable need and demand for health services. [More…]

• It now appears that our economy is unable to afford such increases over a prolonged period, and unless costs are contained we will face severe restrictions in health care delivery and /or other public services- restrictions our nation should not tolerate. [More…]

• All that we want to do is involve people to a small extent, as the Labor Party so eloquently argued in the past and as Mr Hawke still proposes, in sharing some of the costs of their health care. [More…]

• The total cost of medical and hospital services in this country for the current financial year is estimated to be $3,300m while the rest of the appropriation for the Department of Health is of the order of $3, 100m. [More…]

• This means that all the expenditure on health services other than the costs of medical and hospital benefits will be * $3, 100m. [More…]

• It is my concern that people should have a choice, and through the levy arrangements and through the arrangements made for alternative means for paying for health care we now have the choice. [More…]

• As you know, Mr President, it is often the families who are battlers who have two people working and who will be most appreciative of the levy ceiling which will ensure that from the combined income no more than $300 will have to be paid by way of health insurance levy if they wish to stay with Medibank. [More…]

• The major act of nationalisation in a traditional sense, to be undertaken by a Labor Government in the next term, will be through the establishment of a single health fund, administered by a health insurance commission, with contributions made according to each taxpayer’s means and treatment accorded to each patient ‘s needs. [More…]

• The health insurance levy will help each of us to identify the fact that health care is expensive, and as that levy rises, if it rises, we will be aware that the cost of health care is rising. [More…]

• The various ceiling or exemption provisions will allow people to limit their costs; and they will allow me- and people like me- to exercise my choice to be free of Medibank, to be free of a socialist experiment and to return to support the free enterprise system of health insurance in which I believe. [More…]

• Senator Wriedt, the then Minister for Agriculture, when speaking in the second reading debate on the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill 1974 [No. [More…]

• He stated here today that his reason for opposing the Medibank levy in 1974 was so that the Labor Party’s national health scheme would fail and would be destroyed. [More…]

• Senator Grimes today referred to a speech made in the other place by the honourable member for Griffith (Mr Donald Cameron) at the third reading stage of the Health Insurance Bill (No. [More…]

• It is a catastrophe and a disaster that the Government of the day should be worrying the people about a health care scheme. [More…]

• I believe that health care is far too serious a matter to be used as a political football, as this Government is now doing. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health put out another booklet, quite a number of copies of which mysteriously arrived at the Commonwealth Parliament Offices in Adelaide for distribution. [More…]

• I do not know whether the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) has referred the questions that were directed to her to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) or whether Senator Cotton has referred the questions that were directed to him to the Treasurer (Mr Lynch). [More…]

• -Yes, the booklet entitled ‘How to Choose the Health Insurance Cover That’s Right For You . [More…]

• that was put out by the Commonwealth Department of Health and is dated August 1976 is incorrect. [More…]

• This will include many people who are entitled to pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• Government has already made drastic changes to Medibank in favour of the private health funds. [More…]

• We know that all Government senators support the private health funds. [More…]

• I doubt that any Government senator at present in the chamber or any Government senator who elsewhere has not continued to contribute to a private health fund since Medibank came into operation on 1 July of last year. [More…]

• If the Government is correct in its expectation that 60 per cent of people will opt out of Medibank, leaving in Medibank pensioners, low income earners and others who usually represent a fairly high health risk, it will then proudly say that it told everyone that Medibank was a failure. [More…]

• It will then dismantle Medibank and leave health care to the private funds. [More…]

• Then we will be back to what we had in the way of health care before 1 July 1975. [More…]

• In Australia at that time one million people out of a population of 13.5 million had absolutely no health insurance. [More…]

• In addition, before July 1975 pensioners were regarded only as second rate citizens and did not receive the same benefits in respect of health care as contributors to private funds received. [More…]

• Nor did they have the same health care provisions as people covered by the supplementary medical scheme that gave to private funds a registration of low income earners. [More…]

• Unless we keep the people of Australia well advised about what they are getting into they could well be caught and in the future they could well have no option, no choice of health scheme other than that offered by the private funds. [More…]

• Out of all the health care schemes the Medibank standard scheme provides at least 85 per cent of the medical fees charged by a medical practitioner with, I understand, a maximum of $5, and it also provides the best hospital care available in Australia. [More…]

• The cheapest health care available today is the standard Medibank care which can be obtained for a maximum, I think, of $2.90 for a single taxpayer and $5.80 for a family unit. [More…]

• Prior to the suspension to the sitting I was referring to the health care options available to consumers. [More…]

• For example, the administration costs of Medibank accounted for only 4 per cent of the total value of claims processed, compared with 14 per cent for private health funds. [More…]

• Before the suspension of the sitting I was referring to the profits for the last 12 months of Victoria’s largest health insurance fund, the Hospital Benefits Association. [More…]

• In referring to the options available to people in Australia, I said prior to the suspension of the sitting that Medibank Standard cover is the most economical and provides the best standard of health cover in Australia. [More…]

• Private health insurance funds have called on doctors to tell patients to leave Medibank and take out private insurance. [More…]

• On the contrary, it has been strengthened as a permanent feature in the strategy of providing an overall comprehensive health service for all people in the nation. [More…]

• The overall effect of the new Medibank arrangements is that everybody will pay more for Health insurance than he paid in the past- by way of the Medibank levy, by way of premium or by way of private insurance. [More…]

• It is true that free health cover is not being provided under these new arrangements. [More…]

• The scheme preserves the right of pensioners who are entitled to pensioner health benefits, repatriation beneficiaries and of various other categories as detailed in the legislation. [More…]

• These people will very rightly continue to receive the very special consideration which has long been extended to them in the field of health care. [More…]

• Before I pass on to other matters I refer to a Press statement of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) which surely must explain the situation to Senator Grimes who seems to have great difficulty in understanding this legislation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Ralph Hunt, confirmed today that all pensioners entitled to pensioner health benefit cards will be exempt from the Medibank levy. [More…]

• In the case of married couples where one member is eligible for pensioner health benefits and the other is not eligible, the levy will be payable at half rates. [More…]

• I do not want to delay the Senate too long tonight, so in winding up I would like to quote a reply from the Minister for Health to a question asked in the other place today. [More…]

• The Minister this morning said that the Government had made a decision to modify Medibank because of the very high increase in health costs in this country. [More…]

• Quite clearly the health costs in this country have to be paid for by the community by one means or another- [More…]

• I suppose that there is no more important area of responsiblity in government that health services. [More…]

• One of the ostensible objectives of the Federal Government’s changes to the national health insurance scheme was to offer greater freedom of choice. [More…]

• But here, a range of options has been imposed on them by the Government and there is no escape, for no one is allowed to opt out of health insurance altogether. [More…]

• They could pay a levy of 2Vt per cent on their taxable income; they could opt out if they wished and could join private hospital and medical insurance funds; or they could opt for something of a hybrid scheme in which they paid a Medibank levy and, in addition, paid an extra premium to private health funds for hospital cover only. [More…]

• The remarkable feature is that the honourable member for Oxley, who portrays himself as the shadow Minister for Health, means to destroy 25 years of a Queensland public hospital system by imposing on Australia and Australians a new compulsory health tax . [More…]

• The proposition which the Labor Party makes in respect of this social service is to tax the people of Queensland by the introduction of a new compulsory health tax which will enable them only to have their own free hospitals. [More…]

• During the debate on the Health Insurance Bill on 17 July 1974, Senator Sheil said: [More…]

• Let me continue to quote what Senator Sheil said at the Joint Sitting on 7 August 1974 when the Health Insurance Commission Bill was being debated. [More…]

• I hope that with the health Bills all Queensland senators will vote together, as they have been clearly instructed to do, and reject them. [More…]

• In 2 June this year, when speaking on the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill, he said: [More…]

• I am deeply concerned with the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Bill and the Health Insurance Levy Bill because they could mean the abandonment of something which has operated in Queensland for many years; namely, the free hospital scheme. [More…]

• I have been a member of a private health fund, as I suppose most honourable senators have been, for years- in fact, for 20 years. [More…]

• I think the workers in this private health fund have done a very good job. [More…]

• I have not made up my mind whether I will go into Medibank Private or maintain my contributions to a private health fund. [More…]

• I ask Senator Cotton, who is the Minister in charge of the Bill, in his reply to this debate to give a guarantee to the Senate and to the Australian community that people who retain their membership in a private health fund will enjoy real freedom of choice enabling them to transfer to Medibank Private or to opt for the levy system if the charges of the private health funds rise above those of Medibank. [More…]

• Conversely, I ask the Minister to guarantee that those who choose to sign up now with Medibank Private will have the right of freedom of choice, about which Government members so freely express themselves, as to whether they will change from Medibank Private to a private health fund if the price of Medibank skyrockets. [More…]

• A provision of the health insurance legislation not being amended by these Bills provides for concessional rebates of tax that are not fully absorbed by a person’s income tax liability to be allowed against the levy. [More…]

• Before the May changes, there were few incentives to economy in use of the health services by users of those services or by the medical profession. [More…]

• Secondly, it is a fact that under this scheme and under the old scheme it is the practice, by agreement between the voluntary health funds, that free transfer between funds exists. [More…]

• I believe it to be a fact that nowhere in this legislation is there anything to compel the voluntary health funds to continue that. [More…]

• Also, there is no provision to prevent the voluntary health funds from saying that they will not eccept transfers to or from Medibank Private or that they will not make an arrangement with Medibank Private for such transfers. [More…]

• I think it is very important in order to guarantee the competition that people on the Government side think is so important, that by legislation, instruction, or however it can be done, the Government make absolutely sure that the private health funds do not try to lock people into individual funds, into the private funds as distinct from Medibank Private. [More…]

• I refer to the serious matters raised in the Senate over recent weeks to Senator Guilfoyle who represents the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• I know he is the Minister in charge of this Bill, but Senator Guilfoyle is the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Perhaps she could come back into the chamber and give a studied opinion as to whether the Minister for Health views the matter in a more positive light than that which has been put to us. [More…]

• Adelaide last Friday that many people are staying with their present health fund when, in my opinion, it might be better for them to transfer to Medibank. [More…]

• We understand that Medibank Private has been set up in free competition with the private health funds. [More…]

• I think that the people of this country need some guarantee that the Minister for Health will, by regulation or by legislation, prevent the private health funds from taking advantage of any loophole in the legislation or in the regulations, thus locking people in the funds. [More…]

• The difficulty was that the adviser from the Department of Health was not present because we were dealing with taxation Bills. [More…]

• The general position as it has been given to me by the adviser from the Department of Health is that there are 2 ways in which the operations of the funds are controlled. [More…]

• As I said earlier, honourable senators have my word that I will take up with the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) the matter of requiring the funds to accept transfers without the waiting period. [More…]

• After paragraph (a) insert the following new paragraph: (aa) by inserting after paragraph (b) of sub-section (1) the following paragraph: “(ba) during the whole of that period the person was entitled to pensioner health benefits; “ ‘ [More…]

• As I said before, the confusion first arose when it was discovered that there was nothing in the legislation but there was a statement in the booklet produced on Medibank which suggested that pensioners who hold pensioner health benefit cards would have to pay the levy. [More…]

• They were concerned, the Combined Pensions Association was concerned, the Opposition was concerned, Mr Lynch was concerned when he discovered it, Mr Hunt was concerned when Mr Lynch passed it on to him, and the Government then announced that it would exclude all pensioner health benefit card holders from paying the levy. [More…]

• We agree that pensioner health benefit card holders should be excluded from the levy. [More…]

• We do not see why the members of the defence forces, and the repatriation pensioners should be specifically excluded from the levy in the legislation and pensioners who hold pensioner health benefit cards should have to be excluded under the regulations in the legislation. [More…]

• If a single pensioner receiving $70 and holding a pensioner health benefit card should be excluded from the levy we believe that a single person who is not holding a pensioner health benefit card or who is not even a pensioner has a pretty fair case, on the basis of economic need, for being excluded from the levy. [More…]

• But at least we ask that the Government write into the legislation the pensioners who hold their pensioner health benefits cards in the way in which the other groups are to be written in. [More…]

• It exercises my mind in the way in which I read the main features of the health insurance levy in the explanatory memorandum which has been circulated with the Bills. [More…]

• (Regulations are to be made to confer relief from the levy on people entitled to Pensioner Health Benefits.) [More…]

• We have proposed an exemption from the levy for pensioners entitled to pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• As was said in the second reading speech, the Government will use the regulation making power which is contained in the Bill to exempt pensioners covered by the pensioners health benefits scheme. [More…]

• However, this legislation requires revision in the light of the intention to apply only an income test to determine liability for pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• On a more general plane, I point out that when the present Opposition introduced the health levy legislation into the Parliament it did not give direct exemption for pensioners. [More…]

• As a government we are committed to giving pensioners, covered by the pensioner health benefits scheme, the levy exemption which has been announced. [More…]

• Some areas are still subject to examination- for example, by the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health. [More…]

• The normal migration entry criteria would apply and spouses, dependent children and parents of the evacuees would be eligible for migrant entry if they satisfied health and character requirements. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Environment, Housing and Community Development noted recent reports that air pollution levels in Sydney and Adelaide have exceeded safety levels recommended by the World Health Organisation? [More…]

• What measures have been taken by the States and the Commonwealth to ensure that air pollution does not pose a threat to public health? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Transport, or the Minister for Health, or the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, all of whom may be involved in this matter. [More…]

• Should it in fact reveal that to be true, I will ask my colleague whether he will happily refer the matter to the Minister for Health so that the steps as indicated can be taken. [More…]

• Is it a fact that such additives have a negative effect on young children and that hyperactivity in children is a direct result of adulterated food and drink and that the children’s health is therefore undermined? [More…]

• I shall refer to the Minister for Health the honourable senator’s question as to whether the Government is proposing legislation on this matter and I shall seek an answer for the honourable senator. [More…]

• Aboriginal assistance programs, as honourable members are aware, have in recent years received massive injections of funds, with each succeeding year showing ever increasing allocations in an attempt to relieve the very serious handicaps in housing, education, health and employment under which Australia’s Aboriginal people suffer. [More…]

• It is understandable that the temporarily reduced funds for housing alarmed and worried many people, not least those Aboriginals in need of housing, for without adequate housing there can be only limited improvements in health, limited opportunity for children to succeed at school and limited hope of gaining regular employment. [More…]

• An extra $3m was provided to the Aboriginal Loans Commission for housing because of the importance the Government places on home ownership; grants-in-aid to the States for health and education programs were reduced and grants to Aboriginal organisations working in these fields increased because of our commitment to working through Aboriginal organisations; an extra $ 1.56m was provided for employment support programs which will enable funding support of a new initiative in placing Aboriginals with private employers; the Aboriginal Advancement Trust [More…]

• As from 1 October 1976 the following persons normally resident in the Lebanon will be eligible to come to Australia, after meeting normal health and character requirements: Spouses and dependent children of Australian residents: Parents, both aged and dependent and those who are non dependent and of working age, of Australian residents; nominated brothers and sisters of Australian residents; persons eligible under the normal acceptable occupations list. [More…]

• I also urge that he should be transferred to a good hospital and specialist medical and psychatric treatment be given to him and daily visits to him by the family allowed so that he may regain his mental and physical health and become a human being. [More…]

• On 8 September I posed to Senator Guilfoyle, in her capacity as the Minister in this chamber representing the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), the following question: [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle in her reply said that she would bring the matter to the attention of the Minister for Health and obtain a report for me. [More…]

• Today I received a letter from the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, and I wish to quote it. [More…]

• It is dated 30 September, it is headed ‘Minister for Health, Parliament House, Canberra’ and it states: [More…]

• As to the matter raised by Senator McLaren, I am sure that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) will read this speech with interest, but I will make just one comment on it. [More…]

• Also the Community has access to and services available from other State public services such as Education, Health, etc., costs of which cannot be separated in relation to the Aboriginal Community and these are not specifically identifiable’. [More…]

• That the funding for the proposed St Albans Community Health Centre building programme has been deferred by the Victorian Hospitals and Charities Commission. [More…]

• The lack of adequate medical facilities and the complete absence of Health Education and paramedical services is a tragedy for the St Albans population which is comprised of about eighty per cent (80 per cent) migrants arrived within the last five years and with an overall majority of mothers and young children for whom the proposed Community Health Centre would provide an essential service in this underprivileged area. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that immediate and urgent action be taken to make a special grant of funds so that the building programme of the St Albans Community Health Centre can be proceeded with, without any delay. [More…]

• That we object most strongly to the Government’s systematic erosion of the Medibank system of universal health care. [More…]

• The practice has been reported on numerous occasions, and it has been the subject of investigation by Department of Health doctors. [More…]

• I understand that the Victorian Public Health Commission has warned very strongly against the use of any form of optical filter. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, in answer to a recent question on notice, said that studies were in hand regarding ways of alleviating the hardship suffered by pensioner, low income and chronic illness groups who have to pay the $2 fee for pharmaceutical benefit items. [More…]

• If not, has the Department of Social Security been consulted by the Department of Health on alleviating the hardships referred to? [More…]

• The matter raised has been the subject of discussion between my Department and the Department of Health. [More…]

• I will look at the answer that was given by the Minister for Health and see whether there is any further information I am able to provide without further delay. [More…]

• Unfilled vacancies really show up the economic health of a country. [More…]

• Consumer demand is further tightening because of the rip-off from the taxpayers’ pockets of millions of dollars caused only by fiddling and juggling with a very efficient health and hospital service, commonly referred to as ‘Medibank’, created by the Labor Government. [More…]

• The millions of additional dollars thai have poured into the coffers of the private health funds as from the first of this month as a direct result of Government policy could well be going into the private sector of the economy, towards increasing the spending power of people and could well be injected into the business community to create confidence all round. [More…]

• The Bailey task force on health and welfare in the community is due very shortly to produce an interim report. [More…]

• It was payable under the National Health Act, and Senator Grimes has pointed out that in 1974 that Act was changed and a separate Handicapped Persons Assistance Act passed. [More…]

• For instance, if I may just briefly classify them, I refer to the adoption of many of the recommendations of the Griffith report, especially recommendations of the National Advisory Committee on the Handicapped and also the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• I remember a number of occasions when the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) and for that matter the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) used this phrase to qualify many of the programs which the Government announced. [More…]

• The efforts to meet the needs of the community as far as health and welfare are concerned should not be limited. [More…]

• I think it is well known that the Government at present has an interdepartmental task force looking at the variety and diversity of health and welfare programs. [More…]

• It was considered by the Government that it needed a task force to look at these programs and to collate and perhaps recommend coordination and means of effective delivery of service in the areas of health and welfare. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Insofar as the basic medical benefits table and the basic hospital benefits table are concerned, a person may transfer from one registered health benefits organisation to another without loss of rights i.e. [More…]

• The requirement that a person will ‘pay twice’ only applies to a person who is transferring from standard Medibank to a registered benefits organisation, in which case that person will need to continue to pay the health insurance levy (if applicable) during the two months waiting period (if any) imposed by the organisation. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Science who will recall that some time ago I questioned the effectiveness of measures taken by the Government to ensure that imported wines and brandies complied with Australian health and quality standards. [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health relates to the continuing unacceptably high loss of trained women graduates and diplomates from the health professions. [More…]

• I remind the Minister that only 50 per cent of nurses are in practice 5 years after graduation while similar drop-out rates apply to other women health professionals. [More…]

• I am not aware of the specific scheme in New South Wales which granted flexible working hours to 20 doctors but I am able to say that in the Australian Capital Territory the Health Commission does not have an overall scheme although it does have a number of flexible schemes applying to different professions not only to assist members to re-enter the work force on a part-time basis but also to remain employed in their profession in line with their personal commitments. [More…]

• The Health Commission in the Australian Capital Territory also operates a casual relief pool system for persons wishing to work on a part-time or casual basis, especially in hospitals. [More…]

• With regard to the Northern Territory, every endeavour is made to utilise health professionals on a sessional or part-time basis. [More…]

• I think in common with the Commonwealth and those flexible schemes which I have mentioned, the States are using qualified people in whatever way they see fit and are arranging flexibility that suits both the health commissions or the institutions concerned and the individuals. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen a statement by the President of the Voluntary Health Insurance Association, Mr Moon, which appeared in today’s Australian claiming that only 25 per cent of the population was relying on the Medibank levy as its only form of health cover? [More…]

• I have no information from the Minister for Health to indicate whether this is accurate. [More…]

• I believe the same newspaper article stated that the Health Insurance Commission had no information at the dme the article was reported to substantiate what it contained. [More…]

• I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health to see whether there are any accurate statistics that are relevant. [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health to see whether there is further detail which I can provide for the honourable senator. [More…]

• But, even allowing for the likelihood of getting greater value for every dollar, the department will be hard put to make much impact on the four main problems of Aborigines- housing, health, education and employment. [More…]

• There is an extensive disregard of the Council ‘s Health and Building By-laws and it is recognised that something must be done quickly in the interests of the health and general welfare of the campers. [More…]

• Health Act 1911 (as amended) and Regulations and Bylaws made under these Acts, the Aboriginal Land Trust being the registered proprietor of land known as lots 64, 65, 66 and 67 Saunders Street, Henley Park, West Swan, be ordered separately under the abovementioned Statutes and Regulations and By-laws made thereunder to have the camps and buildings removed from the aforementioned land within a period of seven (7) days as such camps and buildings are contravening the abovementioned Statutes and Regulations and By-laws made thereunder and the Shire of Swan Town Planning Scheme No. [More…]

• Council appreciates that its action is not the complete answer to the problem of the Aboriginal people but is forced to take such action because the camp in general is lacking in proper hygiene facilities, with poor sanitation facilities, and these general substandard conditions constitute a health hazard which cannot be tolerated in a modern society. [More…]

• We draw your attention to the plight of the aboriginal people at Saunders Street, Henley Park, Western Australia (approximately seventy women, children and men) particularly that they are in danger of eviction by the Swan Shire Council because they cannot conform to the Building and Health by-laws. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• His record of promotion speaks for itself: Three years after entering Parliament he joined the Ministry as Minister for Health and 5 months later became Attorney-General, a post he held until the 1972 general election. [More…]

• His mastery of detail and his allround competence were clearly displayed in the important and onerous portfolios that he administered- Health, Attorney-General and, in the brief period before his illness, Environment, Housing and Community Development. [More…]

• As a lawyer he was beset with the difficult task of coming here and being entrusted with the most difficult portfolio of health. [More…]

• I would like the Senate and his family to know that in the last three or four months, when going around my State, many people asked about Senator Greenwood’s health. [More…]

• I refer the Minister for Science to recent announcements by the Minister for Health implicating a bird, the nankeen night heron, as a possible carrier of Australian encephalitis. [More…]

• With regard to information about the Australian encephalitis virus, I refer to a Press statement made on 3 October 1976 by my colleague, the Minister for Health, in which he announced a grant to Dr Ian Marshall of the John Curtin School of Medical Research to investigate the possible link between the virus and the nankeen night heron. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The only direct knowledge I have is that I saw the Prime Minister’s movement sheet for his arrival at Fairbairn airport and amongst the instructions I recall reading- that was on Monday night- that all shoes used during that visit had to be placed or kept in the plastic bags in which they had been placed and given to Customs, or perhaps it is the Department of Health, for fumigation. [More…]

• The United States either imposes import restrictions of some sort or uses the indirect method of imposing certain health or hygiene conditions on abattoirs causing them to close down, thus preventing the export of Australian beef, mainly to the United States. [More…]

• Is it a fact that a husband who is separated from his wife and has dependent children is liable to pay the Medibank levy up to a ceiling of $300 a year unless he has insurance with a private health fund? [More…]

• That Medibank, as set up in July, 1975, has proved to be the cheapest and most efficient means of bringing health care to Australian citizens and that the citizens of Australia have received Medibank as a great and valued social reform. [More…]

• That the above-mentioned form of Medibank has proved itself to be a far superior system of health care, than was offered by the private funds prior to July, 1975. [More…]

• Your petitioners therefore humbly pray that the Government will observe the promise made by the Prime Minister in his policy speech that ‘We will maintain Medibank and ensure the standard of health care does not decline.’ [More…]

• We submit that the current changes to Medibank negate the original philosophy; they introduce and encourage a tiered form of health care which relates more to the wishes of health care providers than the needs of the consumers. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister been drawn to a report of a study by Professor Hollows on the disastrous state of the general health and the incidence of eye disease in Australian Aborigines in Central Australia? [More…]

• What decisions have been made in relation to the measures proposed by the Senate Select Committee to improve the general health and the vision of Australian Aborigines? [More…]

• My attention has been drawn to the report that was made with regard to Aboriginal health in Central Australia. [More…]

• As I understand it, the Minister for Health will be making a statement on this matter. [More…]

• I have here a somewhat lengthy statement with regard to health services in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• I believe it is understood that we are all concerned about Aboriginal health. [More…]

• I will seek from the Minister for Health an indication of his response to the recommendations of the Senate Select Committee report, and I shall advise the honourable senator accordingly. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I undertake to refer to the Minister for Health the matter of adequate precautions in regard to the recent visit to the farm and obtain for the honourable senator details of the number of Australians involved, when and how they returned to Australia and the way in which their footwear and clothing were dealt with as a precaution against the entry of disease into Australia. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I believe that the question should more properly be directed to the Treasurer than to the Minister for Health but I will see that the information is obtained for the honourable senator. [More…]

• The new income test will also apply in determining eligibility for pensioner fringe benefits provided by the Commonwealth Government, including a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• Mr Deputy President, I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard tables which show the limits of income which disqualify pensioners and recipients of sheltered employment allowance from eligibility to a pensioner health benefits card. [More…]

• It is important that social security pensioners and claimants be fully aware of the effects of recent changes to their pension entitlements and, where relevant, income tax and health insurance levy arrangements. [More…]

• On pension pay day 28 October 1976 a leaflet will be included with all pension cheques explaining the conditions under which pensioners will qualify for a pensioner health benefit card under the new income test and who will therefore be exempt from the basic Medibank health insurance levy. [More…]

• The leaflet will also contain information on the income test and advise pensioners who are not entitled to a pensioner health benefit card and who decide to continue with basic Medibank that, if they wish, the health insurance levy can be paid by instalments during the year by arrangement with the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• The Department of Social Security in consultation with other departments will be arranging for the printing and widespread distribution of a comprehensive pamphlet which will provide further information on the new income test and on income tax and basic Medibank health insurance levy arrangements. [More…]

• This pamphlet should be a particularly useful reference to pensioners since it will contain ready reckoner tables which will give people a guide to their pension entitlements and to their eligibility for a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• As I announced on 1 7 August 1976, new medical guidelines have been worked out in consultation with the Department of Health. [More…]

• The primary purpose of the Bill is to vary the means test for pensioner health benefits provided for in the National Health Act so that it will remain in accord with the means test for ‘fringe benefits’ to be applied to pensioners under the Social Services Act. [More…]

• I said at that time that a corresponding change would be made to the special eligibility test applying to the issue of pensioner health benefits cards. [More…]

• Technical education on the Island was extended to girls and health standards generally were stepped up. [More…]

• It is assumed that the citizens of Australia will understand that the aim of the policy is to make decisions in very important areas such as education and health more easily accessible to them because more decisions will be made in the State sphere than previously. [More…]

• I refer to health, education, welfare, the environment, urban improvement and transport. [More…]

• During these years the Australian Government willingly shouldered its responsibilities in the vital social areas that are close to all Australians- that is, health, welfare, housing, urban and regional development, and education. [More…]

• The first was Medibank in the field of health care. [More…]

• I have been to a number of meetings in New South Wales recently and I can say that the confusion concerning Medibank and the new health insurance arrangements is absolutely staggering. [More…]

• It allowed people at the regional level to decide for themselves what services they wanted to build in their community, such as sporting, cultural and educational facilities, welfare services and health centres. [More…]

• I reject and my Party rejects completely and unequivocally the proposition that the spending of money on improving a road, providing a library service, or opening up a new beach, a women ‘s rest centre or a baby health centre is the reason why we have inflation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) and (2) The number of persons employed in positions designated Journalist and those in positions of Assistant Director of Public Relations and Director of Public Relations in the Department of Health and in authorities under the control of the Minister for Health at dates referred to in the question was as follows: [More…]

• Colby cheese is a variety which originated in the United States of America and which is separately named in the Schedule for Named Cheeses’ appended to the Standard for Cheese approved by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I will consult my colleague, the Minister for Health, to see whether he has any knowledge of the matters raised. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This level of staffing is considered by the Capital Territory Health Commissioner to be adequate to provide a comprehensive ambulance service to the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• His exemplary family life and challenge to Queenslanders to maintain health of mind and morals- [More…]

• The information provided by the Minister during that exchange confirms information which I have already gained from Senator Carrick, the Minister Assisting the Prime Minister in Federal Affairs, and from Mr Hunt, the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The others are funded mainly through the community health program. [More…]

• The Labor Government, having recognised the need which was demonstrated for the establishment of these refuges, agreed to fund them through the community health program. [More…]

• It is certainly true that many of the women in the refuges are poor, they are unskilled, they are in poor physical and mental health, and they are without alternative resources to cope with the crisis which faces them. [More…]

• She fairly asked: What has been the Government’s policy with regard to the women’s shelters and the community health program being handed to the States. [More…]

• On 2 1 September in answer to Senator Walters I stated that the Government had given block grants to the States, announcing that it placed emphasis on the development of community based health services and, at the same time, the Commonwealth Government expressed its concern to promote its policies in an environment where it wants Commonwealth involvement in the supervision of the expenditure of money by the States kept to a minimum. [More…]

• Whether the States will continue with the community health programs which have been established is a matter that will need to be dealt with at some time in the future. [More…]

• I shall bring these matters which have been raised this evening with regard to women’s refuges under the community health program to the attention of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• Health: The State Health Commission employs one Aboriginal community health worker and one community nurse under its Aboriginal health program at Kempsey. [More…]

• Is it a fact that pensioners who are required because of their income level to pay the Medibank levy can make arrangements with the Department of Social Security to have the standard Medibank levy deducted from their social security pension but are not permitted to have an extra amount deducted to provide cover for choice number 2 or number 3 as set out in the booklet circulated by the Commonwealth Department of Health? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am not aware of what arrangements may have been made to overcome any abuse of the Medibank procedures, but I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health and obtain an answer for the honourable senator. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Social Security, refers to reports in today’s Press of dissension between officers of her Department and of the Department of Health which has apparently resulted in a breakdown of communications between the departments. [More…]

• I have been advised by my doctor for my husband ‘s health reason to sell out but with this cloud of mining over the area it is nearly impossible. [More…]

• In 1944 owing to ill health of my late father I took over the present farm on a Share Basis and later acquired ownership with my brother. [More…]

• In 1972 I had to give up dairying on account of ill health, may I briefly mention at the close of the Bracewell Factory I started supplying milk to Rockhampton on a daily quota of 18 gallons per day, when forced to leave dairying in 1972 1 was on an 82 gallon a day quota. [More…]

• I am of an age where to rehabilitate me to some new industry is out of the question and as I am a diabetic the worry of all this strife is affecting my general health. [More…]

• -I believe that it is the desire of the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle)- the Opposition certainly concurs in this desire- that we debate this Bill with the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) 1976, the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• At the moment we are awaiting several government reports from the Income Security Review Committee, from the Committee of Inquiry into Housing for the Aged and from the Bailey Task Force on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• The Opposition is disturbed at the penchant for setting up secret inquiries which look at aspects of health and welfare and which do not report to this Parliament. [More…]

• 3) 1976, the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) 1976, the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• By the same token, real concern should be shown by this Government for women who need rape crisis centres, women’s refuges and women’s health centres. [More…]

• I believe they know that in many ways the medical profession in Australia has failed women and that the women’s health centres are trying to grow up as a result of that failure. [More…]

• The Government’s excuse at the moment for not doing anything from a Federal point of view about rape crisis centres, women’s refuges and women’s health centres is that these matters have been handed over to the States. [More…]

• While we were in government we certainly made money available- for instance, to Victoria for a Women Against Rape centre and for a Women’s Health Collective. [More…]

• The Women’s Health Collective in Victoria was advised in May 1975 that money had been made available to it, but not one penny of that money has reached the Women’s Health Collective to this date. [More…]

• In fact, the Women’s Health Collective does not have any money and the last request it received from the Department was that it should inform the Department on what it would spend its money in 1975-76, yet it has not received one penny of the money that was made available for 1974-75. [More…]

• I refer to a report in the Canberra Times of 6 September 1976 by James Gordon, its health reporter. [More…]

• He was in a private health fund. [More…]

• We have had many reports on poverty, health and other things. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• My Department undertook a comprehensive examination of both the family planning program (which provides funds for non-clinical expenditure) and the health program grant (which provides funds for clinical expenditure). [More…]

• From 1 October 1976 the family planning associations will continue to receive health program grants on the basis of a deficit funding of clinical services after allowing for medical benefits and other related revenue received until 30 June 1977. [More…]

• The level of the grant is now being calculated on the cost to the Associations of clinical services provided to standard Medibank contributors, or those patients who are exempt from the levy because of low incomes or entitled to pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• In this case the health program grant will also be available as a means of financing the costs of the services to these patients. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health emphasise to the Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mr Lowe, his concern about the restriction by that State Labor Government of the use of intermediate beds at the Royal Hobart Hospital by pensioners, low wage earners and Medibank levy payers who are being discriminated against by not being entitled to use those intermediate beds and so have the doctor of their choice, even if they have insured with a private fund for this low hospital benefit? [More…]

• I undertake to draw these matters to the attention of the Minister for Health and ascertain whether he is able to give any assistance to those pensioners and low income earners in Hobart with regard to admission to the intermediate section of the Royal Hobart Hospital. [More…]

• -Can the Minister for Social Security inform the Senate whether or not it is true that the private health funds are sending their computer work to Singapore for processing because it can be done more cheaply there? [More…]

• Does this mean that people outside the control of the Australian Parliament would have access to the health records of Australian people? [More…]

• I will refer it to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question to the Minister for Social Security refers to the Bailey task force on health and welfare in respect of which Senator Baume asked a question earlier. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: In view of the fact that the findings of this task force will obviously affect State and local government, voluntary agencies, her own Department and the Department of Health, to say the least, and that any such recommendations based on the wide terms of reference of this task force will deeply affect the community, will she ask the Prime Minister whether the members of this Parliament and the public of this country can have made available to them both the recommendations of the task force and the reasons for those recommendations so that there can be some public debate before any Government decisions are made? [More…]

• Note the date, 26 May 1976, which was before I had made the representations- that they could be allowed to remain subject to their meeting normal entry requirements relating to health and character. [More…]

• I emphasise the word- “’’ and health are not at risk under this Government. [More…]

• It was extremely low when compared with the cost of other public services such as education, health, roads, transport, etc. [More…]

• I draw the attention of Senator Guilfoyle, the Minister for Social Security and the Minister representing the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), to the manifestation of certain anomalies or weaknesses in our pension portability scheme. [More…]

• The Yugoslav Government’s national health scheme coven this man and his children, but that Government has rightly raised the question about his wife. [More…]

• It has asked whether, if she had any national health coverage, there could be a reciprocal agreement. [More…]

• I think it is to the credit of the Yugoslav Government I think this applies to most governments in Europe- that it is taking in its health coverage the person who came back from Australia. [More…]

• The Government is covering the invalid pensioner and his children under its national health scheme. [More…]

• It asks whether his wife was covered by a national health scheme in the country which provides a pension portability. [More…]

• Then we have the fiasco involving doctors of the Royal Hobart Hospital and the former Minister for Health, Mr Farquhar, who was so piqued because the Premier had bought into an argument which appeared to be going to close the biggest hospital in Tasmania that he resigned. [More…]

• But when he thought of missing out on his black car and his salary he said no, he only meant to resign as Minister for Health; he still wanted to be in the Cabinet. [More…]

• Senator Walters is raising the matter of health and Hobart hospitals. [More…]

• Many doctors realise that butter is harmful to the health of many people in the community, but such people have been prevented from getting margarine. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Health Centres (either departmental or subsidised missions) are established at 35 localities throughout the Northern Territory. [More…]

• In addition the Depanment of Health subsidises the provision of health services on the following pastoral propertiesAlexandria Downs, Alroy Downs, Ammaroo, [More…]

• Additional or replacement health centre facilities are being constructed at 9 localities, these are Daly River, Docker River, Hooker Creek, Oenpelli, Papunya, Ti-Tree, Umbakumba, Wave Hill, Yuendemu. [More…]

• Major upgrading or replacement of health centre facilities at Alyangula, Maningrida and Milingimbi are included in the 1976-77 current Works Program for which tenders will be called in the latter half of the financial year. [More…]

• New health centres are under consideration for the following localities- Frewena, Jabiru (Ranger), McArthur River, Ramingining and Beswick, Upgrading of the Garden Point Health Centre is also under consideration. [More…]

• Yes- Difficulties are experienced with the recruitment of suitable nurses for rural health centres in most areas of the Territory. [More…]

• 107 Aboriginal staff are employed in departmental rural health centres and 68 are employed in health centres operated under subsidy arrangements. [More…]

• Health centres have a comprehensive role including primary medical care, health education, population screening, public health and staff training. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It does not give the full information with regard to the positive recommendations which were made and which are still being discussed and considered by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• A second problem concerns the role of the community health nurse. [More…]

• I am assured by the Minister for Health that the changes will be introduced only after full consultation with the staff involved. [More…]

• They come under the estimates for the Department of Health on pages 79 to 83 of the Bill. [More…]

• This hospital was taken over by the Department of Health from the Department of Defence. [More…]

• The other item with which I wish to deal comes under Health Services, Planning and Research Program. [More…]

• The Government has spent thousands of dollars on rapid construction methods in respect of health centres. [More…]

• I personally do not consider the building of Commonwealth health centres to be a Commonwealth Government responsibility. [More…]

• The Government has spent $26,000 to test the hypothesis that the health of the elderly chronic ill would improve by utilisation of a practitioner nurse attached to a general practice. [More…]

• It is a sub-item: ‘Hospitals and Health Services … . [More…]

• We spent more than $22,000 to study the information needs and practices of health facility planners, whatever they are. [More…]

• We have spent nearly $56,000 to improve the ability of health planners and policy makers to provide suitable and adequate health services for urban children. [More…]

• Another item was research of the teacher training corps whereby health service researchers can improve their expertise by the discussion of common problems. [More…]

• It is not a question of giving it back to the Department of Health. [More…]

• The people who represent the Defence Services and the Department of Administrative Services ought to have available a competent health component to run the area if there is a new use for the base. [More…]

• Senator Sheil raised several matters with regard to the Department of Health, one of which was in relation to the Woomera hospital. [More…]

• I wish to advise that the Woomera hospital has not yet been taken over by the Department of Health from the Department of Defence. [More…]

• This matter is still under consideration and that is the reason why the Health estimates on this project are frozen and why the funds continue to be used under the Defence estimates at present. [More…]

• As I said, the assuming of this responsibility by the Department of Health is still under consideration. [More…]

• Senator Sheil also raised the matters of health services planning and research. [More…]

• Whilst he stated an attitude in the examples that he used I think it puts the matter into some perspective if we look at the total health operating costs, which amount to $ 1,500m. [More…]

• The total health services for planning and research amount to $lm. [More…]

• Australia spent less per head on medical research than other developed nations and we should be looking for innovations and up-to-date research in many ways that may provide better health services and indeed cheaper health services. [More…]

• The items that were mentioned by Senator Sheil are under continuing and close review by the Department and by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• My comments will be directed to the recipients of those salaries, the dedicated people of the Northern Territory Health Department, and to the problems they face. [More…]

• I believe that the Northern Territory Health Department and its people have been very well served by the various Commonwealth governments. [More…]

• Generally, the health facilities in the Northern Territory are extremely good. [More…]

• There are very many sophisticated hospitals, and the health facilities throughout the Territory, from Alice Springs to Darwin, are extremely good. [More…]

• My concern about this matter arose when I read the Hansard of 12 October 1976 of Estimates Committee D, when the matter of the establishment of the Northern Territory Health Department was discussed under this subdivision. [More…]

• It was said that the present staff ceiling of the Health Department is 2 299 and that the actual number of people employed is 2 274. [More…]

• An officer giving evidence before the Committee indicated that because of the fluctuations in staff numbers- there are many resignations and recruitments- there was no necessity to increase the establishment because the growth in the Health Department would occur within the staff ceiling. [More…]

• I presume the officer was saying that if there were some 100 to 150 resignations from the Northern Territory Health Department the staff which would be required to operate the modem facilities in the Territory would be drawn from within the staff ceiling of the Department. [More…]

• He is the person in the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly who liaises with the Health Department on the subject of health facilities in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Express my deepest concern at advice that staff ceilings of Northern Territory Division Department of Health are to be reduced by further 1.4 per cent at a time health services in Territory need expansion owing to ( 1 ) rehabilitation of additional wards at Darwin Hospital essential to maintain health services at time of continued high population increases (2) commissioning of new 286-bed hospital at Alice Springs and 32-bed ward at Katherine Hospital before end of year. [More…]

• Whilst appreciating need for restraint health services cannot be strangled. [More…]

• Your intervention in this matter urged to ensure maintenance of health services in NT. [More…]

• I do not know whether it is a deliberate move by the Health Department as a whole- I am not referring to the Northern Territory Health Department- to disregard the requirements - [More…]

• It has a community health sister. [More…]

• The Committee was given evidence by Professor Colin Tatz that the statistics have been so bad and at one time the Department of Health was so alarmed by this illness that it ordered the statistics to be broken into several sub groups, doubtless to get a better appreciation of the different manifestations of the illness. [More…]

• I commend to the Senate and to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) the fact that some developing countries- and one example we were able to find was Swazilandhave been able to develop a very simply and practical measure to try to cope with acute lifethreatening gastro enteritis in infants. [More…]

• Health Services. [More…]

• Through the Minister for Health I have asked for full details of this situation and I will release any information I obtain from him as soon as possible. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, follows previous questions asked about pharmaceutical benefit items. [More…]

• As it is now some 9 months since that review and as representations to senators from associations and people have been continuing, will the Minister ask the Minister for Health whether some current review might now be conducted? [More…]

• However, I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health to see whether there is any information that he would like to provide on this matter. [More…]

• As I said, I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health to see whether there is information on it. [More…]

• It is totally unjust for Senator Grimes to wash his hands in the nursery where he is purifying the health of the community and to say that all this sympathy has developed in this political chamber, because there is a little electoral electrification of the atmosphere in Tasmania. [More…]

• I do not want to make a second reading speech on this matter but I insist that the matter of the establishment of the Department of Health in the Northern Territory be looked at with some urgency. [More…]

• 1 indicated that I felt that the authority was aware of its responsibility but perhaps not aware of the demands on the Department of Health now and in the future. [More…]

• There has been much publicity in the Press about the health of the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• Professor Hollows is presently in the Northern Territory carrying out a survey on the health of the Aboriginal people, particularly of the children, in relation to trachoma and other conditions of the eyes, ears, nose and chest. [More…]

• As I have said before, the state of health of the Aboriginal people, particularly of the children, is alarming. [More…]

• Nevertheless, there is a tremendous demand on the Northern Territory Health Department and I doubt whether it is geared to accept its responsibilities and carry out its duty to bring about better health. [More…]

• 1075 which I asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I asked about rural health centres in the Northern Territory, how many were being constructed, how many were in the planning stages, where the centres were situated, whether there were any staffing problems, what Aboriginal staff were being employed, whether any Aborigines were being trained and so on. [More…]

• The answer indicated that in the Northern Territory now there are 35 localities with health centres, either departmental or subsidised missions. [More…]

• These health centres are scattered over some 520 000 square miles. [More…]

• How can some 2000-odd people who have responsibilities throughout the Health Department and hospitals really be sufficient to handle all these health centres in extremely isolated areas? [More…]

• In addition there are 1 8 other health centres on pastoral properties. [More…]

• Yes, and I hope that the Health Department servicing the Northern Territory can be everywhere too, but I have my doubts. [More…]

• There are 1 8 health centres on pastoral leases. [More…]

• Additional or replacement health centre facilities are being constructed at 9 localitiesDaly River, Docker River, Hooker Creek, Oenpelli and so on. [More…]

• One can see that the scope of the demand for health services in the Northern Territory is immense and it is impossible for the Health Department to service these various facilities in the Northern Territory while endeavouring to live within it establishment. [More…]

• I point out to those authorities and the Health Department that in answer to a question last week in which I was being rather critical of across the board cuts in the Public Service, Senator Webster indicated that any department or Minister who had reason to believe that within that department there was lack of efficiency through lack of numbers had every right to go to the Public Service Board or to the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) to ensure that within the establishment of that department there were sufficient people to carry out the duties of the department in an efficient manner. [More…]

• While speaking on the establishment of health centres in the Northern Territory, it concerns me to see that there are 107 Aboriginal staff employed in departmental rural health centres and 68 employed in health centres. [More…]

• I suggest that whilst we are trying to find employment for Aborigines in the Northern Territory, encourage them and assist them in education and health, gradually their numbers in the Northern Territory are dwindling and the across the board cuts in the Northern Territory are a washout, are not working and are not good for the health of the Northern Territory community. [More…]

• -You are speaking on health. [More…]

• The points made by Senator Kilgariff concerning Aboriginal health in the Northern Territory are dead right, and I hope that he adopts the same attitude when the land rights legislation comes into this place. [More…]

• In conclusion, I support what my colleague, Senator Kilgariff, said about the health situation in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• I agree with what my colleague, Senator Ted Robertson, said a few moments ago, namely, that the areas of health and education, in particular, will have a big effect on the kids of the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Last week and again tonight there was some discussion about staff ceilings for the Department of Health in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The staff ceiling levels for the Department of Health have been determined for the Department as a whole. [More…]

• The Department makes a continuing effort to recruit medical, nursing and paramedical staff in an endeavour to maintain and improve staffing levels for the provision of health care services in the Territory. [More…]

• I remind the House that we have in any restriction on personnel and staff ceiling, emphasised that over the counter services to people- obviously this includes the delivery of health services- are not to be prejudiced as a result of staff ceilings that have been imposed on all Commonwealth departments and statutory authorities. [More…]

• Should it appear that the ongoing recruitment action will put pressure on the allocated staff ceilings this matter will be reviewed within the context of the overall ceilings of the Department and, if necessary, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) will take action towards adjustment of the ceiling. [More…]

• I have other information with regard to Aboriginal health worker training in the Northern Territory which I believe would be of assistance to the Committee this evening. [More…]

• Advice indicates that currently in the rural areas of the Northern Territory, 180 Aboriginal health workers are either employed by the Department of Health or subsidised by it for employment by missions. [More…]

• Of the 180 Aboriginal health workers, the number in active training is 77. [More…]

• Most training is provided at health centres by departmental staff. [More…]

• In the urban area approximately 150 further Aboriginals are employed in health institutions in various roles. [More…]

• The Department has now established a task force, under the direction of the health education specialist, comprising a senior matron, health inspector, dietician, personnel officer and a visual aids officer which will be seconded full time to prepare detailed plans for the upgrading and expansion of Aboriginal health worker training in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• I hope the information given in those 2 statements assists the senators who are concerned about the standard and availability of health services in the Territory. [More…]

• I assure them of the active interest and consideration of the Minister for Health in those very important matters. [More…]

• Where such considerations are related to health care, they are of course the responsibility of the Department of Health. [More…]

• In this regard I am advised that no separate item has been provided in the votes for that Department, either in the current year or earlier, but additional nutritional supplements considered necessary as part of the treatment have been provided in the past at hospitals and rural centres, and the Minister for Health has indicated that this aspect of the provision of health care should be expanded out of the funds provided in the current estimates. [More…]

• Aboriginal employment in the Northern Territory has had the attention of not only the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the Minister for Health but also myself and my own Department. [More…]

• In particular, on page 68 he will find a breakdown by States and a comparison of this year’s expenditure with expenditure last year under the headings of housing, health, education, employment, welfare, enterprises, town management, recreation and so on. [More…]

• Was it to arrange finance for the project or did he go over on a health trip at company expense? [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Vinyl Chloride Sub-committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council whose membership includes representatives of trade unions, employers and health authorities discussed this material at its meeting in May 1976. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has issued a statement on the general issue of health risks associated’ with vinyl chloride industry and stressed the need for medical examinations of VCM workers and joint consultation between management and trade unions on matters affecting their health. [More…]

• Responsibility for occupational safety and health conselling of the workers involved rests with the States. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The net operating costs to be shared are to be based on annual budgets and variations thereto formulated by the State standing committees, which are to consist of Commonwealth and State officers, and approved jointly by myself and the respective State Health Minister. [More…]

• In carrying out their function, the State standing committees will endeavour to apply principles aimed at achieving operating economies in recognised hospitals and central services consistent with maintaing or achieving an acceptably high standard of health care. [More…]

• The honourable senator will agree, being himself a medical practitioner, that research carried out in our teaching hospitals is vital in the maintenance of high standards of health care. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Friendly Societies Health Services (FSHS)-R Bleakly (President); R. West (Vice President); J. P. Gabbedy; B. Tucker; N. Krepp; W. J. Bleakly; J. Killoway H. C. Lawson, F.A.S.A. [More…]

• Part (a)- There is no provision under Commonwealth law in respect of health benefits organisations registered under the National Health Act relating to the election of members to the boards of management. [More…]

• Part (b)-Section 76 (2) of the National Health Act provides that registered health benefits organisations shall furnish financial accounts and statements to the Permanent Head (of the Department of Health) at the end of each financial year. [More…]

• Friendly Societies Health Services- The Committee of Management consists of one representative from each affiliated society, elected at the annual general meeting by representatives of the affiliated societies each of which has 4 representatives. [More…]

• Friendly Societies Health Services- Rules provide to the effect that the last annual balance sheet shall be available at the registered office at all times on request. [More…]

• Should it in fact reveal that to be true, I will ask my colleague whether he will happily refer the matter to the Minister for Health so that the steps as indicated can be taken. [More…]

• Health and Medical Research Council recommendation was that exposure should not be more than 500 millirems in one year. [More…]

• No Press release was made of this but a copy of the report is being obtained by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• We shall keep the Senate informed of further developments in this matter as the Minister for Health receives information. [More…]

• I shall refer the matter of compensation to the Minister for Health or to the appropriate Minister to ascertain whether there is any comment to be made on that. [More…]

• My question comes properly within the province of the Minister for Health, but it is framed around a statement attributed to the Prime Minister relating to the new hospital agreements, so I am in a quandary as to whether or not my question should be directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am unaware of the detail or of the areas subject to dispute between the Victorian Government and the Federal Government but I shall check with the Minister for Health and ensure that the honourable senator is given the answer. [More…]

• Customs and Health Department officials apparently have had the vessel under surveillance. [More…]

• The health authorities are now looking over the vessel. [More…]

• Firstly, the results were not released by me nor, as far as I am aware, by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to a written reply by the Minister for Health to a question I asked in the Senate on 8 September. [More…]

• In his written reply the Minister for Health said that a full report would be made available to the Australian Atomic Energy Commission and that any further questions I may have on the matter should be directed to the Minister for National Resources. [More…]

• The refugees are currently undergoing full medical examination, but preliminary examination reveals that they are all in good health with the exception of 6 children who are suffering from scabies. [More…]

• Does the Minister agree with the Assistant Minister for Health in Victoria, Mr Jona, that the new arrangements will lead to a breakdown in integrated childhood services? [More…]

• Our welfare state concept, particularly in relation to a national health scheme, is much inferior to that in European countries. [More…]

• In the Scandinavian and German countries people are well protected under the national health scheme and other welfare schemes without their take home pay being affected. [More…]

• In fact, even in the Eastern European countries there are always trade union representatives on local boards which decide health claims. [More…]

• I think this Bill we have before us will help in the gradual process that we hope will permeate the unions to ensure that some responsibility returns to unions, that people will be encouraged to work harder and will be rewarded in a greater way for working harder, and in so doing will improve their own lot and help to restore the Australian economy to sound health once again. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• What is the position regarding pensioners who are entitled to a pensioner health benefit card and therefore are exempt from paying the Medibank levy for coverage by Medibank Standard but who wish to take out extra cover through either Medibank Private or a private health fund? [More…]

• -Holders of pensioner health benefit cards are not required to pay the health insurance levy. [More…]

• Extra cover may be taken out by pensioner health benefit card holders. [More…]

• As regards the question of a working party to examine any resultant increase in skin cancer, this matter comes within the responsibility of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In relation to the importation of cattle, sheep, pigs and goats from these countries, veterinary health conditions of importation are under discussion between officers of the Department of Health and the British Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. [More…]

• When these discussions are concluded, the Minister for Health will be in a better position to outline possible means of importation. [More…]

• The programs of the Government at present are directed towards all aspects of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• I believe that the Minister for Health has made statements from time to time to show the emphasis we are placing on nutrition and health for Aboriginal people wherever they may be. [More…]

• The Committee was established originally to investigate what measures should be adopted to protect the individual privacy of persons in respect of whom data would be supplied to the Health Insurance Commission for the Medibank program. [More…]

• In addition, however, I approved a request by the Minister for Health in January 1976 for the Department of Health to be supplied with the addresses of some pensioners for use in connection with the provision of pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• 1 ) The results of monitoring fresh fission product fallout, including iodine- 131, from the 1 974 series of French nuclear weapons tests in the atmosphere over Polynesia and the results of monitoring programs to measure strontium-90 and caesium-137 in the Australian environment during 1971, 1972 and 1973 are contained in a report by the Australian Radiation Laboratory (Department of Health) in the publication ‘Fallout over Australia from Nuclear Tests’ which I tabled in the Parliament on 25 August 1 976. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I applaud the Minister for Health for his foresight in setting up a mobile hospital staffed by a full surgical team and equipped with a sterile operating theatre on the Amata reserve in South Australia for the sole purpose of treating and containing the rampant spread of eye disease among the Aboriginal people of that area. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has made public statements with regard to the team that was mentioned by Senator Bonner in his question. [More…]

• I will ask the Minister for Health to give attention to Senator Bonner’s question and I will see whether there is further information which I can obtain. [More…]

• In planning for departmental facilities considerable care has been taken to ensure that to the greatest possible degree, they form an integral part of local health and welfare services, including those of voluntary agencies. [More…]

• There is such a lack of ventilation that when there are- I apologise to honourable senators in this chamber because I suppose they would not know of this- 18 permanent waves being carried out in the one room with the smell of chemicals being used, the sun pouring through the windows which have no protection and 18 very hot machines in the room there are 18 apprentices placed in a very precarious position in respect of their health, so much so that there is a full-time sister in attendance at this hairdressing school for apprentices to deal with the girls who faint because of the impossible conditions they work under and the elderly customers upon whom they practice and who are in turn inclined to faint because of the heat from the machines and the smell of the chemicals which are used. [More…]

• After all, they are paying extra tax to provide for Medibank; there is no deduction for children on their tax returns now and so they have to pay more tax; they are spending extra money out of their income because of the pressure to buy private health insurance that they will not ever need, and many of them are out of work. [More…]

• Another area in which women could play a vital role is in the area of community health care. [More…]

• In many of the rural areas no doctors are available to assist people but there are many devoted women who have a great deal of knowledge and who, with a little more assistance and broadening of that knowledge, could really carry rural health care. [More…]

• What I am saying is that in the areas of health care, child care, dental care and rural health care we are in a state of war because there are not enough workers in them. [More…]

• Dental practitioners from Government Health and Education Department, Universities and from private practice agreed on the ratio of 1:2000 for planning purposes. [More…]

• He may care to consult his colleague the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) with whom I have discussed details. [More…]

• Often when they get there they have great difficulty in getting relief and this is the very great problem which faces the medical profession and medical health care delivery in this country in general. [More…]

• It is the sort of thing that has been talked about in other areas such as social security and health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If you wish to purchase health insurance for intermediate ward hospital treatment, for so-called doctor-of-choice in hospital, the following options are recommended: [More…]

• The only comment I make is that I understand the Minister for Health has written to the State Minister for Health in regard to intermediate ward care for patients. [More…]

• -The Division of Animal Health of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in Melbourne has this type of work under study. [More…]

• It is the expressed view of the sponsoring authority, the Department of Health, who will be responsible for the establishment and efficient operation of the station and the continued maintenance of stringent quarantine standards that Christmas Island is the preferred location in terms of the criteria set down. [More…]

• But we also note that according to the statement of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) it is the Government’s intention to negotiate with the Clunies-Ross estate on all issues-I emphasise those words ‘on all issues’- concerning the availability of the site for the station to be constructed as soon as possible. [More…]

• We sent a team of experts, including an industrial expert, to advise the Government on labour and health conditions. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Was it reported approximately two weeks ago that there had been trouble at the Docker River Settlement, Northern Territory and some damage had been caused to the new health clinic in that Settlement. [More…]

• If so, will the Minister investigate the situation and report to the Senate the reasons for the violence and what damage was sustained to the health clinic. [More…]

• Has the health clinic at Docker River been used. [More…]

• Are there any nursing sisters at Docker River to serve the community and staff the health clinic. [More…]

• An article in the Central Australian Advocate of 7 October reported that several windows in the new health centre were smashed with stones on the same day as the above incident took place. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Although no cases of food poisoning associated with frogs’ legs have been reported, State and Territory health authorities have been advised of the laboratory results. [More…]

• Councils are geographically-based bodies which may undertake a variety of functions on behalf of an Aboriginal community of the area, provided that these include the provision of at least one of the kinds of services listed in clause 11(3) such as housing, health, municipal and related services. [More…]

• The purpose of this Bill is to amend the Narcotic Drugs Act 1967 to transfer responsibility for the regulation of the manufacture and wholesale distribution of narcotic drugs, from the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs to the Department of Health. [More…]

• This transfer of responsibilities is being made because the Department of Health with its computer facility to monitor licit transactions in narcotics together with various inspection, labelling and quality controls is well placed to administer controls over the licit trade. [More…]

• Import and manufacturing quotas are also based on legitimate medical requirements and the Department of Health can best assess such requirements. [More…]

• Under the new arrangements the Department of Health will be responsible for: (a) licensing and inspection of manufacturers, importers and exporters; (b) authorising importation and exportation of drugs; (c) the setting of import and manufacturing quotas; (d) in conjunction with the appropriate State Authorities, determining acreage for poppy cultivation; (e) preparation of health statistics and estimates for transmission to the International Narcotics Control Board. [More…]

• It applies to Aboriginal affairs, to the health funds, to transport generally, and to this Bill in which the Government has juggled the Hayden Budget. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister repesenting the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Are the 121 officers to be recruited for the Northern Territory Division of the Department of Health to be a part of the present Departmental establishment, or is the staff ceiling to be lifted to enable staffing of projects in the final stages of construction in the Territory. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I presume the honourable senator is referring to the 121 officers mentioned in the reply given by Senator Guilfoyle to his question without notice concerning staff for the Northern Territory Health Service. [More…]

• As indicated in Senator Guilfoyle ‘s statement (Hansard, 9 November 1976, p. 1757), the Department makes a continuing effort to recruit medical, nursing and paramedical staff in an endeavour to maintain and improve staffing levels for the provision of health care in the Territory and the action to recruit 121 officers was at that time part of this effort. [More…]

• and (3) Major responsibility for legislative action in respect of the Adams Report rests with the Northern Territory Legislative Assembly and with the Departments of the Northern Territory and Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 1 ) Was a grant of $20,500 from the National Health and Medical Research Council to the University of Sydney discontinued. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• and (2) Medical research is supported by the Commonwealth Government through the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Funding is approved by the Minister for Health on the advice ofthe Council. [More…]

• The level of Government support for research in this area must be viewed in the light of known research as reported in the ‘Fifth Annual Report to the U.S. Congress’ from the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and I preface it by reminding the Minister that new drugs cannot be marketed in Australia until approval is given by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Nobody in this chamber can honestly tell me that the money that we spent on this looney idea of metric madness has achieved as much for the internal workings of Australia as we would have gained if that money had been devoted, say, to the portfolio of the Minister for Science and used for a scientific investigation, and more particularly an investigation into the health and welfare aspects of medical science. [More…]

• community health and welfare, [More…]

• In short, the many facets of this important and growing industry contribute to the Australian economy through: urban and rural development; decentralisation; new and expanded employment outlets; contribution to foreign exchange earnings; avenues for profitable short and long term investment; a contribution to education; new avenues for improving community health and welfare, both physical and mental; a deeper understanding of different cultural standards and community attitudes; a wider base for international understanding and goodwill. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator ‘s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Yes, the Department of Health has copies of the report prepared by Mr Noel Whitehead which suggests that this type of poisoning may be occurring more frequently. [More…]

• I can assure the honourable senator that the Department of Health will continue to keep this matter under close scrutiny. [More…]

• Does the Minister have any knowledge of the current state of Dr Acosta ‘s health, his treatment by the regime and whether he is still alive? [More…]

• The comments that I have seen more recently have been more in the area of personal services- health, social security and other matters. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I draw to the Minister’s attention a report in the Canberra Times of 17 November that a community health centre will be built at Eden, the announcement having been made by the Minister for Health in the New South Wales Government. [More…]

• If so, what is the amount of money provided by the Commonwealth for this project, what consultation has taken place with local health professionals and what provisions are there to ensure that a co-operative co-ordination of services takes place in the Eden area after the health centre opens? [More…]

• I understand that Commonwealth funds have been made available for this project under the community health program. [More…]

• Specifically, it is expected that a total of approximately $191,000 will be allocated to this centre in the 1976-77 Commonwealth block grant to the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• That Commission is primarily responsible for the development and management of projects such as the Eden community health centre, the Commonwealth’s role being related to broad policy issues, planning, evaluation and the provision of financial assistance. [More…]

• Based on information held by the Commonwealth Department of Health it is my understanding that consultation has taken place between the local health professionals and the regional directorate of the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• I understand that this consultation is continuing and is particularly directed at ensuring the coordination of services when the health centre opens. [More…]

• Is it a fact that pensioners who are required because of their income level to pay the Medibank levy can make arrangements with the Department of Social Security to have the standard Medibank levy deducted from their social security pension but are not permitted to have an extra amount deducted to provide cover for choice Number 2 or Number 3 as set out in the booklet circulated by the Commonwealth Department of Health? [More…]

• When replying to your Question- Without-Notice of 21 October 1976, 1 promised to make enquiries with regard to the possibility of providing a facility by which deductions could be made from Social Security pensions to meet private Health Insurance contributions. [More…]

• It is argued that Medibank Private is on the same level as private health insurance but, of course, we are all aware that Medibank Private was a company that was set up in the premises which were operated by the Whitlam Government under the previous Medibank scheme. [More…]

• Another matter I wish to raise which causes me great concern is a letter dated 18 November which, no doubt, would have been sent to all members of Parliament from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• In order to clarify the position in regard to Commonwealth grants under the Community Health Program, I am writing to notify you that, in the current financial year, the Government proposes an appropriation of $8 1 million for community health services and facilities. [More…]

• This includes $70 million for the Community Health Program specifically. [More…]

• By comparison, estimated expenditure under the Community Health Program in 1975-76 was $54.3 million. [More…]

• Since the Community Health Program commenced in 1973-74, Commonwealth financial assistance has been made available for a total of over 700 individual projects, ranging from small to relatively large and covering a wide variety of project categories to meet the varying needs of particular areas or groups. [More…]

• The $70 million to be appropriated for the Community Health Program this financial year will not provide for growth in the Program at this stage- [More…]

• Consistent with our federalism policies, Commonwealth financial assistance under the Community Health Program now takes the form of annual block grants to the States, and it is primarily the responsibility of each State to determine the allocations to individual projects from within its block grant. [More…]

• What disturbs me greatly is that when I examined the list of projects that was attached to this letter, under the name and location of the project and the description of the project as approved for new health program funding in 1976-77 I immediately looked at the electoral divisions of Angas and Barker. [More…]

• Under the heading ‘Name and Location of Project’ is the Murray Bridge Community Health Centre- Development of a Minor Community Health Service project. [More…]

• I found out that I was advised by Dr Everingham, the Minister for Health in the Labor Government, of allocations for certain projects. [More…]

• There is just a description of the project as approved for community health program funding in this financial year; that is, the development of a minor community health service project for the Murray Bridge Community Health Centre. [More…]

• A little further on the Riverland Health Advisory Services Committee is described as an advisory committee for coordination of health services in the area. [More…]

• In my Press statement of 1 November 1974 I announced that an amount of $23,475 had been allocated for the Riverland Community Health Centre to co-ordinate health services in the area, namely, Renmark, Berri, Barmera, Loxton and Waikerie. [More…]

• There was a project for the Coonalpyn Community Health Centre, a community practice nurse for the area. [More…]

• A little further on in the statement by the Minister under the heading ‘Name and Location of Project’ is the Christie’s Beach/ Noarlunga Community Health Centreconstruction and operation of a temporary community health centre providing primary care and a range of community health services. [More…]

• An announcement was made in 1974 of an amount of $ 1 87,200 to establish and operate a community health centre. [More…]

• This document says: Description of project as approved for community health program funding in 1976/77’. [More…]

• lm, or were most of these programs funded by the previous Whitlam Government when Dr Everingham was the Minister for Health? [More…]

• Mr Hunt claimed that this Government has made massive increases in the community health program. [More…]

• Health, in answer to the announcement by Mr [More…]

• I am writing to you in order to clarify the position with regard to Commonwealth grants under the Community Health Program in 1975-76 and 1976-77. [More…]

• The Labor Government in 1975-76 appropriated $64.1m for the Community Health Program, including $4.4m for the establishment of community health centres and facilities in your State. [More…]

• During the 1975 election campaign, Liberal and National Country Party spokesmen promised repeatedly that the Community Health Program would be maintained if they were elected. [More…]

• This savage reduction in funding forced several States to apply strict moratoriums on the replacement and hiring of new staff and lead to a rapid decline in the quality of service provided in many health centres. [More…]

• 1 m, an increase of 4 per cent in real terms on the amount appropriated in 1975-76 but grossly inadequate to maintain existing community health centres. [More…]

• This allocation will not only prevent the construction of new health centres urgently required in many areas of South Australia, but will force established centres to restrict the service they provide to the public. [More…]

• Vet in March this year the Hospital and Health Services Commission in its ‘Review of the Community Health Program noted . [More…]

• How many reviews does the Minister require before he will accept that the Community Health Program provides comprehensive health services to the 1 5 per cent of Ausralians living in areas that are seriously underserviced with basic health care. [More…]

• It does the Minister for Health no credit to continue to claim that the program is being maintained, when the allocation of funds is being continually reduced. [More…]

• I am making this request not on behalf of the other private health funds but only on behalf of the one set up by the Government because I recognise it as having been set up by the Government and not as one of the multitude of private enterprise health funds endeavoured to be sold to the public. [More…]

• On the other matter I raised, I hope that the Minister will be able to obtain from the Minister for Health, some clarification of the document which he circulated to members in South Australia and no doubt to members in every other State. [More…]

• The second matter raised by Senator McLaren with regard to the community health program is one to which I shall make a more general comment than the one that would cover the specific item that he mentioned as being one in which he was interested. [More…]

• To put the record right, let me say that in the 3 years 1973-74 to 1975-76 the Commonwealth made a total of $ 125m available for community health projects. [More…]

• As the community health program expenditure in 1975-76 was $54.3m and having regard to the absolute necessity to reduce Commonwealth expenditure, the 1976-77 allocation of $70m represents a very substantial contribution to the continuation of this program at a viable level of activity. [More…]

• As a matter of background I should like to state on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) that the States submitted programs totalling $95. [More…]

• 5m to cover their estimated requirements for the continuation in 1976-77 of existing community health projects. [More…]

• After critical examination and detailed discussions with the States by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, the total estimated requirement for this purpose emerged as $85.9m. [More…]

• In May 1976 the Treasury announced that $81 m would be available in 1 976-77 for the continuation of community health services and facilities. [More…]

• This includes $70m for the community health program. [More…]

• I will refer to the Minister for Health the specific matter raised by Senator McLaren and obtain an answer to clarify his mind on that subject. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The National Health and Medical Research Council at its 64th Session in 1 967 stated that: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• It is correct that there is no legislative restriction on Queenslanders joining private health funds in other States. [More…]

• Under the National Health Act, funds must have separate State registration and funds (other than restricted membership funds) are not permitted to carry on business outside the State of registration. [More…]

• However, funds have the right to refuse members, except on the grounds of state of health, which they could exercise for interstate persons if they so choose. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: In what way might present animal quarantine arrangements be able to be liberalised when the proposed high security off-shore animal quarantine station in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands is completed? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Leaving aside the subsequent inquiries that came about, has the Cabinet discussed the problem of health which may arise accidentally or otherwise from radioactive waste? [More…]

• I will refer the many questions raised by Senator Gietzelt to the Minister for Health and see that the honourable senator gets the information required. [More…]

• Cutbacks in health, education and social welfare programs are adding to the disadvantages of those who live in isolated areas. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Department of Health has, however, issued a document entitled ‘Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores 1975 ‘which sets the radiation standards that should be applied and the procedures that should be adopted to minimise radiation exposure. [More…]

• If the conditions of this Code are met, miners, mill workers and members of the public may be assured that the health risk from radon and decay products is negligible. [More…]

• There is no evidence that the presence of decay products arising from the emanation of radon from properly managed uranium mill tailings poses a significant health risk to individuals living today or in the future. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Commonwealth authority in this area is limited by the Constitution and monitoring of the efficacy of the code of practice is the responsibility of and undertaken by the health authorities in the States where manufacturing plants are located. [More…]

• This decision is strongly supported by the Minister for Environment, Housing and Community Development Consultations are being initiated between Commonwealth departments covering environmental, health, agricultural and other relevant interests to develop a co-ordinated input to this activity. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In view of further claims that these dumps present a health hazard, will the Minister ask his colleague in the other place, either the Minister for Defence or the Minister for Environment, Housing and Community Development, to make a public statement on the matter in order to dispel the concern that has been expressed? [More…]

• My advice is that Qantas has always stressed very high standards of hygiene and health maintenance. [More…]

• It has 3 company doctors and one hygiene officer frequently travelling along all routes checking on the hygiene and health matters. [More…]

• -My question which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to the staffing situation at the Darwin Hospital. [More…]

• I will obtain the precise figures on staffing at the Darwin Hospital from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Only the Health Act and the Waterworks Act contain effective provisions, and these are limited to water for human consumption and, in the latter case, are confined to strictly limited areas. [More…]

• On occasions people interested in the medical side have raised questions as to how the change in the environment might affect the health of the people in the region. [More…]

• The Narcotic Drugs Amendment Bill transfers responsibility for the policing of the manufacture and distribution of narcotic drugs from the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs to the Department of Health. [More…]

• Under the National Health Act as it now stands the Minister for Health shall make such determinations after consultation with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. [More…]

• Since 1964, consultation has usually been through the medium of the Joint Committee which the then Minister for Health established administratively for the purpose. [More…]

• The power to determine the conditions subject to which the payments will be made by the Commonwealth will remain vested in the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -The Opposition does not oppose the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• I believe they could be a more important segment of the health care delivery service in this country than in fact they are, because we pay them on the basis of the number of pills and potions they dispense. [More…]

• However, before any change can be effected which will improve the professional position of pharmacists in the overall health care delivery service in this country 2 problems must be overcome. [More…]

• As I said, the Pharmacy Guild recognises this necessity for limiting the number of pharmaceutical outlets in Australia and for creating a more equal distribution of pharmacists in the rural and isolated areas to assist in the health care of the nation and to assist pharmacists to have a more satisfying professional life. [More…]

• I emphasise that from the point of view of the patient and from the point of view of the pharmacist it will do nothing to assist health care in the long term. [More…]

• I believe that health care is what we should be thinking about in legislation of this type. [More…]

• Everybody knows that the system of health care in Australia at the moment is not satisfactory. [More…]

• We have looked at various aspects of the system, be it funding, be it health insurance, or be it paying pharmacists so much for a prescription. [More…]

• -The National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 4) 1976 seeks to resolve an area of difficulty which has arisen over a number of years between the Government and one of the major providers of health care. [More…]

• The National Health Act is exceedingly complicated. [More…]

• We cannot forget that the pharmacists in this country play a central role in the provision of health services. [More…]

• That professional group in our society responsible for the disbursing of drugs, for handing out drugs for the population, are serving a very important and critical role in health care. [More…]

• In 1972 the Guild corresponded with the then Minister for Health, our former colleague Senator Sir Kenneth Anderson, as a result of which an agreement was made to set up a new inquiry into chemists’ earnings. [More…]

• It was not until July 1975 that the then Minister for Health, Dr D. Everingham, advised the Guild of a Cabinet decision to pay chemists 1 1 cents and 22 cents in retrospective payments . [More…]

• I cannot leave this matter without reminding the Senate that the pharmacists are a responsible professional group in our society who have played a very significant role in health care. [More…]

• Section 99 of the National Health Act provides that the rates of remuneration of pharmaceutical chemists may be determined by the Minister for Health after consultation with the Pharmacy Guild of Australia. [More…]

• I will bring to the attention of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) the thoughtful and sometimes provocative comments which have been made during this debate. [More…]

• I would like to quote from the report of a working party on the abuse of medicines established by the European Public Health Committee of the Council of Europe last year. [More…]

• It is a serious subject, as is the whole system of health care in this community, and I am disappointed that someone who usually takes a serious approach to this matter should, on a day when we are trying to get legislation through and when the Opposition is trying to cooperate with the Government, indulge in cheap political and semantic tricks of the type in which Senator Baume indulged. [More…]

• Air pollution from coal fired plants results in about $US17m damage to health, property and vegetation; coal fired plants consume vast quantities- something like 200 lb every second- of non-renewable resources, and air pollution from those plants may be causing long term climatic changes on earth due to the carbon dioxide discharged. [More…]

• The last comment is the one which perhaps is the most frightening, namely, that whilst we are concerned with localised air pollution and all the dangers and the health hazards it creates the danger is the long term climatic change which could affect the earth itself. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health has released a code of practice on radiation protection in the mining and milling of radioactive ores. [More…]

• But I am a conservationist, and I hope that everyone in this House is a conservationist when it comes to the health of the people of Australia. [More…]

• All this indicates clearly that the economic advantages of the nuclear industry have not been established, not to mention the environmental and health hazards associated with this industry. [More…]

• Page 113: While most of the potential adverse health effects of fossil fuel use accrue to the generation of people using the energy; any radiation effects from radioactive wastes and tailings are likely to be spread over many generations. [More…]

• Can any figures relating to air and sea pollution be compared with World Health Organisation standards. [More…]

• In the absence of published information I am not able to form any comparison with World Health Organisation standards. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I preface it by drawing the Minister’s attention to the annual report for 1975-76 of the Director-General of Health, in particular the statistics appearing therein which support the statement that alcohol is a major factor in more than 3000 deaths each year in the Australian community. [More…]

• I refer to those approved recently by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I direct to the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question which follows upon a question I asked previously in this chamber. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health was concerned about this matter and took it up with the Tasmanian Government to permit admission to intermediate ward care for people who require it. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to an article by Mr Hugh Lunn in the Australian newspaper on 18 November concerning the growing incidence of skin cancer in Australia and the need for all health departments to advertise both the dangers involved and the need for people, particularly children, to wear hats and sun screens. [More…]

• Has the Government any plans in hand to do this in respect of its Department of Health and to advise the most suitable and effective skin screens available to the public? [More…]

• I recall the article referred to by the honourable senator but I am unaware of any plans that the Minister for Health may have initiated with regard either to an education program or to any other requirements relating to the best form of skin screen against skin cancer in this country. [More…]

• I think most of us are aware of the statistics which show the high incidence of skin cancer in Australia, and I will draw the matter to the attention of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• A revised policy and programming is essential and urgent in such needy areas as: (a) housing (b) health (c) education (d) employment (e) legal service (?) [More…]

• The health situation in this area and the whole of the north coast is bad among the Aborigines and prevalent in all age groups . [More…]

• It was set up to save the lives and to improve the health of Aboriginal children and to find out where Aboriginal children came from. [More…]

• In terms of their housing, their employment, their health, their education and their prospects they do not have access to the things we regard as proper and normal in today’s Australia. [More…]

• We had a situation in which the Department or the Welfare Branch attempted to provide clothes, European education, European food, health services and so on to the Aboriginal people in the same quantum as would be supplied to a European community. [More…]

• It is essential that administrative convenience and financial economies do not interrupt this process if the Aboriginal people of the Northern Territory are to effectively manage their own affairs, control their destiny by free choice and, most importantly, for the health and self respect of their whole people, are able to exploit that part of their assets that they need to exploit in order to pay for those things that they want from other Australians. [More…]

• I urge the publication of this material on 2 grounds; firstly and most importantly, to protect the health and well being of our young men and women and, secondly, to ensure that at least the Australian athlete will be able to exhibit all the high ideals of true amateurism and not be tempted to succumb to this outright cheating by the use of drugs to attain tainted international honours. [More…]

• Does the Government place a high value on the study of human nutrition and are there any plans for the Government, possibly in the form of collaboration between the Department of Education and the Department of Health, to attempt to match this private endeavour and to extend the study of human nutrition within our universities? [More…]

• Taken together, this operates in terms of the major threat to the health and survival of the Australian people. [More…]

• I understand that the Curriculum Development Centre of the Commonwealth Department of Health is looking at projects in the health nutrition area. [More…]

• I do want to stress that as has been represented to me, the primary threat to health in terms of degenerative disease in Australia is in fact malnutrition in terms of obesity. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Veterans ‘ Affairs whether he has studied the recommendations of the Toose report, particularly those referring to relevant personal files being made available to a claimant or his authorised representative; those recommending that legal representations be allowed before a tribunal; and those referring to the relaxation of certain health conditions to allow disabled persons to be employed in both State and Commonwealth Government departments? [More…]

• I understand that his Department did approve migrant entry of Mr Stewart, subject to completion of health and character requirements in May of this year. [More…]

• Unfortunately Mr Stewart could not be interviewed and could not undertake the health and other formalities during a visit to Calcutta by an immigration officer in late July. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she has seen the report that the United States of America is concerned that a dangerous type of influenza may hit that country this winter and is spending some $135m on universal vaccination. [More…]

• My question concerning cigarette advertising in the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory falls somewhat between the responsibilities of the Department of the Northern Territory, the Department of the Capital Territory and the Department of Health. [More…]

• I understand, after some initial hesitation, that it will be taken up by the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The matter was discussed again at the 1976 Health Ministers conference but the States foresaw difficulties in applying restrictions to advertising of articles such as clothing and smoking accessories. [More…]

• The question of the possible introduction of restrictions on tobacco advertising and on smoking in public areas is being examined and initial discussions have been held by the Department of Health with the authorities concerned. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The essential point is that before we can do anything about the bad health of Aboriginals we must get them into homes. [More…]

• That is important in order to improve the health of Aboriginal families. [More…]

• We could then find out how much was paid to each State for Aboriginal housing each year and how much was paid to them for health and education. [More…]

• British veterans resident in Australia and in receipt of disablement pensions from the British Government are paid by the Department of Veterans’ Affairs as the agent of the British Department of Health and Social Security. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Mininster for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In these tests, liaison is maintained by the chemical plants with the relevant State emergency and environmental health agencies. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• As the report of the Bailey task force on coordination in welfare and health will be of great interest to the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, because, Mr President, as a committee we have taken considerable evidence on many of the task force references, can the Minister say when the report will be handed down? [More…]

• I am informed that State hospital authorities have this matter under close examination and some have already discussed it with the officers of the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• However, it has established specific inquiries into the care of the aged and infirm and the co-ordination of welfare and health programs which will no doubt recommend on measures needed to further improve the effectiveness and efficiency of services in these areas. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health give details of the inadvertent mixing of opium poppy seeds with lucerne in seed supplied recently to a Victorian farmer? [More…]

• -No instance such as has been suggested in the question has been referred to the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health, in conjunction with State authorities, takes all precautions to prevent illicit cultivation and to eradicate unathorised growing. [More…]

• I am able to assure the Senate that the Minister for Health is making inquiries into the report that was the subject of the question. [More…]

• The record of the industry indicates its poor state of health over the past few years. [More…]

• It relates to community health centres and a screed that was put out by the present Minister for Health, Mr Hunt. [More…]

• In the Senate adjournment debate on 2 December 1976 you referred to my letter of 18 November 1976 regarding 1976-77 Commonwealth grants under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• He then referred to a portion of his letter quoted by me during the debate in connection with the $70m being allocated for the community health program. [More…]

• It is clear that the list of projects attached to my letter was not described as a list of projects for new health program funding as you implied, but rather a list of previously approved projects which make up the total South Australian Program, and in respect of which continuation funding was made available by the Commonwealth through a block grant of $5. [More…]

• The other column is headed ‘Description of Project as Approved for Community Health Program Funding in 1976-77’. [More…]

• It is clear that the list of projects attached to my letter was not described as a list of projects for new health funding as you implied. [More…]

• What else could I assume when looking at those appendices which he circulated to all members and which definitely state in the description of the projects that they are projects approved for community health funding in 1976-77? [More…]

• However, I checked with the South Australian Department of Health concerning the projects listed for funding in the 1976-77 program. [More…]

• All community health projects have an official project number, part of which identifies the year in which the project was approved for commencement. [More…]

• On a check with the Department I found that most of the projects had been commenced under grants given by Dr Everingham, the then Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) who represents the Minister for Health in the Senate to obtain for me during the recess information concerning the date of announcement of funds for each of the projects listed for South Australia, the date of commencement of construction, the date of completion of construction and the date of occupation of the facility. [More…]

• I would have been embarrassed if I had made a Press statement that I had been advised by the Federal Minister for Health that a certain project had been funded for a certain district. [More…]

• The only direct knowledge that I have is that I saw the Prime Minister’s movement sheet for his arrival at Fairbairn airport and amongst the instructions I recall reading- that was on Monday nightthat all shoes used during that visit had to be placed or kept in the plastic bags in which they had been placed and given to Customs, or perhaps it is the Department of Health, for fumigation. [More…]

• I undertook to seek further advice from our colleague the Minister for Health, and I attach the Acting Minister’ s reply for your information. [More…]

• ACTING MINISTER FOR HEALTH [More…]

• Minister for Health Parliament House Canberra. [More…]

• That is made very clear in the final couple of paragraphs of the letter of the Minister for Health of 10 November. [More…]

• an estimate of $208m for health insurance levy collections; [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Mr Gaul was appointed a consultant to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Mr Gaul has received economy class airfares from the Department of Health for travel between Canberra and Sydney on 2 occasions when it was necessary for him to attend meetings at the office of the Australian Government Advertising Service. [More…]

• Oversight implementation Code of General Principles- occupational safety and health in Australian Government employment. [More…]

• What number of (a) cattle, (b) calves, (c) sheep, (d) lambs, and (e) pigs have been slaughtered in each State, under the supervision of Health Inspectors employed by the Department of Primary Industry, for each of the past 10 years. [More…]

• The Department of Primary Industry does not employ Health Inspectors to supervise slaughter of animals. [More…]

• This arrangement was made in 1974 when certain functions authorised by the Social Development Ordinance were distributed amongst the Departments of Health, Education, Aboriginal Affairs and the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Of these investigations how many documents supposedly leaked from (a) Departmene of Prime Minister and Cabinet; (b) Department of Defence; (c) Department of Treasury; (d) Depanment of Foreign Affairs; (e) Department of Social Security; (f) Depanment of Health; (g) Attorney-General’s Department; (h) Department of Consumer Affairs. [More…]

• We know, of course, that the effects of our changed arrangements for health insurance will produce a higher December quarter CPI increase than in any quarter since the 5.6 per cent increase of the December quarter of 1975. [More…]

• This is because inherent in their construction is the proposition that the community has always paid in one way or another for its health care. [More…]

• Health insurance did not suddenly become free on 1 July 1975, nor did it suddenly become more costly on account of our changes effective on 1 October 1976. [More…]

• In other words, the underlying rate of inflation in the latter part of 1975 was not diminished by the previous Government’s decision to fund the costs of health care out of taxation; and the underlying rate of inflation in the December quarter 1976 has not been increased by the change in that arrangement. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) As the honourable senator will be aware, the provision of health services in the States is primarily the responsibility of the respective State health authorities, and those authorities have the responsibility for detailed planning of health services. [More…]

• In the case of your State, this involves the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• I am informed that the Health Commission of New South Wales has no current plans for a polyclinic to be established at Lithgow. [More…]

• However, with Commonwealth and State financial assistance under the Community Health Program, a Community Health Support Centre has been established at Lithgow. [More…]

• However, from the Commonwealth’s block grant of $29.4m to New South Wales under the Community Health Program in 1976-77, $18,300 has been allocated to the Lithgow Community Health Support Centre for this financial year. [More…]

• We know, of course, that the effects of our changed arrangements for health insurance will produce a higher December quarter CPI increase than in any quarter since the 5.6 per cent increase of the December quarter of 1 975. [More…]

• There was spoiling of the food of families, losses for food distributors and retailers and a breakdown in communication and industry, and 2 schools were forced to close for health reasons. [More…]

• They refer to housing, education and health. [More…]

• The matter has been referred to the Minister for Education, the Minister for Health and the Treasurer for their comments. [More…]

• Can the Minister and the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs give assurances in relation to health checks and tests in Australia on these refugees? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of concern being expressed at reports that some refugees are moving into the community before tests have been completed, which is seen as a possible threat to the health of the community and, more particularly, to the future of the humanitarian refugee program? [More…]

• I seek from the Minister information relating to the health care of refugees. [More…]

• Those who arrived in Adelaide and Melbourne on 7 February, and in Brisbane and Sydney on 13 February, had undergone a preliminary health check undertaken by a Commonwealth medical officer prior to their departure for Australia. [More…]

• Representatives of the State and Commonwealth Departments of Health are on the committees to which I have referred and they have co-operated closely and undertaken a detailed program of medical examinations and tests on the refugees upon their arrival in Australia. [More…]

• With regard to South Australia, in which I would assume the honourable senator is particularly interested, I am able to say that in Adelaide a comprehensive screening program was commenced by the South Australian Department of Public Health upon the refugees’ arrival at Pennington hostel. [More…]

• State health authorities in South Australia, and I assume in other States, have provided and are continuing to provide a nurse to attend refugees at the hostels and at Commonwealth hostels. [More…]

• Assurances can be given that every step has been and will continue to be undertaken to ensure that there is no risk to public health from the refugees group and that appropriate treatment is being prescribed for individuals where necessary before their entry into the community. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to the report Immigrants and Mental Health issued by the Australian Council of Social Service on 24 January 1977, which outlined the deficiencies in mental health services available to migrants. [More…]

• I shall refer to the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and to the Minister for Health the specific matters raised in the question but I give the assurance that in whatever way we are able to identify assistance to migrants we are proceeding to do this, and to enable migrants more fully to determine the assistance which they require. [More…]

• I went to the eastern goldfields, for example, which is a place where people tend to be very independent and to believe that they should be independent and should stand on their own 2 feet and where, at the same time, they are asking for the extension of television and radio services, health services and education services. [More…]

• I believe that the election next Saturday therefore has a national significance, not only for those who are interested in development as development but also for all those who want to see better education, better social security, better health and better welfare. [More…]

• But when a factory inspector or health inspector visits the island, the company officers make a telephone call to the men who are working on the day to tell them to keep down the dust, the noise or something of that nature because the inspectors are on the island. [More…]

• Higher standards of living, better roads, more television, more radio, better health services and so on depend on increased growth in Australia, and mineral growth in particular. [More…]

• The Minister would be aware that last year the Department of Aboriginal Affairs funded a special health project for Aborigines in Victoria through that State’s Department of Health. [More…]

• Has the Department of Aboriginal Affairs been assured that the Aboriginal health services in particular and the Aboriginal people in general will be consulted on the program? [More…]

• Is it true that the amount involved covered the salaries for 14 aides at a salary of $8,000 per annum plus travelling expenses plus $2,798 for departmental expenses while the Aboriginal health services received only $2,589 to cover both medical and dental services for 12 months? [More…]

• Why was the State Health Department funded for this work rather than the Aboriginal health services? [More…]

• The Bill itself is concerned no doubt with the Department of Health, the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Department of Defence as well as the Commonwealth police forces. [More…]

• In June and July 1976 the Government established 2 inquires in the health and welfare fields. [More…]

• The second, the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health, chaired by Mr P. H. Bailey, was announced on 23 July. [More…]

• The relationship between programs for the aged and the infirm and other health and welfare programs. [More…]

• The report for example raises the possibility of including the costs of nursing home care within the health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• Honourable members will recall the decision to establish the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health arose out of the Government’s concern at the proliferation, duplication and overlap of Commonwealth programs and services in the health, welfare and community development fields. [More…]

• In proposing various administrative changes, both reports make suggestions as to how the Commonwealth can safeguard the role of local and voluntary agencies delivering health and welfare services in the community. [More…]

• Our view is that these reports raise important issues in the health and welfare fields which merit serious consideration. [More…]

• The group will be assisted by officials from other departments including Treasury, Finance, Health, Social Security, Environment, Housing and Community Development and the Public Service Board. [More…]

• The Committee on Care of the Aged and the Infirm and the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health are commended for their efforts. [More…]

• It is very important that this obsession with duplication and overlap- as I said, real or imagined- must not overshadow the findings of all the more detailed, careful, independent and, I suggest, useful inquiries which show that the overwhelming problem in the welfare field or the health field in this country is not duplication and overlap but gaps. [More…]

• We also have to decide whether these reports provide the necessary flexibility for the changing needs which continually occur in our society and whether they will assist in the prevention of social deprivation, poverty and inadequate care in the fields of housing of the aged, health and all the other areas. [More…]

• We all are concerned that health and welfare programs will be effective and will achieve their aims. [More…]

• In this whole field of welfare and health services, Commonwealth-State relations and responsibilities have always been important. [More…]

• The present Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) experienced this when she transferred the funding of the women’s refuge and women’s health centre in Brisbane through the States. [More…]

• The Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health, chaired by Mr Peter Bailey, recognises this at page 46 of its first report where it states: [More…]

• In summary, we believe the Commonwealth should discharge several important functions in the welfare/health field: [More…]

• as the national government, be responsible for establishing national policy, maintaining a critical surveillance of the welfare /health field and initiate action to reduce undesirable overlap. [More…]

• A significant proportion of the increase reflects the changed funding arrangements for health insurance. [More…]

• However, the annual comparison is influenced by the effect of changes to the funding arrangements for health insurance in the September and December quarters in 1975 and the December quarter of 1976. [More…]

• However, this annual comparison is influenced by the effects of changes to the funding arrangements for health insurance in the September and December quarters of 1975 and December quarter 1976. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to recent complaints by physiotherapists in private practice that the Health Commission of New South Wales has made a ruling denying them the right to treat patients in a number of Schedule 3 hospitals? [More…]

• Will the Federal Government take up this matter with the New South Wales Health Commission to try to correct this situation? [More…]

• I state on behalf of the Minister for Health that, prior to the introduction of Medibank hospital arrangements, medical practitioners were able to refer intermediate and private patients to physiotherapists who charged private fees. [More…]

• I shall take note of the matters that were raised by the honourable senator and refer them to the Minister for Health so that he may pursue them with the New South Wales Health Commission. [More…]

• The Department of Health has carried out experiments on such agents as bubonic plague and anthrax, but for prophylactic purposes only. [More…]

• The expert analysis required by the legislation would best be carried out by the Department of Health as it has scientists with the necessary expertise. [More…]

• Presumably, the major burden of this will be carried by the Department of Health. [More…]

• As I have said, this would fall largely upon the Department of Health. [More…]

• A few other appointments have been made from outside- Sir Robert Jackson to National Development, Dr McMichael from the Public Service of New South Wales, and Major-General Refshauge to the Department of Health, and Air Marshal Sir Richard Williams, who went to Civil Aviation in 1946, as well as 3 secretaries to Mr Whitlam who went to 3 departments during the time of the last Government. [More…]

• I think the building would be condemned as a fire trap or health hazard. [More…]

• The Government is considering the first report of the Bailey Task Force on co-ordination of health, welfare and community development programs, including the Area Improvement Program. [More…]

• But the annual comparison is influenced by the effects of changes to the funding arrangements for health insurance in the September and December quarters of 1975 and the December quarter of 1976. [More…]

• Is the Minister entirely satisfied that no risk to public health is presently being caused by any such experiments currently being undertaken in Australia? [More…]

• Finally, the honourable senator asked whether I was satisfied whether there are any risks to the public health. [More…]

• My Department is involved more in areas in which public health is not involved, but the standing committee on recombinant DNA molecules that was set up by the Australian Academy of Science has to date approved the conduct of experiments which fall only into the low and minimal categories of risk which I have mentioned. [More…]

• I believe that these are carried out under the safety procedures determined by the national institutes of health and the advisory board of the research councils in the U.K. [More…]

• I am advised on that point which was the direct thrust of the honourable senator’s question that there is no risk to public health in those experiments presently carried out in relation to recombinant DNA research in Australia. [More…]

• Nevertheless, it would be true to say that there is no requirement of any high order apart from those relating to basic education and health and the provision of suitable references from previous employers. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health or alternatively to the Minister representing the Attorney-General. [More…]

• I refer to the report headed Privacy and the Therapeutic State’ in the Legal Services Bulletin of October 1976 which claims that the Queensland Mental Health Act 1974 contains 20 provisions which violate the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of the report ‘s specific allegations that mental health patients’ privacy is violated by the explicit and implicit use of coercion to apply treatment procedures of dubious value and effectiveness and that Queensland subjects its citizens to more therapeutic invasions of privacy than any other Australian State? [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health to obtain information from him on the Commonwealth attitude with regard to the international implications which he mentioned. [More…]

• Of course, the allegations contained in it refer to laws of Queensland, its Mental Health Act and the administration of that Act. [More…]

• It would not be a matter that comes within the area of either the Minister who represents the Minister for Health in this place or my area as Minister representing the Attorney-General. [More…]

• The question of rehabilitation and educative services is actively under examination by the Departments of Aboriginal Affairs and Health. [More…]

• I assure the honourable senator that the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the Minister for Health are actively examining it. [More…]

• In respect of education, the first step of course has been to get greater liaison and coordination between the Northern Territory division of my Department and all other Departments within the Northern Territory, but notably the Departments of the Northern Territory, Aboriginal Affairs and Health. [More…]

• Health centres which form a focal point for community activities are at Melba, Kippax and Scullin. [More…]

• It was acquired for the purpose of a laboratory for the Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• 8 1 7, can the Minister advise whether there was earlier this year a question answered in the House of Commons relating to the health problems of asbestos. [More…]

• Was there made available to the House of Commons Parliamentary Library the substance of a report compiled 8 years ago for the Department of Health in the United Kingdom, together with an updated revised version of the report. [More…]

• Was this report prepared for the Department of Health and Social Security Standing Medical Advisory Committee by a working party under the Chairmanship of Sir Richard Doll. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) A question was answered in the House of Commons in 1 976 relating to the health problems of asbestos. [More…]

• My Department was advised by the United Kingdom Department of Health and Social Security that no reports had recently been made public, and I presume that the United Kingdom department did not consider either the 1968 report, or its revision in 1971, to be recent. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• What progress has been made in preparing a mental health ordinance for the Capital Territory. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Detailed proposals for a mental health ordinance for the Australian Capital Territory have been drafted and widely circulated throughout the community in the form of a discussion paper. [More…]

• Consultation has been sought with leading academic figures, with the judiciary, with health and welfare professionals and administrators. [More…]

• Recommendations based on the amended discussion paper have been prepared but have yet to be endorsed by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• Section 107, which has been developed and maintained as a park since the original subdivision of the area, provides a variety of opportunities for recreation and relaxation and contributes to the physical and mental health of many people who come to the park to exercise dogs, play games, or simply to enjoy the views and peaceful surroundings. [More…]

• The death of Harry Cant, as he was well known to many of us in this chamber, came not altogether as a surprise because we knew that he had been in ill health for some years. [More…]

• Affairs, Employment and Industrial Relations, Health, and myself and their departments to determine how we may best assist in regard to employment for Aborigines. [More…]

• Investigations are being carried out at present by the World Health Organisation, the World Meteorological Organisation, the United Nations Environment Protection Agency and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. [More…]

• The matter is under consideration and other departments beside mine, including the Department of Health and the Department of the Environment, Housing and Community Development, and all State governments are alerted to this problem. [More…]

• The introduction of the contributory Medibank scheme meant a saving of $2,000m in the Health vote of the nation and meant that the Government was able to maintain and improve the level of expenditure in other important areas such as social welfare and education. [More…]

• As the Treasurer (Mr Lynch) said, the effect on the consumer price index of such once and for all influences as the health insurance changes has nothing to do with the underlying inflationary pressures in the economy. [More…]

• Then he has to go to the Commonwealth health authorities and, among other matters, have various vaccinations such as those for smallpox and cholera. [More…]

• I had all the vaccinations I was told I needed but on my return to Australia- as a matter of fact, it was only in the last couple of days- I received a telegram from the Commonwealth Department of Health in Canberra. [More…]

• However if you develop an illness, particularly one with fever, you should consult a doctor at once and show him this message, requesting him to contact the Commonwealth Department of Health in your State or the State Health Department. [More…]

• Should further information be required your doctor could contact the Assistant Director (Medical) of the Commonwealth Department of Health in each State. [More…]

• It is not good enough that they are allowed to leave our shores without being fully protected by the health authorities of this nation. [More…]

• To my knowledge the Department of Health did not inform the members of the Aboriginal contingent who went to Nigeria that it was a malaria-prone country, nor did they alert me to that fact. [More…]

• I hope that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) after reading my speech tomorrow, if he feels so inclined, or when it is reported to him, will make a thorough investigation of the matter. [More…]

• I threw myself completely on the mercy of the Commonwealth Health authorities with confidence that these matters would be taken care of. [More…]

• I made a submission today to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) drawing his attention to the constructive recommendations of this report. [More…]

• I hope that the Minister for Health will digest this report carefully and come forward with some proposals that will rectify what I believe to be a very serious deficiency in our medical health program to service rural communities. [More…]

• It has been estimated by the Bureau of Statistics that the Medibank component, or the component for the cost of health care as it is probably more properly described, increased by 3.2 per cent during the December quarter of 1 976. [More…]

• The point which I think is quite relevant here is that that 3.2 per cent refers to the whole annual cost of health care yet it is being passed on in one quarter of the financial year. [More…]

• Of course, people who are paying a health insurance levy through their contribution to Medibank or, alternatively, are buying private health insurance are, generally speaking, paying that premium over a full 12 months period, possibly in weekly or monthly instalments. [More…]

• I believe there is justice in that because it appears to be related to the cost of health care as it has affected the community in the last 12 months. [More…]

• Whether it was because of ideological bigotry or because of a desire to provide a captive clientele for the self perpetuating oligarchs who run the private health funds and support the Liberal Party, this Government made a conscious and deliberate decision to introduce a health insurance levy- a Medibank levy- which could be avoided by people who chose instead to pay a premium to a private insurance fund. [More…]

• The position is that patients can find themselves in a situation where they know that they will eventually receive a refund for their hospital fees from their health insurance fund but first have to outlay funds themselves. [More…]

• As the Minister himself has pointed out that useful submissions have been made by the NACC on matters of education, health and welfare, employment, language, customs and land rights, can we be advised when it is planned to hold the next meeting of the NACC? [More…]

• -Can the Minister for Social Security confirm reports that persons who receive lump sum settlements for workers compensation claims are no longer covered by Medibank health insurance for any recurring trouble caused by the injury which is the subject of that settlement payment? [More…]

• I shall discuss with the Minister for Health the provisions of the Medibank scheme of health insurance to see what information can be provided on the matter that has been raised. [More…]

• With regard to the question concerning facilities for providing meals at schools and the other associated nutritional or health matters, my own belief is- I can stand correction on this-that during the period of the Whitlam Government and for some years in any case there has been some argument that it is the responsibility not of schools but of parents to feed children properly, because if schools provide meals or clean clothing or shower facilities it takes from the parents a sense of responsibility. [More…]

• The need to provide a learning environment as well as a healthy environment at school for Aboriginal children is vital. [More…]

• Health services were the next highest consumer of recurrent funds. [More…]

• The Australian Educational Review added that this recurrent expenditure for education in 1964 values increased by 161 per cent by 1974 compared with an increase of 130 per cent for health services. [More…]

• It should be noted when comparing expenditure for education and health that, before the introduction of Medibank, recurrent costs of health services in Australia were borne out of private expenditure to a greater extent than was education. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to an announcement made on 2 April 1 974 by the then Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam, to the effect that the Government had allocated $57m to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong in Victoria on land owned by the Government. [More…]

• If construction has not commenced, can the Minister say what is being done in the interim to safeguard Australian animal health by way of testing and treatment of exotic diseases? [More…]

• -The interests of this animal health laboratory are such that its construction comes within the responsibility of the Ministry for Primary Industry. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that last week the Minister for Health advised the organisation Population Services International to defer the setting up of an abortion clinic in Canberra until the health and legal aspects had been given appropriate consideration and the matter had been ‘debated by people at the local level’? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that, despite this statement and despite the fact that this attitude was conveyed to Dr Davis of PSI by Mr Blandford of the Capital Territory Health Commission, PSI still intends to go ahead with its abortion clinic and that, in fact, staff at the clinic had training sessions last Friday? [More…]

• What other action is available to the Minister or the Government in view of this blatant disregard by Dr Davis and PSI in view of the statement by the Minister for Health? [More…]

• However, I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health for a report from him on the questions raised. [More…]

• I draw the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health to a revolutionary procedure being tested in West Germany for the treatment of diabetics. [More…]

• If these statements are true, what action has been taken to ensure that the medical officers from the Department of Health were not knowingly involved in the conspiracy? [More…]

• My Department, the Department of Health and others in the past week or so have been investigating closely some allegations with regard to a suggested fraud in the certification that doctors give in respect of people seeking invalid pensions. [More…]

• All the information I have at this stage is that it is doctors other than Commonwealth medical officers who are regarded as subject to investigation in respect of whether the certificates they were granting were in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Social Security and the Department of Health. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It has come to my attention that in some parts of the world attempts are being made to limit the use of saccharin on the ground that it may represent a health hazard. [More…]

• Is any position being taken by the Department of Health with regard to the continued use of saccharin in Australia? [More…]

• This is the result of a study conducted by the health and welfare branch of” the Canadian Ministry of Health and Welfare in which saccharin was shown to cause malignant bladder tumours in test animals. [More…]

• The use of artificial sweeteners has been under continual review in Australia by the National Health and Medical Research Council since the original work on cyclamates was performed several years ago. [More…]

• Saccharin again will be considered by the food science and technology and public health advisory committees of the National Health and Medical Research Council, both of which meet within the next few days. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has stated that no cases of human cancer attributable to saccharin have been identified. [More…]

• Honourable senators know as well as I do that whether it be West Germany or one of the Scandinavian countries, there is no stacking the deck when it comes to the wage index of the economy or for that matter, the national health scheme. [More…]

• where the occasional honours and glories, which may be rich, are often bought at the cost of painful sacrifice: sacrifice of leisure, sacrifice of family life (attested by the growing toll of broken Westminister marriages), and finally- too often- sacrifice of health and strength. [More…]

• It is probably inevitable that people who come to Parliament to work, and who operate in the conflict situation in Parliament, will be more subject than normal to certain health problems. [More…]

• Anyone who lives this way (and it is a way of life by no means confined to politics) imperils his health and his future. [More…]

• We should try to tear away our tendency to deny that there is any problem, any health risk, in being in politics. [More…]

• We should offer to people coming into the Parliament the kind of counselling which would enable each of them to understand the kind of health problems he or she might face. [More…]

• Health counselling made available to politicians makes just as much sense as does health counselling made available to executives, workers or other people in activities outside politics. [More…]

• If we could get politicians to accept health counselling we might even get the medical profession to accept it for itself at some time in the future. [More…]

• There have been financial cuts in the field of health. [More…]

• I have to agree with him to a certain extent but I know that in my State of New South Wales the Vehicle Builders Employees Federation of Australia, the Storemen and Packers Union of Australia and the Health and Research Employees Association of Australia- 3 unions that come to mind very quickly- are doing a lot about migrant education in the trade union movement. [More…]

• In the area of health, Medibank has been destroyed under the Fraser Administration. [More…]

• I was talking to some officers of Medibank the other day and they pointed out to me the staggering problems they now have because of the reintroduction of the private health schemes. [More…]

• I believe also that health services generally are being allowed to deteriorate, as they were between 1949 and 1972. [More…]

• I propose to deal with the lack of action being taken in the health area- the opening of the gate to abortion in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• In view of this, the adequacy of the staff levels of the Health Insurance Commission’s claims review and investigation sections is under constant examination. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health to see whether he agrees that it was a reliable estimate that was given or whether any further information is available. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Congress will bring from 1500 to 2000 visitors to Australia, including Ministers, judges, academics and other leading figures in the fields of law, criminology, police, corrections, social welfare, mental health, sociology, education and related areas and disciplines. [More…]

• I remind you, Mr President and the Senate, that this is the case despite statements that have been made by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), despite the votes that have been taken in the House of Representatives on this subject and despite the referendum that was held in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• She has written to baby health clinics advising of PSI services. [More…]

• Let us leave the building industry and look across at some of the traditional signs and indicators which have been used to assess the health of the economy. [More…]

• I am one who has been critical in this chamber of certain shop stewards in certain industries because of their conduct; but I was delighted a few weeks ago to see a report, again in South Australia, of a group of shop stewards at the General Motors-Holden’s Ltd plant at Elizabeth who, within the short space of a couple of days, raised a few thousand dollars to send the child of one of their workmates to New Zealand because they felt that a specialist there could bring her back to full health. [More…]

• Against the background of the Government’s Federalism policy and its concern at the proliferation and overlap of Commonwealth services and programs in the health, welfare and community development fields, the Task Force shall examine and report on: [More…]

• a ) the identification of particular services and programs, currently being undertaken by the Commonwealth, in the health, welfare and community development fields, which could be better delivered by a State, local government or voluntary agency and the administration of which could be transferred to the States; [More…]

• the possibilities for elimination of individual programs and consolidation into broader based programs in a manner which enables more efficient and economic delivery whether by the Commonwealth or the States, and the establishment of appropriate consultative arrangements with the States, local government and voluntary agencies on future policy planning, administration and service delivery in the health, welfare and community development fields; [More…]

• He referred to possibility that we have a systematic fault in the way in which we run this place which imposes undue stresses and burdens on the health of members and senators and even more so on those who hold ministerial office. [More…]

• I know that many honourable senators on this and the other side would know that the burdens of office are such that they do affect and have affected in the past the health of many of the people who have worked in this place. [More…]

• Unless the Government takes notice of that fact, it is going to spend a lot more money on social services and on health and medical services to cope with the problems that will come out of it. [More…]

• But we could not get through to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• This Government has done very little about women’s health centres. [More…]

• The Liberal Government in Victoria has done little about women’s health centres. [More…]

• One of the reasons why the funds had not been passed on was that the Women’s Health Collective had a special condition, again stipulated by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, that the centre should relocate if there was sufficient medical opposition. [More…]

• If money was going to be made out of women’s ill health then the medical profession was going to make the money. [More…]

• I think it is up to this Government to remember that a vast number of women who have no other place at which they can receive help want these women’s health centres, and it should cut through such nonsense. [More…]

• If the citizens of Australia want health centres in certain places, why should the doctors of this country be able to say: ‘No go’? [More…]

• Does this Government really believe that ordinary people are entitled to good health or are they only entitled to good health if they go into debt for the rest of their lives? [More…]

• Does this Government really believe that children have the right to grow up with the same opportunity to love, to a good home, to education and to good health no matter who their parents are or in what circumstances they were born and that all children are bom equal? [More…]

• This was done privately by two Service members of the Australian health physics team stationed at Maralinga to monitor possible health hazards. [More…]

• The records leave no room for reasonable doubt that the men knew what they were about, and that they had access to, and used, relevant health physics monitoring equipment to check safety aspects. [More…]

• Having regard to the knowledge and expertise possessed by these health physics personnel, the equipment to which they had access and the central fact that both vehicles can be shown from records still extant to have been checked officially and found free of radioactivity, some reasonable conclusions may be drawn as to their safety even as of 20 years ago. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to an article which appeared in the Melbourne Age on Thursday, 17 March, in which a specialist at the Royal Children’s Hospital is reported to have stated that ‘Australian patients have to be satisfied with second-rate treatment . [More…]

• In 1975 the Department of Health undertook an assessment of the needs of the Australian community for the provision of factor VIII for the treatment of haemophilia. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I shall have that matter placed under study by the Department of Health and perhaps by the Department of Science to see whether the suggestion which has been proposed may be adopted in this country. [More…]

• Research Organisation that toddlers at Port Pirie in South Australia who have the habit of putting soil in their mouths run the risk of lead poisoning and that this could lead to problems in their health, development and behaviour in later life. [More…]

• Those scientists believe that in a small number of gardens in Port Pirie children who eat more than one gram of soil per day- that is about onethirtieth of an ounce which is a very small quantitywould exceed by at least 4 times what the World Health Organisation regards as the safe intake of lead and that by eating vegetables from a very small number of gardens in the area the safe limit for heavy metal intake could be exceeded. [More…]

• The scientists and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation suggest that further investigation by health authorities might be useful. [More…]

• My question is directed to Senator Guilfoyle in her capacity as Minister for Social Security and perhaps also in her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• At present, assistance for women’s refuges is provided through the community health program which is administered by the Department of Health. [More…]

• In the Australian Capital Territory special arrangements are made through the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• For the current financial year the Canberra women’s refuge has received a grant of $20,000 from the Health Commission. [More…]

• The refuge authorities, aware that future funding arrangements for refuges are being reviewed, have written to the Department of Health, to the Capital Territory Health Commission and to the Department of Social Security seeking an early decision as to how much of the amount mentioned it may receive from the Commonwealth and from which Department. [More…]

• Funds will continue to be made available for housing, education, employment, health, legal aid etc. [More…]

• They give a comparison on spending for housing, health, education, employment, welfare, enterprises, town management, public utilities, recreation, legal aid and in some general areas for the years 1972-73 to 1976-77, the current financial year. [More…]

• Funds would continue to be made available for housing, education, employment, health. [More…]

• Community Health Dr 1973-74 [More…]

• The telegram stated that funds would continue to be made available for housing, education, employment, health, legal aid and so on. [More…]

• We have been monitoring carefully expenditure on the programs and the indications are that with the exception of portion of the $6.5m which was to be spent on capital works for health and education in the Northern Territory but which has not at this stage been able to be committed fully, the actual expenditure will be very close to the allocations that we have made. [More…]

• If we add to this expenditure by other departments, such as my Department, the Department of Health, the Department of Education and others, we realise that a great deal is to be expended to improve the life and opportunities of the Aborigines in Australia. [More…]

• With regard to health matters there are grants to the States, grants-in-aid and the Aboriginal health services in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• Approximately $20m will be spent on Aboriginal health programs this year. [More…]

• I believe a great deal of sensitivity and responsibility needs to be shown with regard to the health standards of Aborigines, particularly Aboriginal children. [More…]

• The Department of Aboriginal Affairs, through the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs (Mr Viner), has recognised that it has a particular role to play in the health of Aborigines. [More…]

• While we recognise that other existing government authorities provide health services, the Department of Aboriginal Affairs accepts responsibility in ensuring that Aboriginals have access to acceptable health services capable of meeting and overcoming the particular health handicaps which they may suffer. [More…]

• We have a responsibility to improve the standards of health and housing for Aborigines. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Health Service in Victoria maintains that 80 per cent of Aboriginal children have hearing difficulties. [More…]

• The Health Service maintains that all Victorian Aboriginal children suffer from malnutrition, vitamin deficiency, skin conditions and lack of resistance. [More…]

• The delivery of health services, legal aid, employment opportunities and better education so that Aborigines can go into better jobs are the areas on which money has to be expended, and it must be expended wisely. [More…]

• To my knowledge there has been no cutback in the delivery of services to the Aboriginal community in the very important fields of health, education, legal services and housing. [More…]

• The Aboriginal people who are without housing, without adequate health facilities, without proper employment opportunities and without proper education facilities will be very pleased to know that the Government is concerned enough to hold inquiries. [More…]

• In 1973-74, $20,000 was made available for an Aboriginal health workshop. [More…]

• He has forgotten what it is like to be without health facility services. [More…]

• This is the Government which said that there will be no cutbacks in Aboriginal welfare programs, employment, housing or health and which immediately sliced $33m off the Budget. [More…]

• Honourable senators will remember that only this morning I asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether consideration would be given to the application of an emetic chemical to methylated spirits in an endeavour to stop not only black people but also white people from consuming this terrible product. [More…]

• I direct the attention of the Senate to the amounts of money which have been expended over the years on Aboriginal assistance in such areas as housing, health, education, employment, welfare, enterprises, town management and public utilities, cultural recreation, sporting activities, legal aid and so on. [More…]

• In particular I want to make some remarks about the problem of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• I assert that the health of the Aboriginal community in Australia has deteriorated since the dismissal of the Whitlam Government, and I endorse the remarks made earlier by my colleagues on this side of the chamber that the Fraser Government has indeed failed to keep its election promises to the Australian Aboriginal people. [More…]

• I noted with some interest that the issue of Aboriginal health has been referred to the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs, but in two very serious areas the Government has acted in a way which has undermined the programs set up during the period of the Labor Government to improve Aboriginal health. [More…]

• It has reduced funds and imposed staff ceilings which have made the appointment of staff at an appropriate level impossible in some areas, including the area of health. [More…]

• I believe that the health of some Aboriginal people in Australia is worse than that of any other people in any other part of the world. [More…]

• If it is true, and I believe it is, it is not only a national scandal but also an international scandal that a country as rich as Australia, which has such modern highly developed medical facilities and so many trained doctors and medical personnel, is still a country in which the health of some of its people can be worse than that of people in any other country in the world, including Third World countries, which lack all the things I have just enumerated. [More…]

• The health of the Aboriginal people has been allowed to deteriorate over generations. [More…]

• I would not suggest in the course of my remarks that it is only the present Government which has neglected or failed to cope adequately with the problems of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• For example, I was almost completely unaware of the extent of the health problems of Aboriginal people until I came into this chamber and had an opportunity to visit Central Australia and some of the isolated settlements there. [More…]

• I know that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in another place on 3 November admitted the extent and complexity of the health problems of Aboriginal people. [More…]

• Why is it that we have this complete double standard with regard to health in Australia and that the diseases which afflict the Aboriginal community to the point of causing one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world are diseases which are almost unknown in the white community? [More…]

• Why is there this apartheid on the matter of health and health services in the Australian community? [More…]

• At the conclusion of this extremely interesting study the authors make the point that the question of Aboriginal health is not an isolated question but is integrated with the whole question of the status of the Aboriginal community. [More…]

• I must agree with that conclusion that perhaps the basic problem and the one that is getting worse all the time instead of better as far as the Aboriginal people are concerned is health. [More…]

• The Aboriginal people are being destroyed by health problems. [More…]

• Treatment of the sorts of diseases that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) admits exists widely amongst Aborigines in isolated communities is possible and could be effective if the present Government were prepared to spend money, to supply trained staff and, most importantly, to work with the Aboriginal people in finding solutions to these problems. [More…]

• I mention the Central Aborigines Congress Medical Service as an example of an effective program of treatment of the health problems of Aboriginal people. [More…]

• Of course, most of those 8600 Aborigines are in very poor health by our standards. [More…]

• The mothers felt very constructive and useful and the health situation improved. [More…]

• White sellers or peddlers of alcohol go out to the camps and sell wine or other alcohol at scandalously inflated prices, thus contributing to the alcohol and health problem. [More…]

• The Government should be looking at ways of taking health, education and social security services out to where the Aborigines are living. [More…]

• I criticise the present Government for taking no steps that I am aware of to bring the necessary health and educational services out to where the Aboriginal people are living. [More…]

• It was initiated by Dr Everingham when he was Minister for Health and an amount of $575 000 was made available. [More…]

• However, this kind of program, which Senator Baume seems to think has been in operation for many years, is an example of the sort of program which a conscientious Government should be developing in every area of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• Why is it that the present Government has not brought all these resources together in a national program to cope with the known, identified and easily curable problems of Aboriginal health? [More…]

• It is possible to provide the basic necessities for good health to Aborigines living away from developed areas. [More…]

• It appears that all that is lacking is the will, motivation or efficiency of the present Government in order to initiate a national program to eradicate health problems amongst Aboriginal people. [More…]

• I shall not continue with my remarks on this subject because I recognise that a lot of other speakers wish to speak on subjects other than the problems of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• The Refugee Resettlement Co-ordination Committees include representatives from Commonwealth Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, Education, Health and Employment and Industrial Relations; from State Departments of Health, Education and Welfare and the Depart.ments responsible for Ethnic Affairs; from voluntary organisations such as Red Cross, St Vincent de Paul, and Salvation Army, and from many other organisations including ethnic and religious associations and from refugee groups. [More…]

• Sub-committees have been formed to cover such areas as Education, Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Following the movement of refugees to migrant hostel or other accommodation, a detailed program of medical examinations and tests is undertaken by State Health authorities. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Can the Minister advise what measures might now be necessary to create proper controls and sanctions to prevent, detect and adequately punish any dishonest practices in the health insurance area? [More…]

• I believe it was accepted that there could be abuse of Medibank, just as many health schemes in other countries have suffered from abuse of some of the provisions within their schemes. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has stated that some 32 cases are under investigation and that these represent a very small minority of the 20 000 doctors in Australia. [More…]

• I believe that everyone would accept that it is a fequirement of the Health Insurance Commission to see that there is no abuse of a system which is costly to the people of Australia, as such abuse would defeat the purpose of having the universal health cover which we now enjoy. [More…]

• It is partly associated with her capacity as the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The amount of funds made available in 1977 by the Commonwealth Department of Health under its national health and medical research program total approximately $22,000. [More…]

• I raised it first during an adjournment debate on 2 December, when I expressed my concern over a document put out by the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, in which he claimed that the present Government was making funds available for community health centres in South Australia. [More…]

• I disputed the fact that this Government was funding or had initiated those health centres. [More…]

• On 1 7 January I received a letter from the Department of Health written on behalf of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health recently wrote to you concerning 1976-77 Commonwealth grants, under the Community Health Program, for projects in your State. [More…]

• The Director-General of Health enclosed a document, to which I referred in my speeches on 2 December and 10 December. [More…]

• You will recall that, on 10 December 1976, during the First Reading Debate on the Income Tax (Companies Superannuation Funds) Bill 1976, you requested certain information concerning community health projects in South Australia. [More…]

• In order to provide an accurate reply, it was necessary to obtain some of the more detailed information from the State health authorities. [More…]

• I have approached you also, Mr President, and indicated my intention to seek leave to have both those documents incorporated in Hansard so that people who read Hansard can see that all the community health projects which have been commenced or are in the course of commencement in South Australia, with the exception of one, were initiated by the Whitlam Government under Dr Everingham, who was then the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I was concerned that Mr Hunt had implied that the Fraser Government has initiated all these community health projects. [More…]

• In June 1971 the Advisory Council, the forerunner of the present Legislative Assembly, passed a motion which proposed that sections 82, 83 and 84 of the Crimes Act be repealed and replaced by new legislation making abortion legal if the life of the mother was in danger or her physical or mental health was threatened or if the foetus could be abnormal. [More…]

• Legislative Assembly, that is, to its Health and Welfare Committee. [More…]

• It will conduct that examination in consultation with the Capital Territory Health Commission, which is not at present seeking advice on this question from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists. [More…]

• I hope that in the ensuing few weeks a responsible decision, properly and democratically arrived at, will be reached and that any action to be taken by the Minister for the Capital Territory, the Legislative Assembly, the Capital Territory Health Commission and the Australian Capital Territory hospitals will be based on such a democratically and responsibly reached decision. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it possible to confirm that a large grant has been given to extend the national program against trachoma, a program designed to assist in improving the eye health of outback residents, both [More…]

• I have some information from the Minister for Health on this matter. [More…]

• I understand that the program is being undertaken by the Australian College of Ophthalmologists, assisted by Aboriginal health workers and medical students. [More…]

• The Department of Health does not have any statistics on voluntary assistance. [More…]

• Some 126 salaried Aboriginal health officers have been involved in the program and large numbers of voluntary Aboriginal health workers have assisted the field teams at various locations. [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that it is imperative for effective planning in housing, health, transport and other areas that well researched and detailed social information be compiled and made available publicly? [More…]

• One then must look at what sort of assistance can be given either to restore it completely to health or to prop it up until better times come. [More…]

• The report further states that the grave health problems arising from lack of housing and low income render it virtually impossible for a chronically sick child to do well at school. [More…]

• He was told at that time that he could not stay there because it was unhealthy for white people to stay in an Aboriginal community for longer than 2 years. [More…]

• On Palm Island 2 teachers decided to live with the Aboriginal people in one of the shacks but that was considered to be unhealthy; so they were transferred to a place many miles away from that particular area. [More…]

• It is considered to be very well for black people to put up with anything but white people must have certain standards- they must live in conditions which meet certain health requirements and so on. [More…]

• So it is not healthy for them to live in an Aboriginal reserve for more than 2 years. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Firstly, with regard to the Commissioner’s statement concerning prosecutions for offences involving marihuana, amendments were in fact made to the Public Health (Prohibited Drugs) Ordinance in 1975 which cured the defects in the law referred to by the Commissioner, as far as we can ascertain from the report. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Health Insurance Commission reported that the average cost of processing assigned benefits by way of bulk billing was 34c per claim compared with 44c for each cash claim and $1.14 for each ‘pay doctor cheque’ claim? [More…]

• Perhaps he has a release from the Health Insurance Commission which provides that information. [More…]

• I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health to seek his response on these matters. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister for Social Security in her capacity as Minister holding that portfolio and also as the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If bulk billing facilities for pathology and medical services are abolished by the Government, will many pensioners and other low income earners be forced to pay for those services in cash and then seek reimbursement from Medibank or their private health funds at a later date? [More…]

• Does she consider that such a decision by the Government is in accord with tire recommendations of the third main report 6f the Commission of Inquiry into Poverty which strongly pointed out that one of the problems associated with low income families with chronic illness was the necessity to have cash ready to obtain health care? [More…]

• In relation to the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry into Poverty I agree that stress was laid on the necessity for health services to be available to those people who require them. [More…]

• I think we all accept that in this country a universal health cover is a desirable feature. [More…]

• After 3 years of economic mismanagement there were great difficulties facing the nation, and I want to refer briefly to the savings which the Government effected by its introduction of the contributory Medibank scheme, the health service scheme. [More…]

• In November, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Mr Viner announced that there would be $6.5m for Education and Health, capital works in the N.T. [More…]

• First of all, we should look at the health of Aboriginal children and Aboriginal people generally. [More…]

• On many settlements the children are well cared for and healthy but there are many areas where the children are living in conditions which are completely different from the way of life they followed as nomads. [More…]

• They then did not have the problems of health which they experience today because they were always on the move. [More…]

• Through the increase in population, as everyone must admit, there are health problems. [More…]

• The fact is that when there is this fragmentation of families and clans who go into the bush with their children, there are problems associated with bringing health and education to them. [More…]

• Australia because when we approach the Aboriginal student we approach not only a problem of education but a problem of health, pastoral care, and welfare. [More…]

• We have a profound responsibility in terms of health and welfare. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Australia has taken the lead in the past in proposing international standards of aircraft food hygiene to minimise the possibility of disease introduction from this source and, following recent food-borne diseases associated with aircraft arriving in Australia, has again raised this matter with the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• I address my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that it has been alleged that health funds and Medibank have paid for 44 000 abortions in Australia in 1976 and that the total payment for these operations and associated anaesthetics amounted to $4m? [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to a question asked yesterday in the Senate by Senator O ‘Byrne which contained a number of assertions about Medibank. [More…]

• It is reported on page 627 of Hansard that Senator O ‘Byrne asked: ls the Minister aware that the Health Insurance Commission reported that the average cost of processing- and he then goes on to give a number of figures. [More…]

• Has the Health Insurance Commission reported all the matters asserted by the honourable senator? [More…]

• If they have not been reported publicly, should Senator O ‘Byrne be invited to indicate to the Senate the basis for his assertion that the ‘Health Insurance Commission reported’they are his words- certain figures that he cited to the Senate as correct? [More…]

• I have had the matter referred to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As I understand it, the turnaround times that were mentioned in the earlier part of his question between the provision of medical services and the payment of claims appeared in the annual report of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is unaware of the source of those figures. [More…]

• I can state that the earlier figures he gave were cited in the Health Insurance Commission report and that I am unaware from where the latter information was obtained. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the Health Insurance Commission reported that the average cost of processing assigned benefits by way of bulk billing was 34c per claim compared with 44c for each cash claim and $ 1 . [More…]

• The Minister admitted that that information was contained in the Health Commission report of June 1976. [More…]

• My only point in raising the question this morning was to test Senator O’Byrne’s assertions thai the Health Insurance Commission had reported certain things. [More…]

• The figures he put out were not contained in the Health Insurance Commission’s report and if they were private figures supplied by Senator Grimes, that in no way makes any of my imputations incorrect. [More…]

• Everyone had a job except for a mere handful of people who were in ill health. [More…]

• On 15 March I asked Senator Webster a question in relation to the curtailment of the construction of the animal health laboratory at Geelong in Victoria. [More…]

• I refer to an announcement made on 2 April 1974 by the then Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam, to the effect that the Government had allocated S57m to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong in Victoria on land owned by the Government. [More…]

• If construction has not commenced, can the Minister say what is being done in the interim to safeguard Australian animal health by way of testing and treatment of exotic diseases? [More…]

• You will recall your question without notice on March 1 Sth, seeking information about the proposal to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• Construction of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong was not commenced last year. [More…]

• I refer to the industrial dispute between the Australian Capital Territory Medical Association and those doctors who are employed by the Australian Capital Territory Health Commission to provide a salaried special medical service at the 2 public hospitals in Canberra. [More…]

• On 25 March last year I called on the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, to take steps to resolve the dispute which not only was leading to the destruction of the salaried service and the careers of those highly qualified and committed doctors employed by it but also was actually endangering the health and even the lives of patients. [More…]

• The problems have become worse in the last 12 months during which Mr Hunt has been Minister for Health. [More…]

• Health Commission appointed specialists to run a salaried specialist service to which the public, under Medibank, had access without charge. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I regret that I have no information from the Miniter for Health about the matters that have been raised in connection with World Rheumatism Year. [More…]

• I will seek the information from the Minister for Health and see that the honourable senator is advised. [More…]

• This is a question which I will need to refer to the Minister for Health, whom I represent. [More…]

• I will seek an answer from the Minister for Health as soon as possible. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: Can she inform the Senate whether it is now the case that all State governments except the Queensland Government are funding refuges from Commonwealth block grants under the Community Health Program? [More…]

• I answer this question as the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is a fact that all States, with the exception of Queensland, are funding women’s refuges from the Community Health Program funds which were given to them in the Budget of last year. [More…]

• As has been stated previously, the Prime Minister has requested the Queensland Government to fund the refuges which were the subject of funds given to them under the Community Health Program in the Budget. [More…]

• So any announcements of new programs other than those which are presently dealt with under the Community Health Program would be a matter of Budget announcement. [More…]

• There will be a tendency to condemn the Aboriginal people so affected to indefinite dependency, to aggravate the conditions of sub-standard nutrition and health and to make it more difficult for any of them to break away from the miserable conditions in which many of them are found. [More…]

• We recently had tabled in the Parliament the report of the task force on health and welfare, chaired by Mr Peter Bailey- the Bailey Task Force- which deals particularly with this issue of the movement of welfare services between different levels of government. [More…]

• I think in order to do justice to the Minister for Health ( Mr Hunt) who has been consistently concerned about the position in the Australian Capital Territory it is necessary to put the record straight and to indicate what the position is in the A.C.T. [More…]

• The problems have become worse in the last 12 months during which Mr Hunt has been Minister for Health. [More…]

• The introduction of health centres was an initiative of our side of politics. [More…]

• The Llewellyn Davies report from which the health centre initiatives came was presented to our Government in 1969 and we started the construction of the first health centre. [More…]

• But I leave the Senate with an assurance that the Minister for Health is actively and continuously pursuing every avenue to resolve this conflict and that he has done more than any single person to bring resolution as close as it is at present. [More…]

• I want to ventilate a matter in the Senate tonight and to ask the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs (Senator Durack) whether he will give an indication of the role the Australian Government is playing in the pending amalgamation between the Health and Research Employees Association of Australia and the Hospital Employees Federation, New South Wales No. [More…]

• Without traversing too much ground, the fact is that the Health and Research Employees Association has an excellent record in New South Wales. [More…]

• Its secretary, Mr Keith Clark, is a highly respected trade union figure, and it produces a first class journal, the Health Standard. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Of relevance in this context, however, is that the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health was asked in its terms of reference to report on the continuing machinery which should be established to co-ordinate social policy development at the Commonwealth level. [More…]

• Various Information Services are provided- for example, the Australian Manufacturing Technology Information Service (AMTIS); Patent Information Service; Occupational Safety and Health Information Services; and General Productivity Information Services. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It was recommended that the Capital Territory Health Commission proceed immediately with the preparation of an ordinance providing for the control and disposal of radioactive waste material and that the Capital Territory Health Commission take measures to be implemented in an emergency involving radioactive materials. [More…]

• Prior to the report of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on the Australian Capital Territory, on instructions from the Capital Territory Health Commission the AttorneyGeneral’s Department prepared a draft ordinance to make provision for the control of all aspects of the use of radioactive materials in the Australian Capital Territory, including the control of disposal of radioactive waste. [More…]

• -I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, by saying that no doubt the Minister is well aware that adequate nutrition in the early years of life is important if young people are to obtain maximum physical and mental development. [More…]

• Are any efforts being made by the Federal Government to co-ordinate research into nutrition being undertaken by the various universities and State health departments? [More…]

• I suggest that if the question is placed on notice the Minister for Health would be able to supply answers to the specific matters which were raised. [More…]

• It was to provide training for people to work in the Northern Territory with the peculiar problems that faced the teachers, health workers, social workers, those working in agricultural areas and others. [More…]

• The first worry was that of health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The risk of the occurrence of serious hereditary ill health in generations subsequent to the first two after the exposure of either parent, has been assessed, on the basis of experimental data on animals and insects, to be about the same as the risk of the occurrence of like hereditary effects in those first two generations. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• To the contrary a number of reports have been produced in recent years, including the 1972 Report to the UN General Assembly on the ‘Effects of Atomic Radiation’; the 1976 OECD Nuclear Energy Agency Report on ‘Estimated Population Exposure from Nuclear Power Production and Other Radiation Sources’; the 1973 Report of the United States Environmental Protection Agency on ‘Environmental Analysis of the Uranium Fuel Cycle’; and the United Kingdom Royal Commission on ‘Environmental Pollution on Nuclear Power and the Environment’; all of which give objective and comprehensive assessments of the environmental and health impact of the nuclear power industry. [More…]

• Of those operators who had decided to offer a concession the criterion was the production of a Pensioner Health Benefit Card or Concession Card. [More…]

• The normal health and character requirements must be met and visas will be granted only to persons intending permanent settlement in Australia. [More…]

• Rural Health in Australia (Question No. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 15 March 1977: [More…]

• What action, if any, has the Government taken to implement the recommendations of the Report by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, entitled Rural Health in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The report contains a number of proposals for improving the health services of rural people. [More…]

• The Commission has referred it to the Department of Health to investigate ways in which these proposals might be implemented as the economic situation allows. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and I refer to an article in the Pharmacy Gazette of April 1977 entitled ‘Another Major Australian Flu Epidemic’. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Was this clinic closed down by the United Kingdom Department of Health and Social Security? [More…]

• 1 Branch, and the Health and Research Employees Association of Australia. [More…]

• My question which is directed to .the Minister representing the Minister for Health follows the question I asked previously. [More…]

• If there is further information which the New South Wales Government may wish to have about Dr Geoffrey Davis, I am sure that the Federal Department of Health will be able to supply that information upon request. [More…]

• How many officers of the Commonwealth Public Service in each of the First, Second, Third and Fourth Divisions have been retired on the ground of ill health since amendments were made last year to the Commonwealth Superannuation Act. [More…]

• b) the following numbers ofpermanent officers in each Division retired from the Commonwealth Public Service on the grounds of ill health- [More…]

• Issues which is located at Richmond, Victoria and which provides a national service, utilised across Australia, in education, welfare, industrial, health and community relations programs. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and follows the publication this month of an editorial in the Medical Journal of Australia relating to surveillance of salmonella organisms. [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that it is true that pet tortoises are capable of harbouring salmonella organisms and they are thus a potential source of infection in man. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is not aware of any documented evidence of infection in Australia being due to a tortoise. [More…]

• Nothing this Government has done since it come to power and nothing it has contemplated in its legislative program will improve the health of manufacturing industry. [More…]

• It guides them in all aspects of the Australian way of life and helps them with queries in relation to health, taxation and other matters. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Australia, the text of which was approved by the Department of Health. [More…]

• This aspect of monitored release’ is discussed and agreed between the company and the Department of Health prior to general marketing approval being granted. [More…]

• I refer to a report in the Age of 13 April 1977 which outlines details of the World Health Organisation’s International Research and Training Program to assist undeveloped nations, especially in Africa. [More…]

• Australia has not refused to contribute to the Special Program for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases jointly sponsored by the World Health Organisation and the United Nations Development Program. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health advise what progress is being made in upgrading the Torrens Island quarantine station for the receipt of imported livestock? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs: Are overseas visitors or personnel arriving by direct flight at Pine Gap and other foreign bases in Australia exempted from customary immigration, health or customs checks, or subjected to different immigration, health or customs checks from other overseas visitors? [More…]

• It may well be that the matter falls within the responsibility of the Minister for Health as well as the Minister for Primary Industry. [More…]

• The Government is closely studying the reports of the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health and of the Committee of Inquiry into the Care of the Aged and Infirm. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• Has the Queensland Premier advised the Federal Government that his State will not support any moves for dearer private health insurance or for an increase in the Medibank levy. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I am not aware of any advices by the Premier of Queensland setting out the views of his Government on speculated increases in the Medibank levy or in the cost of private health insurance. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 10 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Queensland Government has not passed on funds from the 1976-77 Commonwealth block grant under the Community Health Program to two women’s refuges, one in Brisbane and the other in Townsville. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: () Has a new rebate scale been proposed for a specialist medical examination called computerised axial tomography. [More…]

• ls the Department of Health proposing two separate fee scales for this procedure, one for private consulting specialists and the other for the same examination being carried out in hospitals. [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that the capital costs will be just as real for a hospital or health service as they are for a private doctor and that a more appropriate method of adjustment might be to adjust the percentage of the fee which a hospital doctor might claim for performing a service for which he has not provided the capital, equipment or staff. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Health [More…]

• … in the case of bona fide ill health or incapacity. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and it concerns an apparent gross breach of the confidentiality of medical records in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• I preface the question by reminding the Senate of the concern which I expressed in this chamber some 2 years ago about the improper transfer of information on patients attending mental health services in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• Is it a fact, as reported in today’s Press, that the personal mental health file of a patient attending mental health services in the Australian Capital Territory was found in the gutter of a Canberra street? [More…]

• I have no knowledge whether the Minister for Health has ordered an investigation or what other steps have been taken by him in regard to this matter. [More…]

• From my understanding of it, it does not appear to be an intentional breach of confidentiality but that would be a matter on which the Minister for Health would comment. [More…]

• Is it a fact that repatriation service pensioners are not entitled to a pensioner health benefits card and therefore do not qualify for the South Australian Government’s pensioner concessions on public transport and in respect of council and water rates, land tax and motor vehicle registration? [More…]

• As winter is almost upon us, with the overnight temperatures already low and we have no reason to believe that this year they will be any less severe than in other years, and as this Parliament has a responsibility for the health of the people involved, I ask: Is it true that sentry type boxes have already been constructed and are at present being held in store at Fyshwick? [More…]

• I believe one of the clearest examples of this was in the strict and narrow guidelines which the Government gave to the Bailey task force on health and welfare which looked into these and other problems. [More…]

• The Federal Government gave funds to the Queensland Government to cover such projects as women’s health centres and shelters. [More…]

• We are told that this period of 12 months, apart from waiting for the new housing agreement, will give time for the reports of the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health and of the Committee of Inquiry into the Care of the Aged and Infirm to be studied and perhaps reforms introduced. [More…]

• Nevertheless, it also found that a substantial number of dwellings- no less than 1 1 per cent of the total, which is a very substantial numberwere rated as unsatisfactory when assessed in terms of factors such as the condition of the roof, walls and floors, adequacy of plumbing and various health and safety aspects. [More…]

• I reiterate that in fact the Social Welfare Commission, in its report entitled Care for the Aged, recommended very strongly that the Commonwealth exercise some control over this expenditure and set up national standards and guidelines, as did the Bailey Task Force on Health and Welfare and the Holmes Committee. [More…]

• 271, as recorded in the Senate Hansard, asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, Senator Guilfoyle: [More…]

• The Queensland Government has not passed on funds from the 1976-77 Commonwealth block grant under the Community Health Program to two women s refuges, one in Brisbane and the other in Townsville. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The decision by the United States and Canada to phase out the use of saccharin in foods and beverages was the result of a study conducted by the Health and Welfare Branch of the Canadian Ministry of Health and Welfare in which saccharin was shown to cause bladder tumours in rats. [More…]

• Details of the Canadian toxicological investigations have been examined by the Food Science and Technology Subcommittee of the National Health & Medical Research Council (NH&MRC) which is responsible for the assessment of all food additives in Australia. [More…]

• The National Health & Medical Research Council at its 83rd session in Hobart on 21-22 April 1977, endorsed this finding. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Department of Health Services, Tasmania, Locums . [More…]

• I do want to say that the level of remuneration paid by the Tasmanian Department of Health Services to doctors serving in the district medical officer scheme is entirely a matter for that Department. [More…]

• The scheme does receive some funding from the Commonwealth Government under the health program grant arrangements. [More…]

• It goes right across from the area of foreign affairs to health and social welfare and Federal-State relations. [More…]

• Australia’s present and future capacity to resettle refugees successfully depends on many factors including: the prevailing economic situation, the level of unemployment, the locations within Australia to which refugees wish to go, the background of refugees to be acceptedtheir capacity for early integration or otherwise, the availability of special post arrival serviceslanguage instruction, education, training, accommodation, health and welfare, the numbers of refugees for which voluntary agencies can care. [More…]

• A Standing Interdepartmental Committee on Refugees comprising senior officers of the Departments of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs (Chairman), Foreign Affairs, Prime Minister and Cabinet, Employment and Industrial Relations, Social Security, Finance, Health and Education with other Departments and the Public Service Board to be coopted as necessary, will be established. [More…]

• While we are on these issues I think we ought to look at health services. [More…]

• I note that there is uncertainty as to the Government’s policy on private health care in the immediate future and in the long term, there are threats of withdrawal of subsidies to private hospitals. [More…]

• The new Victorian figures we have received today show that the appointments of 10 people to the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service were terminated from last Wednesday. [More…]

• Obviously, somebody in Townsville was continually calling the number either to find out how the Fanchers’ health was or to find out what the progress was or to find out if they had found any spies. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 10 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) How many Aboriginal health aides are employed in Victoria. [More…]

• ) Are salaries paid through the Victorian Department of Health and is the funding provided by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• 1 ) Does the Minister agree with claims made in a letter to the Age of 27 March 1977 relating to the processing of returns of the 1976 Census signed by 17 of Australia’s experienced academics and social service experts that the proposed delays in processing census materials and elimination of the topics from analysis, in whole or in pan, will (a) save a mere $2m after $7m has already been spent; (b) seriously hamper the work of the Bureau of Census and Statistics in providing materials for effective planning on economics, housing, health, education, welfare, transport and other urban services; and (c) increase the likelihood of error in the allocation of future resources in these areas. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Task Force on Co-operation in Welfare and Health (Question No. [More…]

• 1 ) What consideration has the Government given to the recommendations of the Bailey Task Force’s report on the administration of health and welfare programs. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• Applicants must also satisfy requirements, as appropriate, relating to health, character, economic viability and ability to integrate successfully in Australia. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health indicate the progress being made by the federal health committee, which was reported in The Australian of 3 March 1977 to be considering action to be taken to phase out the use of fluorocarbon propellants in spray cans to protect the earth ‘s ozone layer and hence the world ‘s health? [More…]

• I understand that the topic of potential health hazards from fluorocarbons remains under close scrutiny by the Public Health Advisory Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• The Public Health Advisory Committee at its meeting in March 1977 considered the possibility of a relationship between ozone depletion and the satiology of skin cancer. [More…]

• But I shall draw the interest of the honourable senator in this matter to the attention of the Minister for Health and see if any further information is available. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• To be eligible for inclusion in the Medibank Cost-Sharing Agreement, it would first be necessary for the Queensland Government to change the approval status of these hospitals from private’ to ‘recognised’ hospitals and then for both the Queensland and Commonwealth Health Ministers to agree to amend the list of recognised hospitals in the Agreement to include these hospitals. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 4 May 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that a report in the Toowoomba Chronicle suggests that Senator Sheil, speaking to the Millmerran branch of the National Party on 17 May, made strongly disparaging remarks about Medibank and in effect recommended that Medibank be dismantled and that there be a return to private health insurance? [More…]

• Is the Minister able to confirm that the Government will disregard Senator Sheil ‘s prescription and that there are no plans for a return to the system of private health insurance that Australia had in pre-Medibank days? [More…]

• I am able to say that at present there are 2 systems of health insurance in this country. [More…]

• One is through the Medibank health insurance scheme and the other is through the variety of private health funds that exist. [More…]

• It is of note that a large number of Australian people have insured for their health cover through private health insurance funds. [More…]

• I am not sure whether it relates to her portfolio or to her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I respond to this question as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is a matter on which I had some brief discussion with the Minister for Health recently. [More…]

• As I understand it, the Minister for Health is concerned at the delays but I am unaware of any steps that he has decided to take to overcome them. [More…]

• Innovations have been achieved through its Department of Community Medicine with the operation of 3 community health centres and through the establishment of the Foundation for MultiDisciplinary Education where students in medicine, social work, occupational therapy and physiotherapy learn together. [More…]

• Between 1966 and 1 976, the Faculty of Medicine staff has published over 900 professional papers; staff members have held senior office in every medical professional association, in government research funding committees and in community organisations dedicated to the fostering of health care. [More…]

• If we look at total budget expenditure for 1 972-73, we see that the amount of money being spent on health, education and welfare took 33 per cent of the Budget. [More…]

• In the last year expenditure on health, education and welfare took 46 per cent of the Budget. [More…]

• After a person has been interviewed, has filled out an application and possibly has produced medical reports as to his health it is not nice without any income to have to wait up to 6 weeks to get some money with which to buy a loaf of bread. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• My letter to Estimates Committee D specified: ‘Department of Health (Capital Territory Health Commission) Division 332.1- Grants in aid to other organisations (Family Planning Association, Community agencies engaged in health activities, Canberra Women’s Refuge).’ [More…]

• I ask honourable senators to note that my advance letter, which followed directly from Senator Withers’ request, included the particular area ‘Community agencies engaged in health activities’. [More…]

• Over a month later, on 1 2 October 1 976, officials of the Department of Health and the Capital Territory Health Commission appeared before Estimates Committee D to answer questions on the subject matters for which they had been given a month’s notice. [More…]

• At page 447 onwards in the Hansard report of the proceedings of the 1976 Estimates Committee honourable senators will find an explanation of division 332 sub-division one which provides $33.8m for the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• I refer now to the $102,000 that is going to be spent on community agencies engaged in mental health activities and other health activities. [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission did supply the additional information a week later on 19 October. [More…]

• The information provided by the Department of Health from the Capital Terrritory Health Commission was: [More…]

• To assist with the payment of the salary of an Education/Information Officer for the Womens Information and Health Counselling Service, $2,800. [More…]

• Grants in aid 1976-77- Community and Mental Health Agencies. [More…]

• A survey reported in the Canberra Times is attributed in the first instance to the Abortion Counselling Service and then, 10 days later, to the Women’s Health and Counselling Service. [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission states that it gives money to the Women’s Centre at Lobelia Street to assist with the payment of the salary of an education/information officer for the Women’s Information and Health Counselling Service’. [More…]

• The Department of Health threw the ball right back to the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• Finally the Chairman, Senator Baume, suggested that the Committee proceed with several items and refer back to the Capital Territory Health Commission later. [More…]

• The second specific question appears on page 1 1 1 of the Hansard report: has the Health Commission heard of the Pregnancy Support Service which is operating in the Australian Capital Territory and to which the Doctor did not refer? [More…]

• The Health Commission official replied to my question as follows: [More…]

• As with the previous examination of the estimates for the Health Commission, answers to the unanswered questions were subsequently supplied to the Estimates Committee in written form. [More…]

• has the Health Commission heard of the Pregnancy Support Service which is operating in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• At least the Health Commission knew about the Pregnancy Support Service even if its representative who appeared before the Estimates Committee did not. [More…]

• I believe that the Health Commission ‘s reply is less than factual. [More…]

• I have in my possession- I am prepared to table it if necessary-a letter from Helen Crisp, who signed herself as Deputy Chairman, Interim Committee, Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• It is addressed to the Treasurer of the Pregnancy Support Service and is headed ‘Grants to Community Agencies Engaged in Mental Health Activities in the A.C.T. [More…]

• This is precisely the item on which I had been questioning the Health Commission officials. [More…]

• Yet 5 months later grants to Australian Capital Territory organisations under the community health program were announced in the Press including one for the so-called Women’s Information and Health Counselling Service at Lobelia Street. [More…]

• I am not saying that the Health Commission misled the Parliament. [More…]

• It is probably strictly correct in a technical sense to say that the Health Commission has not received an application. [More…]

• Health Services under the Department of Health. [More…]

• The fact of the unsuccessful application must have been known to some official in the Health Commission. [More…]

• I think I should leave it at that apart from saying that in order to find out exactly when the Health Commission ceased to be an interim body run by an interim committee I asked the Parliamentary Library to obtain reports of the Health Commission. [More…]

• I understand that the Capital Territory Health Commission or a spokesman for it has suggested that it might be an appropriate body to control any abortion arrangements in the A.C.T., that is, ensuring that the law is adhered to in policing abortion establishments. [More…]

• I suggest that even if the Government and the Health Commission do not know what goes on, the Women’s Centre, the Women’s Information Services, the Abortion Counselling Services, the Women’s Housing Information Service, the Women’s Information and Health Counselling Service- call it what you will- knows what goes on and is grateful that important officials in government agencies are making it extremely difficult for members of Parliament to get to the truth. [More…]

• The answer came from a Canberra woman who phoned the telephone number referred to by the Health Commission authorities as being the number of the Women’s Centre Incorporated. [More…]

• She asked to be put through to the Women’s Information and Health Counselling Service which is the organisation receiving government finance. [More…]

• In spite of the 6-page response that has been provided by the Health Commission, that question has not been answered. [More…]

• The essence of the matter, of course, is that the Health Commission stated, firstly, that it had not heard of the Pregnancy Support Service and, secondly, it said in writing that it had not received an application for assistance from that organisation. [More…]

• Is it a condition of government grants-in-aid to organisations running women’s health centres that they do not counsel about abortion, that they oppose abortion or that they favour abortion? [More…]

• Its purpose is for health and education services and counselling services. [More…]

• I think it is sensible that in the Australian Capital Territory, which is situated in the centre of a State in which the abortion laws are perhaps more liberal than they are in the Territory, and the Women’s Health Counselling Service should provide information for and against abortions. [More…]

• When we were dealing with the Budget appropriation for the Capital Territory Health Commission Senator Harradine asked the following question: has the Health Commission heard of the Pregnancy Support Service, which is operating in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• It is believed that the assistance was sought under a mental health grant from the Australian Capital Territory Health Services before the Commission was set up and before the community health grants commenced. [More…]

• No application has been made under the community health program. [More…]

• It is believed that there had been an application to the Australian Capital Territory Health Services prior to the formation of the Commission. [More…]

• The Pregnancy Support Service apparently applied at that time for a mental health grant before the Health Commission advertised community health grants. [More…]

• The mental health grant was not made to the Pregnancy Support Service and it has not applied on the 2 occasions on which community health grants have been advertised. [More…]

• Since 1 December 1976 mental health grants have been amalgamated with community health grants and are allocated as community health grants by a single committee. [More…]

• I think that any confusion that has arisen has arisen from the fact that we are dealing with the Capital Territory Health Commission whereas the application from the Pregnancy Support Service was to the Australian Capital Territory Health Services, which was the body that operated prior to the formation of the Commission which is the subject of the appropriation item we are considering. [More…]

• The answer was to the effect that a grant would not be made if it was considered to be clearly contrary to the criteria set out in the Government’s stated policies in the health field. [More…]

• Let me restate what I said in answer to the question raised by Senator Harradine when he asked whether the Health Commission had heard of the Pregnancy Support Service. [More…]

• The answer that came forward from the Health Commission was that it had heard of the Pregnancy Support Service and that it had not applied for assistance at any time ‘but should it do so in the future it will receive equal consideration along with all other organisations’. [More…]

• Although I knew that he had been ill I had hoped- and I think a number of people had expected- that his health had somewhat improved. [More…]

• Administrative and financial arrangements for health and welfare programs: Bailey and Holmes reports Education: Shared funding [More…]

• Administrative and Financial Arrangements for Health and [More…]

• The Bailey and Holmes Reports (on co-ordination in Welfare and Health and on Care of the Aged and Infirm respectively) were tabled in Parliament on 17 February 1977 and the Prime Minister then announced the setting-up of a follow-up group of Commonwealth officers concerning the implementation of this part of the Federalism Policy. [More…]

• Is pure industrial research carried out by officers of the Minister’s Department or are these problems deemed to be medical problems to be studied by officers of the Commonwealth Department of Health? [More…]

• Of course, that is due to the recognition by the Government of the most important and direct services in the health and welfare field, particularly in the institutions, rendered by the Department. [More…]

• The accountant has given that company a clean bill of health on the matter. [More…]

• I say respectfully that a tender should be held up until the firm is given a clean bill of health because Senator Wright would know as an advocate of senators having certain watch-dog responsibilities that in the United States there is much closer supervision by senators on committees over tenders for government contracts. [More…]

• Has the Minister or her Department undertaken any recent study of the report on the mentally handicapped which was presented by the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare and tabled in this Senate in May 1971? [More…]

• -I thank Senator Davidson for drawing attention to the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Recently Mr Hunt, the Minister for Health, and I had discussions with people who are developing plans for an institute in this country. [More…]

• Applications for the allowance are referred to the Department of Health by the Department of Social Security and are considered by a few specially selected medical officers in each State. [More…]

• The amendments concern the effects on the consumer price index, and hence on personal tax indexation, of last year’s health insurance changes and the devaluation. [More…]

• The new funding arrangements for health insurance are similar in their intent to increases in indirect taxes on other goods and services. [More…]

• Although the Medibank levy seeks to have people pay more, and the Budget less, of the cost of their health care, the law as presently drafted does not permit this to be taken into account in determining the indexation factor. [More…]

• Therefore, this Bill will require that in fixing the personal tax indexation factor, account is also to be taken of the effects on the consumer price index of the October 1976 changes in health insurance arrangements and the devaluation. [More…]

• After removing that effect, and the effects of the health care changes and devaluation, the personal tax indexation factor for 1977-78 is to be 10.9 per cent. [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The extension to the health program grants, which I announced in my press release of 2 7 March 1977, is intended to provide finance for projects directed towards the development and evaluation of new, improved forms of health care, quality assurance methods and cost containment systems in health services. [More…]

• The Advisory Committee referred to was established to develop administrative arrangements for assessing pilot or demonstration projects submitted for funding through the new Health Program Grants arrangements. [More…]

• The Hospitals and Health Services Commission will have the responsibility for recommending to the Department of Health whether projects submitted for funding should be approved and a Research and Evaluation Working Party of the Commission has been established which will take over the functions of the Advisory Committee. [More…]

• The Working Party comprises representatives of the Commission, Department of Health, Hospital and Allied Services Advisory Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Active encouragement is being given to the development of project proposals that have potential for demonstrating increased effectiveness, efficiency and quality in the delivery of health services, as well as the containment of inexorably rising health costs. [More…]

• The outcome of such demonstration projects will be assessed by the Working Party and discussed with State and other health authorities, with a view to determining the suitability for wider implementation. [More…]

• From my interpretation of the terms of reference of the inquiry of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare, I believe the Committee will primarily be concerned with standards of performance, pattern of current practice, mechanisms for evaluation and requirements for ongoing evaluation, the purpose generally being to ensure that the latter are made an integral part of health and welfare programs. [More…]

• Did the Department of Aboriginal Affairs on 25 August 1975 forward to the South Australian Minister of Health a letter requesting hospitals in South Australia not to prosecute Aboriginals for debt as the Commonwealth would pay such accounts? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the last 12 months the Government has commenced or completed many major health projects in the Northern Territory such as hospitals, extra hospital wards, health centres, etc., which will enhance the ability of the Government to bring better health both to urban and isolated dwellers in the Territory. [More…]

• Will this reassessment of requirements take place in Darwin rather than in Canberra, to ensure that the people in this rapidly developing northern city are given medical attention similar to that received in the southern States and to reduce strain on those dedicated people already working in the field of health in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health is giving the highest priority to assessing the staff ceiling situation in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• This is a matter which is currently being considered by the Department of Health and the Public Service Board. [More…]

• In reassessing the staffing requirements, I understand that discussions have taken place between representatives of the Public Service Inspectors Office in Darwin and the Department of Health in Darwin, and the Public Service Board and the Department of Health in Canberra. [More…]

• Health (Mr Hunt) is in some way recreant because he will not co-operate in giving to this doctor, now in the Cook Islands, the support he needs to treat Australians among others. [More…]

• I must pay tribute to the Minister for Health, who has attempted by way of Press releases to acquaint the Australian public with some of the facts. [More…]

• It is not included among the documents which the Minister for Health in Australia made public. [More…]

• It is a letter from the Chairman of the Medical Council of New Zealand to the Director-General of Health in Australia. [More…]

• A copy of this letter is being sent to Mr Hunt, your Minister of Health, and to Senator Margaret Guilfoyle, Minister for Social Security in the Federal Government. [More…]

• In addition, a similar letter will be sent to Mr J. Stewart, Minister of Health for New South Wales - [More…]

• The letter continues: and we are hoping that you, or one of the people mentioned in this paragraph, will give consideration to forwarding the contained information or an abstract thereof to the Senior Executives of Medibank and the private health insurance corporations in Australia for their further consideration. [More…]

• This was done despite the fact that the Division of Medicine in Auckland had warned the Cook Islands Medical Council and their Minister of Health of the likely outcome of legal proceedings in New Zealand. [More…]

• I interpolate that requests for assistance have been made to this country also, and quite properly the Minister for Health has declined to send blood for an unregistered person or a person we consider to be inappropriately qualified. [More…]

• The other unfortunate thing is that, as our present Health Insurance Act is written, the patients can claim some benefits. [More…]

• It should be a matter of shame to the Prime Minister and the Minister for Health of the Cook Islands that they have altered their medical Act specifically to register this charlatan. [More…]

• I think there is justification for calling for a quorum when an important statement is being made by an expert in the medical profession against a person who really is endangering the health of many people in our society. [More…]

• So, I state again that in the circumstances I believe that the Government has made the right decision in discounting the indexation factor in respect of the health insurance changes and devaluation. [More…]

• Important considerations which should be taken into account in assessing the seriousness of a breach include size of any underpayment to each individual employee concerned, and any danger to health or safety. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1977: [More…]

• Is the New South Wales Health Commission currently compiling a dossier on medical practitioners who refuse to treat patients who are insured with Medibank. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Health Commission of New South Wales is noi compiling a dossier on medical practitioners who refuse to treat Medibank Standard patients. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 642 it was indicated that the diagnosis and treatment of ear disease and hearing defects are integral parts of the Aboriginal health programs funded by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• Development of a preventive regimen is a vital part of the project which will employ Aboriginal health workers. [More…]

• Authorities responsible for animal health are aware of the risk of outbreaks of exotic diseases such as foot and mouth disease, rabies and blue tongue. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Social Security, relates to eligibility for pensioner health benefits and pensioner fringe benefits. [More…]

• As far as I am aware, there is no consensus that lead which may be present in the air or in the ground as a result of using lead additive in fuel is dangerous to health. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• When the Government was preparing to massacre Medibank a very expensive campaign was launched to promote the new system of health insurance to the people of Australia and it was stated that dental cover would be included in the private Medibank health insurance package in the near future. [More…]

• Given that the Hospital Benefit Fund of Western Australia covers people for dental treatment, when does the Minister envisage that dental cover will be included in the private Medibank health insurance scheme? [More…]

• Any changes in the cover under Medibank would be announced by the Minister for Health at the appropriate time. [More…]

• I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health and ascertain whether he has any information which he wishes to offer. [More…]

• The working party is constituted by persons nominated by the Australian Medical Association, the Royal College of Pathologists of Australia, the Society of Pathologists in Private Practice, and the New South Wales Health Commissionapart from officers of the Department of Health, the working party’s report has the support of these professional bodies. [More…]

• This method is not sufficiently flexible to cope with technical breakthroughs which almost overnight can and do substantially alter the costs of pathology services, accordingly the Bill provides for the Medical Benefits Advisory Committee, following a reference to it by the Minister for Health, to investigate existing or proposed pathology services and recommend whether they should be varied or included in the schedule and, if so, the level of fees applicable. [More…]

• All written requests are to be held by the approved pathology practitioner rendering the service for a period of 1 8 months after the date on which the service was rendered and, should the Minister so direct, must be produced for examination by officers of the Department of Health. [More…]

• New section 16B provides for the Minister for Health to draw up common forms of undertaking to be given by persons wishing to become approved pathology practitioners. [More…]

• Provision has been made in the Bill for the form to be varied by the Minister for Health only where the variation has been agreed by the Medical Benefits Advisory Committee. [More…]

• These are medical practitioners, persons employing medical practitioners, a State or State and Territory authority specified in writing by the Minister for Health and a very small number of persons, who have for some years provided pathology services in country areas at the request of medical practitioners. [More…]

• This means that Parliament approves the Commonwealth as an approved pathology practitioner rather than the Minister for Health giving and accepting an undertaking on behalf of the Commonwealth. [More…]

• The second is that there is a substantial correlation between the provision of large patient profiles or health screens, largely consisting of pathology services, and bulkbilling. [More…]

• The question of whether there should be any changes in respect of bulk-billing for medical services other than pathology services will be considered when the Government receives a report which the Minister for Health has requested from his Department. [More…]

• At present the Health Insurance Act provides for the establishment of medical services committees of inquiry, consisting of 5 medical practitioners, whose function it is to inquire into references to them by the Minister concerning the possible rendering of excessive professional services which attract medical benefits payable by Medibank. [More…]

• These functions are being extended to enable the committees to also investigate the rendering of excessive services which attract medical benefits payable by private medical benefit organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• At this point, the existing provisions of the Health Insurance Act will apply. [More…]

• The new functions of medical services committees of inquiry will also apply to the rendering of services under pathology undertakings and the requesting of pathology services which attract medical benefits payable by either Medibank or private medical benefit organisations registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Honourable senators will be aware that, for the purpose of payment by Medibank of medical benefits for optometrical consultations, the Health Insurance Act currently provides for a participating optometrists scheme, based on undertakings given by optometrists. [More…]

• The first of these is the discretion currently included in the Health Insurance Act for the Minister to consult with professional colleges and organisations other than the Australian Medical Association in choice of members to be appointed to certain committees and tribunals established under that legislation. [More…]

• Secondly, the Health Insurance Act at present contains common provisions which apply to both medical and optometrical services review tribunals. [More…]

• This offence relates to pathology services which attract either Medibank medical benefits or medical benefits payable by registered health insurance organisations. [More…]

• The existing level of penalties for these offences, which relate to false statements or the submission of false information in connection with payments under the Health Insurance Act, have been found to be inadequate. [More…]

• Further matters included in the Bill relate to health program grants. [More…]

• Provision has been made in clauses 13 to 18 to broaden the scope and purpose for which health program grants may be given. [More…]

• At present the Health Insurance Act permits health progam grants to cover only the cost of the approved health service given by an organisation, including associated management expenses. [More…]

• The Government considers the situation is unduly restrictive and accordingly the Bill provides for two additional measures to increase the scope and impact of the health program grants arrangements. [More…]

• The first measure is designed to further facilitate the establishment of health maintenance organisations. [More…]

• They will then be able to avail themselves of the health services provided in the same way as members who pay their contributions to the organisation. [More…]

• For Standard Medibank members, the organisations will be reimbursed by way of health program grants. [More…]

• The second and perhaps the most important innovation is to authorise the payment of health program grants to enable the development and evaluation of new, improved health care delivery systems. [More…]

• This has been too long neglected and the funding of projects aimed at introducing and evaluating methods of streamlining existing practices and developing innovative alternatives will significantly increase the effectiveness of health program grants. [More…]

• Matters like child care, access to health services and the ability to learn English so that they may know their rights as workers could very well not fit into the exemption defined in sub-section 3. [More…]

• Senator Walsh said last year that he had no idea what soil fertility or soil health meant. [More…]

• soil fertility or soil health, whatever that means . [More…]

• It means that Senator Walsh had no idea and has said he has no idea about soil fertility, soil health or whatever that may mean. [More…]

• Particular emphasis was placed on Timor’s economic, social educational and health requirements, and the conscientions effort being made by the Indonesian government to help in this regard. [More…]

• He was elected to the Senate in 1961 and served this chamber and his State with distinction in a variety of roles before ill health forced his retirement in 1973. [More…]

• He has been a part-time lecturer in the Department of Child Health at the University of Queensland for the past ten years and a member of the council of the North Brisbane College of Advanced Education for the past three years. [More…]

• Minister for Health’s advisory committee for registration of psychologists and chairman of the registration committee of the N.S.W. [More…]

• -The main purpose of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill it to alter the Health Insurance Act to prevent or to attempt to prevent the abuses of the Health insurance system in this country as a result of the excessive use of pathology services and fraudulent claims by a few pathologists. [More…]

• But they have made life very difficult for some of the health insurance people and those who fund health care in any country- in fact, that is all of us. [More…]

• These people set up rackets and schemes to rip off the consumers, the taxpayers and the health funds. [More…]

• Also, some peoplebusinessmen, entrepreneurs and doctors- set up health studios and multi-screening services and lure patients to their organisations, which are paid for by the medical health insurance systems. [More…]

• They have abused the system for many yearsbefore the advent of Medibank and probably before the advent of any health insurance. [More…]

• We might be able to obtain some evidence when comparisons between those health funds which bulk bill and those which do not are available from the figures produced by the health funds. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said, these figures were supposed to be available in April. [More…]

• I believe the abolition of bulk billing in other areas may be of disadvantage to patients and certainly would be of great disadvantage so far as administrative costs to the various health funds are concerned. [More…]

• I hope that the additional administrative costs which the abolition of bulk billing will undoubtedly cause to Medibank and those health insurance funds which do bulk bill, are outweighed and counterbalanced by the gains from the prevention of over-use which the Government hopes will result from this legislation. [More…]

• At present the Health Insurance Act provides for the establishment of medical services committees of inquiry, consisting of S medical practitioners, whose function it is to inquire into references to them by the Minister concerning the possible rendering of excessive professional services which attract medical benefits payable by Medibank. [More…]

• Whether the patient was seen in one week, one month or one year was of no interest to him at all; in other words, he refused to act in the interests of his patient’s health. [More…]

• And when a doctor, in denying that right, takes action deliberately detrimental to his patient’s health, surely stronger sanctions are justified. [More…]

• I will refer to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) the thoughtful comments of Senator Grimes who spoke on behalf of the Opposition. [More…]

• These matters refer to increased penalties applying in relation to offences and other health program grants. [More…]

• Private pathologists have had to compete against Commonwealth Health Laboratories in Hobart and Launceston which have provided these services completely free of charge. [More…]

• The position has now been corrected and the Commonwealth Health Laboratories must now charge a fee for service. [More…]

• Has the Victorian State Health Department spent $80,000 on fee-for-service dental treatment covering 250-300 Aboriginal patients in the last year. [More…]

• Did the Victorian State Health Department receive $60,000 from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and is attempting to recover the rest from the Commonwealth. [More…]

• The Victorian Health Department spent a total of $52,030 on the dental fee-for-service scheme in 1975-76. [More…]

• The Victorian Health Department has been fully reimbursed for expenditure incurred. [More…]

• 46 concerning Mr Reg Worthy, (a) was Mr Worthy in ill health during much of his posting as Regional Director of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs in Queensland, (b) what (i) sick leave and (ti) other leave did Mr Worthy take whilst he was Regional Director in Queensland, (c) when was Mr Worthy appointed to the Queensland position, (d) when was Mr Worthy appointed Regional Director, South Eastern Region, and (e) was Mr Worthy’s removal from the position of Regional Director in Queensland largely due to health reasons. [More…]

• With respect to the Black Community Housing Service, the Brisbane Tribal Council, and the Aborigines and Islanders Community Health Service, all based in Brisbane, can the Minister advise: [More…]

• Aborigines and Islanders Community Health Service-( 1 ) 1972-73, $55,000; 1973-74, $36,400; 1974-75, $103,813; 1975-76, $306,812; 1976-77, $387,883 (total approved for year). [More…]

• New auditors have been appointed and training of Health Service staff in book-keeping practice is being maintained. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 26 April 1977: [More…]

• How much Federal funds were spent on community health centres between the years 1972-73 to 1976-77 in the same local government areas. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The review is being undertaken by the Department of Health and the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Health: [More…]

• Some relaxation of the normal standards may b< possible where reunion of immediate family members is involved provided adequate safeguards are available ant observed to protect the health of the Australian community and of persons with whom the people from East Timor migh travel to Australia. [More…]

• In regard to medical standards I must b< guided by the Department of Health as to what condition: could constitute a danger to the health of the community Discussions have taken place with the Portuguese authorities with the object of enabling treatment to be given as promptly as possible to persons requiring it. [More…]

• He served as Minister for Repatriation and War Service Homes from 1937 to 1938, Minister for Repatriation and Health from 1938 to 1939, Minister for the Interior from 1939 to 1941, and Minister for Information from 1940 to 1941. [More…]

• He remained in good health and looked after himself despite the loss of his wife some 2 or 3 years ago. [More…]

• This morning I was approached in Kings Hall by some constituents from Victoria who are age pensioners in receipt of pensioner health benefit cards and concession cards for travel. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the wake of the outbreak of salmonella poisoning in infants, will the Minister give a firm undertaking that the Government will take those steps necessary to establish a national reference system on infectious diseases along the lines of the United Kingdom public health laboratory service or the United States centre for disease control? [More…]

• I have no knowledge as to whether the Minister or the Government will determine to set up a national reference laboratory as suggested in the question, but I will refer it to the Minister for Health for his further information on the matter. [More…]

• There are the problems which Senator Mulvihill and others have raised in the Senate from time to time in regard to the degree in which health care is effectively transmitted from various sources to the new settler in this country, the way in which he uses the legal services which are available to him and the way in which he can best express himself in the courts to obtain justice for himself and his family. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice on 3 1 May 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• As the Commonwealth accepts that a State is generally responsible for health services within its boundaries, the Queensland health authorities have been consulted on this matter. [More…]

• I understand that a request for financial assistance for the AIMS was also made recently direct to the Queensland Minister for Health, and that the AIMS has been informed by that State Government that assistance is not possible at this point of time. [More…]

• I also understand that the State Government is looking at the overall relationships that exist between organisations providing health services in remote areas of Queensland. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Government of course has a continuing interest in the provision of health services to outlying areas. [More…]

• The Hospitals and Health Services Commission established a Working Party to examine rural health care and the report was presented to me by the Commission in June 1 976. [More…]

• I subsequently tabled the report titled ‘Rural Health in Australia’ in Parliament on 24 August 1976. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I have asked my Department and the Capital Territory Health Commission to examine the new policy with a view to the application of proper standards and controls of after hours medical services in the Territories. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 March 1977: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 April 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 24 May 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) In expanding the answer which I provided in Parliament on 5 May 1 977 1 can say only that the Health Insurance Commission compared rates submitted by the major banks and held discussions with the Commonwealth Bank, Bank of New South Wales, A.N.Z. [More…]

• (a) Capital Territory Health Commission; Hospitals and Health Services Commission; Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission. [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue hardship as inmates of Private Nursing Homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to Private Nursing Homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the Private Nursing Home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, oral a very nominal charge. [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue hardship as inmates of private nursing homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to private nursing homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the private nursing home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to.be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• We are also concerned for the health of any mother whose confinement takes place six weeks or less before her return to work after twelve weeks of maternity leave; such a mother is, we consider, medically unfit to rejoin the work force, and should therefore be considered eligible for such sick leave as she has accumulated. [More…]

• At the same time, the right of the mother to rejoin the work force after such reasonable time as she thinks the health and welfare of her child and herself require, and the wish of the supporting parent who is ready to work rather than receive social security benefits, must be safeguarded. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, concerns the problems of salmonella infection of baby milk powders detected at Tongala recently. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether powdered milk products produced at other factories in any way constituted any threat to the health of infants? [More…]

• If I have any further information which the Minister for Health can provide I will see that it is given to the honourable senator. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that when the Casuarina Hospital is opened two floors of the building will be used as office accommodation by other government departments in Darwin? [More…]

• It is interesting to note that at the time this gentleman made this statement figures showing the fearful malnutrition and ill health of Aboriginals in this country were released. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I am aware of the need to protect the health of those engaged in the uranium industry and my Department has been involved in the production of the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores. [More…]

• Has the Government fulfilled the promise, contained in part 3 (i) of the Liberal and National Country Parties’ Aboriginal Affairs Policy dated 25 November 1975, namely, ‘we will channel all future major expenditure on Aboriginal education, employment, housing, health and legal aid and similar services through a new account to be called The Aborigines’ Entitlement Revenue Account. [More…]

• Has the Government fulfilled the promise, contained in part 4 (i) of the Liberal and National Country Parties’ Aboriginal Affairs Policy dated 25 November 1975, namely, appointment of additional Aborigines to liaison, advisory and training positions in such fields as education, health, and community development’; if so, what are the details; if not, why not. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 24 May 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Through the Community Health Program, the Commonwealth Government has provided substantial funds for the construction of the Detoxification Centre in Roma Street, Brisbane, and for the operation of the temporary centre. [More…]

• 1 ) Did the Department of Aboriginal Affairs on 25 August 1975 forward a letter to the South Australian Minister for Health requesting that hospitals in that State not prosecute Aboriginals for unpaid debts as the Commonwealth would pay such accounts; if so, did hospitals in the State act in good faith and in accordance with the Commonwealth commitment. [More…]

• 1 ) The Department did not write to the S.A. Minister for Health on 25 August 1975. [More…]

• State Ministers of Health were advised by letter in August 1975 of a Government decision to terminate the reimbursement of hospital bad debts, following the introduction of Medibank on 1 July 1975. [More…]

• This decision was reaffirmed in a letter on 23 May 1977 to the Minister of Health, South Australia. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 31 May 1977: [More…]

• What is the Government’s attitude to mental hospitals, in view of the Labor Party’s new health plan which proposes to abolish mental institutions. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Commonwealth Government’s attitude concerning mental hospitals is inherent in its overall health policy which is to develop the most efficient and effective services possible to meet need. [More…]

• There is also a strong move among health professionals for the integration of mental health services within the general health services. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 2 June 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Have claims been made, allegedly on the basis of research, that 25 per cent of Sydney’s Aboriginal children suffer from serious malnutrition? [More…]

• Brain damage was not mentioned in the material supplied to the Department of Health. [More…]

• Nevertheless the existence of malnutrition in this community is recognised and the Minister for Health is discussing remedial measures with the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs to see what can be done either within the medical service or in any other way in which we are able to overcome this problem. [More…]

• Is this because the person creating the trust cannot nominate a private health scheme? [More…]

• Will the Minister agree that beneficiaries of a trust who are already paying the Medibank levy or are contributing to a private health fund are paying twice for health insurance? [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, by pointing out that the Senate would be well aware of the importance of a quarantine service to. [More…]

• The United Kingdom Atomic Energy Agency in its monthly bulletin A tom, to which I have already alluded, gives a summary of a report produced by the European regional office of the World Health Organisation on ‘Health Implications of Nuclear Power production’. [More…]

• Now let me come to the question of the ecological situation because the WHO report that I have mentioned emphasises the need for statistical health studies and for establishing the predominant exposure routes to man through bioaccumulation or external radiation. [More…]

• The South Australian Branch of the Australian Medical Association in a report it brought down on the biological effects of radiation on human health and safety said: [More…]

• Mr Justice Fox found that the morale, employment, health and education of these people was at an extremely low level. [More…]

• An American medical specialist, Dr Leonard Sagan, Assistant Director of Environmental Health at the Palo Alto Medical Clinic, California, who has supervised numerous medical studies of the bomb survivors told a Los Angeles engineering and science seminar last April: [More…]

• Horror stories about nuclear radiation health effects are disproved by studies of the Hiroshima and Nagasaki survivors. [More…]

• Further reasons are: Waste disposal problems and related health problems; poor safety record in the industry- despite what honourable senators opposite have said; and inappropriateness of nuclear energy as a solution to the real energy crisis. [More…]

• The report deals with a study of uranium miners in Colorado conducted by the United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. [More…]

• It has not been possible to identify so far in those Aborigines any health hazards or bad health effects. [More…]

• Before the appeal was heard I wrote to both the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) and the Crown Solicitor’s Office in Adelaide and requested that they support his appeal and not press for the nine months gaol sentence to be served because of his serious state of health following a major operation. [More…]

• Recognise the dangers to the health of all Australians and future generations of mankind by the mining, processing and use of uranium whether for peaceful or destructive purposes. [More…]

• I know the Minister for Health and the Department of Health both have. [More…]

• Does the Minister representing the Minister for Health agree that despite the Government’s declaration of support for women’s refuges its withdrawal from direct funding, the reduction of 25 per cent in Commonwealth contributions to capital costs and the reduction of 1 5 per cent for operating costs mean that there is now a disincentive for the States to fund existing refuges and no hope of the funding of new refuges? [More…]

• My colleague the Minister for Health issued a statement with regard to the funding of women’s refuges following the Budget Speech on Tuesday night. [More…]

• cation for the community health program for 1977-78 a higher priority be given to the funding of refuges with the objective of providing further refuges to the 1 9 refuges already approved under the program. [More…]

• -I direct to the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question which relates to the arrival occasionally of Vietnamese refugees on the north-west coast of Australia. [More…]

• I am not aware of any special arrangements that are being made in regard to the quarantine of Vietnamese refugees, but I am sure it is a matter that the Department of Health has in hand. [More…]

• I shall refer the matter to the Minister for Health to obtain whatever information is available. [More…]

• I anticipate that State Departments of Agriculture will be amongst the more significant users of Landsat data for tasks such as assessing potential yield and health of growing crops and for monitoring the state of pastures particularly in the semi-arid areas of the country. [More…]

• The new Ethnic Affairs Branch of the Depanment of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, staff for which is now being recruited from inside and outside the Commonwealth Public Service, will have responsibility, amongst other matters, for developing an overview of the position of migrants in the community in relation to health, welfare, housing, education, employment, communications, the law and other matters affecting their integration; identifying gaps in services or programs and, in co-operation with appropriate government and non-government agencies, developing approaches and pointing to action to remedy deficiencies. [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue hardship as inmates of Private Nursing Homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to Private Nursing Homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the Private Nursing Home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• If no adjustments have been made will the Minister undertake to discuss the matter with the Minister for Health to ensure that pensioners and low income earners are not required to pay the levy because of the effect of inflation on their incomes? [More…]

• I am unable to state the exact amount for Queensland women’s refuges, but I am aware of a statement by the Minister for Health in which he said that the Commonwealth would pay directly to the Queensland women’s refuges the amounts that were available to them as there had been some difficulty last year with the State Government undertaking this expenditure through the community health program. [More…]

• When I made a statement about these refuges, in response to an earlier question, I indicated that an additional Sim was available this year under the community health program for women’s refuges. [More…]

• If we argue that there is to be structural unemployment or a restructuring of industry where we see a need perhaps in the future to have some adjustment in respect of employment opportunities and other factors which may arise, we should still be looking at the effects on economic growth and productivity that will determine whether we are able to do the things that we would wish to do in education, health, welfare and so on. [More…]

• The Medibank Levy has not been calculated for incomes of $10,000 and above for a single man, and $15,000 and above for a man with a dependant wife, where it would be cheaper for the person to take private health insurance. [More…]

• But all of the studies done with regard to the environment have come out with a very clean bill of health. [More…]

• The Government has taken no action to construct the animal health laboratory at Geelong, in Victoria, which was put in train when the Labor Government was in office. [More…]

• You will recall your question without notice on 15 March seeking information about the proposal to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• Construction of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong was not commenced last year. [More…]

• As I say, the Australian Labor Party Government was well aware when it came to office in 1972 of the need for this animal health laboratory at Geelong. [More…]

• ANIMAL HEALTH LABORATORY [More…]

• It has decided to build a laboratory complex, to be called the Animal Health Laboratory, at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• The Australian Health Laboratory will be administered and operated by the CSIRO on behalf of the Australian Government. [More…]

• The Consultative Committee will provide an essential link with the Animal Quarantine Branch of the Department of Health for the testing of livestock in the proposed off-shore High Security Animal Quarantine Station. [More…]

• The Committee will also provide a liaison channel for special research, training, diagnosis and epidemiology with the proposed Bureau of Animal Health in the Department of Primary Industry. [More…]

• At full operation, the Animal Health Laboratory will employ a staff of 1 70 including 25 scientists. [More…]

• The building has been designed by a group of specialists formed within the Department of Housing and Construction who have worked in close consultation with CSIRO and an expert from the Department of Health. [More…]

• If vaccination became necessary for control and eradication of a disease, the Animal Health Laboratory would be involved in testing the potency and safety of the vaccines used. [More…]

• I hope the Minister for Education (Senator Carrick), who is in charge of the Senate tonight, will take up the matter with the Minister for Primary Industry (Mr Sinclair) and see whether some money cannot be found at a very early date so that we can go ahead with the construction of the animal health laboratory at Geelong in Victoria. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Where fees are payable for outpatient services by the dental hospitals in Melbourne and Perth such fees are in accordance with a scale of fees determined by the respective State Health Authorities. [More…]

• Mune, ‘Social Worker Referral of Clients to Family Planning Clinics’; W. Salter, T. Selwood and J. Leeton, Non-Attendance among Post-Natal Women at a Hospital Family Planning Clinic’; T. Murrell and J. Moss, ‘Health Care for Infants and Mothers’: in Family Planning and Health Care for Infants and Mothers (AGPS, Canberra, 1977). [More…]

• ‘Glebe: Community Need and Service Organisation’; V. Douglas, ‘A Study of Health and Welfare Services in Melbourne’; P. Harlow. [More…]

• ‘Community Health Services: Literature Survey’: in Community Health Services. [More…]

• Killington, ‘Use of Health Services by Aboriginals’: S. Treloar, D. Petritsi-Jones and C. Kerr, ‘Use of Health Services by Greek Immigrants’; G. Rawson and I. Webster, Health Screening of Homeless Men in Sydney’; in Health Studies of Selected Disadvantaged Groups-Printed copies recently received from AGPS. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have received an answer from the Minister to a question that I asked on 17 March last on painkilling tablets, indicating that the National Health and Medical Research Council had recently made recommendations which it was hoped would be incorporated in State and Territory legislation. [More…]

• The Council’s recommendations were considered by the Australian Health Ministers conference on 17 June. [More…]

• The Public Health Advisory Committee of Council is to consider again the matter of the control of analgesics at its meeting in September 1977. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to fluoridation of water supplies which has now been proven to be effective in the prevention of dental caries, especially in young Australians. [More…]

• Since it is likely to be highly cost effective in public health terms I feel it should be available to all Australians. [More…]

• If the honourable senator would like details of the distribution of fluoridation in Australia, the Minister for Health could make that available to him. [More…]

• The Government is now satisfied that the environmental control and industrial health measures proposed by the Inquiry and accepted by the Government, will provide proper regulation and control. [More…]

• Even if materials were somehow to escape eventually in larger quantities than seems possible, it would not constitute a major catastrophe, or even a major health risk, for future civilisations. [More…]

• The aim of this Code will be to protect the health and safety of citizens of this country by ensuring protection of their environment. [More…]

• One important element of the Code relating to radiation protection in the mining and milling of radioactive ores has already been prepared by the Commonwealth Department of Health in consultation with other Commonwealth and State authorities, with industry and trade unions. [More…]

• Expert advice will be obtained from bodies such as the Australian Ionising Radiation Advisory Council, the Australian Radiation Laboratory and the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• by leave- On behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) I make a statement on the health aspects of uranium development, made by the Minister today. [More…]

• My colleague, the Minister for Environment, Housing and Community Development (Mr Newman), has in addition outlined the environmental controls to be adopted by the Government and he briefly referred to some of the health aspects of these. [More…]

• I now propose to give in some more detail the measures that will be taken to protect the health of those involved in uranium mining and milling and those people living within the proximity of mines who could be exposed to possible hazards. [More…]

• My Department, in particular its Australian Radiation Laboratory, has for many years been aware of possible health hazards in uranium mining. [More…]

• It must be remembered that my Department was involved in monitoring the health of those involved in uranium mining which commenced at Rum Jungle early in the 1950s and lasted until the 1960s. [More…]

• Since that time, of course, a great deal of new information has become available on the effects on health and any new information which becomes available will be used to update the control measures that should be implemented. [More…]

• These include soundly based radiation protection standards and properly drawn-up working rules; well instructed and supervised employees; effective protective facilities, equipment and procedures to minimise radiation exposure; regular and frequent monitoring and assessment of radiation exposures and contamination levels by suitably experienced and qualified staff; comprehensive health surveillance of employees in the activity; acceptance and implementation of the principle that radiation exposures be kept to the lowest practical level; and responsible and disciplined approaches by both management and employees, so that no person causes unnecessary radiation exposure to himself or to others. [More…]

• It studied papers presented to, and discussions at, an international symposium on radiation protection in mining and milling of uranium and thorium arranged by the World Health Organisation, the International Labour Organisation and the International Atomic Energy Agency. [More…]

• I have so far dealt with the possible effect on health of radiation but there are other factors that will need to be considered in respect of uranium mining in the Alligator Rivers Region. [More…]

• Any development of the Region involving migration of people has a potential to affect the health of those people. [More…]

• Expansion of health services to the area will provide for adequate care of people moving to any new and expanding population area. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has set national emission standards for air pollutants, and for atmospheric contaminants. [More…]

• The area is receptive for malaria, and the possible reintroduction of this disease poses the biggest single public health risk to a developing population in the region. [More…]

• A total occupational health program, provided by the Department of Health, in conjunction with the mining companies, unions and other relevant agencies will be carried out. [More…]

• The program includes health supervision of workers; occupational hygiene; hygiene of sanitary facilities; supervision of occupational first aid services; medical records; first aid and medical emergency treatment at work, and social and preventive health programs. [More…]

• It is planned to develop health services to a standard similar to those provided elsewhere in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The region described falls within my Department’s Jabiru rural health district of its northern region. [More…]

• My Department intends to provide an integrated health service complex in the new town. [More…]

• The health complex will provide the core of the district health service catering for the rural population, the town population and the mining population at Ranger and future mining sites. [More…]

• Another important aspect of development in the region will be its effect on the health of Aboriginals. [More…]

• This was a matter of particular concern to the Ranger Inquiry and my Department in the Northern Territory will extend its health services to Aboriginals in the region. [More…]

• At present 3 1 Aboriginal health workers are employed in the Northern Territory and a further 144 are in training. [More…]

• As recommended by the Inquiry suitable Aboriginals will be trained to work in conjunction with the health teams in the Ranger area. [More…]

• In addition, the Government will look for appropriate advice from the National Health and Medical Research Council, which as the foremost health body in the country has advised it since 1937 on all aspects of public health. [More…]

• The Senate may be interested to know that the National Health and Medical Research Council has already produced about twenty codes or recommendations on radiation. [More…]

• I believe that by following the program that I have outlined, my Department will ensure that the mining and milling of uranium can be undertaken in Australia in such a way that the health of the public, including those actually employed in the mines, will be protected. [More…]

• Its main objectives are ‘to seek to accelerate and enlarge the contribution of atomic energy to peace, health and prosperity throughout the world ‘ and to ‘ensure so far as it is able, that assistance provided by it or at its request or under its supervision or control is not used in such a way as to further any military purpose’. [More…]

• Despite the state of their health we accepted them as refugees. [More…]

• Mr Viner expressed his satisfaction at the substantial increases in expenditure on health programs (up by $5m- 25 per cent- to $23m) and education programs (up by $6.8m- 1 8 per cent-to $43 ). [More…]

• The figures illustrated the progressive increasing share going to grants-in-aid for health, welfare, employment and housing directly to Aboriginal communities and organisations in keeping with the concept of self-help and selfmanagement. [More…]

• The conditions under which they live are the cause of their ill health. [More…]

• We see expenditure going to health and education on a community basis. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security, Senator Guilfoyle, read a statement on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) about health provisions. [More…]

• There will be an increased health problem in the area, but the Department of Health is making provisions for mining companies. [More…]

• The allocation for health is being spent for the protection of mining companies in the north. [More…]

• If we are to improve the health of Aboriginal people, including the children, we have to get them off the ground and into houses. [More…]

• That is essential to Aboriginal health, yet the allocation for Aboriginal housing is being reduced. [More…]

• The first is the Air Pollution Control Sub-Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council established in 1971 for the purpose of recommending standards to be applied by Australian air pollution control authorities. [More…]

• In particular, the hazard from particulate lead has caused the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Environment Council to call for controls on the lead content of petrol. [More…]

• It is so important to the future health of our community. [More…]

• The late former Senator Dittmer had experienced indifferent health over the last year or two. [More…]

• I think that it is probably one of the regrettable things about us- I suppose it is a selfish human trait- that we remain in close contact and friendly with our colleagues here but after they leave here for reasons of ill-health or retirement we have a tendency not to remember them. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the desperate shortage of cocaine at major hospitals in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Penh? [More…]

• I have no personal knowledge of the matters that have been raised, but I undertake to draw the question to the attention of the Minister for Health and obtain an early answer to it. [More…]

• Can the Minister inform the Parliament whether the Minister for Health instigated an inquiry into the allegations of the high rates of malnutrition and general ill health, particularly amongst Aboriginal children in this area? [More…]

• Does the report recommend the need for Australian Government assistance to the Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service in its attempt to provide adequate health services? [More…]

• Will the Minister now take the initiative in ensuring that the Medical Service receives the funds needed to provide a proper health service? [More…]

• 1 undertake to refer the matters raised to the Minister for Health and to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs to find out whether there is an existing report from the Department of Health to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and whether some action is to be taken on that report, if it does exist, and also to find out in general terms the situation concerning the matters of which I have been reading in regard to the Redfern Medical Service and Aboriginal children suffering from malnutrition. [More…]

• I address my question to Senator Guilfoyle in her capacity as Minister for Social Security and also as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it not a fact that the Medibank scheme and the private health funds have contributed much to this prosperity? [More…]

• I will deal with the question as Minister representing the Minister for Health who has responsibility for Medibank and medical insurance. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 24 May 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council however, contributes $70,000 per annum to the National Heart Foundation’s Blood Pressure Study which monitors blood pressure in 4,000 people who are known to have mild to moderate hypertension. [More…]

• Dr P. Christopher;New South Wales Health Commission (Western Metropolitan Region) [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• If the findings are thought to be reliable, can the Minister indicate what steps have been taken to draw these findings to the attention of relevant State and Commonwealth authorities as yet more evidence of the deleterious effects of air pollution on the health of Australians [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• There be continuing and expanding funding for the Hunter Region Working Women’ s Group so that it can continue to provide child care, legal aid, community health, welfare and educational services to the women of the Hunter Region. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health or, alternatively, to the Minister representing the Minister for Environment, Housing and Community Development. [More…]

• I refer to the report in the Australian Financial Review of 30 August 1977 regarding the health dangers associated with the inhalation of asbestos dust which stated that the Asbestos Association of Australia was launching a campaign to dispel fears of the dangers of asbestos products. [More…]

• Do the records of the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and other departments disclose evidence of the serious health hazards, including the susceptibility to lung cancer, to persons working in the mining and processing of asbestos? [More…]

• I will respond to the question as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the report in the Australian Financial Review of 30 August referring to the health hazards of the inhalation of asbestos dust particularly during the mining and processing of that substance. [More…]

• The legislation which exists in the States, or is soon to be brought about, is based on model regulations developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• This body, which is advisory in nature to all governments in Australia, is currently producing an occupational health guide on asbestos. [More…]

• A working group of the Council is also considering, as a separate issue, the health aspects associated with the use of asbestos products in the construction industry. [More…]

• The questions of increased publicity on the health hazards of asbestos and increased community awareness are matters for individual State governments to determine. [More…]

• I will ensure that the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council, when available, will be given wide publicity throughout the community. [More…]

• Will the Minister comment further on the Government’s attitude to the Federation’s four key issues in its statement, including the point that it believes this decision is a protection of its members against potential health risks involved in living in an area where uranium is mined? [More…]

• believes this decision is a protection of its members against potential health risks involved in living in an area where uranium is mined. [More…]

• What the Fox report states is that with proper supervision there are no health hazards. [More…]

• It is important for these scaremongers, who have no other arguments, to be reminded that for 20 years the mining, milling and nuclear reactor use of uranium have existed throughout the world and if there are health hazards no emphatic evidence has been produced. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• During that outburst we have just listened to from Senator Carrick, did she hear him say that there is no danger to public health in the mining of uranium? [More…]

• But I do draw the attention of Senator Wriedt and the Senate to the statement that I made on behalf of the Minister for Health when we were announcing the uranium mining proposals some days ago in the Senate. [More…]

• There was a statement from the Minister for Health which covered the matters raised in the question and also referred to by Senator Carrick. [More…]

• The statement of the Minister for Health was quite specific with regard to the Government’s concern for health matters and the safeguards to be undertaken if any of the developments were to proceed. [More…]

• I ask a question of Senator Guilfoyle in her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Government planning for the construction by the Health Insurance Commission or Medibank of a headquarters building in the Australian Capital Territory? [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission sought Government approval to proceed with the construction of a building. [More…]

• The Cabinet has approved this request and the Commission has decided to proceed with the construction of a multi-storey office building to be located in the Woden Town Centre near the Department of Health. [More…]

• As a consequence, the Health Insurance Commission has decided in the interests of cost containment and administrative efficiency to construct its own headquarters. [More…]

• The Commission has this authority under its enabling Act and it will finance this project by using Medibank Private funds for the purpose of an investment under the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry and /or the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have no information about quarantine arrangements that I can give, but I undertake to draw the matter to the attention of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• We are told that regrettably more cannot be spent on housing because the Department of Aboriginal Affairs is giving higher priorities to education and health. [More…]

• The explanation for the increase in the estimates for education and health is that it is to cover the 1 976 national wage increases for a full year. [More…]

• So there is no improvement in education and health services for Aboriginals in this Budget. [More…]

• The companies mix this waste lubricating oil, all the time conscious of the ruling by the World Health Organisation that the percentage of lubricating oil must not be greater than three parts per hundred; otherwise it would become exceedingly dangerous to the population. [More…]

• The signatories arc headed by Mr Doug Lowe, the Labor Minister for Health in Tasmania. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Social Security in that capacity and also in her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health takes into account the seventy of the handicap and any secondary disability and the ability of the child to cope with his handicap. [More…]

• Are the ministries of Education and Health effectively involved in the planning for the Year? [More…]

• We have decided- I will be making an early announcement of this-that an interdepartmental committee and a committee of Ministers for a number of departments, including Education, Health, Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, Aboriginal Affairs and my own department- maybe others as well- will work towards the observance of this Year. [More…]

• Priority at all times has been given to the need to deliver health care and medical care at the hospitals. [More…]

• 1 ) Is the residue of DDT appearing in some New South Wales beef at almost double the permissible health standard for exports? [More…]

• What action is being taken by the Department of Primary Industry, in conjunction with the Department of Health and the Department of Overseas Trade, to investigate the problem and to ensure that Australia’s beef is not deleteriously affected by DDT contamination? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I did discuss the matter with the Minister for Health following the previous question. [More…]

• I am not aware of the particuars as stated with regard to the Royal Adelaide Hospital and its problems, but I am able to say that the Minister for Health is aware that there is a shortage of cocaine at major hospitals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has this matter under active consideration. [More…]

• The Penh Diocesan Trustees were sued by the Swan Shire Council for allowing the Aboriginals to camp on the lawns of the Church for 42 days in May and June, in breach of the Health and Town Planning Acts. [More…]

• They were fined $30 on the Health Act charge and $ 1 5 on the Town Planning Development Act charge. [More…]

• Even now, despite persistent complaints on health grounds and that of normal human decency, governmental red tape has delayed the provision of an elementary ablution block. [More…]

• They are running a car with something like 300,000 miles on the speedometer because this Government will not provide the sort of transport that is necessary to run this health centre which is very badly wanted in their community. [More…]

• I am not aware of specifics regarding the matter of alcoholism and health centres that Senator Keeffe raised. [More…]

• So too will I and any of my colleagues, such as the Minister for Health, who have any related matters. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 May 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• 1 ) Does air pollution by anaesthetic agents pose potential health risks for people who work on operating theatres and who thus attract continuing exposure to these gases day after day. [More…]

• What action is being taken by the Occupational Health Group to assess the risks involved and the people threatened by anaesthetic pollution. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Council accepted an invitation from the National Health and Medical Research Council to participate in a joint working party to discuss this topic. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue harship as inmates of Private Nursing Homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to Private Nursing Homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the Private Nursing Home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• By an arrangement with the State Department of Public Health, on whose land the Lockridge camping site is situated, the Department of Community Welfare arranged to provide toilet and ablution facilities and other services to the best of its ability, to any Aboriginal people who wished to camp at this site. [More…]

• The proposals envisage the delegation of wide policy and executive responsibility for important functions such as health, education and welfare services, public transport, the Australian Capital [More…]

• It should be expected that the Government would be looking to the same general processes of refinement in high expenditure areas including education, welfare and health. [More…]

• National Health Acts Amendment Bill 1977 [More…]

• The nursing home benefits arrangements for which the Bill provides represent a major advance in the Government’s health and welfare program introducing a new era of financial security for nursing home patients. [More…]

• From 1 October these benefits are to be adjusted upwards annually, so that they, together with the statutory patient contribution, will cover fully the fees charged 70 per cent of patients in non-government National Health Act nursing homes in each State. [More…]

• The Government is sure that most Australians will welcome this extension of the principle that those who can afford to contribute to the cost of their health care should do so. [More…]

• Out of concern for the welfare of nursing home patients, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has written a letter to all patients to reassure them that the proposed changes to the nursing home arrangements will advantage them as patients. [More…]

• Health insurers generally have shown a willingness to extend their benefits to include the payment of the proposed nursing home benefits. [More…]

• This was to be expected for it is a logical extension for the private health insurance system, which aims to provide cover for every nl Australian. [More…]

• The Bill amends both the National Health Act 1953 and the Nursing Homes Assistance Act 1974. [More…]

• The amendments to the National Health Act are contained in Part II of the BUI and it is to these provisions that I would first draw the attention of honourable senators. [More…]

• The BUI provides for the payment of a basic Commonwealth nursing home benefit in respect of uninsured patients in National Health Act nursing homes. [More…]

• In addition, the BUI provides for the payment of a Commonwealth extensive care benefit for uninsured patients in National Health Act nursing homes who require extensive care. [More…]

• As mentioned previously, the benefit levels have been determined so that the benefits, together with the statutory minimum patient contribution, currently $6.70 a day, cover fully the fees charged 70 per cent of patients in non-government National Health Act nursing homes in each State. [More…]

• These benefits Will be payable in respect of insured patients in nursing homes approved under the National Health Act and the Nursing Homes Assistance Act including insured repatriation patients in those nursing homes. [More…]

• In such cases the Bill provides that the Permanent Head of the Department of Health may direct that any Commonwealth benefits payable be paid to the person charged the fees. [More…]

• Consequently, the Bill provides that in such cases, following an application from the proprietor, the Permanent Head of the Department of Health may determine that the patient be treated as being uninsured and as a result Commonwealth benefits would be paid. [More…]

• However, the Bill imposes the same conditions of approval on these nursing homes, in relation to insured patients, as are imposed in relation to nursing homes approved under the National Health Act, to which I have referred. [More…]

• The purpose of the Bill is to enable action to be taken to give effect to a decision of the Government announced in the Budget that all privately insured patients pay for pathology services provided by the Commonwealth Health Laboratories. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health operates 14 pathology laboratories throughout Australia. [More…]

• In addition the Capital Territory Health Commission operates laboratories in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• As a result of the substantial changes made to the health insurance arrangements since October 1976, the Government considers that this no charge policy is inappropriate as a significant proportion of the population is now covered by private medical insurance. [More…]

• The no charge policy is inconsistent with the Government’s approach to universal health insurance and that is that those who can afford to pay for health services should do so while those on lowest incomes and most pensioners are entitled to medical and hospital services at no cost to them. [More…]

• The pathology services of the Commonwealth Health Laboratories are part of the diagnostic services for medical practitioners and hospitals for which the Governor-General has provided under section 9(1) (b) of the National Health Act 1953. [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that for the year 1976-77 pharmaceutical benefit prescriptions for the tranquiliser group of drugs represented 4.9 per cent of total prescriptions and that the sedative and hypnotic group represented 3.3 per cent of total prescriptions. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 have received a report on the inquiries conducted by officers of the Health Insurance Commission in the Mossman area. [More…]

• I am satisfied that the Health Insurance Commission conducted the inquiries in a responsible manner and there was no invasion of privacy on the part of the interviewing officers. [More…]

• I saw also some suggestion somewhere that there was a claim that this was a responsibility of the Federal Government through some connection with the Schools Commission I think all honourable senators and members of the community on a little reflection, would reach a simple conclusion, namely, that the housing of State public servantswhether police officers, teachers, firemen, health workers, or whatever- in remote areas is and must be wholly the responsibility of the State concerned. [More…]

• Australians are reminded of yet another surcharge which this Government has put on their wages, namely, the compulsory health insurance levy. [More…]

• -The Senate is debating cognately the National Health Acts Amendment Bill 1977 and the National Health Amendment Bill 1977. [More…]

• The first of the two Bills amends the National Health Act and the Nursing Homes Assistance Act to provide for increased benefits to be paid by the Commonwealth in respect of eligible uninsured patients in approved nursing homes and to provide for hospital benefit organisations to pay similar benefits to contributors who are patients in approved nursing homes by making the payment of such benefits a condition of a fund’s registration. [More…]

• The National Health Amendment Bill will ensure that all privately insured patients pay for services which are provided in the various States by the Commonwealth Health Laboratories. [More…]

• The National Health Acts Amendment Bill is obviously the most important one and, while not opposing it, we reject the claim of the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) in her second reading speech that the Bill represents anything like ‘a major advance introducing a new era of financial security for nursing home patients’. [More…]

• In drafting this legislation, the Government was also faced with another group of political operators, the registered health benefits funds, who earlier this year filled our mail boxes with tales of woe about the effect on their cosy businesses of the inclusion of nursing home benefits. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) is plainly less than enamoured of those gentlemen, and I hope that members on both sides of this chamber will recognise in future the nature of their tactics and treat them as they deserve to be treated. [More…]

• I hope that in its future dealings with these people in respect of nursing home benefits, the reinsurance pool, and the subsidies necessary to maintain patients in nursing homes under the health insurance scheme, the Government will take a careful look at the reserves and operations of the voluntary health funds before it is pressured into taking too much notice of their blandishments. [More…]

• The legislation purports to provide for the setting of rates of benefits to cover some 70 per cent of patients in non-government National Health Act nursing homes in each State, to review these rates annually and, we assume, to update them. [More…]

• The cost will be relatively more harsh on the low income earners because a greater percentage of their income will go in health insurance payments. [More…]

• We do not oppose the National Health Amendment Bill either. [More…]

• We accept that if people choose to take out private insurance it is reasonable that their funds should contribute to the costs of the Commonwealth Health Laboratories, which give such an excellent service to the public in many parts of this country. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Health Laboratories have played an important part in the provision of pathology services in many parts of Australia where otherwise they would not have been available. [More…]

• I know that there is pressure in my State, and in other States, to have the Commonwealth Health Laboratories closed down, but I believe that they still perform a very useful function. [More…]

• Frequently the Commonwealth Health Laboratories are able to perform tests which private pathologists would not be able to perform economically because of the size of the cities and towns- in my case, the State- in which they exist. [More…]

• Although we accept that they exist in competition with the private health laboratories, people who are contributing voluntarily to private health funds should pay for the pathology tests when they are carried out in the Commonwealth Health Laboratories. [More…]

• The second Bill is of little consequence overall, but it provides for those in voluntary funds to contribute towards the maintenance of the Commonwealth Health Laboratories. [More…]

• -In my opinion, the National Health Acts Amendment Bill does little to change the lives of those aged people who are lucky enough to be in a good nursing home and who have sufficient private means to pay the difference between the government subsidy and the amount they are charged. [More…]

• The Minister has said that it is a new era and that nursing homes are being taken into the area of private health insurance. [More…]

• One wonders why elderly people should be pressured into taking out private health insurance when the sort of return and the son of help they are going to get from the Federal Government will be no different, whether they are in Medibank Standard or in private health funds. [More…]

• The sort of return that the nursing homes will get from the Government will be the same, whether the patients are in private health funds or in Medibank Standard. [More…]

• If it means that the people who take out private health insurance are to get a different standard of care’ in nursing homes from the people who are merely levy payers or are merely in Medibank Standard, I should think that it is the first step by the Government in providing a very bad system of assistance for people who have to go into nursing homes. [More…]

• The Government therefore is not increasing its subsidisation of private health insurance. [More…]

• Senator Grimes should be aware that reinsurance is merely a means of equalising the liabilities for chronic or long term health institutional care. [More…]

• Health insurers, including Medibank Private, must be encouraged to accept those heavy liabilities and an equitable sharing of this burden. [More…]

• It is a feature of this Government’s health insurance arrangements that this should be so. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) is aware of the need constantly to review the level of benefit and support that is given, but it was felt necessary to have flexibility in this regard and to be able to move the benefits in accordance with rising costs and other factors. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has given an undertaking that, if it is feasible to amend the legislation at some future time to build in the clear intention of the Government to update benefits, this will be done; but I think it would be accepted that sometimes it is difficult to have in legislative terms the requirement of flexibility and the need to be able to set a formula that meets the needs as they arise. [More…]

• I assure the Senate that the Government is not intending to close down the Commonwealth Health Laboratories. [More…]

• I point out that the National Health Acts Amendment Bill 1977 does not allow for the fact that fewer nursing home beds are required in many States because of the devotion of relatives who look after aged people in their own homes. [More…]

• They were therefore subject to Australian laws and rights, including what I regard as the right to freedom of movement, to freedom of speech, to self-determination, to compulsory education, to official legal tender and to comparable conditions of employment including wages and certain standards of health, hygiene and housing. [More…]

• I mentioned that provision would be made to issue local ordinances and to establish better facilities for the administration of justice, that health and education services would be extended, and that rates of pay and employment conditions on Cocos would be aligned progressively with Australian practice and International Labour Organisation conventions. [More…]

• Again, the same as the Labor statement of September 1975. the improvement of education and health facilities and general upgrading of living standards; [More…]

• -Is the Minister for Education aware of the continuing concern of many Australians about the state of health and nutrition among Aboriginal people, especially Aboriginal children? [More…]

• Can the Minister tell the Senate whether any recent steps have been taken in the field of education to improve Aboriginal health and nutrition, especially in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• As I understand it, Senator Lajovic has asked a question regarding the general state of health and nutrition of Aboriginal children in the Northern Territory and whether any steps are being taken to improve their health and nutrition. [More…]

• The matter, of course, is one of conjoint action between the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, the Minister for Health and myself as Minister for Education. [More…]

• Since the schools are a focal point in which there is congregated a very significant number of Aboriginal people and since health and nutrition are related so much not only to the education of the day but also to the long term future the school itself is quite vital. [More…]

• I have had discussions with representatives of the Department of Health in recent times in an endeavour to see whether we can get going a pilot scheme of involving trained nursing sisters moving from school to school and carrying out a screening of the Aboriginal children. [More…]

• We must bear in mind that what we are doing is trying to create not only a currently healthy generation of children but also a generation of children who will take into their homes a knowledge of health and hygiene for the future. [More…]

• Has the Minister seen the claim by the Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mr Lowe, that the Federal Government has not given to Tasmania the estimated $108,000 from the 1976-77 Budget to be applied to senior citizens centres under the States Grants (Home Care) Act? [More…]

• Increased lead additives to petrol will help improve performance and engine efficiency; however they are a health hazard. [More…]

• It will probably have an important role to play in the congested metropolitan areas in reducing health risks for many people who every day are forced to travel the highways and byways of our metropolitan areas. [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister studied the many reports of Dr A. Kalokerinos regarding Aboriginal health. [More…]

• I am not aware whether the Minister for Health has had drawn to his attention the comments appearing in the London Economist. [More…]

• -I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and the Minister for Health by referring to a news release from the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs dated 23 September. [More…]

• The implications of these landings have been considered by the Standing Committee on Australian Coastal Surveillance, which is responsible for co-ordinating off-shore surveillance activities on behalf of a number of client departments, including the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health initially accepted the responsibility for this additional surveillance and the Department of Defence has assumed financial responsibility, using DC3 aircraft and subsequently Tracker aircraft stationed at Darwin. [More…]

• As to the suggestion about the sinking of boats which arrive under those circumstances, 1 will have that drawn to the attention of the Minister for Health, the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, and the bodies which are undertaking this additional surveillance to see whether there is validity in the suggestion, bearing in mind our very strict laws on animal, plant and human quarantine. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of statements by the Tasmanian Minister for Health, Mr Lowe, that the Commonwealth dishonours promises concerning the funding of school dental schemes? [More…]

• I am not aware of any statements that the Tasmanian Minister for Health may have made with regard to the school dental scheme. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health discussed this matter and long-term funding arrangements at the Health Ministers’ Conference recently. [More…]

• In answer to the specific question, I am unaware of any statement that the Tasmanian Minister for Health may have made with regard to this matter. [More…]

• If these allegations are correct, will the Minister undertake to take action or ask his colleague to take action, in consultation with the Minister for Health, to ensure that adequate equipment and drugs are available on overseas aircraft to cope with any emergency? [More…]

• I will bring it to his notice, seek information on it and certainly refer to him the suggestion that he should discuss this matter with his colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The satellite, it is said, will offer instructional television; health care delivery by telemedicine, whatever that means, because I understand that there is no proposal for telemedicine in Australia; long distance telephone trunk calls, a facility which I thought we already had; closed circuit television; and digital data transmission. [More…]

• 1 have been informed that the Queensland Department of Health informed the Hospitals and Health Services Commission by letter of 20 July 1976 that women’s refuges in Brisbane and Townsville would be excluded from consideration when financial allocations under the Community Health Program were determined. [More…]

• Many letters and telegrams have recently been sent to the Minister for Social Security, Senator Guilfoyle, and the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, urging continuation of federal funding of women ‘s refuges in the coming Budget. [More…]

• Replies have been received from Senator Guilfoyle pointing out the responsibility for funding refuges rests with the Minister for Health; and replies from Mr Hunt point the responsibility to Senator Guilfoyle. [More…]

• Nardine and Warrawee are the only shelters that receive funds under the community health program administered by the Public Health Department. [More…]

• A Public Health Department spokesman said that funding for 1977 would not be known until the Federal Budget was announced. [More…]

• The task force was set up to investigate co-ordination of health and welfare. [More…]

• It is a provision for their children’s health and welfare through a time of severe stress and strain inside what could be just a domestic situation. [More…]

• Most of the petit apartheid that was introduced had historical and health origins. [More…]

• It teaches them about modern living facilities, health and education, welfare, population control and family planning. [More…]

• The churches and missions have contributed greatly to the health, education, welfare and spiritual upbringing of these people but the churches are not highly regarded by the Bantu because the churches’ giving has been all one way. [More…]

• There are many people who made this country great- stockmen, shearers and railway menwho finished work at 65 and are in ill health. [More…]

• In health expenditure we have in fact already cut out a great measure of waste and I believe that ultimately the community will recognise it. [More…]

• Health expenditure alone is $2.8 billion. [More…]

• Funding for refuges are just indicated by the Government to be a part of the funding to States under the community health program. [More…]

• Again I made representations on this matter to the Minister for the Capital Territory and the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, before the Budget, but there appears to have been no allocation for an essential service of this kind. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health tell us whether it was stated in the Medical Journal of Australia of 10 September last that as recently as 1966 the Northern Territory of Australia had the highest rate in the world of endemic Hansen’s disease or leprosy? [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that in Australia, once diagnosed, leprosy patients, whatever their racial origin and regardless of cure, remain on the leprosy register for life. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As the cost to the community is approximately $ 1 8 a day to provide a patient with home dialysis treatment compared with a hospital admission minimum cost of $140 a day, should not the Government be channelling more, not less, funds into this economical method of health care? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that he has an advisory role, through both the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Department of Health in the field of industrial health. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council’s Occupational Health Committee and its subordinate sub-committees and working parties consider a wide variety of matters concerning the health of persons occupied in industry. [More…]

• The matter that the honourable senator has raised concerning a specific problem I believe should be referred to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I certainly will direct to the Minister for Health the honourable senator’s request concerning a deputation. [More…]

• As I said, the matter of industrial health and related matters are of great importance to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Services that ought to be provided for the community- health and dental services and through government offices, including social serviceshave all deteriorated in the last 12 months to two years. [More…]

• It refuses to investigate the effect on crime and the effect on health-community health generally and the health of the individual. [More…]

• An Enquiry may be reconstituted, following a request from the AMA to the Minister for Health, to determine increases (if any) in Pathology fees to apply in 1978. [More…]

• September last year, I indicated that the overall increase was restrained and represented real progress towards the Government’s objective in containing health care costs in Australia. [More…]

• This represents a further major step in containing increases in health care costs in Australia. [More…]

• Other participants were Senator Shirley Walters, the New South Wales Health Commission, the Australian Association of Neurologists and the Society of Pathologists in Private Practice. [More…]

• However, the Inquiry recommended that, on a request from the Australian Medical Association to the Minister for Health, a further inquiry should be convened to determine increases, if any, to such fees. [More…]

• Action will be taken shortly to prepare regulations under the Health Insurance Act to implement the Determination, and to re-print the Medical Benefits Schedule book for use by medical benefits organisations and doctors. [More…]

• Aborigines have the tragic distinction of experiencing the highest death rate, the worst health and housing and the lowest educational, occupational, economic, social and legal status of any section of the Australian population. [More…]

• It has been told that the $60,000- in other words, the nutritional program, a most vital area for the health of all Aboriginal people- is under consideration. [More…]

• We know that Aboriginals in country areas suffer the worst health problems. [More…]

• -The Aboriginal Medical Service in Perth has had letters from Aboriginal people in the north of Western Australia almost begging it to set up some type of Aboriginal health service and to make it available to Aboriginal people in towns in that area. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 August 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Are evaluation reviews, carried out by the Priorities and Evaluation Division of the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, ever made public when completed; if so, can the Prime Minister advise of any evaluations in the area of health or welfare programs which have been completed in the Department and the results of which can be made public. [More…]

• In the sense that the honourable senator asks his question, however, I can inform him that the Priorities and Evaluation Division and the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet have been associated with evaluations in the area of health and welfare programs as set out below: [More…]

• The Task Force Report on Welfare and Health (Bailey Report)- First Report [More…]

• Is the Minister for Social Security in a position to comment on the criticisms made by the Archbishop of Sydney, Sir Marcus Loane, on the funding and operation of women ‘s refuges and health centres in Sydney? [More…]

• I am aware that my colleague, the Minister for Health, had drawn to his attention the reported criticism of the Archbishop of Sydney regarding the funding of women’s refuges. [More…]

• The Minister for Health said that in considering this reported criticism by the Anglican Archbishop it is important to distinguish between the services which are provided by the women’s refuges and the individual philosophies of some groups which support the need for such centres. [More…]

• Basically, the centres have received financial support in recognition of an assertion that the existing system of health care is not entirely adequate to meet all the special health care needs of women. [More…]

• The Minister for Health stresses that the centres operate in general under the supervision of the State health authorities through which Commonwealth funds are channelled. [More…]

• If any specific allegations concerning the misuse of public moneys were made, the Minister for Health would be pleased to have any investigation made that might seem appropriate. [More…]

• To maximise the contribution of an expanded and socially acceptable nuclear program which is consistent with the maintenance of a safe environment in terms of solving problems of health and security which may arise. [More…]

• In recognition of the human health risks involved these agreements have provided for reactors to be slaughtered and processed at a slower rate and for the workers to be issued with special protective clothing. [More…]

• There has been a decrease in expenditure on health of 9 per cent in real terms. [More…]

• We have seen community health funds slashed by 15.3 per cent. [More…]

• This will strike at the most vital services in the community health field. [More…]

• In the meantime I have placed on the Notice Paper questions concerning the proposed replacement of plastic token currency; questions on the introduction of a form of compulsory education; questions relating to the Cocos community fund; questions regarding the establishment of a form of local government in the area; and questions concerning health and hygiene so far as the Cocos Malay people are concerned. [More…]

• The broad details of Australia’s Cocos policy are as follows: a representative form of local government for the Cocos community to be established with the ultimate aim being the creation of a fully elected body; arrangements to be made allowing a transfer to the Cocos community of the village area ofHome Island; the replacement of token money by Australian currency; establishment of a new form of fund to assist the financing of community activities’, there should be freedom of movement and communication within the Territory; the improvement of education and health facilities and general upgrading of living standards; the framing and implementation of laws which could be clearly applied and enforced, taking into account local institutions and customs; the progressive introduction of a wages economy appropriate to Cocos conditions; appropriate means by which Australian citizenship can be provided to residents of the Territory who wish to take up Australian citizenship; the provision of financial assistance to Cocos Malays who wish to move from Cocos to Australia; and the ownership by the Australian Government of all land on which its facilities are located. [More…]

• Clunies Ross estate provide for direct payment of appropriate sums of money in Australian currency to the Cocos community; a separate Cocos community fund be established for this purpose to be administered by and for the sole benefit of the community; the use of token money eventually be discontinued and replaced by Australian currency, taking into account the complexities involved; provision be made to issue local ordinances and establish better facilities for the administration of justice; health and education services be extended; rates of pay and employment conditions on Cocos aligned progressively with Australian practice and International Labour Organisation conventions; provisions be introduced to permit freedom of movement for members of the Cocos community and provision for granting Australian citizenship to Cocos Islanders born there before 1955 who did not apply for citizenship in the prescribed time with a view to making it easier for the citizens of Cocos to take out such citizenship if they wished to do so. [More…]

• We are entitled to know what steps the Government has taken to ensure freedom of movement and communications within the territory and to improve education, health facilities and general living standards. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will draw the attention of the Minister for Health to the honourable senator’s question. [More…]

• He left out such items as education, where the increase this year is $2 10m, and health, where the increase this year is $27 lm. [More…]

• Expenditure on health, as one previous speaker mentioned, has doubled from 5.8 per cent to 10.6 per cent of total Budget outlays. [More…]

• In the Budget there have been increases in expenditure for health, education and Aboriginal affairs in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• New positions must be created in the Department of Health and other government departments to endeavour to absorb the Aboriginal people to some degree. [More…]

• One criticism I have of the Budget, as it refers to the Northern Territory, is that despite the fact that there is a tremendous revenue coming in from the Rock from people who pay considerable fees to see it, the health facilities are not improved. [More…]

• It has its chance to demonstrate that the free enterprise system can restore the economic health . [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue hardship as inmates of Private Nursing Homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to Private Nursing Homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the Private Nursing Home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• -I ask a question of the Minister for Administrative Services relating to a report today that last year the number of public servants retiring through ill health doubled. [More…]

• In particular, will the Minister advise whether or not the current retirement provisions encourage early retirement if a medical certificate of poor health can be obtained? [More…]

• I will ensure that the reply also takes up the honourable senator’s question as to whether or not the increase in retirement through ill health has occurred since the more generous retirement, provisions were inserted in the Act. [More…]

• I desire to ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am unaware whether the Minister for Health has made investigations into the allegations that have been outlined in the question asked by Senator Cavanagh. [More…]

• I am also unaware whether the State Department of Health has some interest in some of the matters mentioned. [More…]

• However, I shall draw it to the attention of the Minister ibr Health to see whether some report can be provided. [More…]

• Has the Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service Nutrition program been approved and recommended by both the Aboriginal health section of the New South Wales Health Commission and the Aboriginal Health Branch of the Australian Department of Health? [More…]

• Did the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, state in reply to a question I asked on 6 September 1977 that he supported the program and was holding discussions on the matter with Mr Viner? [More…]

• If these are facts, how does the Minister equate these apparently misleading statements with the fact that neither the Department of Aboriginal Affairs nor the Department of Health has been in contact with the Aboriginal Medical Service since the meeting of 15 August 1977 at which the regional director of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs, Mr Kevin Martin, stated categorically in front of witnesses that no funds were available for the Aboriginal Medical Service Nutrition Program for the 1977-78 year? [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether patients treated under dental specialties of orthodontics, pedodontics, prosthodontics, periodontics, endodontics and oral surgery are paid higher benefits by health funds than the benefits paid to patients of general dental practitioners? [More…]

• If not, will the Minister ask her colleague in another place to consult the funds and Medibank to correct what appears to be an anomaly in the health scheme? [More…]

• But I am aware that under the provisions of the Health Insurance Act medical benefits are not payable for dental services. [More…]

• However, private health insurance organisations may, if they so desire, provide benefits under supplementary benefits tables for services such as the ones that have been outlined. [More…]

• The Government has maintained the policy in relation to supplementary benefits of largely allowing private health insurance organisations, including Medibank Private, to determine for themselves the nature and extent of supplementary benefits they may wish to offer and the terms and conditions applicable to the payment of those benefits. [More…]

• I will direct the question to the Minister for Health to see whether further information can be given on the specific matters that have been raised. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I table eight reports which were presented to the Committee by the Department of Health in response to requests for additional information. [More…]

• 1 ) Have the Minister, the Government, and interdepartmental committees finished their deliberations on the Ranger Uranium Environmental Inquiry Second Report (Fox Report); if so, when is the Government likely to implement the following recommendation made in the Fox Report: ‘That Aboriginal health workers be trained to work among their own communities ‘. [More…]

• The matter is currently being considered by officials of my Department, by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation and by the Department of Health in connection with the Academy of Science’s proposal that a section of a high security laboratory within the Department of Health should be used for some genetic engineering experiments. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that a 24-hour emergency aerial medical ambulance service is not available on Groote Eylandt? [More…]

• child care and other family care programs; health care services- including Medibank, community health centres, womens’ refuges and domiciliary care services; housing- in particular housing for aged and invalid people; programs and allowances for the handicapped; pensions and benefits (and proposed transfers of responsibility for these); the Legal Aid Commission Bill: Aboriginal Affairs; Australian Government Printing Services; and grant-in-aid services for migrants and interpreter services. [More…]

• The Welfare Defence Movement, consisting of welfare recipients, welfare agencies, welfare workers, trade unions and concerned others, has arisen in response to the federal government’s cuts to health and welfare spending, which have occurred over the past year and which we anticipate in the next budgetary period. [More…]

• There was a serious cut in the dental health clinic at Redfern. [More…]

• The travelling dental health unit requested $94,500. [More…]

• They will be forced to remain in river camps and in other areas under very unhealthy living conditions. [More…]

• In real terms the reduction in funds made available for health, when compared with the Hayden Budget, is $3. [More…]

• One can make available to people, whether Aborigines or not, opportunities for better education and health facilities, but unless their children can come home to a decent home with an environment where they can sit down and do their homework, it is all to no avail; so housing is a very important factor for consideration. [More…]

• The money is not going into housing or health care. [More…]

• A beautiful new hospital, or health centre as it was called, could not be used because there was no tank. [More…]

• For health, $ 1.38m will be provided for Darwin; Alice Springs, nil. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is bound up with so many dozens and probably hundreds of small businesses which depend upon the economic health and the economic climate of this community. [More…]

• Secondly, another vital need is required to restore the health of this economic community and that is union cooperation in restoring jobs in this community and in maintaining those jobs. [More…]

• What are the unions going to go in relation to co-operation to bring about economic health for this sort of community in Australia and particularly in South Australia? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Redfern Aboriginal Medical Service nutrition program been approved and recommended by both the Aboriginal health section of the New South Wales Health Commission and the Aboriginal health branch of the Australian Department of Health? [More…]

• A dossier on allegations of police assault and victimisation of aborigines in Melbourne is being compiled by the Aboriginal Health and Legal Services. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Health Service doctor said yesterday that after two recent allegations of assault in the Fitzroy area, the services would take direct action to investigate and consider charges against police. [More…]

• If that man had been in poor health, if he had a weak heart or some other ailment, that exercise could have killed him. [More…]

• The Leader of the Opposition (Senator Wriedt) indicated clearly that health services, including Medibank, are a vital component of wages. [More…]

• He would know that all over Europe a far more effective health coverage is provided. [More…]

• This report, if it does nothing else, will establish in the community an appreciation that drug use and abuse is to be seen all around us and that alcohol and tobacco are the real menaces to the future health of the Australian community. [More…]

• The present rather amphorous administrative arrangements ought to be strengthened by giving a charter specifically to the Minister for Health and to the Department of Health in order to ensure that relevant programs in the other Commonwealth departments concerned contribute to the national strategy. [More…]

• The report details the ravages of alcohol, in terms of ill health, erosion of social well-being and economic cost to individuals and the community. [More…]

• Its use is now accepted by all responsible authorities as dangerous to health, and the dangers have been widely publicised. [More…]

• The community knows that smoking is a major health hazard. [More…]

• In fact, it is one of the main avoidable health hazards in modern society. [More…]

• The Committee believes that there is an important difference between decisions made by adults possessed of the facts and the maturity to make decisions about their own life styles and health, and the decisions of young adolescents with neither the information nor the maturity to make such far-reaching decisions. [More…]

• The Committee supports the proposals adopted by the National Health and Medical Research Council in April 1977 that most compound analgesics be available only on a doctor’s prescription, and recommends that the proposals be implemented immediately by Commonwealth and State governments. [More…]

• Despite claims to the contrary at both extremes of the debate, the long term health effects of constant, heavy cannabis use are not completely known and need further study. [More…]

• It is a health and a social problem of tremendous extent and one which exists only at great cost to the community. [More…]

• I do not think there is anyone now who would say that the scientists are not right in claiming that the use of tobacco is a definite hazard to one’s health. [More…]

• It is accepted that smoking is a danger to health, yet 56 per cent of males and 35 per cent of females over the age of 25 continue to smoke. [More…]

• Another is that the Commonwealth Department of Health establish upper limits for tar and nicotine content and progressively reduce the permitted levels until all cigarettes with a content in excess thereof are banned. [More…]

• We have recommended that all nonprescription analgesics in packages containing more than 25 tablets or 12 powders should be available only from a pharmacy, and that the Health Department should monitor consumer usage and attitudes towards, proprietary medicines to measure the effect of various intervention strategies. [More…]

• We agree with the proposals for the restriction of sale announced by the National Health and Medical Reseach Council. [More…]

• One of the frightening things in the report is that analgesics which until now have not been seen as a problem are affecting the health of a great number of women in the community who have no idea of the problem they are causing themselves. [More…]

• To point up that problem I shall quote from a circular put out by the Working Women’s Centre which refers to a survey conducted by the New South Wales Department of Health in 1971. [More…]

• We feel that this report has brought to light a real problem that needs immediate attention if we really care about the health of our community. [More…]

• Alcohol damages the health. [More…]

• The point that the United States Attorney made was that the damage which was caused to the health was, if it were a motivation, not the primary motivation of those who favoured prohibition in the 1920s and 1930s, in the same way as the question of whether marihuana is damaging to the health was not a primary motivation in the 1960s and 1970s among a number of those people who were in favour of heavy penalties or penalties for the use of marihuana. [More…]

• Many of the people who advocate banning the use of marihuana, as I think Senator Baume pointed out during the course of his speech when tendering the report, are well aware of the severe damage which is done to the health by the use of alcohol. [More…]

• Here one has two drugs, both of which are dangerous in various degrees to one’s health, yet one is the subject of a campaign calling for its banning and the other is not. [More…]

• To come back to Senator Wright’s point, there is dispute as to how much damage marihuana does to one ‘s health. [More…]

• I mention that matter because I think it will be important in the future that we have this sort of co-operation in industry to assist not only the unfortunate individual who is suffering from the disease of alcoholism but also to improve efficiency in industry by restoring people to health. [More…]

• I am sure that, despite the difficulty in following him in many other areas, he will be consistent and agree that Medibank is of great advantage to the health of this country. [More…]

• I refer also to the health centres that have been established. [More…]

• The health centres, which are admitted to be of great advantage, were established and enlarged by the Labor Government. [More…]

• What action is the Government taking to upgrade tourist facilities at Ayers Rock to comply with necessary health requirements, in view of the proposed plan to incorporate Ayers Rock within a national park concept. [More…]

• That many pensioners who are holders of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card, have suffered undue hardship as inmates of Private Nursing Homes, because the Federal Government subsidy was insufficient to meet the charges as laid down. [More…]

• Make sure that subsidies paid to Private Nursing Homes are such that each pensioner holding a Pensioners Health Benefit Card will pay the Private Nursing Home no more than the statutory minimum patient contribution, which will allow six dollars per week to be retained by the pensioner patient for their personal use. [More…]

• That a pensioner holding a Pensioner Health Benefit Card shall have a telephone installed free of charge, or at a very nominal charge. [More…]

• As I have been advised by the University, in the performance of its work the University collects certain moneys for health funds and so on from the staff. [More…]

• As I understand it, some funds, such as the health funds, pay a commission to have that done. [More…]

• As I understand it, these are commissions paid by various voluntary bodies, such as medical and benefit funds, for the discharge of a service which is the collection, presumably, of health dues and so on. [More…]

• I have been saying in this chamber for quite a long time in response to daily queries about inflation and the health of the economy that the inflation rate is clearly coming down. [More…]

• We established the great Medibank scheme in order to give fair and equitable health insurance to all Australian citizens. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 76A of the National Health Act 1953 I present the annual report on the operations of the registered medical and hospital benefits organisations for the year ended 30 June 1976. [More…]

• I am quite sure that if Senator Douglas McClelland or Senator Mulvihill asked my predecessor, Fred Daly, he would give a clean bill of health in respect of Jack White. [More…]

• The functions and powers of this Unit differ from those of the Aboriginal Health Branch within the Department of [More…]

• Health, and of the Aboriginal Education Branch within the Department of Education, principally in terms of their staffing and focus, and in the range of activities and services covered. [More…]

• Is the Minister prepared to direct the same criticism against his own Government for changing its policy on the recognition of China, changing its policy on a national health scheme, changing its policy on overseas investment in Australian companies, changing its policy on simultaneous elections, and its policy on the payment of a dairy bounty? [More…]

• Can the Minister advise whether the proposal has been investigated by the Minister he represents and the Minister for Health to assess the possibilities of such a change? [More…]

• I have not immediately before me any information as to whether either the Department of Health or the Postal and Telecommunications Department has conducted an investigation as to the feasibility of such a practice. [More…]

• I understand from various reports that one can put in that basket from the Cabinet Mr Anthony, the Deputy Prime Minister of Australia, Mr Sinclair, the Leader of the House of Representatives, Mr Fraser, the Prime Minister, Senator Cotton, the Minister for Industry and Commerce, Mr Street, the Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations, Mr Hunt, the Minister for Health, Mr Nixon, the Minister for Transport and Senator Webster, the Minister for Science. [More…]

• Such a centre would house not only members of Parliament, who now take up the fifteenth floor of the AMP building, but also the Department of Health, the Department of Social Security and those who are presently occupying, in nearby Currie Street, the premises of the Commonwealth Electoral Office. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 2 1 September 1977: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Another provision of the Bill deals with the health insurance levy. [More…]

• Health Insurance Levy Bill 1977 [More…]

• This Bill, an annual measure, formally declares the rate of health insurance levy payable for 1977-78 in those situations where the general levy law requires that the levy be paid. [More…]

• I applaud the Government on amending a most unusual section in the income tax law as it affects the health insurance levy. [More…]

• Trust estates of deceased persons have been subject to the health insurance levy since the introduction of the new Medibank arrangements last year. [More…]

• I want to relate my remarks particularly to Division 494 of the Estimates for the Department of Primary Industry, which relates to the Bureau of Animal Health, including the export inspection services for meat. [More…]

• I understand that they come under either the Department of Social Security or the Department of Health. [More…]

• The community health program, which involves a block grant to the States, covers funding for women’s refuges. [More…]

• It is a program that is dealt with by the Department of Health- not by my Department. [More…]

• In the case of the community health program for Queensland, the Government of that State did not give to the women’s refuges the funds which the block grant was given to cover. [More…]

• I am not aware of whether that needed to be done, but it was the intention of the Government that if the Queensland Government did not fund the refuges under the block grants from the community health program those refuges would be funded direct. [More…]

• I will inquire of the Minister for Health as to how the matter was finally concluded. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Committee has recommended that further consideration be given to the introduction of a national identity card system which could also have advantages to other areas such as health and immigration. [More…]

• At this stage, however, the Government has not yet reached a decision on the proposals of the Task Force on Coordination in Welfare and Health, one of which is that the homeless persons assistance program should become part of a wider ‘sheltered accommodation program’, administration of which might be devolved to the State governments. [More…]

• I did indeed resent a Victorian senator preaching to me as a Queensland senator about Queensland’s economy and about what we should and should not be doing when our State’s contribution to the nation ‘s economic health is so overwhelmingly far ahead of the contribution of bis State. [More…]

• When the answer comes from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) I hope he will be able to say where the money went because I do not think it has been returned to the Federal Government. [More…]

• How many are employed by the Departments of Aboriginal Affairs, Health, Education, and any other Department in each of these settlements. [More…]

• If the question of political activity directed against the Queensland Government is raised in the way Senator Keeffe raises it, I can only say to him that the Minister had been made aware of the concern felt in certain quarters over the possible political activities of some people employed by the teams under the control of the Director of the National Trachoma and Eye Health Program, Professor Hollows, in north Queensland. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has been in touch with the College of Ophthalmologists which has been responsible for making arrangements for and the conduct of the campaign and has been assured that the staffing rearrangements are currently under discussion. [More…]

• They have a high incidence of health problems in general. [More…]

• It was thought that at the end of three years the Government and the Parliament would be in a better position to decide, for instance, whether refuges for women, which are at present funded under the community health program, should become part of the homeless persons program. [More…]

• The reason given by the Government is that it has not yet reached a decision on the proposals of the Task Force on the Coordination of Health and Welfare, the so-called Bailey Committee. [More…]

• Some programs which were considered by Bailey were axed by the present Government but most of them, such as the Handicapped Persons Assistance Act, the aged and disabled persons home program, the children services program and the community health programs are continuing. [More…]

• At least two of the poverty research reports give us some idea of the health and legal disadvantages which are suffered by the homeless, in comparison with the rest of the population. [More…]

• I commend to honourable senators the research report ‘Health Studies of Selected Disadvantaged Groups’; also ‘Homeless Persons and the Law’. [More…]

• There is strong evidence that the poor health of most of these homeless people has probably disabled them and prevented their being employed; that once they are disabled and unemployed, for whatever reason, once they are living in such conditions, they are prone to the other diseases of society, plus the premature aging process which is so often commented on by investigators of the situation of these people. [More…]

• There probably should be less emphasis on beds and meals and a greater emphasis on attention to health, legal injustices and the protection of civil liberties, as well as some monitoring of the conditions laid down for dealing with a homeless person’s income by the agent or organisation on whom he depends. [More…]

• The honourable senator mentioned the fact that there is some concern as to whether they should be funded under this Act or the community health program. [More…]

• In the end it does not matter to the people who run the refuges whether they are administered by the Department of Health or the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• It has been assured under the community health program. [More…]

• The honourable senator referred also to the proposals of the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health- the Bailey Task Force. [More…]

• 3m is provided for capital grants and a total of over $lm is being provided for recurrent costs in the shape of grants to various bodies, such as health societies and other institutions which are providing assistance in this field, and in particular the 139 Club in Brisbane which was mentioned by Senator Georges. [More…]

• But as has been explained by the Minister for Social Security, and explained again in her second reading speech- and this seems to have been overlooked by the Opposition senators who have spoken in this debate- the Government has not proceeded to amend the Act to provide at this stage for a widening of the scheme because it is still considering the proposals made to it by the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health. [More…]

• We have no objection to- in fact we welcome- the extension of the free service of the Commonwealth rehabilitation service to those people who previously were ineligible, but we must bear in mind that from the report of Mr Bailey, whose task force inquired into health and welfare, and from the answers given to Estimates Committee D, the question has arisen as to who should be responsible for rehabilitation services- whether they should be a State or Federal responsibility. [More…]

• The types of expenditure that would be acceptable for the purpose would be such things as expenditure on medical and paramedical services, especially physiotherapy, after the deduction of health insurance refunds, the cost of transport incurred in seeking medical and other services, expenditure on special diets, prosthesis, spectacles and mobility aids, such as wheelchairs, expenditure on clothing in excess of the usual requirements, expenditure on shoes in excess of the usual requirements, school fees in excess of the usual cost, usually arising out of attendance at a special school, and expenditure on occasional child care and special activities- for example, swimming lessons for spastic children. [More…]

• The medical criteria are determined by the Department of Health acting for the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• As far as the medical criteria are concerned, we will be guided by the Department of Health in determining the degree of handicap of the child. [More…]

• The medical criteria are determined by the Department of Health on behalf of the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• It could be a matter of health or medical grounds upon which a student has discontinued his course. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by saying that no doubt the Minister is well aware that of all the drugs humans consume in one form or another probably the most dangerous is alcohol and that the earlier in life one commences using alcohol the more likely it is that one will end up being an alcoholic. [More…]

• In view of those facts and in view of the recent report which detailed the danger of alcohol within this country, will the Minister ask the Minister for Health to require the percentage of alcohol to be printed on the label of alcoholic drinks sold in this Territory? [More…]

• If possible, will the Commonwealth take action to ask Ministers for Health in all States to agree to such a regulation so that people will have some idea of the strength of alcohol in any alcoholic liquor that they buy? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and I refer to a report in the Melbourne Sun on 28 October 1977 which quotes the Minister for Health as stating that there is no evidence of danger to humans in the use of chloroform in drugs and cosmetics. [More…]

• If the Minister for Health will not act to ban or curtail the use of chloroform will he at least reveal to the Parliament details of the known chloroform content of substances, including toothpaste, in order that the public can make its own judgment on the use of toothpaste taking into account the divergent views of medical authorities in the United States of America and elsewhere? [More…]

• I have some information from the Minister for Health supplied in response to the Press article mentioned by Senator Missen. [More…]

• Results of analyses of chloroform in toothpaste carried out for the Department of Health by the Australian Government Analytical [More…]

• I shall refer them to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If the honourable senator has instances of specific difficulties in Victorian hospitals which she can give to me I shall pass them on to the Minister for Health to ensure that the hospital cost sharing arrangements are working effectively for patients in public hospitals. [More…]

• The purpose of the Bill is to provide for incentive payments to be made to beef producers who carry out certain recognised animal health and husbandry procedures. [More…]

• The provisions of the Bill will help to alleviate the very serious cash flow position of beef producers, while serving the national interest by maintaining essential animal health activity. [More…]

• I shall take up the time of the Senate by reading practically all the article into Hansard, as well as a statement put out by the Minister for Health, the Honourable Ralph Hunt. [More…]

• The Prime Minister, Mr Fraser, and the Health Minister, Mr Hunt, agreed to the Premier’s request to stop the program in Queensland. [More…]

• If the program is abandoned most of this fantastic effort will have been in vain and a final report on the eye health of Aborigines will be impossible. ‘ [More…]

• ‘The eye health problems of Aborigines here are so horrific that these men have been too busy working their - backsides- off to help save sight to have time to get into polities’, he said. [More…]

• Mr Fraser said he agreed too little had been done too late for Aboriginal health. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Affairs Minister, Mr Viner, said last night it was a health matter and reporters should seek comment from Mr Hunt. [More…]

• I have a copy of a Press release which was given by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Ralph Hunt, has advised the Royal Australian College of Ophthalmologists that some employees of the field teams of the National Trachoma and Eye Health Program (at present working in Queensland) are unacceptable to Queensland authorities. [More…]

• The Press statement of the Minister for Health in part, states: [More…]

• Yesterday I asked the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) who represents the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs ( Mr Viner) in this place a question about the national trachoma and eye health program. [More…]

• I can only say to him that the Minister had been made aware of the concern felt in certain quarters over the possible political activities of some people employed by the teams under the control of the Director of the National Trachoma and Eye Health Program, Professor Hollows, in north Queensland. [More…]

• In fact, the stony silence of both the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs is stunning. [More…]

• A joint Press statement issued by the Minister for Health and the Royal Australian College of Ophthalmologists was released yesterday. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Ralph Hunt, has advised the Royal Australian College of Ophthalmologists that some employees of the field teams of the National Trachoma and Eye Health Program are unacceptable to Queensland authorities. [More…]

• Henry Pietracci was a senior officer of the health and research union. [More…]

• The first legislative act of this Government was to cut out subsidised health benefits and the subsidised pharmaceutical scheme, which meant in fact - [More…]

• The Government speaks of increased expenditures for the Community Health Service, but that increase amounts to only Sim more than the 1975-76 allocation, and 15.3 per cent less than the Hospitals and Services Commission estimated was needed to continue existing projects. [More…]

• The Aboriginal Health Service, which the Minister also mentioned, is in fact to receive funding amounting to only Sim more than it received in 1975-76, which is certainly a decrease in real terms. [More…]

• Today we find the Premier of a State sabotaging a Commonwealth scheme that is designed for the benefit of Aboriginals and the Commonwealth supporting the cancellation of a health scheme in Victoria. [More…]

• Rather than permit those who are alleged to be political advocates to be in a health team the health and eyesight of Aboriginals in Queensland are being sacrificed. [More…]

• But what has the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) done today to those two Aborigines who were interviewed on television tonight and who have been given the sack? [More…]

• Yet we find the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, acquiescing to a strong demand by Mr BjelkePetersen that these two gentlemen be sacked. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: In view of the fact that the Federal Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, cannot, according to Press reports this morning, find anything to substantiate the claims of the Premier of Queensland Mr J. Bjelke-Petersen, that Mr Miller and Mr Grogan were using their positions as members of the trachoma team for political purposes and in view of the fact that just about every newspaper in Australia this morning has supported the importance of the project, will the Minister assure the Senate that the Federal Government will ensure that the program will continue and that the two people involved will not be suspended? [More…]

• -As the Minister for Health advised yesterday, discussions are being held with the Royal Australian College of Ophthamologists to ensure that the trachoma project continues. [More…]

• I give the assurance that the program will continue but I will refer the matter of the two people concerned and their suspension to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health arising out of a question asked by Senator Bonner. [More…]

• As I said earlier, the Minister for Health is having continuing discussions with the college to ensure that the trachoma project proceeds. [More…]

• I offered to obtain for Senator Bonner, from the Minister for Health further information with regard to the two individuals. [More…]

• It is for that reason that the Minister for Health is having continuing discussions with the college to ensure that this project which the Commonwealth Government regards as vital for Aboriginals is able to proceed. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has stressed that the funds for this campaign have been made available by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and it follows upon questions by Senators Bonner, Keeffe and Cavanagh concerning the deferment of portion of the national trachoma campaign in Queensland. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs. [More…]

• In view of the numbers of refugee immigrants coming into Australia, can the Minister advise whether refugees are accepted irrespective of health and other qualifications and whether it is considered that persons not eligible for immigration under normal causes may endeavour to gain entry as refugees? [More…]

• I have stated on their behalf and on my Department’s behalf the measures we take to alleviate their distress and the measures that are taken with regard to their health requirements on arrival. [More…]

• Where refugees have been arriving in this country, every effort has been made to ensure that their comfort and health requirements are attended to. [More…]

• I would like to return to the trachoma program in Queensland and ask the Minister representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister for Health whether it is not a fact that the Premier of Queensland stated bluntly that unless the two men concerned were sacked there would be no co-operation from the Queensland Government. [More…]

• I shall seek that information from the Minister for Health, and also the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs if he is able to contribute to it, to ensure that in answer to these questions the farts emerge, rather than information distorted in varying ways by what could be newspaper accounts. [More…]

• I also reminded the Senate yesterday that we hope to develop at Ti Tree, some 100 miles or more north of Alice Springs, a multi-purpose training centre to train aides which can be used by departments such as the Department of Health to bring an in-service upgrading to the whole of the Territory. [More…]

• I am forced to relate my comments on this Bill to the Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong. [More…]

• That is the Beef Industry (Incentive Payments) Bill- is to provide for incentive payments to be made to beef producers who carry out certain recognised animal health and husbandry procedures. [More…]

• In 1974 when the Australian Labor Party Government was in office Mr Whitlam made an announcement on 2 April to the effect that the Government had allocated $57m to construct an Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong in Victoria on land owned by the Government. [More…]

• You will recall your question without notice on 1 5 March, seeking information about the proposal to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• Construction of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong was not commenced last year. [More…]

• Although a statement was made in the LiberalNational Country parties policy speech put down on 25 November 1975 that a high priority would be placed on this matter, Senator Webster said that the Minister for Primary Industry had advised him that early in 1976, just a few months after this Government had been elected to office, the Liberal and National Country parties did not propose to proceed with the animal health laboratory at Geelong. [More…]

• The director of the Agriculture Ministry’s animal health division, Dr G. H. Adlam said today Australian scientists had located the virus in insects from the Northern Territory. [More…]

• But the animal health authorities have sent samples of the virus to the world reference laboratory in South Africa to establish whether it is pathogenic for animals. [More…]

• However, the animal health project which was mentioned by Senator McLaren deserves serious comment. [More…]

• I agree with some of the comments Senator McLaren made about the importance of animal health. [More…]

• I know the Government is anxious to move ahead with the animal health laboratory- it is anxious about animal health generally- but when it became the Government it was forced to look at the quantum of government expenditure and to bring it down to more sensible levels consistent with what the community could afford. [More…]

• It is hoped that the Bill will allow producers to do more about animal health. [More…]

• I agree that both animal health and husbandry are critical factors in beef production. [More…]

• It should help to maintain the national animal health levels. [More…]

• 1 ) What further progress, other than consideration by an interdepartmental committee, has taken place in moving towards implementation of recommendations 9 and 10 of the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Health in the South West of Western Australia [More…]

• What progress has been made in the closing down of reserves as proposed in recommendation 1 1 of the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Health in the South West of Western Australia. [More…]

• What progress has been made in the provision of proper housing, as proposed in recommendation 13 (a) of the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Health in the South West of Western Australia. [More…]

• Have funds been made available for the implementation of recommendation 17 of the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Health in the South West of Western Australia, or is the position still as the Minister advised in answer to question on notice 616. [More…]

• Have funds been made available for the implementation of recommendation 19 of the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Health in the South West of Western Australia, or is the position still as the Minister advised in answer to question on notice 616. [More…]

• I am advised that the position is as follows: ( 1 ), (2) and (3) Mary Kathleen Uranium Limited (in the ownership of which the Commonwealth Government has a substantial equity) applies, on a voluntary basis, the ‘Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores 1975’ prepared by the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• Is effluent from the sewerage ponding area, which overflows at the rate of hundreds of thousands of gallons per day into El Papa Swamp, causing a rapidly growing health problem at Alice Springs. [More…]

• 1 ) The discharge of effluent has contributed to the filling of El Papa Swamp in recent years and there is a continuing but not rapidly growing health risk from mosquito borne disease. [More…]

• The Department of the Northern Territory, in conjunction with the Department of Construction and the Department of Health, nas been making intensive investigations into the problem which has been accentuated by a number of years of high rainfall raising the level of the water table and contributing to a situation of near permanent swampland. [More…]

• It interests me in my own capacity; it interests the Minister for Health because of the associated disease problems; it interests the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs because of the narcotics issue; and it interests the Minister for Transport. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether, in the interests of preventive dentistry and the consequent savings to the community through higher standards of oral health, the Minister considers that the encouragement of the use of mouthguards in sport by children would be enhanced by their cost being allowed for tax rebate purposes? [More…]

• Further, would the Minister consider taking up with Medibank and private health funds the extension of insurance cover to the purchase and fitting of mouthguards as well as other preventive measures within the framework of present and possible future dental health schemes? [More…]

• Certainly, as a parent I believe that the use of mouthguards would of be great assistance in preventing injury during the sport that many of our young people play, but the granting of tax rebates and kindred matters would have to be referred to the Treasurer and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This is one of the many reasons for the high cost of our health care today. [More…]

• We all are paying for our health care either by way of a levy or through a fund contribution. [More…]

• Consequently, many people have suggested that one way to contain health costs would be to provide an incentive to people not to abuse the system. [More…]

• Surely people must realise that they have had a good year if they have not had to make a health claim. [More…]

• Perhaps this is because there is a greater awareness in the community of the trade offs that are made in a Budget contextmore assistance can only be accorded at the expense of expenditure on the environment, health, social welfare, defence … or through higher taxes. [More…]

• He feels deprived because of lack of communication, lack of transport, lack of health care facilities and so on. [More…]

• To build on the progress we have made in the last two years, defeat inflation and unemployment, and restore full economic health to our country. [More…]

• In all the circumstances I am prepared to authorise the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires to issue a certificate to the appropriate authorities to the effect that provided our officers are permitted to interview Miss Mohaded and she successfully completes normal migrant entry requirements with regard to health and character, a visa will be issued to enable her to travel to Australia. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs indicated to Senator Mulvihill in a letter of 1 February 1978 that he was prepared to authorise the Australian Embassy in Buenos Aires to issue a certificate to the appropriate authorities to the effect that, provided our officers were permitted to interview Miss Mohaded and she successfully completed entry requirements concerning health and character, a visa would be issued to enable her to travel to Australia. [More…]

• The question of her entry is being considered on a special basis and the criteria to be applied are not those for normal migrant entry and relate only to health and character. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I state that a big Victorian private health fund claims that it was told by the Federal Department of Health to increase its rates for basic medical care substantially above what the fund considered necessary. [More…]

• Has the Federal Department of Health instructed other funds to increase their charges? [More…]

• Most of the work is proceeding through the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation’s Division of Animal Health at the Long Pocket laboratories in Brisbane. [More…]

• I understand that the proposals are subject to acceptance by the Animal Health Committee, which is composed of representatives of the various States. [More…]

• One was a Bill to introduce a Medibank levy or a national health insurance levy as it was called at the time. [More…]

• The second Bill- A National Health Insurance Amendment Bill- was designed to introduce controls over voluntary health agencies in this country. [More…]

• The legislation was designed to control and to obtain better information from the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• What is it doing about the effects that these problems have on the health of the family and the community. [More…]

• What effect will all this pressure have on the health of the women of Australia? [More…]

• Where is there evidence that this Government is prepared to sponsor major research in many areas of health that concern women generally? [More…]

• The need for research on this matter to be speeded up should be a matter of urgency because the health of almost half of the population ofthe country could be in question. [More…]

• All of these factors could be endangering the health of future generations. [More…]

• It will remember that women are human beings and that their good health is important to this nation. [More…]

• It will see to it that serious research is undertaken into their health and their continuing health. [More…]

• The Aboriginal people are still living in disgraceful poverty and ill-health and the very rights which we assumed we guaranteed by passing the land rights legislation are under attack by representatives of the mining industry, more particularly the multinational mining interests which are so anxious to use Australia as a quarry regardless of the wishes of the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• We are aware of cutbacks in areas such as child care, women’s refuges, Aboriginal health programs and so on. [More…]

• My question is prompted by the number of mistaken demands for Medibank levy payments on taxpayers who are already adequately covered by private health insurance. [More…]

• Did the Prime Minister receive a letter dated 21 December 1977 from the Premier of Queensland asking the Federal Government to cease financial support to the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Service? [More…]

• Does the letter complain of funding voluntary health agencies directly, not going through the Queensland Director of the Department of Children ‘s Services, and before consultation with State authorities? [More…]

• Will the Government before complying with the request of the Queensland Premier, make its own assessment of the service given by the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Service? [More…]

• Does this attack upon the health service, considered in conjunction with the Premier’s stopping of the trachoma survey, suggest he is opposed to improvement of Aboriginal health in his State? [More…]

• Budgetary expenditures on welfare, health and education have grown from 25 per cent of the Federal Budget in 1966-67, 10 years ago, to 47 per cent in 1976-77, the overall expenditure in the 1966-67 Budget being $5,640m whereas in 1976-77 it was $24, 124m, almost 5 times as great. [More…]

• New initiatives will be undertaken concerning Aboriginal health, alcohol abuse and juvenile welfare, and the Government looks forward to the fullest consultation with the National Aboriginal Conference and the Council for Aboriginal Development on these and all other issues affecting Aboriginals. [More…]

• This meant serious cutbacks in housing, health, education and employment programs. [More…]

• I do not suppose a great number of people outside New South Wales knew where Bowral was until the visit by Heads of Government to the health farm there. [More…]

• To build on the progress we have made over the last two years, to defeat inflation and unemployment, and restore full economic health to our country. [More…]

• A study conducted in the early 1 970s by the Victorian Mental Health Authority also showed that in two Victorian regions, one metropolitan and one provincial, attempted suicide amongst the unemployed was far greater than amongst the remainder of the community. [More…]

• As well as increasing tension and insecurity in the home, unemployment results in food, heating, clothing and other basic ingredients of good health being edged out of the household budget as long term commitments to rent or mortgages have to be paid. [More…]

• The real needs of people, their health and welfare are ignored. [More…]

• When will the Minister authorise the installation of air-conditioning in Commonwealth vehicles in the interests of public health and safety and to provide elementary justice to Commonwealth drivers? [More…]

• I am interested that the honourable senator put his question on the basis of health and other considerations. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that when nitrogen is introduced into gas tight silos no insect or animal can survive, there is no smell or taint or long-term health damage due to pesticide use, there is no damage to the grain at all and this method is acceptable to the Australian Wheat Board? [More…]

• The letter relates to a grant for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Service. [More…]

• I understand that a Grant has been made by the Minister for Social Security to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Service (Brisbane) Ltd, which is a wholly Commonwealth funded body. [More…]

• The Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Service pursues a radical, racist and militant philosophy. [More…]

• It is no less criminal than his action in 1976 in refusing to accept a grant from the Department of Health to fund two women’s refuges, one of them in Brisbane and one in Townsville. [More…]

• Among the sociological problems created by unemployment are education problems, communications problems, problems with health and welfare services and problems caused by the lack of retraining in other occupations. [More…]

• They are: To build on the progress we have made in the last two years, defeat inflation and unemployment, and restore full economic health to our country. [More…]

• If a gentleman by the name of Mr Charles Chuter, who was then the UnderSecretary of the Department of Health and Home Affairs, had not championed her cause the knowledge of Sister Kenny may have been lost to mankind. [More…]

• He claimed that the Federal Department of Health offers doctors separate payments for more than 8,000 items and that it encourages doctors to treat everything they can and prevent nothing. [More…]

• Honourable senators should not forget that this was paid for by slashing back on health, welfare, education, Aboriginal programs and urban improvement projects in the Budget. [More…]

• However, an Australian health survey was developed and is currently being undertaken by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. [More…]

• Information being collected includes the number and characteristics of persons suffering from both chronic and acute illness, disabilities suffered and utilisation of health services. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am not aware whether the Minister for Health has made representations to the Treasurer. [More…]

• The Grants Commission figures show that total South Australian expenditure on education, health, welfare and law and order has risen the fastest of all States in the years up to 1975-76. [More…]

• But it also affects employees health, their relationships with their fellow human beingsand society at large. [More…]

• These would include the selection of new personnel, promotion, training, organisation, the allocation of tasks within branches and departments, the attendance time policy, the administration of safety, health and welfare policies, and the development of the work environment. [More…]

• After a particularly busy harvest, this lady-in-waiting was sorely in need of a rest from her labours, and the king himself worried for her health. [More…]

• After a particularly busy harvest this ladyinwaiting was sorely in need of a rest from her labours, and the king himself worried for her health. [More…]

• We apparently live in a time of increasing awareness in the community of the fact that the environment is not indefinitely resilient in the face of abuse and that the well being of the environment is inextricably linked with our own future good health. [More…]

• The Speech referred appropriately to the expansion of services for migrant welfare, health and education programs and very significantly to the development of an ethnic television service. [More…]

• In 1 97 1 the first report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, which dealt with mentally and physically handicapped persons in Australia, had as its second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth recommendations proposals relating to the need for better information and statistics relating to handicapped people within Australia, the degrees of handicapped and the location of handicapped people. [More…]

• The Ministers recognised that the health of the economies of the three partners is of concern to each, for it affects their capacity to play the responsive and responsible role that world and regional circumstances demand of them and which is their common desire. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Is it a fact that the opening of the Tennant Creek Hospital is being delayed because of shortage of staff? [More…]

• If so, will the Minister indicate whether this staff shortage is a result of the unrealistic staff ceilings in the Department of Health in the Northern Territory? [More…]

• I shall seek information from the Minister for Health with regard to the opening of the Tennant Creek Hospital. [More…]

• Is it also true that, due to the failure of the Government to make corresponding amendments to the National Health Act, the same citizens cannot actually obtain the relevant benefits? [More…]

• It appears that when the National Health Act and the Health Insurance Act were amended in 1976 a right may have been created in favour of those service pensioners who were formerly Commonwealth ex-servicemen to receive pensioner health medical cards. [More…]

• In the light of it the Minister for Health and the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs have conferred. [More…]

• The Minister for the Northern Territory has been advised by the Northern Territory Executive’s member for resources and health that liaison between the Northern Territory Executive and the Environment Ministers of the Commonwealth and the States is achieved in the context of the Council of Nature Conservation Ministers. [More…]

• I shall direct them to the Minister for Health with a view to obtaining an answer about research into the incidence of cot deaths. [More…]

• Board, two from the Department of Social Security, and one from Health assisted the evaluation effort on a part-time basis. [More…]

• I preface my question which is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by referring to an article on page 2 of today’s Courier Mail in which the Premier of Queensland is alleged to have claimed that he has documents which he believes will verify the medical credentials of cancer therapist Milan Brych. [More…]

• -I refer the Minister representing the Minister for Health to an article in the Melbourne Age of 22 February about the sad and disturbing problem of cot deaths in Australia. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen reports indicating that in the last two years more than 1,000 Asian doctors and some 200-odd South African doctors have registered in South Australia, although they do not live in that State or elsewhere in Australia, and that they have done this basically as an insurance so that they can practise in South Australia should they decide to leave their own countries. [More…]

• I have been advised by the Minister for Health that this matter has received some consideration with regard to not only reviewing the current immigration procedures but also taking into account in medical schools the possible oversupply of doctors. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is keeping this matter under review. [More…]

• However, as far as the registration of overseas medical practitioners is concerned, I am sure that the honourable senator is aware that this is a matter for which the medical registration boards of the respective States and Territories are entirely responsible and is not a matter in which the Federal Minister for Health has any jurisdiction. [More…]

• However, I shall see whether the Minister for Health can provide any further information on this matter. [More…]

• Health. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health is aware of the developments that were mentioned by the honourable senator and is also aware that attention is being given throughout the world to the neurological effects of slow viruses. [More…]

• However, private health insurance organisations may provide benefits for physiotherapy and other paramedical services under supplementary benefits tables. [More…]

• The current policy of the Government is to permit private organisations considerable freedom in relation to the nature of benefits provided under supplementary benefits tables provided that the Minister for Health is satisfied that the tables are financially viable. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the research mentioned in the question. [More…]

• Will the ninth revision of the International Classification of Diseases of the World Health Organisation, effective this year, contain three categories of visual performance, namely, normal vision, low vision and blindness, instead of the present two categories? [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the claim by the South Australian Premier that the Federal Government might welch on its Medibank arrangements to pay the South Australian Government $8m in reimbursement of hospital costs this year? [More…]

• These are approved by the respective Health Ministers. [More…]

• We inherited the results not only of that policy, but also of disastrous rates of inflation, which were I suppose even more inimical to the health of manufacturing industry- as indeed it would be to any industry- and also the rapidlyincreasing wage rates. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she is aware that recently it was announced in Queensland that Panadol could also be sold in shops and supermarkets, which would indicate that the use of stronger analgesics is increasing, as is their availability? [More…]

• In view of this, has the Government any intention of acting upon the request of the National Health and Medical Research Council that the sale of many minor analgesic preparations be restricted? [More…]

• I am unaware of any action that is planned in the immediate future, but I will refer his question to the Minister for Health to seek his comment on the request by the National Health and Medical Research Council, and the abuse and increasing use of analgesics in Australia. [More…]

• -Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to claims that nuclear medicines produced at Lucas Heights are in some way inferior to imported products? [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the Press report which appeared in the Sydney Sun-Herald of 26 February. [More…]

• The products are subject to stringent quality control by the Australian Radiation Laboratory of the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Government accords a high priority to housing; but, having regard to priorities for the allocation of available funds, it also has been necessary to place a high emphasis on employment, health, education and other services. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The introduction of any organism is subject to quarantine requirements, which are the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is my understanding that there is no current application for the importation of the material referred to and so the matter is not under consideration by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Before this, surveillance for the RAN patrol boats at Darwin had been provided by civilian aircraft chartered by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Fisheries Division of the Department of Primary Industry, the Department of Health, the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs, the Commonwealth Police and State Government authorities are amongst those involved in the administration of regulations covering areas such as fisheries protection, quarantine, customs regulation and combating drug running. [More…]

• Another piece of legislation in the area is the Quarantine Act, which is administered by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• An Australian coastguard should be set up now, equipped with Australianmade patrol boats and medium range aircraft to perform the essential civil task of protecting Australian fishing and marine mineral resources and enforcing Australian customs, immigration, transport and health laws in Territorial waters and within the proposed extended economic zone? [More…]

• Not only will we have to protect the resources in that area; we will have to perform the health and quarantine functions, prevent the illegal importation of drugs and other goods and prevent immigration offences. [More…]

• This reference was originally given to the former Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, of which I was a member, on 7 April 1971 and remained in abeyance awaiting the report of the National Superannuation Committee of Inquiry under the chairmanship of Professor Keith Hancock [More…]

• It asserted also that it should be assisted by a multi-disciplined administration involving specialists in a number of fields- health, engineering, conservation, planning and so on. [More…]

• We have the Department of Health, the Department of Environment, Housing and Community Development, the Department of Construction, the Snowy Mountains Engineering Corporation, the Department of the Northern Territory and the Department of the Capital Territory, the National Capital Development Commission, the Department of Administrative Services, the Department of Primary Industry, the Bureau of Agricultural Economics, the Department of Finance, the Commonwealth Grants Commission, the Department of Defence, the Department of Foreign Affairs, the River Murray Commission, the Snowy Mountains Council, the Australian Water Resources Council and the Commonwealth Consultative Committee on Water Resources. [More…]

• Salinity levels ofthe River Murray in South Australia have already exceeded standards accepted by the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• That must be a matter of considerable concern to those interested in the national health of the country. [More…]

• The future of the Australian environment and the health and well-being of the Australian people and Australia’s water resources and flora and fauna are at stake in this regard. [More…]

• As we saw at the time of the Hilton tragedy and the Bowral health course, it is obvious that in the long term inexperienced servicemen will shoot first, particularly if they are unused to handling large numbers of civilians, and inquire afterwards when the Government is chasing an alleged spy or person suspected of a subversive statement or action. [More…]

• Seven hundred and thirty one Timorese went to Portugal following a brief stay in Australia and the remaining 1,770 were permitted to apply for resident status subject only to satisfying requirements of health and character. [More…]

• Identification was confirmed by the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, of the Sydney University. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she can give any indication as to what progress has been achieved in respect of the joint Commonwealth-State funding under the community health program for women’s refuges in Hobart and Launceston. [More…]

• As far as the Federal Minister for Health is concerned, several weeks ago he authorised action, and discussions have resulted in an agreement being reached between the Commonwealth and the Tasmanian governments at the official level. [More…]

• It is my understanding that the Minister for Health is now awaiting a response from the Tasmanian Minister for Health about the terms of a joint statement, so that details can be announced of the funding arrangements with regard to women ‘s refuges in Tasmania. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether the industrial staff of the Darwin Hospital have warned that industrial action will be taken within 14 days if staff shortages are not eased. [More…]

• I will endeavour to obtain any further information I can from the Minister for Health and advise the honourable senator accordingly. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Government been drawn to the statement that the reasons for the Queensland Government’s action were poor educational and health facilities at these two missions? [More…]

• Is it not a fact that the education and health needs of the communities of Aurukun and Mornington Island are responsibilities of the Queensland Minister for Health and his Department and the Queensland [More…]

• It is a statement of fact that the education and health of all communities and of all residents within States are the responsibilities of the State government instrumentalities. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that the health of some people is affected by food or drink containing artificial flavouring or colouring? [More…]

• Will the Minister investigate this matter with a view to seeking the co-operation of the States in requiring all packaged foods to be clearly labelled if they contain artificial substances so that people whose health may be adversely affected by such substances may be properly advised? [More…]

• I will see that this matter is raised with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As I understand the situation, in many cases where foodstuffs contain substances that may be injurious to health the details are set out on the packages. [More…]

• The Queensland Act must be eliminated if Aborigines in Queensland are to receive their just due- their lands, adequate welfare and improvements to health and education. [More…]

• Health, educational and social standards at Aurukun are better than those in most other reserves in Queensland. [More…]

• Our interest is to see that the matters of health, education and community development are dealt with in a way that enhances the environment of Aboriginal life and the opportunity for enrichment of Aboriginal life in these parts of Australia. [More…]

• At Question Time today Senator Wood and Senator Bonner referred to education and health problems in the two communities concerned. [More…]

• In answer to Senator Bonner’s question I indicated that education services were the responsibility of the Queensland Department of Education and not of the Uniting Church and, likewise, that the health services for all people living within a State are within the responsibility and interest of the respective State Departments of Health. [More…]

• I indicated at that time also that in matters of the education and health of all Australians the Commonwealth Government has had supportive programs and funding arrangements with the States, which lead us to expect standards of education and health which we believe are demanded by Australians for all Australians. [More…]

• These programs are for housing, health, education, employment and town management. [More…]

• That is a dramatic illustration of that Government’s attitude to the problems of Aboriginal health in Queensland. [More…]

• A smokescreen has been thrown across the scene by members of the State Parliament, the Minister for Health, Dr Edwards, the Minister for Education, and the Minister for Mines and Energy, Mr Ron Camm, and I will touch on what they have had to say later on in the debate. [More…]

• We have unhappily had a long history in these two communities of problems involving education, school numbers have fallen drastically, the health reports from our own Health Department teams and the Royal Flying Doctor sources are bad. [More…]

• It is the two Ministers concerned for those areas of responsibility- the Minister for Education and his Department and the Minister for Health and his Department. [More…]

• If the health of the Aboriginal people in those communities has deteriorated it is the fault of the Queensland Government and the two State Ministers and their departments for their neglect, to use the very words of the Queensland Minister for Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement, Mr Charles Porter, who must also share some responsibility for this neglect. [More…]

• We are told by Mr Porter that there has been a deterioration in the health and education provided to the children and the people of Aurukun in general. [More…]

• As Senator Bonner has pointed out quite clearly today, and as was confirmed by the Minister, the responsibility for the provision of health and education services to the people of Aurukun lies with the State Government, assisted by some funding from the Federal Government. [More…]

• If the standards of health and education in this area are dropping the responsibility lies with the State Government, just as it lay with that Government in June 1 977, when in fact the people there were concerned about the problem of lawlessness in their community. [More…]

• The crux of the matter is that we have Mr Porter, the Queensland Minister for Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement, saying that this attempted takeover has nothing to do with bauxite and nothing to do with the possibility of mining in the area but that it has to do with the provision of health and education in the area. [More…]

• The basis of the takeover proposed by the Queensland Government appears to be concern which it is expressing over the adequacy of health standards and health performance in the settlements and also over educational performance and standards. [More…]

• Aboriginal and Island Affairs Minister (Mr Porter) said yesterday that both communities were facing rapidly mounting health, education, maintenance and other problems. [More…]

• It is worth examining what evidence we might have that there are special problems at Aurukun or Mornington Island in relation to health or education, to take just a couple of examples. [More…]

• Health services in Queensland are provided by the Queensland Government. [More…]

• It is not the fault of the Uniting Church if health facilities in an area of Queensland are inadequate. [More…]

• It is not the function of the Uniting Church to be responsible for providing health services throughout Queensland. [More…]

• Health services for Aboriginal people, even if they are subsidised from Canberra, remain the responsibility of the Government of the State in which they are given. [More…]

• It included a chapter on Aboriginal health. [More…]

• One of the questions we might ask is: Do we know that Aboriginal health generally is better than that at either Aurukun or Mornington Island? [More…]

• If it is not, on what grounds is the Queensland Government basing its claims that there are special health problems. [More…]

• We know that the general health performance of the Aboriginal people has need of improvement. [More…]

• I noted on reading through the report that there was a reference to health and health performance ; Aurukun. [More…]

• That was in 1976, yet Mr Porter tells us without any supporting detail, and without any extra evidence that the health problem at Aurukun is one of the reasons why his Government must move in and take over the community. [More…]

• Unless the Minister in Queensland gives us facts and analyses, I see no reason to accept at face value his statement that there are special health problems in this community which require a takeover such as is proposed. [More…]

• The problems of health care costs have been a matter of public controversy for some time and a matter of concern to all of us. [More…]

• There is a lack of information about levels of, use of and expenditures on, health services among families with different characteristics. [More…]

• Basic information of this nature is essential for the design and analysis of systems of financing health care. [More…]

• It is essential that statistics on claims for health benefits be available for analysis. [More…]

• The supply of information from private health benefit organisations is incomplete, and much of the information that is supplied has not been analysed. [More…]

• I would have thought it would be impossible to introduce sane and sensible changes to the systems of funding of health care in this country and to the system of health care in general unless we have that basic information and unless we know just what is happening under the present scheme and what was happening under the previous Medibank scheme. [More…]

• In order that we can receive and consider that information I ask the Government and the Minister for Health in particular to urge the voluntary health funds- the private health funds- to supply the information which the Minister by regulation has required them to supply. [More…]

• One understands- I have a question on notice on this matter- that the two largest health funds in the community have refused to give such information, and continue to refuse to give such information. [More…]

• I would have thought that even with this document- I am sure it is a valuable document and we will study it with care- it will be very difficult for any of us, the Government in particular, to come to any conclusions about what should be done about the funding of health care in this community and about paying for health care in this community before we have that vital information. [More…]

• The members of the Committee at the time of finalisation of the report were: Mr Spencer Colliver, First Assistant Director-General, Department of Social Security; Mr Chris Creswell, Attorney-General’s Department; Miss Lado Sybaczynskyj, Department of Health, and the Hospitals and Health Services Commission; Mr Robert Plummer, Director, Department of Children ‘s Services, Queensland; Mr Keith Maine, Director. [More…]

• Whilst all sorts of areas were nominated where locally elected people could make decisions- education, health, public transport and so on- no suggestion was made as to who should pay for what. [More…]

• Another example is baby health centres in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• Two baby health centres in Canberraone at Holt and one at Melba- have closed because of a want of properly qualified staff. [More…]

• One cannot rush into the transference of such powers as govern health and education. [More…]

• Coal mining research: Noise and dust suppression; health, safety and training of mine workers. [More…]

• -On 22 February 1978 (Hansard, page 26) Senator Messner addressed a question without notice to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to Senator Guilfoyle in her capacity as Minister for Social Security, Minister representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that a Queensland State Minister, apparently on an instruction from the Queensland Premier, has directed staff of the Community Health Services Centre of the Department of Health in Townsville that they are not to associate with or join any committees on which there are representatives of the Aboriginal or Islander communities? [More…]

• If they are statements of fact I will certainly consult with my colleagues to see what can be done to ensure that matters of health and welfare of Aborigines are protected so far as the Federal Government is concerned. [More…]

• I have no specific information to support any thought that there is a threat to health. [More…]

• The view of the Government is that it wishes to see self-determination by the Aborigines, with assistance from government and community bodies to see that their health, welfare and development are such as to make them equal citizens and make the Government proud of what they are able to accomplish. [More…]

• The point of Senator Missen ‘s interjection in relation to fire is totally consistent with what one suspects is the situation in relation to the health of the people who work here. [More…]

• Senator Baume ‘s committee, the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare, is inquiring into the evaluation of health and welfare services. [More…]

• In those cases where medical evidence is the basis of determining eligibility, the Commonwealth Department of Health medical officers also give assistance. [More…]

• All applicants for the invalid pension and for sickness benefit of long duration are examined on referral by the Department of Social Security, either by a Commonwealth Department of Health medical officer or, in country and outer metropolitan areas, by a local physician who has been appointed to carry out that function on behalf of the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• The use of other physicians has become necessary because the Commonwealth Department of Health has insufficient medical staff in its divisional offices to cover adequately those outer areas and remote regions. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health, as I say, has had one consultation with the patient concerned. [More…]

• Whether the procedures that have been adopted in the past are satisfactory is a matter of review by my Department and by the Department of Health. [More…]

• This is done in conjunction with the work of the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• Not all persons have health insurance coverage through Medibank and would therefore not have a Medibank card or book. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 1 March 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -On 28 February 1978 (Hansard, page 139) Senator Cavanagh asked me, as Minister representing the Prime Minister, a question without notice concerning the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders Community Health Service. [More…]

• In announcing, on 2 March 1978, the appointment of Dr Sidney Sax as Head of the new Social Welfare Policy Secretariat, I stated that the Secretariat will be responsible for the development of plans and policies and review of existing policies and programs in the broad field of health and welfare. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether the costs of surgical footwear for use by people confined to wheelchairs, or with particular malfunctions of the feet, are rebatable for income tax purposes as medical or surgical appliances. [More…]

• Further, are such costs insurable under health insurance programs? [More…]

• Although section 9a of the National Health Act empowers the Minister for Health to arrange for the supply of such other medical and surgical aids, equipment or appliances as are prescribed to persons who require them’, regrettably, in the current climate of restraint on public spending which is essential to the Government’s goal of reducing the rate of inflation, it has not been possible to expand this aspect of health policy. [More…]

• Medical benefits provided by Standard Medibank and by the private health insurance organisations under their basic tables cover medical treatment rendered by legally qualified medical practitioners, certain prescribed medical services rendered by approved dentists in the operating theatres of approved hospitals, and optometrical consultations by participating optometrists. [More…]

• As the Government has committed itself to protecting the health and safety of the people and environment of Australia from possible harmful effects associated with nuclear activities in Australia and as the description ‘nuclear activity’ figures in government statements on these matters, can the Minister advise the Senate of the way in which the term ‘nuclear activity’ is defined by the Government? [More…]

• By way of background I indicate that British pensioners who reside in Australia are believed to be suffering difficulties, as the honourable senator mentioned, because of the direct payment of the United Kingdom pensions from the United Kingdom Department of Health and Social Security in sterling orders. [More…]

• The British Department of Health and Social Security will advise the Australian Department of Social Security of all new grants of United Kingdom pensions to persons living in Australia. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that the Royal Australasian College of Physicians has accepted responsibility for quality assurance of health care and also that the College and its fellows have accepted a responsibility to educate physicians, physician trainees, other medical practitioners and others in the health field in the cost benefits of investigations and treatments in internal medicine? [More…]

• The involvement of the Australian Institute of Hospital Administrators in cost containment is illustrated by the fact that that organisation, in conjunction with the School of Health Administration, conducted a one-week summer school to consider issues of cost containment in hospitals. [More…]

• Sister Paulina Pilkington was appointed to the Sax Committee as the nominee of the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• Nursing, Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• She is also a member of the Health Services Committee which advises the Superior General and the Council on matters relating to the conduct of her congregation’s health institutions. [More…]

• In 1963 Sister was appointed Director of Nursing Education, St Vincent’s Hospital, Sydney which position she held until her appointment to the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• Minister for Health, to be a member of both the N.S.W. [More…]

• Since taking up the position of Director of Nursing, Commonwealth Department of Health, Sister’s religious congregation has requested that she be available as a consultant for the order’s training schools at the St Vincent’s Hospitals in Toowoomba, Lismore, Sydney and Melbourne. [More…]

• She is currently a member of the Health Services Committee which advises the Superior General and Council on matters relating to the conduct of the Congregation’s health institutions, in particular matters relating to nursing practice and education. [More…]

• Sister has been asked by the World Health Organisation to act as the nurse consultant for six weeks during January/February 1979 to coordinate and conduct an intercountry workshop ‘Cognitive and Performance Evaluation’ scheduled to be held in India from 5-16 February 1979. [More…]

• As the twenty participants are to be chosen from nurse educators currently working in training programs for health personnel in the countries of the South East Asian region of the World Health Organisation and as Sister has acted on several occasions as a nurse consultant for WHO, it can be assumed that the present invitation is based on expertise Sister Paulina is believed to have in nurse education and training. [More…]

• There was also the case of the Capital Territory Health Commission’s grant to the socalled Women’s Information Service in Canberra. [More…]

• -Has the Minister for Social Security given instructions to State Health Departments that municipal councils employing welfare officers under the States Grants (Home Care) Act must require them to devote 100 per cent of their working hours to the aged? [More…]

• In all States, education, health and community welfare departments, for example, provide services to Aboriginal communities in the same way as they do to other citizens, There is no reason why these and other State Government services should be affected if reserve communities in Queensland choose self-management under this legislation. [More…]

• In Queensland as in other States, the Commonwealth Government provides grants through the Department of Aboriginal Affairs to support the special programs of State education, health and other departments in Aboriginal and Island communities. [More…]

• The honourable senator mentioned the fact that extra money would have to be spent in areas to improve the health and education of Aborigines. [More…]

• The latest statistics reveal that the health conditions in the two settlements of Aurukun and Mornington Island are probably better than those in other settlements. [More…]

• It meant a cutback in employment, a cutback in education and, worst of all, it meant a cutback in health services. [More…]

• We say the Commonwealth is pursuing a policy of apartheid in the Northern Territory- a policy of separate lands, separate development, separate funding, separate education, health and other programmes. ‘ [More…]

• But, the Premier was prepared to sacrifice the eyesight and health of hundreds of Aborigines in order to get his way politically. [More…]

• One of the ironical things is that the team went to the electorate of the Federal Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• On occasions he has withheld moneys which were to be used for Aboriginal employment, housing and health. [More…]

• We saw the same political bias when the Premier of Queensland stopped the National Trachoma and Eye Health Program because it was alleged that some welfare officer had political bias and had enrolled someone. [More…]

• However, it authorises the entry of persons such as a policeman or a health inspector in the exercise of their duties which would not be unlawful if the area were not a reserve. [More…]

• The Queensland Government would still be responsible for the provision of health, education, law and order in the communities, as at present. [More…]

• Obviously no one would challenge the fact that medical people need to enter whether they be doctors, nurses or health officers. [More…]

• When one goes to find out what are the defined functions in relation to the responsibility of the Council one sees that they are to provide services such as housing, health, sewerage, water supply, electricity supply, education or training, roads and associated works and other matters. [More…]

• We are told blithely that that will not prevent the Queensland Government from continuing to make available health, educational, enforcement and police services. [More…]

• What Alice in Wonderland thinking it is to suppose that a responsible State government will continue to allow its funds to be devoted to the fields of health, education and police control when it is to have no authority to seek responsibility and accountability for that expenditure. [More…]

• I know there are people on the other side who deny that these people have rights as the original owners of this country, but let us not forget that our race bashed them, burnt them, raped them, murdered them, tortured them, poisoned them, starved them, cheated them, denied them education- it still does- denied them good health- it still does- and destroyed or commercialised their places of religion. [More…]

• -The health standards fell and also there was a shortage of food and consequent malnutrition. [More…]

• Our health authority in Queensland performs a very good service and I do not think anybody would say that the State health authorities would go out of their way to make crooked reports in order to justify a political point of view. [More…]

• I believe that the Queensland Department of Health works on a reasonably good basis. [More…]

• The health report in March 1973 of the situation at Aurukun- and this is interesting- revealed that 48 per cent of the children were greatly under weight for their age. [More…]

• In October of last year the reports of malnutrition at Aurukun were so grave that the head of the Aboriginal health team, Dr Musgrave, went there to check on the situation for himself. [More…]

• It was not the fault of our Queensland Department of Health. [More…]

• It seems likely the standards of health, mental and physical, will continue to deteriorate, as will the social climate. [More…]

• On 27 November last, the Department of Health medical officer reported that: [More…]

• This will strike honourable senators as being very good from the dirty health point of view- and the same truck used for refuse removal is used without prior cleansing for picking up food from aircraft. [More…]

• But Senator Missen is trying to make out that the Queensland Department of Health is to blame. [More…]

• I shall draw to the attention of the Minister for Health the honourable senator’s suggestion of recommendations to the Treasurer on this matter. [More…]

• I think we should also use the recommendations of the Senate committee’s report on these matters as a basis for discussions on the health of the Australian community with regard to this problem. [More…]

• As to whether I believe that the health of the community is more important than the excise that is received, I agree that the health of the community is of paramount importance. [More…]

• It could probably be argued whether the excise that is received is financial compensation for the health costs that are incurred because of many of the problems that exist in our community. [More…]

• He said that a health report on the Aurukun community showed that in 1973 48 per cent of children were greatly under weight for their age. [More…]

• -In March 1973 the health report on Aurukun - [More…]

• It seems likely the standards of health, mental and physical, will continue to deteriorate, as will the social climate. [More…]

• After two extensions the State Government eventually came to the conclusion, because there had not been an improvement in the health and conditions of the Aboriginal people, to take over the missions. [More…]

• Mr Porter, was that there had been a breakdown in standards as regards health and education on the settlements. [More…]

• I repeat: As in the case of law and order, education and health on those settlements are State responsibilities. [More…]

• The Queensland Government said that it was nothing to do with bauxite: It was to do with health and education. [More…]

• He placed some emphasis on what he saw as a poor history of health care and a number of other things on the Aurukun reserve. [More…]

• It is important for the Senate and the public to recall that the incidents about which Senator Wood is concerned, cases of poor health and administrative problems, have taken place under a system which is basically controlled by the Queensland State Government. [More…]

• Health, education, welfare, housing and law enforcement are all managed by the States. [More…]

• State being absent, what will the Commonwealth do in respect of funding; what will it mean from the point of view of actual arrangements for education and health? [More…]

• I heard Senator Grimes make reference this morning to the fact that it is the responsibility of the State to overcome the problems concerning the poor condition of health of Aboriginals and the unsatisfactory education standards of Aboriginals. [More…]

• The services listed deal with facilities that are normally provided by local, State and Federal authorities in Australia- for example, health, sewerage, water and electricity supply and communications. [More…]

• In all States- I think Senator Chaney made this point stronglysuch services as education, health and community welfare are provided by State governments and it would be expected that they would be provided to Aboriginal communities. [More…]

• Nothing in that sub-clause means that the communities may not provide additional or supplementary services in areas such as health, education, and those other services that are mentioned, where the State may also be providing services. [More…]

• The clause does not give powers with respect to housing, health, education, sewerage and so on but does give authority in regard to the provision of the services that I have mentioned. [More…]

• Departments-Aboriginal Affairs, Administrative Services, Attorney-General’s, Business and Consumer Affairs, Capital Territory, Construction, Defence, Education, Employment and Industrial Relations, Environment, Housing and Community Development, Finance, Foreign Affairs, Health, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, Industry and Commerce, National Development, Northern Territory, Postal and Telecommunications, Primary Industry, Productivity, Science, Social Security, Trade and Resources, Transport, Treasury, Veterans’ Affairs. [More…]

• Australian Wheat Board, Capital Territory Health Commission, Commonwealth Banking Corporation, Commonwealth Police, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Commonwealth Teaching Service, Darwin Reconstruction Commission, Defence Force Retirement and Death Benefit Authority, Defence Service Homes Corporation, Health Insurance Commission, National Capital Development Commission, National Library, Northern Territory Police, Office of the Commissioner for Community Relations, Office of the Governor-General, Office of the Insurance Commissioner, Office of the Public Service Board, Pipeline Authority, Qantas, Reserve Bank of Australia, Tax Agents Board, Telecom Australia, Trade Practices Commission, Trans Australia Airlines. [More…]

• Amongst these have been recommendations made on a broad range of g revisions for the handicapped in, for example, the ( 197 1 ) Report on Mentally and Physically Handicapped Persons in Australia by the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, the (1974) Woodhouse Report on Compensation and Rehabilitation in Australia and the (1976) Martin Report on the Social/Medical Aspects of Poverty in Australia. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, follows written advice to New South Wales doctors that, while in terms of the Medical Practitioners Act in that State it may be legally permissible to refer patients to chiropractors, it is not legally permissible to refer patients to osteopaths. [More…]

• I do not know whether this is an appropriate question to address to the Minister for Employment and Industrial Relations or whether it should be addressed to Senator Guilfoyle who represents the Minister for Health. [More…]

• At 1 1.10 at night, and I pay tribute to Senator Rankin for this, I was able to table some lovely documents, including what the New Zealand Nationalist Party- that is the equivalent to the Liberal Party- Minister said about a State Liberal Health Minister and a Federal Health Minister. [More…]

• Dealing with the difficulty of a further source of possible detection, the officers of the Commonwealth Department of Health are charged with investigating claims for invalid pensions. [More…]

• From those few facts it seems that some overview of the situation by the officers of the Department of Social Security and /or the officers of the Department of Health should have detected the problem earlier, and I believe that the Parliament is entitled to a detailed statement from the Minister as to why the situation existed for so long without detection and what is being done to correct it in the future. [More…]

• Also I have to say that the Department of Social Security has relied on professional medical evidence from practising members of the medical profession and on the assistance of the Commonwealth Department of Health in determining the eligibility or ineligibility of people for sickness benefit and invalid pensions. [More…]

• Medical evidence from practising specialists and general practitioners is usually able to be accepted through the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• My question, which is based on a perception of the significance of international finance and economic strategy on Australia’s internal health, is addressed to the Minister representing the Treasurer. [More…]

• The Australian religious community; the Aboriginal community; a national voluntary environmental organisation; the Northern Territory community; the Australian Council of Trade Unions; a person with experience in energy matters; the Australian uranium industry; a nuclear scientist; a medical practitioner or health physicist; an environmentalist with experience in natural resource development; an economist with experience in natural resource development; an expert in national, and international affairs or law. [More…]

• The first committee of which I was a member was the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, and the next was the Senate Standing Committee on the Social Environment, which looked into the environmental conditions of Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders and into the protection of their sacred sites. [More…]

• It has information from the Wool Corporation on ethnic crafts in wool; information on a film program that was on in Melbourne that week; information on Workers Health Action; and much more at which we could look and which is available for inspection if people would like to see it. [More…]

• ’, Occupational Health’, ‘Women and Shiftwork’, Occupational Health- Hazards for Pregnant Women’ and ‘Outworkers and Homeworkers’ They are examples from a list that covers 25 discussion papers. [More…]

• 10- Occupational Health. [More…]

• 14- Occupational Health- Hazards for Pregnant Women. [More…]

• 16-Migrant Workers and Their Health. [More…]

• 2 1 -Occupational Health- Part IV. [More…]

• 24- Is There a Need for Health Services for Women at the Workplace? [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it true that a major health fund in New South Wales is to encourage some of its contributors to leave the fund and to move to Medibank to enable the fund to avoid payment of nursing home benefits? [More…]

• The Minister for Health wishes to make known the Government’s approach to the action proposed by the health fund concerned. [More…]

• Before the revised nursing home benefit arrangements were introduced from 1 October last year, discussions were held with the private health insurance industry. [More…]

• The principle was accepted by private health organisations that they had a role to share with the Commonwealth the responsibility of bringing nursing home patients within the ambit of health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• It was a logical extension for the private health insurance system to provide cover for the ill person not only for medical services and hospital treatment but also for care and attention in a nursing home. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is most concerned at the action reportedly taken by the Hospitals Contribution Fund of Australia. [More…]

• Apparently the action is based on a recent amendment to the Fund’s rules approved under the National Health Act enabling it to suspend membership in certain circumstances. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is having his Department discuss the matter with the Fund as a matter of urgency. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and is asked on behalf of Senator Robertson, who is away from the Senate on parliamentary business. [More…]

• The Department of Health has advised the parents that the clinics cannot be opened because of shortage of funds. [More…]

• I will refer them to the Minister for Health to see whether the statements are accurate and whether a response can be given to the honourable senator. [More…]

• Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health inform the Senate whether or not private health funds are using statistical information provided by Medibank? [More…]

• If so, on what basis does Medibank charge the private health funds for those services? [More…]

• In addition to housing, the Commission undertook massive expenditures in the areas of education and health. [More…]

• Some $54m was expended on the provision of health facilities including the reconstruction of the Darwin Hospital, community health centres, dental clinics and the construction of the new Casuarina hospital complex. [More…]

• But the incubus of inertia, the lack of support by governments and, of course, the monopoly power of the union and the militancy of its members so much encouraged by Senator Mulvihill in his speech, have meant that Mr O’Connor’s health has been impaired severely. [More…]

• That major priority was set in the knowledge that a renewed emphasis on export development was essential to the Government’s program of restoring full economic health to the country since export growth is one of the keys to greater prosperity and the creation of more jobs. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The machinery for consultation between the Commonwealth and the States on health matters is the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• This body has already issued three documents dealing with the health hazards of asbestos and associated cautionary measures. [More…]

• I am also informed that the National Health and Medical Research Council will be meeting again in June to consider the approval of further codes covering the handling of asbestos. [More…]

• There is good liaison between the Departments of Health of the Commonwealth and the States and the Departments of Labour and Industry in relation to these matters and the appropriate measures to be used in the handling of asbestos in the work place. [More…]

• As well, consideration is being given to this matter by the Commonwealth-State body- the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 February 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Dr John Deeble, in the report of an interview on Sydney radio station, 2UE, in The Medical Letter of 2 February 1978, was mainly concerned with what had happened since the introduction of Medibank, the effect of the changes made from 1 October 1976, and the experience of the private health funds since then. [More…]

• In Part 2 of my article ‘Health Financing in the 1980s- The Future Challenge’ (published in the AMA Gazette of 2 February 1978), I showed figures of the number of private medical services per head of population. [More…]

• In my article I was concerned to show the huge increases in health care costs in recent years and the factors that influenced these costs. [More…]

• The prices of health services had been increasing faster than the rate of inflation, and that compounded with the increase in health services are part and parcel of the increase in Total Health Expenditure, which were shown in Table 1 in my article. [More…]

• Further figures of total health expenditure including 1 976-77 were shown in the tables in my Press Statement of 7 March 1978. [More…]

• These further figures show a significant drop in the rate of increase in health costs, which is a direct result of the Government’s modification to the Health Insurance system from 1 October 1976. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 23 February 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 14 March 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• On 1 July 1976 the New South Wales Health Commission introduced the minimum staffing requirements recommended by the Hospital and Allied Services Advisory Council Working Party on Guidelines for Private Nursing Homes. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• When it became known that the Ancient Order of Foresters Friendly Society in Queensland was in financial difficulties and was about to cease operations (including its medical and hospital insurance operations) action was taken under Section 75 of the National Health Act to secure all relevant documents relating to the organisation’s registered medical and hospital funds. [More…]

• Further, under Section 82R of the National Health Act, I have requested the organisation to show cause why I should not appoint an Inspector under the terms of the National Health Act. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 4 April 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) In the 1977-78 Budget context, I announced that up to $1m of Community Health Program funds would be made available for the funding of additional women’s refuges throughout Australia. [More…]

• Since that time, the necessary negotiations with State authorities have been completed in all States except Queensland and I have approved Community Health Program funding for 40 additional refuges as well as for the expansion of two refuges previously approved. [More…]

• Commencing in 1976-77, Commonwealth assistance under the Community Health Program has taken the form of annual block grants to each State for the State’s total program of approved projects including women’s refuges. [More…]

• When the 1976-77 Community Health Program block grant to Queensland was approved, two on-going women refuges in Queensland- one at Brisbane and one at Townsville- were included in the approved program. [More…]

• However, the Queensland Government decided not to allocate any funds from the block grant to these two refuges and the block grant was used to fund the other community health projects in the approved program for Queensland. [More…]

• One of the basic issues encompassed by the current negotiations referred to above is that Commonwealth funds will be passed on to any additional women’s refuges which may be approved under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to a joint Press statement issued on 28 April by the Commonwealth Minister for Health and the Queensland Minister for Welfare which related to funding arrangements for women’s refuges in Queensland. [More…]

• I do clarify the position to the extent of saying that a statement was made by the Minister for Health on the agreed arrangements for the funding of women’s refuges and, as was stated by Senator Martin, there is now an arrangement between the State and Federal governments to fund this welfare measure. [More…]

• I believe that the subsidy arrangements that have now been concluded are satisfactory inasmuch as there was difficulty in the early stages of the community health program in getting the co-operation of the Queensland Government in the funding of refuges of this kind. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Science or the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It relates to the use of the herbicides 2, 4-D and 2, 4, 5-T and their effect on the health of humans and animals that come into contact with them. [More…]

• What inquiries have been made by the Minister’s Department, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation or the Commonwealth health authorities to ascertain, firstly, whether the herbicides are contaminated with the highly toxic chemical known as ‘Dioxin’ and what systematic checking is done to ensure that this contaminant is kept below dangerous levels; secondly, the extent of available overseas investigation and reports and in particular the evidence which caused United States District Judge Otto Skopil on 7 March 1977, to grant an injunction against the United States Forest Service restraining the use of phenoxy herbicides, including 2, 4, 5-T, in the Siuslaw National Forest and whether such ban of its use has since been extended to all 19 forests in the States of Oregon and Washington; and thirdly, whether the authorities are aware of the claims by Kevin Twigg a Kyabram dairy farmer, of illnesses suffered by him through the Victorian Lands Department’s use of such herbicides on his property in Victoria in 1976? [More…]

• Does the Minister consider that, in the interests of public health and safety, he should now recommend the suspension of the use of such herbicides in Australia, at least until authoritative scientific studies have been completed? [More…]

• A commission of experts appointed by the Victorian Minister of Health to investigate the matter announced recently that it could find no basis for such a link. [More…]

• The alleged effect of the defoliants on the health of villagers was investigated by several independent scientific missions but no evidence was found to substantiate claims which had been made. [More…]

• This corresponds with the standard established by the Standards Association of Australia and with recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations and the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• The issue appears to be more properly the province of State health authorities. [More…]

• Mr Twigg is, however, a member of the Australian Community Health Civil Rights Association and has made representations to a number of Commonwealth and State authorities seeking the banning of certain herbicides. [More…]

• Extensive scientific investigations by overseas authorities have been evaluated by appropriate expert committees in Australia and is has been judged that the currently approved uses of phenoxy-acid herbicides including 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T, do not represent a hazard to health or the environment. [More…]

• The first question is: How did a conspiracy of this size which, according to the Inspector concerned, involved more than 1,000 people who were largely members of one community in one section of a city, and which involved a handful of medical practitioners, concerning psychiatric illness and, allegedly, a large number of portable pensions, go undetected by officers of the Department of Social Security and the Department of Health? [More…]

• Social workers assisting members of the Greek community have had to take patients to public hospitals and public health centres like the Marrickville Health Centre to ensure that they get treatment and service. [More…]

• For a time the public hospitals and health centres were the only places that would treat these people. [More…]

• I am advised that arrangements have been made with the Department of Health to carry out as quickly as possible the medical examination of all invalid pension cases that are under review. [More…]

• The Department of Health is ready to give assistance to determine the eligibility of all cases which are under review if any difficulties are being found with other medical people. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health is also ready to assist people to establish their eligibility for a pension or benefit. [More…]

• Also, for many migrants, the land of their birth offers much more extensive social security and health insurance systems than are offered in this country. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that under the medical benefits tables there is no provision for reimbursement for the purchase of dental mouthguards by sports men and women? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister undertook to seek a reply from the Minister for Health whom she represents in this chamber. [More…]

• The quarantine precautions, in relation to which the Department of Health is the expert authority, are regarded by that Department as being fully effective. [More…]

• Those who are members of the Estimates Committee dealing with the estimates for the Department of Health will recall that advice was given this week by the officers of that Department on the quarantine precautions that are taken. [More…]

• The question of the setting up of a quarantine area in, say, an off-shore area such as a northern island is one of the options under consideration by the Department of Health and I do say on behalf of the Minister that the Department regards the quarantine precautions as being of primary importance at present. [More…]

• However, the matter is one of such significance that the Ministers for National Resources, Health and myself will also be involved. [More…]

• Following the concern expressed by the Government at the number of Vietnamese refugees coming by boat to Darwin and the Government’s attempt to stop these unheralded arrivals by sending additional immigration officers to Indo-China, I ask: Is there any truth in the claim that following the previous Government’s ratification of the 1967 extensions to the United Nations Convention on Refugees, Australia is now obliged to accept all refugees regardless of number without any restriction on their entry due to a criminal record, political activity or health? [More…]

• On behalf of Senator Guilfoyle, pursuant to section 42 of the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, I present the annual report of the Health Insurance Commission for the year ended 39 June 1 977 together with the text of a statement by the Minister for Health relating to that report. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the Minister know that such medical checkups are a requisite to ensure the health and well-being of the participants in this sport? [More…]

• -My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has stated that the use of influenza vaccine in normal healthy adults is not usually necessary but that certain special risk groups are probably justified in seeking annual vaccination. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Serum Laboratories have recommended that persons in this age group who fall into the National Health and Medical Research Council’s special risk categories receiving this year’s trivalent vaccine should receive a second dose of vaccine after an interval of about one month. [More…]

• The object of this Bill is to establish mechanisms for protecting the health and safety of the people of Australia, and the environment, from possible harmful effects of nuclear activities here in Australia. [More…]

• The code will be mandatory and implemented progressively by legislation together with the States and Territories commencing with the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores’ which has already been prepared and published by the Department of Health. [More…]

• I should emphasise that this legislation is concerned with health and safety of people, and the environment, as distinct from safeguards, the purpose of which is to ensure that nuclear material in peaceful use is not diverted to nonpeaceful purposes or to nuclear weapons. [More…]

• Should any unforeseen situation arise as a result of a nuclear activity, which is not regulated or controlled by a Commonwealth, State or Territory law, and which is likely to affect health, safety or the environment, the GovernorGeneral will have power, under clause 1 3 of the Bill, to authorise the appropriate Federal Minister to act to control hazards associated with the situation. [More…]

• However, it is our judgment, after considering all relevant factors, that a contingency provision of this nature is a proper and responsible discharge of our duty to provide for the health and safety of people in Australia, and the environment. [More…]

• Orders made under the provisions of this clause have effect only in relation to situations likely to affect health and safety, or the environment, that arises from nuclear activities, as defined in the Bill. [More…]

• Generally, we would see the steps involved in arriving at approved codes of practice as including: initial drafting by the appropriate Commonwealth Department (for example Department of Health for health codes, Department of Transport for transport codes, Department of Environment, Housing and Community Development for general environment protection codes); consultation on the proposed draft code with relevant State and Territory Ministers; the release, where appropriate, of the draft code for public comment, particularly by in dustry and Trade Unions; consideration of the draft code by relevant Advisory Councils such as the Australian Ionising Radiation Advisory Council; final consideration within the Government and submission to the Governor-General; the provision of an order in writing by the Governor-General approving the code; tabling of the order approving the code of practice in both Houses of Parliament. [More…]

• On the general question of progress with codes, I am sure honourable senators will be pleased to know that one important code of practice on radiation protection in the mining and milling of radioactive ores has already been prepared by the Commonwealth Department of Health in consultation with other Commonwealth and State authorities, industry and Trade Unions. [More…]

• This legislation demonstrates very clearly our determination to see that uranium development in Australia is regulated and controlled to ensure the protection of the environment and the health and safety of Australians. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the case of an age pensioner, as cited in the Adelaide Advertiser of 1 7 April, who is residing permanently in a nursing home- I know that this is not an isolated case; there must be many thousands of these people- whose only income is the pension and the special nursing home grant totalling $108.60 a fortnight, which is $14.40 a fortnight short of the nursing home costs? [More…]

• The Australian Bankruptcy Clinic can help to get you through the crisis with your dignity, your health, your peace of mind, your assets and your integrity intact. [More…]

• It always provides for the applicants to make declarations concerning, inter alia their health and character. [More…]

• -This matter is mainly within the hands of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I think the Department of Health requires the Australian Government Analytical Laboratories, which is one of my areas of responsibility, to carry out tests on various cigarettes to ascertain the nicotine and tar content. [More…]

• My recollection is that in recent months the Department has sent to the Minister for Health the results of tests on 99 different Australian brands of cigarettes. [More…]

• The information is with the Department of Health at present. [More…]

• My recollection is also that the Department of Health has asked whether my Department will conduct tests to ascertain the level of carbon monoxide gas that may be emitted from cigarette smoking. [More…]

• Apparently this has an effect on health. [More…]

• Apparently the tests relate to an important decision on whether smoking affects health. [More…]

• -Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to comments made by Special Magistrate Tom Pauling, as reported in the Northern Territory News of 9 May under the heading: ‘It’s inhuman, says Coroner’. [More…]

• Will the Minister indicate what action is to be taken in the light of this further evidence of a lack of health services in the Northern Territory brought about by a shortage of staff? [More…]

• However, as the honourable senator will be aware, the Northern Territory is advancing towards the management of its own affairs in health and other matters and I feel sure that that will enable the people of the Territory to decide the priority to be given to the services which they demand for the people of the Territory. [More…]

• When proper ventilation was provided the health of the miners improved dramatically. [More…]

• The stated purpose of this Bill is ‘to provide for a code of practice so that nuclear activities are effectively controlled throughout the country in the interests of health, safety and the environment’. [More…]

• But it specifies ‘in the interests of health, safety and the environment’. [More…]

• Of course the provisions of this Bill go far wider than questions of health, safety and the environment. [More…]

• I might have referred also to clause 14 of the Bill, which allows the Government to suppress any information relating to the performance of companies or government agencies in meeting health, safety or environmental protection standards which are described in the legislation and will be specified in the codes of practice. [More…]

• It simply enables the creation of codes designed to protect the health and safety of the people of Australia and to protect the Australian environment from possible harmful effects of nuclear activities. [More…]

• He alleged that the Environment Protection (Nuclear Codes) Bill goes beyond the protection of the health and safety of the people of Australia. [More…]

• The object of this Act is to make provision, within the limits of the powers of the Parliament, for protecting the health and safety of the people of Australia, and the environment, from possible harmful effects associated with nuclear activities in Australia, and this Act and the regulations shall be construed and administered accordingly. [More…]

• It says that the Minister may authorise a person to issue any orders the Minister considers necessary to control or to eliminate any hazards, assumed or otherwise, to the health or the safety of persons or the environment from any nuclear activity. [More…]

• The Environment Protection (Nuclear Codes) Bill does nothing to protect or safeguard human health or safety or to protect the environment. [More…]

• I ask how the miners’ health will be protected if they are exposed daily to radiation and to its harmful effects which may not be fully realised for many years. [More…]

• Perhaps after the uranium has run out we will be able to ascertain, at the expense of your health, the risks that are associated with uranium mining’. [More…]

• We in Western Australia have already seen and are indeed still seeing the terrible effects on human health of asbestos mining. [More…]

• Will we say that it is perfectly legitimate to subject people to health hazards about which we know very little at this time purely and simply to line the pockets of a few companies and to create employment in a situation where we now have high unemployment? [More…]

• Neither of these Bills will do anything to provide any form of protection for the health and well being of workers of Australia. [More…]

• My prime concern is the protection of the health and wellbeing of workers of this country. [More…]

• It will do nothing to protect the health and wellbeing of Aborigines any more than it will safeguard their land rights. [More…]

• Health matters and transport matters will be thrashed out in conjunction with the States. [More…]

• It is being conducted on several levels and I think it is of great importance to the future of food production in this country, lt is considered generally within the public area to be something of a health risk because of legal action on the matter which has been taken in the United States of America. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has agreed to amend the ordinance so that the board may make the Commonwealth liable for the fees and expenses of witnesses where it considers that the calling of those witnesses was reasonable. [More…]

• I take part in this debate very conscious of the fact that the Government assumes that the Bills- the Atomic Energy Amendment Bill 1978 and the Environment Protection (Nuclear Codes) Bill 1978- will establish mechanisms for protecting the health and safety of the people of Australia. [More…]

• I indicate at the outset that I do not believe that any mechanism, any Act of Parliament, the most repressive regulation, the greatest fine, the longest gaol sentence or any line drawn on any map can protect the health and safety of the people of Australia when the mining, milling and use of uranium are concerned. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) stated: [More…]

• The health records of uranium miners in Australia either have been lost or have never been kept. [More…]

• A medical practitioner or health physicist is to be placed on the Council. [More…]

• Under the Environment Protection (Nuclear Codes) Bill, the government would be empowered to declare codes of practice to protect the environment and health and safety of Australians from the effects of uranium mining and other nuclear activities. [More…]

• However, clause 14(1) (d) of this bill ensures that the government can suppress any information relating to the environment, health and safety standards at uranium mines. [More…]

• The Bill leaves it to the Minister for Environment to decide whether the public will have a chance to comment on proposed health, safety and environmental codes. [More…]

• The presentation of this legislation is a cynical exercise which has little to do with health, safety, the environment or nuclear safeguards. [More…]

• The Act will also deny workers full information on the material they are handling, the dangers associated with these materials and even the results of their health checks. [More…]

• Our technology is not yet sufficiently advanced to deal with all the known effects on human health and the environment of nuclear energy. [More…]

• As far as the Philippines Government is concerned, the health and safety of its countrymen seem to be a secondary consideration to the profitability angle. [More…]

• Yet in sailing blindly ahead with the large scale mining, processing and marketing of uranium, even though there is no definite empirical evidence, wine notwithstanding, that the associated dangers can be minimised much less eliminated, the Government is coming perilously close to being justifiably accused of putting economics and economic considerations before the health and welfare of present and future generations of Australians. [More…]

• What the Government is trying to do by way of this legislation is reprehensible environmentally, as far as States’ and individual rights are concerned, and presents very real prospects of health hazards not only to those people working in the mining and processing operations but also to anyone likely to come in contact with accidental or deliberate radiation now or in the future. [More…]

• the health or safety of persons, or the environment, is likely to be harmed by a situation resulting from a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory: and [More…]

• the laws of the Commonwealth (other than this section ) and of that State or Territory do not make provision for protecting the health or safety of persons likely to be affected by that situation . [More…]

• lm in fact represents 39.87 per cent of 1976-77 net personal income tax collectionsthat is excluding revenue from the health insurance ‘Medibank’ levy. [More…]

• I am sorry that he did not inquire of my health. [More…]

• It may, however, be necessary to revise current legislative proposals presently being drafted in the light of the proposed code sent by the Commonwealth Minister to the Northern Territory Minister because 1 July 1978 is the date when the Northern Territory gets responsible self-government and takes over all State-like responsibilities except health and education. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The question raised matters for the consideration of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The main thrust of his argument was that the Government had been persuaded to take over the two settlements because of the bad health situation. [More…]

• If there had been a bad health situation, as I said in the debate in this place a fortnight ago, it was the responsibility of the State Government to ensure that the health and education standards in the community were brought up to the highest possible levels. [More…]

• The health situation in fact was not as bad as it is on some of those reserves which are totally administered by the State Department. [More…]

• The groupings in our many country towns are in the lower socio-economic level because the people are unable to secure employment: Firstly, because of insufficient education; secondly, because frequently their health is not good; and, thirdly, because in most parts of Australia, particularly in small country towns, there is racial bias. [More…]

• Mr Bjelke-Petersen says the reason the Queensland Government wants to take over management of both communities is because education and health had suffered under the Uniting Church. [More…]

• The policy statement then referred to health, housing and education services. [More…]

• The Government is providing water, health, toilet and shower facilities and shelters. [More…]

• I should like to speak about Aboriginal health. [More…]

• Affairs for 1976-77 to show what this Government has done in the field of health. [More…]

• Expenditure on health programs in 1976-77 totalled $ 14.379m (excluding expenditure by the Department of Health and other departments in the Northern Territory) compared with expenditure of $ 16.540m in 1975-76. [More…]

• This Government has reduced the health budget. [More…]

• I seek leave to make a statement relating to the health care costs control program and to move a motion that the Senate take note of the statement. [More…]

• In the statement where I use the first person singular I am referring to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) on whose behalf I make the statement. [More…]

• Over recent years, the rapidly rising costs of health care have been a cause of deep concern in a number of Western nations. [More…]

• In Australia, the great health cost explosion began during the term of the Labor Government. [More…]

• It was a cost explosion directly associated with a large transfer of health expenditure from the private to the government sector. [More…]

• In 1971-72, the Commonwealth Government met 30.2 per cent of all health expenditure and the private sector 43.1 per cent. [More…]

• Only four years later in 1975-76- the last year of the Labor Government- the Commonwealth was meeting 52 per cent and the private sector 22.6 per cent of health spending. [More…]

• In the five-year period 1971-72 to 1976-77 health costs exploded from $2,232m to $6,254m. [More…]

• The costs of health care per head in Australia have risen from $104 in 1966-67 to $447 in 1976-77- that is, by more than four times in 10 years. [More…]

• For this financial year- 1977-78- over 10 per cent of all Commonwealth Government spending is being directed to health. [More…]

• The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development report of July 1977 commented: lt would seem that governments are being increasingly raced with the need to establish an ‘economic’ limit to the growth of public health expenditure. [More…]

• When the Fraser Government was elected to office in December 1975, it was abundantly clear that one of the challenges of management of the economy in difficult conditions was to arrest the rapidly spiralling costs of health care. [More…]

• It was just as clear to the Government that, unless action was taken to arrest the rate of health costs inflation, they would crowd out opportunities for income tax reductions and Government spending on other essential programs to give relief to the needy sections of the community. [More…]

• This Government therefore established the Medibank Review Committee in January 1976 to examine the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Those changes have already resulted in a decline in the rate of acceleration in health costs. [More…]

• In 1973-74 health costs rose by 20.0 per cent, while in 1974-75 they rose by 36.6 per cent, in 1975-76 by 27.1 per cent, and in 1976-77 by 19.7 percent. [More…]

• Expressed as a percentage of the gross domestic product, health spending in 1973-74 was 5.9 per cent, in 1974-75, 6.8 per cent, in 1975-76, 7.4 per cent, and in 1976-77, 7.7 percent. [More…]

• It is even more important to note that the percentage increases over the preceding year in the proportion of the gross domestic product taken by health costs was as follows: 1 973- 74- minus 0.8 per cent 1974- 75- plus 15.4 per cent 1975- 76-plus 8.1 percent 1 976- 77-plus 3.9 per cent. [More…]

• The same picture of continuing increases followed by a slowing up after the October 1976 changes, is revealed by the figures for medical services per person covered by health insurance and pensioner medical service arrangements during the same period: 1973- 74-4.7 medical services per person- a fall of 4.1 percent 1974- 75-5.3 medical services per person- a rise of 1 3.6 per cent 1975- 76-5.9 medical services per person- a rise of 1 1 .0 per cent 1976- 77-5.6 medical services per person- a fall of 5.6 percent. [More…]

• But the Government is not satisfied that this drop in the explosion of health care costs has been sufficient. [More…]

• The rate of growth of health costs is well above the general rate of inflation. [More…]

• Since the October 1 976 changes, the Government has closely monitored the health insurance system and health costs generally within the information available. [More…]

• Despite this progress, it was apparent that further action would be necessary to achieve improved health cost levels. [More…]

• I asked the Hospitals and Health Services Commission to undertake a thorough review of the health care cost question. [More…]

• The Government has considered a large number of options available to it to generate the necessary sense of community responsibility in both the provision and the usage of health services. [More…]

• The basic objectives of the Government’s health policy are to: [More…]

• Promote and protect the health of all people. [More…]

• Ensure that all people, regardless of their means, have access to high quality health care. [More…]

• Provide special protection to the pensioners and low income groups, with those on higher incomes insuring themselves to help pay their health care expenses. [More…]

• Promote preventive health care. [More…]

• Obtain the best value for the taxpayers’ dollars spent on health care. [More…]

• Australia enjoys one of the best and most accessible health services and health care delivery systems in the world. [More…]

• The national trachoma program is further evidence of the Government’s determination to improve the health of Aboriginal communities. [More…]

• Proposed interpreter services, located in health facilities throughout Australia, demonstrate the Government’s awareness of the special problems of the ethnic communities in health care. [More…]

• As for health costs containment, restraint for its own sake does not dominate our thinking, but there is no escaping the fact that unless we control rapidly rising costs, they will crowd out opportunities for essential spending in other areas of government responsibility. [More…]

• People pay for health costs by one means or another, whether it be by income taxation, levies and charges, health insurance premiums, direct patient payments, or a combination of these means. [More…]

• There is no such thing as free health care. [More…]

• I emphasise this because, while universal health insurance cover provides security and access to health services, it does tend to weaken the perception of both the providers and users of the real costs of those services. [More…]

• Government subsidy to reduce health costs can blind us all to the costs of those services. [More…]

• Unless the universal health insurance system has inbuilt incentives designed to create cost consciousness, common sense suggests- and experience shows- that unnecessary costs will be generated. [More…]

• The changes I am announcing under the Government’s health cost control program are, therefore, designed to encourage responsible use of one of the best health services in the world; ensure that overuse and abuse are reduced to a minimum; obtain the best value for taxpayers ‘ dollars spent on health care; and promote competition and innovation in health insurance. [More…]

• I will now outline the changes the Government has decided will be made forthwith in the health insurance and associated areas. [More…]

• As I have indicated, the changes which were made in health insurance arrangements on 1 October 1976 have achieved some slowing down in the very high rate of growth in usage of health services and in increases in health care costs. [More…]

• The Government has carefully reviewed information available to it, both from the process of monitoring the impact of those changes on health costs and usage, and as a result of the general review of health insurance which I requested in October of last year. [More…]

• Accordingly the Government has decided to seek the authority to obtain and analyse information from and about the health insurance system in greater depth. [More…]

• As well, a number of specific pilot surveys covering the usage and cost of health services in individual areas will be undertaken. [More…]

• This action, together with a basic review now under way of health data available for policy evaluation, will provide the Government with a more accurate information base which is an important requirement of a continuing review. [More…]

• Until an improved data base becomes available, the Government believes that it would be premature to proceed further with the consideration of major adjustments to the health insurance system. [More…]

• The Government believes this to be the most responsible approach to the objective of constraining the rising costs of health care to the taxpayer and to the community generally. [More…]

• In providing this new flexibility, the Government is giving both the private funds and the community generally the opportunity to take advantage of a widely-held belief that the introduction of excess ‘ type arrangements in health insurance will provide an incentive to people and providers not to over-use available services. [More…]

• The Government also feels that this imaginative new concept has the potential to reduce health insurance contributions for those who wish to accept a larger direct share of responsibility for the costs of their health care. [More…]

• The Government believes that this opportunity will begin a new phase of competition amongst the majority of private health insurance funds throughout Australia. [More…]

• The Government will be monitoring these innovations closely to ensure that the new arrangements are compatible with its stated objectives in health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• But I wish to make clear that whilst the Government has decided in favour of introducing deductibles, no final decision will be taken on either the form of, or the limitations on, deductibles until the whole concept has been discussed in full detail with the health insurance organisations and other interested authorities. [More…]

• In view of this, the Government has further decided there will be no immediate alteration in the health insurance levy arrangements until discussions concerning deductibles have been concluded and the Government is able more precisely to assess their overall impact on health costs and the relativity between premium levels and the levy arrangements. [More…]

• In this context, I caution contributors to health insurance funds to consider carefully before making any hasty decisions to change health insurance arrangements- for example, from private insurance to Medibank Standard before the final effect of deductibles can be assessed. [More…]

• I wish now to turn to a further aspect of the organisation and operation of the health care system that is causing the Government concern. [More…]

• The total Commonwealth outlay on the hospitals sector represents 57 per cent of all Commonwealth expenditure on health services. [More…]

• In reviewing the health care and health insurance system, the Government clearly could not ignore cost increases or cost magnitudes of this order. [More…]

• The changes announced this evening have been designed within the framework of the current health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• Insurance funds that offer policies with deductibles should quickly attract those persons who wish to reduce their daily cost of living by paying substantially lower health insurance premiums. [More…]

• The program that I have announced reflects the widespread encouragement that cost control efforts are receiving through our health services. [More…]

• Health Care Costs Control Program- Ministerial Statement, 24 May 1978. [More…]

• -In speaking to the motion moved by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) I wish to make a few remarks on behalf of the Opposition on this important paper dealing with health care cost control which the Minister has delivered on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in another place. [More…]

• One affects the amount of money that patients will pay for their own health care out of their own pockets and the other announces a review, although in no real detail, of the provision of hospital facilities and diagnostic and other therapeutic facilities in this country. [More…]

• Health care costs concern all of us. [More…]

• It is difficult to see how the specific changes which the Minister has mentioned in this paper will change total health care costs in this country. [More…]

• They will certainly change the burden of health funding generally onto low income earners. [More…]

• I submit that total health care costs will not decrease as a result of many of the more definite proposals in this document which affect patients. [More…]

• There will be considerable changes to the health expenditure of many deserving people in this community as a result of the proposed alterations. [More…]

• But the Minister states that the estimated savings to Commonwealth expenditure will be some $24m when in this country we spend something like $7,000m on health care. [More…]

• As I said, the Minister is concerned about health care costs. [More…]

• We are all concerned about total health costs. [More…]

• No one has been more concerned about total health costs than the Australian Labor Party, when in government and in opposition. [More…]

• I wish to comment first on the figures used in the first 5 pages of this paper to assert that increasing health costs are the result of Labor’s health policy. [More…]

• One of the reasons the community came to accept the need for universal health insurance was the rapid increases that were occurring in health care in this country not only in the 1 970s but also in the 1960s. [More…]

• The increases resulted in the Nimmo inquiry into health insurance funds. [More…]

• From 1967 to 1971, which was a period of low inflation, there was a 46 per cent increase in health costs. [More…]

• It is worth remembering that it was in July 1975 when Medibank, Labor’s national health insurance scheme, started. [More…]

• This is obvious even from the figures wrongly used by the Minister in describing health costs as a percentage of gross domestic product. [More…]

• Health costs were increasing at a fairly normal rate for that period and would have been deflated less or not deflated at all. [More…]

• This is why in the figures used health costs are excessively high compared with gross domesticproduct. [More…]

• Any reputable economist or expert on health care, anyone who produces articles on this subject, would first of all source his figures. [More…]

• The statement goes on to describe other methods the Government has used in an attempt to reduce health costs. [More…]

• The Minister set out the objectives of the Government’s health policy. [More…]

• I suppose that they would be the objectives of anyone interested in the provision of health care in the community. [More…]

• The first aim is to promote and protect the health of all people. [More…]

• The second aim is to ensure that all people, regardless of their means, have access to high quality health care. [More…]

• The next aim is to provide special protection for pensioners and low income groups with those on higher incomes insuring themselves to help pay for their health care. [More…]

• The provisions certainly do nothing to help the next aim which is to promote preventive health care. [More…]

• The Minister gives no evidence how the best value for the taxpayer’s dollar will be received from money spent on health care. [More…]

• The first thing that will happen is that bulk billing is to be abolished for all people except those with a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• This means that the only people who will be bulk billed will be old age pensioners and invalid pensioners who have a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• According to the Health Insurance Commission report of 1976-77 some 56 per cent of all medical claims were bulk billed. [More…]

• In talking about the introduction of front-end deductibles I wish to quote from a document of an organisation which I do not usually quote and which honourable senators do not often hear me quoting during debates on health insurance in this country. [More…]

• I will quote from the submission of the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of [More…]

• The Voluntary Health Insurance Association yesterday made public its submission to the Government detailing its opposition to front-end deductibles and no-claim bonuses. [More…]

• The submission said that these proposals would further complicate a health insurance scheme already too complex. [More…]

• Anyone who is young and fit and probably under 45 years of age would be crazy not to go for front-end deductibles if he wanted private health insurance. [More…]

• One thinks it is likely that the Minister, claiming such a great saving, would introduce this system if he did not have some indication that in fact the health insurance funds would accept it. [More…]

• If the health funds will not take it up, why is the Government introducing it? [More…]

• As I have said, the fit, the young, the healthy and the wealthy would be crazy not to go for it. [More…]

• This will be a transfer of the responsibility for health funding from that group to the people who cannot afford to take on front-end deductibles, such as those who are unhealthy, those who have recurrent illnesses and those who have children with recurrent illnesses. [More…]

• I say to the healthy, the wealthy, the young and the fit that that payment will inevitably be transferred to those who are less well off and to those who, because of the nature of their illness, will not be able to enter into this sort of an arrangement. [More…]

• As to widening the gap for health insurance, the gap concept was introduced not by the Labor Government but by the previous LiberalCountry Party Government. [More…]

• Of course, the amount of money which the individual patient will have to pay in addition to the rebate given by the health funds will increase. [More…]

• It may, of course, happen in exchange for restricting the number of people who get pensioner health benefits, which was AMA policy many years ago. [More…]

• It said it would accept the lower percentage provided the number of people who got pensioner health benefit cards was kept at a reasonable level. [More…]

• One can be sure that he was not one of those piranhas who are members of the Society of General Practitioners, which is in fact against all health insurance in the community. [More…]

• The introduction of front-end deductibles will affect the healthy, the young and the fit. [More…]

• We have these changes but, I repeat, there are no indications that any of these changes will cut down total health costs. [More…]

• Again, one would be concerned to ensure that the Government does not intend to cut down on total health costs by inflicting burdens on those people who can least afford them. [More…]

• We cannot see the three proposals making any difference to health costs; we can see them just spreading the burden to those people who can least afford it. [More…]

• I am fascinated by the concept indicated by way of interjection from Senator Baume, that health funds might not introduce front end deductibles. [More…]

• One wonders what the Government is about in introducing something like that when a knowledgable and senior medical man on the Government side questions whether the health funds will take this up. [More…]

• The object of this Act is to make provision, within the limits of the powers of the Parliament, for protecting the health and safety of the people of Australia, and the environment, from possible harmful effects associated with nuclear activities in Australia, and this Act and the regulations shall be construed and administered accordingly. [More…]

• Clause 1 3 of the Bill gives powers to the Governor-General to deal with special situations if he is satisfied that the health or safety of persons, or the environment, are likely to be harmed by a situation resulting from a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory. [More…]

• Never mind the health, welfare and safety of the people who live in this community. [More…]

• The Department of Trade and Resources, the Department of Foreign Affairs, the Department of Environment, Housing and Community Development, the Department of National Development and the Department of Health are all concerned with aspects of uranium. [More…]

• lt has foreign affairs aspects, energy aspects and health aspects. [More…]

• I would proudly under proper safeguards earn dollars for Australia to turn them into better education, better health, better social services and better housing for the people of Australia and, to help the people of the world towards more energy for peaceful purposes. [More…]

• Honourable senators opposite ought to know about the ‘Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores 1975’ from the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• This second Bill proposes to establish measures to protect the health and safety of the people and the environment from possible harmful effects of nuclear activities. [More…]

• On that note and with the full pledge that this Government is willing to look to every way by which we can safeguard the health, the security and the future safety not only of Australians but also with the concept of one world in mind, I commend the Bills. [More…]

• The Government clearly intends to proceed with the mining of uranium regardless of the consequences to health, the environment, the Aboriginal people and their aspirations for land rights, civil liberties and world peace and security. [More…]

• The other four Bills are regulatory Bills purporting to regulate the operations of uranium mining and health issues raised in the two Fox reports. [More…]

• Our opposition to these Bills is based on the assertion that the Bills purport to provide machinery by which the environmental and health consequences of mining can be regulated and their most destructive consequences contained. [More…]

• On the other hand, the Australian Labor Party, the Opposition, has several major objectives in this matter: Firstly, the prevention of mining; secondly the securing of Aboriginal land rights in an unqualified manner; thirdly, the protection of the environment; and, fourthly, the protection of the health of this community. [More…]

• Health [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 16 March 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) What items of expenditure exceeded appropriations to the Hospitals and Health Services Commission for the year ending June 1977. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Expenditure by the Hospitals and Health Services Commission exceeded the approved estimates in the year ended 3 1 June 1 977 under the following items: [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• Department of Health, Education and Welfare [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 May 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The question of availability of a drug in Australia is considered by the Poisons Schedule (Standing) Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council which bases its recommendations on such aspects of the drug as toxicity, clinical need and indications for use. [More…]

• In addition to defence, coastal surveillance meets a number of important civil requirements, particularly fishing, immigration, health and customs. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does the announcement yesterday by the Minister for Health that there would be no bulk billing of doctors’ charges, except for pensioners, mean that Aboriginal people will now have to pay cash for any medical treatment they receive, when they receive it? [More…]

• I am aware that the matter of Aboriginal health services was raised in discussions with the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am not aware of the details of those, but there was in his mind some way in which he could deal with the matter of Aboriginal health services. [More…]

• My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to the current Medibank proposals which have been very unfavourably received by a large section of the community and by representative bodies. [More…]

• The Government said that Medibank would be retained and that steps would be taken to improve the health care system in Australia. [More…]

• It is believed that the health care system in this country is a first-class system but there are burdens of cost which need to be contained. [More…]

• Whilst we wish to see a health care system which makes health care available to all we need to look at the costs which are involved and when measures can be taken to improve the system or to contain costs action should responsibly be taken by government. [More…]

• In relation to the Protected Zone provisions permitting freedom of movement by the local people in the carrying on of traditional activities, the treaty will provide for cooperation on immigration, customs, health and quarantine arrangements. [More…]

• In relation to the Protected Zone provisions which will permit the continued performance of traditional activities by the local peoples and continued freedom of movement about the Zone for that purpose, there will be cooperation on immigration, customs, health and quarantine arrangements, although each country will retain the right to implement national controls to prevent abuses or other possible adverse effects of the Protected Zone provisions. [More…]

• In particular, the protected zone provisions of the treaty will permit freedom of movement by the local people within the protected zone, but at the same time the treaty will provide for immigration, customs, health and quarantine arrangements. [More…]

• His main reason for opposing the use of uranium reactors was not based on health considerations but rather on proliferation considerations. [More…]

• When the present Minister for Health, Ralph Hunt, was Minister for the Interior, the pastoral interests and the mineral interests were told to look at alternatives. [More…]

• In some very localised areas, groundwater radioactivity is above World Health Organisation standards for drinking water. [More…]

• With the aid of a geiger counter, I registered radiation there in terms of millirads well above the level that the world health authorities would tolerate. [More…]

• -The honourable senator’s question involves the Minister for Health more than me. [More…]

• I understand that the properties of these chemicals have been most extensively examined by the World Health Organisation and in the United States and recently in New Zealand. [More…]

• Further, the poisons schedule committee and the pesticides and agricultural chemicals sub-committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council which, of course, is within the area of responsibility of the Minister for Health, examine all new reports as they come to hand. [More…]

• The reports of these experiments currently are being reviewed by the bodies of the National Health and Medical Research Council that I have mentioned. [More…]

• It is possible to monitor the incidence of disease in any health statistics collection which includes information on individual diseases. [More…]

• That answer is directly related, from the health point of view, to the answer that he now seeks. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Under the new health arrangements that have been announced does the Government intend to make any provision for the more than half a million social security beneficiaries who are not entitled to pensioner health benefit cards but whose weekly income is below the poverty line? [More…]

• Is the Government considering issuing special health benefit entitlements, such as under the subsidised health benefits program, or extending the pensioner health benefit program, or extending the pensioner health benefit card to this already financially disadvantaged group? [More…]

• Following changes that were made to Medibank and the health scheme generally, there have been comments about those people who are social security beneficiaries but not holders of the pensioner medical card. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has advised me that once bulk billing is abolished, except for those pensioners and their dependants who are covered by health benefit cards, people will be able to send their doctors’ accounts to either Medibank or their private health insurance funds. [More…]

• It also ought to be said that many people who receive partial pensions from the Department of Social Security- they were among the numbers mentioned by the shadow Minister for Health when he responded to a debate in the other place a day or two ago- are people who have considerable other income. [More…]

• However, in answer to Senator Mcintosh’s question, I do not foreshadow that the Minister for Health will announce any other special arrangements for social security pensioners and beneficiaries. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that many Aborigines are pensioners with pensioner health benefit cards or are dependents of such persons and it is not proposed to abolish bulk billing for these people. [More…]

• If it appears that there are difficulties with regard to Aborigines and that special problems arise and special needs are noted, the Minister for Health says that he will ensure that the matter is looked at in depth and will try to find a quick solution to any problems which may develop regarding Aborigines. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister for Health, refers to the changes to Medibank and, in particular, to a Press report this morning which indicated that the Minister for Health had told a Press conference that the changes to the health insurance scheme should bring about a reduction in family health insurance contribution rates of about 46c a week and that the health funds would be made to pass on those savings to contributors, if necessary. [More…]

• Has the Minister seen the reaction of the voluntary health funds, as reported in the Press, that some of them have no intention of passing on those savings? [More…]

• The Minister for Health recently announced changes to the health care system and, in itemising the changes, statements were made that they could result in a reduction of some 46c in the levy paid by people who are within the health fund system. [More…]

• The Minister also outlined that he needed to have discussions with the health funds in regard to the proposed changes and in regard to the optional deductibles that could be introduced, and that arising from those discussions determinations could be made as to what would be the appropriate rate. [More…]

• I read the statements this morning by some health funds which said that they would not alter their rates because they anticipated further changes after the discussions had been held. [More…]

• I am unaware of how the Minister for Health has responded to statements of that kind from the health funds today but I will ensure that the question is referred to the Minister for his response to it. [More…]

• The first requires that Australian consular officers perform functions including the following: notarial acts, oaths, affirmations and declarations such as the authentication or legislation of various documents, form wills and contracts to school certificates and driving licenses; the issue and renewal of passports and visas; the solemnisation and registration of marriages; payment of or advice on social security provisions including medical benefits; advice on the importation and registration of motor vehicles; advice on acquisition or loss of citizenship, particularly on dual nationality problems; provision of information on Australian Customs’ requirements; the provision of facilities for voting in Australian elections overseas; the administration of regulations arising from the Navigation Act in regard to seamen; liaison with overseas legal authorities on instructions from Australia to arrange extradition; advice on exchange control and currency matters for personal or investment purposes; serving of writs and taking evidence; advising visitors to Australia of health and quarantine requirements and reporting on outbreaks of disease in foreign countries. [More…]

• If it is necessary to have an industrial or health inspector or any other kind of authority to monitor and restrain the activities of a corporate body, surely the least we can do is to give that authority the freedom that is extended to industrial inspectors and other authorities who have a responsibility, by virtue of their public position, not to disclose information irresponsibly. [More…]

• The problem is that if people, businesses or companies breach the enviromental protection measures outlined in the Bill in such a way as would be destructive to the environment, to the health of workers in the industry, or to the community generally, they may conceal that breach by claiming that the information which would establish it would lead to their incrimination. [More…]

• These amendments should not be seen as a weakening of the Government’s resolve to achieve, in co-operation with the States, effective and uniform regulation and control of nuclear activities insofar as those activities affect the health, safety and environment of Australians. [More…]

• the health or safety of persons, or the environment is likely to be harmed by a situation resulting from a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory; [More…]

• the health or safety of persons, or the environment, is likely to be harmed by a situation resulting from a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory; and [More…]

• the laws of the Commonwealth (other than this section) and of that State or Territory do not make provision for protecting the health or safety of persons likely to be affected by that situation, or for protecting the environment insofar as it is likely to be affected by that situation, he may, by order, authorise a Minister, during the period that the order remains in force, to give such directions and take such action as, subject to sub-section (2), the Minister considers necessary to control and eliminate hazards associated with the situation. [More…]

• Despite the fact that the mining of uranium at Roxby Downs in South Australia might be detrimental to the whole of South Australiait might be detrimental to the environment and to the health of the people- and the laws in South Australia do not provide the necessary protection, whether or not the laws of the Commonwealth provide the necessary protection, the Governor-General cannot do anything about it unless the State Government asks him to do something about it. [More…]

• The fact is that it had one thing; it had a document on health codes and that document, I should tell Senator McLaren, is adopted in full by the States and specifically by Queensland. [More…]

• I remind the Committee of the Australian Ionising Radiation Advisory Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• to advise the Minister with respect to any other matters relating to the protection of the health and safety of the people of Australia, and the environment, from possible harmful effects associated with nuclear activities in Australia. [More…]

• That the removalof this item from the schedule would destroy the conceptof universal health insurance, and would have the most serious repercussions for women and their health. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I wish to follow up a question I asked on 26 May regarding social security beneficiaries who are not in receipt of pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• If the Minister does not receive such assurances, will she then make provision for the issue of pensioner health benefit entitlements to these beneficiaries? [More…]

• At present pensioners with a pensioner health benefit card are entitled to free pharmaceuticals and are exempt from payment of the Medibank levy. [More…]

• The holder of a pensioner health benefit card has no legal entitlement to any reduction in hospital or medical costs. [More…]

• However, the Minister for Health has requested doctors to accept the assignment of medical benefits in full settlement of accounts for pensioner health benefit card holders. [More…]

• In practice, many doctors accept the assignment of benefits in full settlement of accounts for pensioners with health benefit cards either under the bulk billing arrangements or by pay-doctor cheques. [More…]

• The effect of retention of the bulk billing arrangements for pensioners who are holders of pensioner health benefit cards will depend on the extent to which doctors will after 1 July this year accept schedule benefits, that is 75 per cent of scheduled fees, in full settlement of accounts. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has indicated that he is to have discussions with the Australian Medical Association and others in the near future. [More…]

• It is impertinence to believe that a Commonwealth government would have all knowledge, all wisdom, and would be the only government that was solicitous of the health and security of its people. [More…]

• If the Minister believes that Mr Dunstan and the other State Premiers all want to see the best possible safeguards for the health of the citizens of their States, and I accept that, why did not the Federal Government listen to the States last year? [More…]

• We propose so to do, and we propose to see that throughout Australia the safeguards for the health, safety and welfare of Australians will be the highest in the world. [More…]

• These amendments should not be seen as a weakening of the Government’s resolve to achieve, in co-operation with the States, effective and uniform regulation and control of nuclear activities insofar as those activities affect the health, safety and environment of Australians. [More…]

• Here is a clear indication of the intention of the Government to ensure that we will gain optimum health and safety codes and not minimal ones. [More…]

• Presumably he believes that if the States want proper code and proper health safeguards in the nuclear development program they can still have them. [More…]

• That will not save us but at least the people will know that we put up a fight in here to try to safeguard the health of the community. [More…]

• the health or safety of persons, or the environment, is likely to be harmed by a situation resulting from a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory; and [More…]

• the laws of the Commonwealth (other than this section) and of that State or Territory do not make provision for protecting the health or safety of persons likely to be affected by that situation, or for protecting the environment in so far as it is likely to be affected by that situation, he may, by order, authorize a Minister, during the period that the order remains in force, to give such directions and take such action as, subject to sub-section (2), the Minister considers necessary to control and eliminate hazards associated with the situation. [More…]

• I ) Where a situation exists where the health or safety of persons, or the environment is likely to be harmed by a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory and the laws of the Commonwealth (other than this section) and of the State or Territory do not make provision for protecting the health or safety of persons likely to be affected by that situation or for protecting the environment in so far as it is likely to be affected by that situation, the GovernorGeneral may, by order, authorize a Minister, during the period that the order remains in force, to give such directions and take such action as, subject to sub-section (2), arc strictly necessary to control and eliminate hazards associated with the situation. [More…]

• It arises from deficiencies in the present provisions of clause 13, which require, for example, that the Governor-General be satisfied that the health or safety of persons, or the environment, is likely to be harmed by what is called a ‘situation ‘ resulting from a nuclear activity that exists in a State or Territory. [More…]

• The amendment has been moved simply to make available a wider range of opinion than merely that of the Governor-General in order to assess the so-called ‘situation’ involving the health or safety of persons. [More…]

• Before the Governor-General can make an order, he must be satisfied, firstly, that the health or safety of persons, or the environment, is likely to be harmed by a situation that results from a nuclear activity; secondly, that there are no laws of the Commonwealth or of a State that do not make provision for protecting the health or safety of persons or the environment likely to be affected by that situation; and, thirdly, that the State requests the making of the order. [More…]

• It could be argued that a ministerial direction went beyond the authority conferred by a clause 13 order in that, for example, the action taken was not necessary to protect health or safety or a similar matter. [More…]

• ) the health or safety of persons, or the environment, is likely to be harmed . [More…]

• First of all, there is an assumption that State governments have as much good faith and as much good intention as the Commonwealth Government to preserve the health, safety and security of their people. [More…]

• We have available to us on call the advice of expert bodies such as the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Ionising Radiation Advisory Council. [More…]

• The licensing provisions in the codes must be related to ‘the health and safety of the people and the environment from the possible harmful effects associated with nuclear activities in Australia ‘. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister for Social Security in her capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health and /or Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs. [More…]

• I know that they are of concern to the Minister for Health and to the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs. [More…]

• Details of all refugees arriving in Darwin and then sent, south are forwarded to the State directors of health. [More…]

• The Department of Health and the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs are very concerned to see that any risk of reintroducing a disease of this kind is minimised. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she happened to see a letter in this morning’s Age which stated: [More…]

• As at first sight that seems a sensible suggestion and would save patients and the Government money, will the Minister ask the Minister for Health to consider allowing people to go direct to specialists when the care of their ears and eyes is involved? [More…]

• I will certainly draw the attention of the Minister for Health to the question and the comments made in it. [More…]

• However, as it was asserted that there could be some merit in looking at this matter, I will see that the Minister for Health is advised of the question. [More…]

• It points out that, since about 20 per cent of our community are currently ‘ migrants ‘, a similar proportion of the Commonwealth’s general expenditure on education, health, social security and welfare and other areas should be for the benefit of migrants. [More…]

• The Review found that the main areas of need (such as for fluency in English and for better communication and information) are common to virtually all areas such as health, welfare, education, employment and the law. [More…]

• In accordance with the recommendations of the Review, steps will be taken to improve the ways in which migrants get information in areas of special need, including information relevant to employment, health, consumer protection, bail procedures, the Commonwealth Ombudsman and legal aid. [More…]

• In the health area, the Review noted significant cultural and communication problems and, in addition to the Government’s recently announced program for funding interpreters, increased funds will be provided for the use of ethnic health workers. [More…]

• Acceptance of a shared responsibility for its health among the Commonwealth and State Governments as well as private enterprise is essential- while suitable co-ordination of broad national aims with specific State expertise could improve Australia’s general negotiating position and remove apparent conflicts. [More…]

• The Government provides these people with social, health and other services and it also looks to meet their housing needs. [More…]

• I think that if we made more use of ethnologists in Australia rather than health, education and welfare workers with these people we would be a lot better off and so would our Aborigines. [More…]

• 1 ) What proportion of the Australian Capital Territory’s (a) retail, (b) restaurant, (c) cinema, (d) indoor sporting/recreation, (e) outdoor sporting/recreation, ( f) primary school, (g) secondary school and college, (h) pre-school, (i) child care, (j) health centre, (k) playground and (1) parkland facilities, have been established in the Woden ValleyWeston Creek area. [More…]

• 1 ) What proportion of the Australian Capital Territory’s (a) retail, (b) restaurant, (c) cinema, (d) indoor sporting/recreation, (e) outdoor sporting/ recreation, (f) primary school, (g) secondary school and college, (h) pre-school, (i) child care, (j) health centre, (k) playground and (l) parkland facilities, have been established in the Tuggeranong area. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen the report on teenage smoking which states that in New South Wales alone last year adolescents between 12 and 17 years of age spent $40m on cigarettes and that the total amount spent on cigarettes in Australia last year has been estimated at $ 1,200m? [More…]

• In the light of these figures, can the Minister say how much was spent on health care insurance directly out of the pockets of Australian citizens last year? [More…]

• I have no figures that would relate to the total cost of health insurance paid by individuals in Australia last year. [More…]

• I will draw the matter to the attention of the Minister for Health and see what comparison he would wish to draw between the expenditure by individuals on smoking and on their own health care. [More…]

• Will the Minister representing the Minister for Health confirm that it is the Government’s intention to reduce to a meagre 75 per cent the present 85 per cent payable in respect of the standard fee for service to pensioners? [More…]

• The Minister for Health recently announced some proposed changes to the health scheme and he mentioned that there would be a reduction to 75 percent of the schedule fees. [More…]

• As to the acceptance of 75 per cent as full payment of the fee, the Minister for Health stated that he hoped that doctors would be able to come to an arrangement to accept 75 per cent instead of 85 per cent, as under the former arrangement. [More…]

• I shall draw Senator Bonner’s question to the attention of the Minister for Health and see that the honourable senator is advised as soon as any decision is taken. [More…]

• Council produces a national rehabilitation digest which is published quarterly and distributed to Commonwealth and State departments, universities and other educational institutions, hospitals and health centres, organisations providing services to handicapped people and individuals with handicaps. [More…]

• For the saving of a miserly $24m, the Government announced this week that it will disrupt the entire health policy of the nation. [More…]

• As a result of the passage of this legislation the Government will forgo more than three times the amount of money which it will save through its health policy changes. [More…]

• The doctors who participated in its work were: J. Andriuskevicene, Reader in the Faculty of Medicine at Vilnius University; V. Berneris, Head Doctor of Kaunas Psycho-neurological Hospital; J. Gutmanas, (39) Chief Psychiatrist of the Lithuanian Ministry of Health; I. Surkus, Professor at Kaunas Medical Institute; and other specialists in the field [among them A. Dauksene]. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it the intention of the Government to retain its responsibility for the health of the people in the area? [More…]

• The three Ministers were Mr Viner, the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Mr Hunt, the Minister for Health and me, the Minister for Education. [More…]

• On behalf of the Leader of the Government, for the information of honorable senators I present the second report of the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health entitled ‘Consultative Arrangements and the Co-ordination of Social Policy Development’, together with the text of a statement by the Acting Prime Minister relating to the report. [More…]

• The Opposition welcomes the presentation of the second report of the Task Force on Coordination in Welfare and Health. [More…]

• The recommendations regarding administrative and consultative arrangements have been preempted somewhat by the statement of the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) at the end of last year regarding the Health and Welfare Policy Secretariat and its establishment, which I understand is still recruiting staff. [More…]

• Given the overlapping areas of health, welfare, community development, veterans’ affairs and so on, a serious and continuing effort to co-ordinate the program and policies seems eminently sensible. [More…]

• Therefore I wonder what welfare considerations came into the thinking of the unit and the Government in, for instance, proposals for the abolition of bulk billing and the widening of the 15 per cent gap to a 25 per cent gap, changes which directly affect low income earners and the poorest of all pensioners, those not entitled to pensioner health benefit entitlements. [More…]

• I wish him good health and happiness in his retirement. [More…]

• Additional expenditures for the beef industry and natural disasters are likely to be significant items, but on the other hand substantial shortfalls will occur on the original estimates for health and public debt interest payments which partially offset these additions. [More…]

• 7m for the Community Health program; $2.1m for the Community Youth Support program; $3. [More…]

• It is expected that the House of Representatives will conclude its business today and I am unaware of any legislation to give effect to the changes announced recently by the Minister for Health, that would be available before the winter recess. [More…]

• We were informed that no overtime is paid to reporters and, indeed, as is set out in our Committee report, in the last 12 to 15 years 50 per cent of total retirements from Hansard has been on the grounds of ill health. [More…]

• I do not think we would find anywhere else in the Australian work force that there is such a high percentage of retirements on the grounds of ill health. [More…]

• It is an incredible situation in the Parliament that, of those who have retired from the Hansard staff over the last 12 to 15 years, 50 per cent have been retired on the grounds of ill health. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• At a recent meeting of the consultative committee formed at the request of my colleague the Minster for Health there was concurrence with these arrangements, although some refinements were proposed. [More…]

• The committee included representatives of the Department of Health and the State departments of agriculture and also representatives of the cut flower industry, the nurserymen and cut flower importers. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister discuss this anomaly with the Minister for Health to ensure that doctors advise their patients when drugs or other patent medicines can be obtained from pharmacies without a prescription for less than the set fee? [More…]

• Equally, there are very costly drugs supplied under that scheme which would be beyond the reach of many people if it were not for the scheme, which has been part of the Australian health system for many years. [More…]

• I will draw the attention of the Minister for Health to the remarks of Senator Donald Cameron. [More…]

• I think the Minister for Health would want to make some comment on a suggestion of that kind. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister has reported that sums totalling some millions of dollars are owed to Medibank by private health funds because of payments made by Medibank on behalf of private funds during the period of restructuring the health scheme so that individual contributors would not be disadvantaged. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As this will add considerably to the cost of medication for those who need to take several drugs over a long term, will the Minister ask the Minister for Health to look urgently at the number of doses that the Government is prepared to allow with each prescription to those people who have to take their medicine over a long term, so that if the Government does agree to increase the number of doses that are allowed, that higher number will be available from 1 July to coincide with the increase in prescription fees? [More…]

• I undertake to raise with the Minister for Health the matter that the honourable senator has brought to my attention. [More…]

• The number of doses of an individual prescription, may be very hard to regulate because of differing requirements and responses to any medication that is prescribed, but I will see that the Minister for Health gives consideration to the matter that has been raised. [More…]

• The basic 1978-79 tax indexation factor of 1.076- that is, an increase of 7.6 per cent- is derived from this movement by netting out the effects, included in the 10.9 per cent movement, of increases in indirect taxes, the health care changes and exchange rate adjustments made in the December quarter of 1 976. [More…]

• However, the Government immediately discounted factors such as indirect taxes, health care charges and exchange rate adjustments. [More…]

• It claims, for example, that the movement in the consumer price index of 10.9 per cent should be discounted back to 7.6 per cent because of indirect taxes, health care charges and exchange rate adjustments, to which I have just referred. [More…]

• Firstly, it will give effect to the joint announcement by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the Treasurer (Mr Howard) on 30 March 1978 that sunscreen preparations that provide effective protection from damaging ultra-violet rays would be exempted from sales tax. [More…]

• Drugs and medicines are already exempt and it is proposed that these sunscreen preparations should also be exempted because of their importance as a preventative health measure in the field of skin cancer, sunburn and general skin damage. [More…]

• Also, there must be in force in respect of the preparation a certificate given by the DirectorGeneral of Health, or his appointee, certifying that the product is a preparation that provides an acceptable level of protection from solar ultraviolet rays. [More…]

• The purpose of this Bill is to enable the Commonwealth Government to enter into financial arrangements with the States and the Northern Territory for making payments to cattle producers affected by the control measures instituted by animal health authorities to prevent the spread of bluetongue virus. [More…]

• Commonwealth and State animal health authorities immediately tested cattle throughout northern Australia. [More…]

• A number of these have been eased significantly following technical representations by the Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• Clause 4(1) (b) therefore provides for a wider coverage of producers than 4 ( 1) (a) as producers outside the control areas may be required to participate in surveys conducted by animal health authorities to establish the incidence of exposure to bluetongue virus in Australia. [More…]

• -I understand from the clause that the person who retires by reason of ill-health is disentitled to commutation. [More…]

• Let honourable senators understand that I have the most robust health. [More…]

• Why is the person who goes our prematurely by reason of ill-health excluded from the right of commutation? [More…]

• I would have thought that any life assurance company that took him on when he had robust health would pay up much more heartily if he became a casualty during the term of the life policy that it would in the case of a fellow who was robust and healthy. [More…]

• I am of robust health. [More…]

• If that Senator becomes a victim of ill health, he is excluded from the right of commutation because- frankly, putting it completely plainly- the authors of the Bill expect him to die on the periodical pension at less cost than would have been involved if the pension could be commuted. [More…]

• The reference in sub-section ( 1 ) to a person who becomes entitled to a retiring allowance by reason of his having retired on account of ill-health shall be construed as a reference to a person who- [More…]

• If the person comes within the provisions of any of these paragraphs he shall be construed to be a person who retired on account of ill-health. [More…]

• Do I correctly understand that the right of commutation is confined by stating that a man who has voluntarily resigned before the expiration of his term, who is deemed to be a person who has resigned for ill-health, is therefore disentitled to commute? [More…]

• The reference to a person who has retired on account of ill health in paragraph (b) reads: . [More…]

• I understand it applies to a person who does not seek election but who will be able to satisfy the Trust that he has not sought election on the ground of ill health. [More…]

• This body is the standing interdepartmental committee on refugees, comprising senior officers of the Depanment of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs (which chairs the committee), Prime Minister and Cabinet, Employment and Industrial Relations, Social Security, Finance, Health and Education, with other departments and the Public Service Board being co-opted as necessary. [More…]

• Australian Catholic Relief, Chang Nim Dong Community Health Centre, Korea, $2,000. [More…]

• Save the Children Fund, Model Mother/Child Health Training Centre, Afghanistan,$10,000. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Department of Health has maintained a close watch on the situation with regard to malaria, especially, I understand along the northern coastal region of Australia where the dangers of reintroduction are the greatest, since the eradication of malaria from the mainland in 1962. [More…]

• I understand that a register of all malaria cases diagnosed in Australia is maintained at the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine in Sydney. [More…]

• The professor of tropical medicine at the School is a member of the regional World Health Organisation’s expert committee. [More…]

• The whole subject is being kept under continual review both by the Department and by the appropriate expert committees of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, by saying that the Minister may remember that on a previous occasion I asked whether the Government would request the State governments to require by law that the percentage of alcohol in alcoholic drinks be put on the label. [More…]

• I shall refer it to the Minister for Health to see whether there has been any discussion with State governments and if so whether there has been any outcome of those discussions. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by referring to that Minister’s announcement of 24 May that the Government had decided to abolish bulk billing for all medical patients with the exception of pensioners. [More…]

• Can the Minister inform the Senate what effect this decision will have on community health centres and public medical institutions, the majority of which have previously relied on bulk billing? [More…]

• The honourable senator has asked several questions and, by way of a general answer, I can assure him that the problems he has raised are known to the Minister for Health and are being investigated with a view to ensuring that minimum inconvenience is caused to the patients involved, that is the patients in the low or bereft income group, as he termed it. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister has received representations to the effect that some community health centres, which have relied on the services of private medical practitioners who have been bulk billing for medical benefits, may be inconvenienced by the proposal that bulk billing be generally discontinued. [More…]

• Honourable senators may be assured that this matter is receiving the close attention of the Minister for Health and that the needs of persons receiving medical services from community health centres are being taken into account in the review of administrative arrangements that 1 have outlined. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has decided that to avoid hardship to low income families, Aboriginal and ethnic families, Aboriginal medical services and community health centres, bulk billing will remain until satisfactory alternative administrative arrangements are made to replace bulk billing for all but pensioner patients and their dependants. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister for Science whether he is aware of the allegation that appeared in the Adelaide Press that the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation did not consult the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories in the planning stages of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• The Australian National Animal Health Laboratory is an important development. [More…]

• Department of Health, because it has some responsibility for the operations of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, was consulted on this project. [More…]

• I am advised that the development of the Animal Health Laboratory has been discussed over a period of eight years. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that at 2 p.m. today Perth time- in about 35 minutes- officers of the Department of Aboriginal Affairs will meet staff of the Health Service in order to enforce the wage cuts? [More…]

• As far as the second part of the question is concerned, that abolition of bulk billing is being used as an excuse to abolish all Aboriginal medical services, I have stated on behalf of the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs on previous occasions that special arrangements will be made for Aboriginal health services. [More…]

• As I stated in answer to Senator Missen today, special administrative arrangements are to be made for the services to ensure that the quality of health care that is given to special groups with special disadvantages will not diminish. [More…]

• The bulk of funds going to the States in specific purpose grants are earmarked for education, health, housing and roads. [More…]

• The suspended Minister for Finance demonstrates how little he knows about these issues by saying that he is also going to cut large areas of Commonwealth spending and nominates expenditure on health and education as the ones which will have to suffer reductions. [More…]

• We have Medibank mark III by which further inroads and impositions have been burdened on the Australian community, by which the gap between the amount of fee charged by the doctor and the refund payable by the private health insurance company is deliberately widened as a result of encouragement by the Australian Government. [More…]

• It is because it is concerned at the amount of money being spent by the Australian community on its health. [More…]

• A Bill is before the House of Representatives to increase the charge of pharmaceutical prescriptions under the National Health Act from $2 to $2.50. [More…]

• There is only one way in which the economy will regain full health and that is by reducing our cost levels below international cost levels. [More…]

• It goes on to refer to health and various other matters, all of which of course are fairly comprehensive promises and very few of which have been fulfilled. [More…]

• The functions specified in relation to an Aboriginal council- housing, health and municipal and related services- are virtually those of local government. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 April 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she recalls that the Minister for Health stated on 24 May: [More…]

• I have not seen the letter that has been claimed by Senator Wriedt to have been circulated to Medibank staff, nor do I have any information that I can give him on this matter other than what has been stated here on behalf of the Minister for Health on previous occasions. [More…]

• I shall refer the matter which the honourable senator has now raised to the Minister for Health and seek an explanation from him. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by referring to a circular letter dated 6 June 1978, in which the Minister for Health stated that the Government had decided to amend the National Health Act to enable individual health insurance funds to apply for permission not to pay for certain items of medical service listed in the medical benefits schedule, for example, items relating to the termination of pregnancy. [More…]

• Also, will Medibank Private be among those health insurance funds that will not pay for medical costs associated with terminations of pregnancy? [More…]

• The progress report relates to herbicides, pesticides and human health. [More…]

• One such matter of current concern is an alleged connection between the use of certain agricultural chemicals and their long-term effect on human health. [More…]

• Informal discussions have been held with representatives of the Department of Primary Industry, the Department of Health, and agricultural chemical manufacturers. [More…]

• The Committee accordingly recommends an examination of this matter by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The submission talked about a fully elected legislative council and its responsibilities within the Northern Territory- responsibilities in areas such as health, mining, law enforcement, labour, secondary industries, urban and rural affairs, land courts, the Department of the AttorneyGeneral and so on. [More…]

• The main powers that will be transferred at a later time relate to health, which I understand will be handed over to the Northern Territory as from 1 January 1979, and education, which will be handed over from 1 July 1979. [More…]

• The Government has told us nothing about its intentions with regard to other non-income perks that are paid to various executives which are not called income, such as free holidays, either free or concessional health cover and membership of clubs. [More…]

• The matter I rose to speak about tonight is the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory to be built at Geelong. [More…]

• Yesterday, when Senator Webster was answering a question about this Animal Health Laboratory I interjected and he retorted rather harshly. [More…]

• The Australian National Animal Health Laboratory is an important development. [More…]

• That is why in 1974 the then Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam, put out a Press statement to the effect that the Animal Health Laboratory would be constructed. [More…]

• It has decided to build a laboratory complex, to be called the Animal Health Laboratory, at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• I refer to an announcement made on 2 April 1974 by the then Prime Minister, Mr Whitlam, to the effect that the Government had allocated $S7m to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong in Victoria on land owned by the Government. [More…]

• If construction has not commenced, can the Minister say what is being done in the interim to safeguard Australian animal health by way of testing and treatment of exotic diseases? [More…]

• The interests of this animal health laboratory are such that its construction comes within the responsibility of the Minister for Primary Industry. [More…]

• I shall read it out again for Senator Webster’s information because obviously in his answer yesterday to a question about the construction of that National Animal Health Laboratory he overlooked the fact that it was not only the Labor Government that could not get funds. [More…]

• You will recall your question without notice on 15 March seeking information about the proposal to construct an animal health laboratory at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• Construction of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong was not commenced last year. [More…]

• As I said in my interjection, it was the Labor Government under Prime Minister Whitlam which initiated the construction of this Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong. [More…]

• As Section 6469 on Health Refunds is the number for currette and abortion, to remove Medical Rebate for No. [More…]

• 6469 would transgress a woman’s right to the rebate available via medical health insurance. [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister join with the Minister for Health in considering the effect that this type of situation will have on some families and in investigating the feasibility of reducing to $1 the charge for a prescription for a child? [More…]

• -My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, concerns an apparent decision on the part of the Northern Territory Division of the Department of Health to acquire an expensive piece of equipment called a computerised axial tomography scanner. [More…]

• ls it a fact that Tasmania, with more than 400,000 people, has no CAT scanner while the Northern Territory Divison of the Department of Health intends 10 acquire one Ibr a population of fewer than 1 10.000 Territorian.-..’ K it further a fact thai the purchase procedure ha.-, been .-.ci in process while the committee appointed to examine high cost technology, such as CAT .scanners, i.s still to report to the Minister for Health? [More…]

• It is true that provision has been made in the Budget estimates for 1978-79 of the Northern Territory Division of the Department of Health for the purchase of a computerised axial tomography scanner which is, as honourable senators are no doubt aware, basically a very sophisticated X-ray machine which utilises computer technology. [More…]

• I understand that approval has been given for the Tasmanian Health Authority to purchase a CAT scanner. [More…]

• This is considered to be most important to the health of such patients. [More…]

• Prior to the inclusion of the scanner in the departmental estimates, the need for a scanner was examined by senior professional officers of the Northern Territory Division of the Department of Health and was subsequently endorsed at senior management level at the Department’s central office. [More…]

• I understand that that Committee has not yet reported to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Professor of Child Health at the University of Tasmania, Professor Lewis, pointed out that the report shows that drinking and smoking habits, particularly of 13-year olds, have increased alarmingly since 1 97 1 despite all the money spent on education in this area. [More…]

• Repeatedly the State and Federal departments of education are approached by health and welfare authorities and asked whether, within the scope of education curricula, we can undertake various preventive and remedial courses in areas such as nutrition, drugs, ingestion of alcohol and other matters. [More…]

• So I have invited people from the Commonwealth Department of Health to talk to people from my Department to see whether we can develop between us a plan for a total health education concept in terms of the human fulfilment of the total person, not some episodic thing done on a wet sports day. [More…]

• It may well be that the establishment of a pilot scheme will be one of the recommendations that will come out of the joint consultations between the Department of Health and the Department of Education. [More…]

• I do not know whether my colleague Senator McLaren intends to speak on this Bill, but honourable senators will remember that for some days or weeks he has been jousting with Senator Webster on the question of funding for the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong and the fact that this project was further delayed by the broad-axe approach of the Fraser Government to Government expenditure early in 1 976 and 1 977 when expenditures on capital works were just wildly cut back as a matter of ideological prejudice rather than a matter of economic need for rationality. [More…]

• The National Animal Health Laboratory was one of the victims of that ill-conceived economic policy. [More…]

• On pages 46 and 47 of the report the matter of co-ordination between the policies of the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories and the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory are referred to. [More…]

• The reason I raise the matter is that I think it is a matter on which the various Ministers concerned- not just the Minister for Primary Industry- ought to be calling for co-ordination to complement the policy of speeding up the provision of the facilities at the National Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• I support this Bill which, under financial arrangements with the States and the Northern Territory, makes provision for payments to cattle producers affected by the control measures instituted by animal health authorities to prevent the spread of bluetongue virus. [More…]

• Senator Walsh referred to the fact that I have spoken quite often in the Parliament on the need for an animal health laboratory. [More…]

• The very introduction of this Bill highlights the fact that when the Labor Government was in office it was acutely aware of the need for an animal health laboratory to do the necessary work and to examine viruses of the type with which we are now faced. [More…]

• Mr Whitlam made a Press statement on 2 April 1 974 in which he said that the Labor Government was allocating$56m for the construction of an animal health laboratory at Geelong in Victoria. [More…]

• I refer to an article put out by the Animal Health Branch of the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries in South Australia. [More…]

• It brings to light the comment that Senator Walsh made in relation to the development of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory which is going ahead at this stage at Williamstown in Victoria. [More…]

• If the challenge is that within the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories report someone has suggested that there was not sufficient liaison with that excellent organisation, CSL, in the development of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory, I think I can dispel that with the comment that Dr Lane, the former head, was in consultation with the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation at all times in relation to this undertaking. [More…]

• As we know, CSL is a part of the Department of Health, which has played a major part in carrying forward the requirement for a totally secure laboratory in Victoria. [More…]

• These payments were for State government projects in the fields of education, health, roads, hospitals and so on. [More…]

• The Whips in this place have a responsibility to ensure that senators are not driven to a point of exhaustion which will interfere and has interfered with their health. [More…]

• However, we have the gravest of objections to the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1978 and the National Health Amendment Bill 1978. [More…]

• At the outset, in respect to the Health Insurance Amendment Bill, I move: [More…]

• In respect of the National Health Amendment Bill, I move: [More…]

• The second main provision of the Bill allows health insurance organisations to operate schemes providing approved medical and hospital deductibles. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has not indicated what these deductibles will be, or indeed how the whole scheme will operate, but he did indicate that guidelines will be issued at a later stage by regulation. [More…]

• We take most serious objection to the concept of the deductibles because in our view- judging from reports in the media and comments by interest groups and so forth, in the view of many people in the communitythe deductibles system will mean that health insurance funds will be able to compete by putting up different plans for the healthy and wealthy in the community. [More…]

• In making these sorts of variations and options available to the Health insurance funds the Government is virtually inviting them to tailor their plans to suit themselves. [More…]

• As I said, the consequences will be that the funds will cater for the healthy and the wealthy. [More…]

• They will cater for the healthy, young, fit people who do not fear serious or prolonged illnesses and who may be tempted to opt for front-end deductibles. [More…]

• Again this is an erosion of the universality of health insurance cover. [More…]

• We do not believe that the health policy of this nation should be determined by the various competitive activities of the funds or the individualistic or private values under which they may wish to operate. [More…]

• We do not believe that that is the way to a proper national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• We believe that it is the responsibility of government to provide a health insurance system which covers all Australians for all proper medical procedures. [More…]

• If the Government wishes to change radically the nature of health insurance in this country, the least it can do is to present these changes in legislation which can be fully debated and discussed in the Parliament and not through regulation to which the Parliament and the general community have not nearly so much access through general and open discussion. [More…]

• The third provision of the National Health Amendment Bill to which we are opposed concerns the abolition of bulk billing. [More…]

• The Opposition, of course, is strongly opposed to this legislation because we believe that it may mean that health centres will cease to operate as we know them. [More…]

• It also could mean a reduction in the income of doctors who work in health centres in low income areas or who conduct private practices in low income areas where bulk billing is the only form of payment they are able to secure for services rendered. [More…]

• In 1976 when the Fraser Government introduced its first attack on the health insurance scheme it did not abolish bulk billing. [More…]

• I should like to refer to the last report of the Health Insurance Commission which states: [More…]

• Given those facts, as revealed in the latest Health Insurance Commission report, the Opposition fails to understand the sudden attack by the Government on bulk billing. [More…]

• The situation is that health centres and bulk billing doctors now can receive ‘pay doctor’ cheques at their office, each one individually stamped with the patient’s name. [More…]

• Because the Government is rushing through this legislation, apparently without consulting doctors who are involved in these sorts of schemes, there is no assurance that doctors in or out of health centres can provide the administrative backup for a ‘pay doctor’ system. [More…]

• I ask the Government to consider the following alternatives to the scrapping of bulk billing: The first is that it should be mandatory for each patient to receive a copy of the assignment of benefits slip which is sent on to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Secondly, I ask the Government to consider a system of contracting doctors in health centres. [More…]

• I mean by this that direct billing would remain if those doctors and health centres followed certain approved practices allowing for checks against fraud to be carried out. [More…]

• I put in a plea here for the preservation of health centres, whether they be fee-for-service centres or salaried health centres. [More…]

• It was the intention of the Labor Government to establish a system of salaried health centres throughout Australia and we made a start on that. [More…]

• But what is more important to us than the method of payment of doctors in health centres is that the centres themselves should continue. [More…]

• We believe very stongly that the health centres have a crucial role to play in maintaining the health of the community. [More…]

• The health centres as I know them in the the Australian Capital Territory have many other benefits. [More…]

• Health centres with which I am familiar offer child care services, community information services and social workers. [More…]

• In many cases they have become a focus for general health consciousness programs such as exercise programs, clubs, discussion groups and bicycle clubs, and they have the facility for a teaching role if at some stage we move into a more communitybased system of education and training for doctors and paramedicals I believe that the maintenance of health centres where they have been established and the development of new ones in areas where they can serve the needs of particular communities are most important factors to be taken into account. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Amendment Bill amends the original Act to provide that certain persons- Australian residents overseas and overseas residents in Australia having foreign health cover- will be exempted from the health insurance levy and ineligible for benefits. [More…]

• It also provides for the exclusion of certain health screening services from payment of benefits. [More…]

• On the other hand, in our view, a number of kinds of screening services are essential as a preventive measure for the health of the community. [More…]

• Again we fear that this reduction from 85 per cent to 75 per cent will impose hardship on doctors, health centres, family planning clinics and services of those kinds where the percentage of the fee that they regain from the funds is the only payment they get for their services. [More…]

• We believe that in some cases that may be a deterrent to doctors or health centres to provide certain services. [More…]

• Whilst we are relieved that those people at least will be excluded from this provision- doctors and health services will still be able to claim the 85 per cent of the scheduled fee for those people- we point out to the Government that those people are not necessarily the people who are worse off in the community or even necessarily the people who are most in need of health services. [More…]

• The overall effect of the Bills is that there will be a cheaper form of insurance for those in the community who least need it- the healthy, the fit and the wealthy- and for everybody else, health insurance and health costs will increase. [More…]

• We are particularly concerned that although more than 60 per cent of health costs are incurred in hospitals the Government has not even begun to remedy the situation. [More…]

• We believe that they will lead to a reduction in health services and increasing costs. [More…]

• This country is facing some real problems in the financing of health costs. [More…]

• The honourable senator somehow brought the subject of health centres into her speech. [More…]

• Health centres were a good initiative of the McMahon Government. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that total health costs or government outlays for health- one can look at either one- have gone up. [More…]

• Commonwealth Government outlays on health have gone up from a little more than $2 ,000m in 1972 to more than $6,250m in 1978. [More…]

• If we examine the share of our gross domestic product and if we examine the percentage of Commonwealth Government expenditure in each of these areas, we find that health has continued to take more and more of our resources as each year goes by. [More…]

• There is no doubt that any prudent government will examine whether these health costs are all of them justified or all of them efficient and, if there is a problem, it will at least face the problem. [More…]

• It is not only the Government that has become aware that there is a problem in the area of health costs. [More…]

• Honourable senators will have noticed, for example, in some of the national newspapers that health costs are now acknowledged to be a problem for us all. [More…]

• In March of this year the Adelaide Advertiser devoted an editorial to health service costs, set out some of the problems, and said among other things: [More…]

• The individual, the health funds and the Treasury can stand just so much and the consensus is that a quadrupling of expenditure in 7 years or so is enough. [More…]

• I am not suggesting that that leads us to any particular solution, but there are real problems in the area of health costs and in the extent of those health costs. [More…]

• If we are looking for other sources which would tell us what has happened in the amount of our resource going into health- perhaps the second question to ask is what we receive for it- we could look to Professor Kenneth Cox from the Centre of Medical Education at the University of New South Wales, a very eminent medical educator, who said in a very fair article entitled ‘Who owns the problem of health cost care ‘: [More…]

• No government can ignore a health care bill exceeding S5.4 billion. [More…]

• The Director-General of the World Health Organisation has stated that half the health care expenditure in the Western world is directed to people who will die within the next 1 2 months. [More…]

• I do not suggest from that quotation that one stops directing care and resource to people, but we have to be aware that there is a real problem in the health cost area and a need for governments to respond appropriately. [More…]

• This Government is addressing itself to the question how we can move to reduce total expenditure in the health care area. [More…]

• The Government has a responsibility to place a ceiling on the amount of public expenditure devoted to health care. [More…]

• Already the Government has moved to contain some health costs. [More…]

• I believe that the public is probably ready to accept a greater limitation on the availability of health services imposed by financial constraints. [More…]

• I am saying that to reduce costs we will probably have to reduce our personal utilisation of health services. [More…]

• The more extensive and sophisticated health services and techniques have become, the less we have got back in terms of living longer, feeling better or being more healthy. [More…]

• So in the end the Government will have to impose more effective controls over total public health expenditure and particularly over some of the high cost areas that seem to be yielding little in the way of health returns. [More…]

• Some gallup polls have been conducted into what the public thinks about health costs. [More…]

• It is interesting to note that 75 per cent of Australians support the idea of keeping the national health bill down by offering incentives to doctors and hospitals to keep their costs down. [More…]

• I shall dwell for a moment on one matter to which the honourable senator did not direct attention and that is the Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• I believe I have the support of the Opposition in paying a brief tribute to the Hospitals and Health Services Commission, its officers and the work that it has done over the last few years. [More…]

• Perhaps more than any other body of its kind, it has set out to identify for us the shape of our problems in the health provision, health manpower and health cost areas. [More…]

• In other provisions in these Bills, the Government has set out to try to make a start- nothing more than that- in providing some rational control over health care costs. [More…]

• It was notable from the speech of the honourable senator who spoke for the Opposition that not one suggestion was offered as to how we could control, limit or contain our total health care outlays. [More…]

• Until members of the Opposition join us in that debate, their speeches are not relevant to the problems of health care costs in Australia today. [More…]

• These Bills, with their various divisions which have been set out by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in another place and discussed by Senator Ryan, will help us to achieve some of these improvements. [More…]

• A provision in the Health Insurance Amendment Bill will allow for the option of deductibles from health insurance, if it is so desired. [More…]

• I say to the Opposition that comparisons between Medibank and the private health funds are largely invalid. [More…]

• It appears that the populations using the two kinds of health insurance are not comparable in terms of their sickness experience. [More…]

• These people have an excellent health experience because of the fact that they are young and this fact tends to keep down the total cost of Medibank. [More…]

• Under a system of deductibles a fund will have the option if it so wishes of rewarding good health behaviour. [More…]

• In this country it appears that most of our remaining major health problems are related to lifestyle diseases. [More…]

• If we are ever to get some incentive into the health insurance system it is essential that community rating be done away with and that experience rating or individual rating be adopted. [More…]

• We have not yet seen any deductible scheme offered by health funds. [More…]

• We want to know how governments can best ensure value for money in health dollars spent and that is what we are talking about. [More…]

• I hope that the provisions of this Bill, the extra data that the Government has been seeking to generate and the extra information that is being sought from health funds can be used to give the Government all the information it wants to know about the health experience of our community and the experience of our various health funds. [More…]

• But they take account of some economic facts which the Opposition never mentions: Firstly, that resources are finite and we cannot spend more than we have available; secondly, that resources have alternative uses which need not necessarily be spent in the health area; and, thirdly, that people have different value systems and different ideas as to how the resources can best be used. [More…]

• We do not think that one can suggest, provide or support a market model in health. [More…]

• I simply place on record my agreement with the principle that doctors, whether in the personal medical service area or in hospitals, make a major contribution to the cost of health in this country and that providers have to be involved if we are ever to get complete control of health costs. [More…]

• I believe that these Bills provide a rational start on what we hope will be a continuing process of cost containment while maintaining social equity in the area of health care. [More…]

• I would like to summarise the debate that we have been conducting on the package of four Bills to amend the health scheme. [More…]

• I repeat that under the National Health Amendment Bill the Government is seeking principally to do four things. [More…]

• The second aim of the Bill in general terms is to provide that health insurance organisations can operate approved medical and hospital benefit plans with deductible schemes. [More…]

• If an optional deductible scheme which does not damage the universality of cover because it is an option that a person may exercise were devised by a health fund and approved by the Minister, I believe that this would be a way in which we could meet the cost burden that was spoken of by Senator Baume. [More…]

• I think that one thing that needs to be stressed is the cost of health care. [More…]

• Whilst recognising that there is a burden of cost that cannot be ignored, we need to devise a scheme that provides the health care which we believe ought to be available to every Australian. [More…]

• Thirdly, the National Health Amendment Bill imposes a further condition of registration on medical benefit organisations to the effect that they will not enter into direct billing arrangements other than for services rendered to eligible pensioners and their dependants. [More…]

• I have, on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) recognised in answer to questions, that the Minister is considering what may need to be done with regard to community health organisations. [More…]

• Those are the four principal matters that are dealt with in the National Health Amendment Bill. [More…]

• We are also dealing with the Health Insurance Amendment Bill, which embraces some of the things that have been mentioned by honourable senators tonight, such as the fact that it will empower the Minister for Health to direct that medical benefits shall not be payable in respect of medical services rendered by a specified person, such as Mr Brych of the Cook Islands, to Australian residents. [More…]

• It also prohibits, unless the Minister otherwise directs, the payment of medical benefits for health screening services that are not reasonably required for the management of the medical condition of a patient. [More…]

• This matter was raised by Senator Ryan, who inquired as to the nature of the health screening services that would cease to attract medical benefits. [More…]

• It was mentioned by the Minister for Health as an example. [More…]

• However, it is only reasonable that they should meet the cost themselves rather than that it should be a charge, either through Medibank or through the private health funds, against the community. [More…]

• Health screening services that are rendered outside of these guidelines will not attract benefits. [More…]

• Senator Ryan also raised the matter of the hospitals in the Australian Capital Territory which is dealt with under the Health Insurance Amendment Bill. [More…]

• The budgets will be prepared by the Capital Territory Health Commission and, after examination, will be approved by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Another Bill with which we are dealing is the Hospitals and Health Services Commission (Repeal) Bill. [More…]

• Senator Baume made the sort of reference to the work of the Hospitals and Health Services Commission that I would have thought appropriate to make also. [More…]

• Of course, I am delighted that we will have the services and the expertise of Dr Sidney Sax heading the social policy unit which will be located in my department and working with my department and the Department of Health. [More…]

• I hope that it will be looking to policy development of health, social services, social welfare and community welfare in the future to the advantage of all Australians. [More…]

• The other Bill which is before the Senate is the Health Insurance Levy Assessment Amendment Bill which makes amendments in respect of the income tax levies. [More…]

• Senator Ryan to the National Health Amendment Bill 1978. [More…]

• National Health Amendment Bill 1978 [More…]

• The Opposition opposes clause 3 which deals with the definition of deductibles and the introduction with deductibles of what are called approved medical benefit plans within the meaning of section 72E of the National Health Act. [More…]

• I must say that my worst fears were confirmed, that the Government has in mind a system whereby there will be two classes of people- those who, according to Senator Baume, experience good health, and are to be rewarded, and those who do not experience good health. [More…]

• We are opposed to rewarding those who have very few health problems and punishing those, by way of a higher contribution and so forth, who are frequently ill. [More…]

• We do not believe in general that people choose to be ill or choose to be well, although we thoroughly support community education programs which will lead people to adopt healthier life styles. [More…]

• We believe that the burden of paying for health costs should be spread equitably through the community, and we are totally opposed to the idea of rewarding those who are fortunate enough not to need frequent medical services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, in a paper dealing with this subject earlier said: [More…]

• I again quote from the comments which the Minister for Health made on 8 June in the other place. [More…]

• How on earth a health insurance fund could administer such a proposal I do not know, . [More…]

• This seems to be a strange way in which to administer health care. [More…]

• That sort of principle is now being applied to a health scheme. [More…]

• It seems to me that we have reached a situation where a further cost has to be imposed on the ordinary person and a reasonable health scheme is being destroyed because of a rapacity which could be brought under control by the medical profession. [More…]

• It could do it quite simply by taking a look at the health needs of this country and accepting a proposition which has been put to it, namely, that its members should be paid on the basis of an annual return and they should move away from the principle of fee-for-service. [More…]

• Wc should bc looking at a complete restructuring- that is the in word -of the medical profession and of the health system in this country. [More…]

• I wish to state something that has been said by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) when dealing with the matter of deductibles. [More…]

• The Minister said that he wondered how a health insurance fund could administer such a proposal. [More…]

• He said that he understood that some health insurance funds were investigating the desirability of offering such tables. [More…]

• He believes that some health insurance funds wish to offer, and some Australian people wish to avail themselves of, an optional deductible table. [More…]

• As I said earlier tonight, whether we are talking about an optional deductible at the time of looking at the service that would be covered or whether we are talking about some sort of benefit that could be given at the end of a period which took into account the use of the health insurance scheme during that period is a matter that is now within the hands of the health insurance funds to determine. [More…]

• This is something that is under consideration by the health insurance funds and something which may be proposed to the Government. [More…]

• He acknowledged that if there were to be such a variation from a universal health scheme- if it damaged universality of it- such a variation would not be attractive to the Government; nor would it probably have the concurrence of the Government. [More…]

• The health insurance funds may wish to consider these matters. [More…]

• Having decided to take this course, the Government has introduced another means of billing which seeks not to disadvantage organisations such as the Aboriginal health services, a few other organisations and certain classes of people such as pensioners. [More…]

• Is it to be delayed because the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) is not certain that he is doing the right thing in abolishing bulk billing? [More…]

• Does this factor mean that there is some division in the Cabinet because the Minister for Health has taken a particular point of view in support of bulk billing and somebody else- I would hesitate to say that it might have been the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser)- on an ideological basis has decided that the Government is against bulk billing; the doctors are against it; and it will be cancelled? [More…]

• Are we now being faced with a situation that we have faced from time to time in which the Prime Minister imposes his will upon the Minister for Health? [More…]

• Under the new system a person will be able to obtain a ‘pay doctor’ cheque by completing the normal form for Medibank- if he is insured with Medibank- or I imagine his health insurance fund. [More…]

• There is a ferule area for fraudulent practice if a person sets out to defraud a health fund or the Government through Medibank Standard. [More…]

• On several occasions during Question Time I have said that the Government is considering ways in which it can deal with community health centres, or Aborigines or low income groups. [More…]

• On behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) I believe I have said that it would be hoped that in the case of low income people the doctor would accept the ‘pay doctor’ cheque as full settlement for the account, not just as a 75 per cent contribution to it. [More…]

• This is another part of the Government’s strategy in these amending Bills to take account of the costs of health care and to ensure that proportions of those costs are borne by individuals. [More…]

• Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1978 [More…]

• It is worth pointing out too that although the Government has claimed in a sense that is technically true that it has not increased the Medibank levy, it is by these means increasing the cost of health services to levy patients as well as to everybody else. [More…]

• The proposed changes to this clause are important to the Government’s attack on health costs. [More…]

• When the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) outlined these changes when introducing the amending Bills he said that the rate of growth of health costs in Australia was well above the general rate of inflation and that, although significant modifications had been made to health insurance which had resulted in a decline in the rate of acceleration of costs, it was still far from acceptable. [More…]

• The Government considered a large number of options available to it to generate the necessary sense of community responsibility in both the provision and usage of health services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has said that there are no easy solutions to what is a very complex set of problems. [More…]

• Restraint for its own sake does not dominate our thinking but it is our responsibility to exercise restraint in spreading the costs of health services and in looking at other essential areas of government spending. [More…]

• The Minister also reminded us, as has been said earlier tonight, that people pay for health care by whatever, means is available to them. [More…]

• We believe that the introduction of a change so that 75 per cent of the health costs is recovered and 25 per cent is borne by the patient is a responsible change at this stage. [More…]

• The Government believes they are financially responsible changes and that also they take into account the need of people to have access to a health system. [More…]

• During the course of this debate the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) and Senator Baume have emphasised that the abolition of bulk billing will hold health costs down. [More…]

• It is a deliberate attempt to drive people who are sorely in need of medical services back into the private health funds, those massive profit-making organisations. [More…]

• I simply say briefly to all those honourable senators who are retiring that I wish them the very best in their retirement and I especially wish them good health during the time that they are out of this place. [More…]

• I am sure all honourable senators will join with me in expressing every good wish to Mr Les Moore and Mrs Moore for future health and happiness in retirement. [More…]

• In conclusion, I trust that my fellow senators, both those retiring and continuing, will enjoy good health and happiness for the rest of their days. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 25 May 1978: [More…]

• What is the position regarding the first draft of the proposed ‘Model Food Act’ referred by the Department of Health to other appropriate Commonwealth departments and the States for comment at the end of 1 976. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Health Ministers at their 1978 Conference endorsed the high priority for this project and requested that the work be expedited. [More…]

• It is expected that the completed Model Act and Regulations will be ready for the 1979 Health Ministers’ Conference. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 25 May 1978: [More…]

• What were the contribution rates charged by Australia ‘s largest private health funds in all States of Australia and its Territories in the period from 1 October 1976 to 24 May 1978. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 4 April 1978: [More…]

• It also contains tax increases and announces significant policy decisions on health care financing arrangements and crude oil pricing. [More…]

• by leave- I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard a statement relating to changes in health insurance arrangements being made in the other place by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• In his Budget Speech, the Treasurer (Mr Howard) advised that changes will be made to the health insurance arrangements from 1 November this year. [More…]

• Although Medibank provided universal health insurance cover, it did so in a way which was open-ended and costly. [More…]

• Health costs were escalating at an alarming rate, and when the Government took office it was apparent that modifications to the scheme were necessary in order to reduce this rapid acceleration. [More…]

• The changes to Medibank which became effective on 1 October 1976 and the subsequent amendments have resulted in a significant decline in the rate of acceleration of health costs. [More…]

• The figures, announced in March, indicated that in relation to expenditure, including capital, on a financial year basis, the rise in health costs of 27. [More…]

• The figures also showed that the rate of increase in health expenditure as a percentage of gross domestic product has been slowed. [More…]

• Nevertheless, the rate of increase of health costs has continued to be unacceptably high. [More…]

• Because of these factors, the Government has continued its review of the health insurance system. [More…]

• In October last year, I asked the Hospitals and Health Services Commission to review the financing of health services in Australia. [More…]

• The Commission’s report, ‘A Discussion Paper on Paying for Health Care’, was tabled in this House on 15 March this year. [More…]

• That report was one important component of the very comprehensive reconsideration of the health insurance system undertaken by the Government in recent months. [More…]

• Our review has pointed to an obvious fact: That to maintain a balance between the numbers of Health Insurance Levy payers and those privately insured- an essential element in the existing scheme’s strategy to contain costsclearly the Levy rate could not be held at its present level much longer. [More…]

• A further complexity has emerged because of the different health cost structures in different States, and the consequent variation in private insurance rates, which suggest a need to examine the imposition of different Levy rates in different States. [More…]

• Accordingly, we reached the conclusion that, rather than make any adjustments to the Health Insurance Levy, it was more practical and desirable to introduce a new and better Medibank system by abandoning the Levy and introducing a new Commonwealth medical benefit and other changes. [More…]

• Dr B. L. Hennessy, Department of Health [More…]

• and (3) I would point out to the honourable senator that prior to Mr McMillan’s letter to me, it had already been publicly indicated in a joint Ministerial Press Statement by myself and my colleague the Minister for Health on 26 July 1977 and in my further Press Statement of 27 July 1977, that there had never been any suggestion of reducing operating funds for the Service and grants to it were continuing in the normal way. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 May 1978: [More…]

• What percentages of the 1978 National Health and Medical Research Council Grant recommendations were related to: (a) heart diseases; (b) cancer; (c) diseases endemic to the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) The National Health and Medical Research Council has approved $6. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Aboriginal Affairs has provided, for several years, financial support (approximating $100,000 per annum) for research projects relating to Aboriginal health. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health give an indication of the amount of the very considerable savings to families resulting from the changes to the health insurance arrangements announced in the Budget last night which will greatly offset cost increases? [More…]

• I am sure that honourable senators opposite who sounded horrified are aware of the changes to the health insurance system which were announced. [More…]

• They are aware that the present compulsion on every Australian to pay for one type of health insurance or another will be removed by way of the benefit of 40 per cent which now will be paid by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and refers to two statements made last night by the Treasurer: firstly, that all Australians are to be entitled to a basic medical benefit of 40 per cent of the schedule fee totally funded by the Commonwealth from general revenue; and, secondly, that the benefit will be paid by private health insurance funds on behalf of the Commonwealth. [More…]

• Can the Minister explain which agency will be responsible for paying the 40 per cent benefit to persons who choose not to take out health insurance and what the mechanism for such payments will be? [More…]

• I shall see that the Minister for Health is informed of the question and that the Senate is advised of the mechanism which will be utilised and the further information required by Senator Ryan. [More…]

• The Minister representing the Minister for Health would be familiar with that portion of the Budget Speech that deals with health and refers to people identified by their doctors as being socially disadvantaged. [More…]

• I am aware that last night on behalf of the Minister for Health I incorporated a lengthy statement in Hansard. [More…]

• If there are any general statements on these matters which the Minister for Health wishes me to make I shall see that they are given in a general way to the Senate. [More…]

• following discussions and review by the Queensland Government, it has been decided that the hospitals and health services will be the responsibility of the Health Department and the Education Department will be responsible for schools. [More…]

• The Queensland Department of Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement has taken the view that it would pay for only the cost of the municipal and other services such as health services and that it would do so by making payments directly to the persons concerned and not through the councils. [More…]

• It claimed that the health standards had dropped, that educational facilities were insufficient and that children were not getting a proper education. [More…]

• Health and education are again State Government areas of responsibility. [More…]

• That argument was quickly squashed by honourable senators on both sides of the chamber who had some knowledge of the health problems in the area and by former Senator Wood who admitted that he had received advice from Mr Porter, the Minister for Aboriginal and Island Affairs, that the real reason he wanted to take over the area was that he did not agree with the movement of Aboriginals away from the central settlement because it made life difficult for the Queensland Government. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 May 1978: [More…]

• Did an inter-departmental committee directed by the Department of Health make recommendations for the establishment of a Central Medical Registry on decompression sickness to alleviate this serious problem affecting professional divers; if so, what were these recommendations. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question. [More…]

• That a central registry on decompression sickness be established; that the National Health and Medical Research Council establish a Committee on Decompression Sickness; and that a small Federal advisory body be formed to consult with the States on the need for co-ordinated facilities to treat decompression sickness. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council at its 85th Session in Adelaide in June 1978 approved the establishment of a Committee on Decompression Sickness. [More…]

• Department of Health [More…]

• The Committee dealt with urbanisation, employment, education and health. [More…]

• On health, I and the rest of the Committee were amazed at what has happened to the people in the area. [More…]

• When the Committee was made aware of the facts and saw some of the statistics we were amazed at the decline in the health standards of some of these people in the South Pacific because of their increased contact with the West. [More…]

• We drew attention to the question of environment, urbanisation and health- I think Senator Sibraa referred to health- and to the problems which sudden economic development could have upon the very distinct cultures of these people. [More…]

• On various occasions it has endeavoured to help him in respect of his problems with accommodation, employment and health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 22 February 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am very disappointed that the Government has now ceased the competition in the health fund area. [More…]

• It has disbanded the Government health fund which I would have thought would have kept private health funds honest in true competition. [More…]

• I think that this is a matter that has been concerning the Department of Health for some time. [More…]

• Perhaps it would be proper for that question to be directed to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health received a copy of the report from the AttorneyGeneral on 14 July 1977. [More…]

• My question which I direct to the Minister representing the Minister for Health refers to children who suffer from brain damage. [More…]

• Also, there is no tax deduction allowed for this expense or refund from health insurance. [More…]

• I will have referred to the Minister for Health the question that he has raised. [More…]

• I will see also whether any further information can be developed between the Department of Health and my own Department in connection with this treatment. [More…]

• One should not underestimate the importance of the building and housing industry to the overall economic health of this nation. [More…]

• Tasmanians have been prepared for variousreasons to contribute massively to the economic health of this nation for small return. [More…]

• I know that finance is one aspect of the matter but I believe the tax has been imposed in a responsible way and in an area that the Government believes will help the health of the society. [More…]

• Medibank was to be retained, but now it has disappeared entirely to be replaced by a pale, sickly creature of a subsidy system, neither flesh nor fowl, which even the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) concedes probably will not see out the year in its present form. [More…]

• Those people who can least afford it will be worst hit by the new or increased regressive taxes, by the crippling new charges on lump sum leave payments, by the abolition of the maternity allowance, by the destruction of the concept of universal health insurance, by the massive reductions in welfare housing and by the niggling and mean-spirited changes to social service benefits to people such as accident victims undergoing rehabilitation and even tuberculosis sufferers. [More…]

• There will be a reduction of about $2 a week for his health insurance, but I wonder whether this will be a short-lived reduction. [More…]

• When we view the arrangements that have been made for Medibank and for health insurance and how they have been changed in the last three years, with all these changes we sometimes wonder what will happen next year. [More…]

• The Government believes that maternity allowances have been superseded by health care and family allowance arrangements and has therefore decided to abolish this benefit for births occurring after 3 1 October 1978. [More…]

• I wonder how anyone expects to be able to obtain from the health care arrangements that we have all the items that are needed after a birth in a family. [More…]

• But the health care arrangements too are going to be changed. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• What is the bed /population ratio for hospitals in Australia recommended in the recent Sax report entitled A Discussion Paper on Paying for Health Care and what is the ratio at which the Department of Health is aiming for Australia? [More…]

• I understand that the recent Sax report entitled A Discussion Paper on Paying for Health Care does not recommend a bed/population ratio. [More…]

• The Department of Health is currently discussing with State health authorities future hospital provisions with the aim of rationalising hospital resources and improving efficiency and productivity. [More…]

• This higher figure recognises the special health problems of both Aboriginal and dispersed rural populations in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• First of all, in September 1972 at the instigation of the United States the International Atomic Energy Agency visited the Philippines Atomic Research Centre to make a health and safety inspection. [More…]

• At end of motion, add ‘, but the Senate is of the opinion that the Bill is inadequate because it makes no provision for the under-estimating of the deficit which is likely to follow from the understating of unemployment benefit and health payments, over-estimating of receipts from personal income tax and customs duty, and other inadequacies in the Budget forecasts’. [More…]

• At end of motion, add ‘, but the Senate is of the opinion that the Bill is inadequate because it makes no provision for the under-estimating of the deficit which is likely to follow from the understating of unemployment benefit and health payments, over-estimating of receipts from personal income tax and customs duty, and other inadequacies in the Budget forecasts’. [More…]

• At end of motion, add ‘, but the Senate is of the opinion that the Bill is inadequate because it makes no provision for the under-estimating of the deficit which is likely to follow from the understating of unemployment benefit and health payments, over-estimating of receipts from personal income tax and Customs duty, and other inadequacies in the Budget forecasts. ‘ [More…]

• Let us look at the changes in the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• This is made up of added Budget outlays of some $305m and a reduction of $3 1 6m in receipts because of the cancelling of the health insurance levy. [More…]

• In response to this question in the other place the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said that the established private health funds would. [More…]

• I feel I am in good health. [More…]

• I support the amendment that has been moved by the Leader of the Opposition, Senator Wriedt, which seeks to add at the end of the motion: but the Senate is of the opinion that the Bill is inadequate because it makes no provision for the under-estimating of the deficit which is likely to follow from the understating of unemployment benefit and health payments, over-estimating of receipts from personal income tax and customs duty, and other inadequacies in the Budget forecasts. [More…]

• I comment on that contribution from the New South Wales Minister only to the extent of noting that it is really an abdication of social responsibility to make that kind of comment in the face of the vast body of evidence, which would indicate that it is the duty of every Minister of a responsible government to act on public health information as firm as that which we have in relation to smoking. [More…]

• It brings me back to one of the basic issues which I suggested exists, that it, whether we consider alcohol as a legitimate growth industry in view of the kind of evidence which is emerging of the effects which it is having as a health and social hazard and as the major drug which creates problems in this country. [More…]

• Dr Chegwidden of the New South Wales Health Commission has estimated that in 1 974 alcoholism ranked third as the largest cause of death in Australia behind heart disease and cancer. [More…]

• Let me say a few words about healthy drinking. [More…]

• I report in an anecdotal sense that I had the opportunity to visit the Hunter Drug Advisory Service in the Newcastle area run by the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• It is a very good sticker that has been widely accepted around the country and presents a positive health message. [More…]

• In relation to healthy drinking, the Service has started an intervention program and is able to report that some of the employers are finding measurable improvements in attendance at work, a decrease in absenteeism, among certain groups who have been identified as being at risk. [More…]

• On a world scale Australia, an affluent country, well situated and well fed, ranks only tenth in terms of scales of health and health performance. [More…]

• It is likely that our rather suboptimal performance in health is attributable to the lifestyle we lead and, in particular, due to some of the drugs which are used and abused, particularly cigarette smoking which causes an excess mortality of enormous proportions and a major public health problem in this country. [More…]

• It is also due to alcohol abuse rather than to any deficiencies in the health care system or the provision of health facilities. [More…]

• If people want to improve the health performance in this country, quite apart from the problems such as isolated communities or some of our Aboriginal population, we have to address ourselves to these lifestyle problems rather than imagine that the transfusion of extra resources will do the job for us. [More…]

• These issues have been very adequately set out in a quite brilliant inaugural lecture delivered at the University of Tasmania by the foundation professor of community health at that University, Dr Norelle Lickiss. [More…]

• Honourable senators know as well as I do that there is no institution within society which is more capable or better equipped than the family to provide educational or a social welfare and health delivery system. [More…]

• That the Senate is of the opinion that financial grants by the Commonwealth Government or its statutory authorities should not be provided, either directly or indirectly, to those organisations in public health areas the officials of which advocate that abortion is an acceptable or desirable form of fertility control’. [More…]

• In 1976-77 grants totalling $514,264 were approved by the then Occupational and Social Health Projects Branch of the Department of Health for disbursement to the Australian Federation of Family Planning Associations and the Melbourne Action Centre. [More…]

• Those members of Estimates Committee D will remember that last year I asked questions of officials of the Department of Health about the attitude of family planning associations to abortions. [More…]

• Later, one of the officials of the Department of Health replied- and this is to be found on page 132 of the Hansard of Estimates Committee D: [More…]

• I suspect that that is what has occurred; that since first they tapped the Health money pipeline, there has been this change in attitude in some cases towards the policy that abortion is an acceptable and/or safe form of birth control or fertility control. [More…]

• To relieve poverty, to prevent ill-health in the special field of family life and to reduce the incidence of abortion. [More…]

• It’s legally accepted as a means of fertility control; just one option available to women in this State and its fitted into the health system and the medical system. [More…]

• As Section 6469 on Health Refunds is the number for curette and abortion, to remove Medical Rebate for No. [More…]

• 6469 would transgress a woman ‘s right to the rebate available via medical health insurance. [More…]

• That the removal of this item from the schedule would destroy the concept of universal health insurance, and would have the most serious repercussions for women and their health. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health heard reports that a Dr W. Forrest of the Australian [More…]

• As this latest research has thrown new light on Australian red wine will the Minister for Health have discussions with Dr Forrest on this report and, if it is found to be correct, will he then make a formal statement to clarify the real position regarding Australian red wines? [More…]

• I ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister advise whether the Department of Health has approved the importation and use of this substance for human therapeutic treatment or whether these well publicised sales are being made illegally? [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that calcium pangamate known also by various other names including vitamin B15, is not formally recognised as a vitamin. [More…]

• No general marketing approval for human therapeutic use has been granted by the Department of Health as intending commercial importers have been unable to substantiate the many therapeutic claims made for the material. [More…]

• Commercial importation, for veterinary use only, may be effected without reference to the Department of Health. [More…]

• The open promotion of Calgam by a Sydney firm of importers is, to say the least, unethical, and the Department of Health is currently pursuing this matter. [More…]

• Does not the disclosure that about 12,000 East Timorese have been found to be starving and in a dangerous state of health require the urgent attention of the International Red Cross? [More…]

• Let me stress that, as Senator Gietzelt will know, the island of Timor is one of the most formidably inhospitable places, particularly in the hill country, with very little natural resources in terms of foodstuffs, and that in ordinary times the people have very poor health generally and very poor nutrition. [More…]

• Firstly, it exempts from sales tax sun screen preparations that are certified by the Director-General of Health as providing acceptable levels of protection from solar ultra violet rays. [More…]

• The Opposition is pleased that the exemption requires approval of the exempted product by the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• In the context of Senator Wriedt ‘s remarks I also say that it appears to me that his attitude is well worth supporting insofar as there does appear to be a need to ensure that the preparations that are on the market are adequately screened- forgive the pun- by the Department of Health to ensure that they properly carry out the functions for which they were designed. [More…]

• One of the big difficulties we find in the whole area of health is to identify or to separate out those issues which are effective preventive issues. [More…]

• Any analysis of the economic basis of health care in this country shows that the preventive measures are economically far sounder than treatment measures which might subsequently have to be brought in. [More…]

• It has had the most important effect upon the dental health of Australian children. [More…]

• The first of these relates to the fact that one of the major health problems in Australia in terms of cancer is capable of preventive intervention. [More…]

• It is even less desirable that governments should interfere when they do so by mischance, when they do so unintentionally- when the desires of one department to raise money lead to another department being unable to fulfil its role, in this case a role in preventive health. [More…]

• To this extent I think it deserves to be complimented for having adopted a simple but effective measure which will cost not very much revenue but which will allow another effective preventive health intervention. [More…]

• To the extent that preventive health is going to be cost effective and that most treatment facilities are not cost effective, I think that this is the kind of intervention which we should be seeking more and more in the health area in this country. [More…]

• I mention the changes to health insurance. [More…]

• The new health insurance arrangements will assist families in meeting the extra costs which arise from the impact of this type of increase. [More…]

• I am replying to your letter of 12 January 1978, concerning the income test for Pensioner Health Fringe Benefits. [More…]

• The prison diet for political detainees is inadequate and political detainees are compelled to supplement their diet with foodstuff from their families to ensure their health. [More…]

• 1 ) What is the total number of personal and ministerial staff attached to each of the following Ministers in the Fraser Government: (a) Minister for Trade and Resources; (b) Treasurer; (c) Minister for Education; (d) Minister for Health; (e) Minister for Primary Industry; (0 Minister for Immigration; (g) Minister for Home Affairs; and (h) Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs. [More…]

• MINISTER FOR HEALTH [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 June 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) How much time has elapsed since the Minister asked the Australian Medical Association to conduct an inquiry into the introduction of a peer review system to medical and hospital practice in Australia designed partly to contain doctor-initiated health costs. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1)I announced on 20 May 1976 the Government’s invitation to the medical profession to institute systems of peer reviewof professional standards. [More…]

• At the time of announcing the Government’s invitation to the medical profession, I noted that review arrangements should be established ‘in close consultation with the Department of Health’. [More…]

• On 28 August 1 978 the AMA forwarded to the Commonwealth Department of Health a list of initiatives it proposes taking and also sought Commonwealth financial support for some of these. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 June 1978: [More…]

• Did Dr Ward also comment that specialist medical care has been available to Aboriginals in isolated areas only since Medibank was introduced and that the loss of these specialists will seriously affect the health and welfare of Aboriginals. [More…]

• Will the Minister ensure that Aboriginals, many of whom live in sub-standard housing and with chronic health problems requiring specialist attention, will not lose access to specialist medical care now funded by bulk billing, as a result of the Government’s proposed changes to the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The above decision does not affect the previously announced arrangements for people with Pensioner Health Benefits entitlements and their dependants. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 9 June 1978: [More…]

• Has any other private health fund an interest-free loan from the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• Has any other private health fund been provided with free space in buildings owned or leased by the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• That we believe that the changes to Medibank will cause many to place their health at risk in an attempt to maintain their standard of living. [More…]

• Sometimes they fall within the area of health, sometimes that of social security and sometimes that of education. [More…]

• I certainly believe some assistance is warranted, particularly in those areas where they suffer the same handicaps that we suffer- in education, health, housing and job opportunities. [More…]

• The Medibank reforms give Australians choice in health insurance. [More…]

• As late as March this year the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, was asked this question: [More…]

• Naturally at that time no mention was made of the increased ‘hidden’ tax- hidden in that it was a compulsory Medibank levy or a compulsory payment for health insurance. [More…]

• It expects to work on bluetongue investigation, aphid resistant lucerne breeding, the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory and the establishment of a group for international research co-operation. [More…]

• I refer to the provision of adequate social security benefits to help those who cannot support themselves, the availability of a high level of education to all and the insistence that health services are within the reach of everyone. [More…]

• Tax reductions which were promised by the last Government had, in fact, already been eliminated by the changes to health insurance; but they are completely negated by the increases in taxation in this Budget, an increase which goes under the guise of a levy but which is, of course, just a straight tax increase. [More…]

• The domiciliary nursing care benefit which was promised by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in the 1978 Budget for those aged from 16 to 65 years is ignored. [More…]

• In the Budget there are major decisions that are of great importance to this country such as the decisions in regard to health care financing which appear to be gaining very considerable support in the community and which appear to promise a reduction in the cost of health care but at the same time will provide substantial health cover for people in this very necessary area. [More…]

• There are, of course, many other areas such as hospital development, community health facilities and urban public transport which will be known to honourable senators. [More…]

• Then we come to the bizarre changes in the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Even the most vociferous opponents of the national health insurance scheme- I am referring to members of the Australian Medical Association- were astounded by the irrational and eccentric changes introduced in the Budget. [More…]

• The changes are costly, chaotic, confusing and do not necessarily lead to a reduction in expenditure by the Government on health. [More…]

• That seems to be the only positive effect in terms of the Government ‘s own ideology, of the changes to the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• During the Senate Estimates committee hearings questions will be asked about the cost to the taxpayer of advertising this series of changes to the health insurance system in an effort to inform people about what they are up for at this particular stage. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether the Government is aware of the little, if any, formal instruction given at any medical school in Australia about Australian venom diseases and the treatment of bites from venomous Australian creatures such as snakes, spiders and some marine creatures. [More…]

• In answer to the first two parts of his questionthat is, whether the Government is aware of the little, if any, formal instruction and whether the Government is concerned at this lack of knowledge- I am advised by the Minister for Health that he would answer yes to both questions; he is concerned about the lack of knowledge. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is concerned about that matter also and I understand that he has referred it to the National Health and Medical Research Council in the context of its current investigations. [More…]

• As to the first two parts of the question, the Minister for Health also advises that this matter has been considered by the National Health and Medical Research Council which has been investigating the provision of publicity on this information to the medical profession. [More…]

• The matter raised by Senator McAuliffe is one of concern and is receiving the attention of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Does the evidence and information available indicate that such a declaration would be reasonable, and are there any reasons why such a declaration should not receive full support from this Government and the animal health authorities? [More…]

• Information available will support a special cattle health status in Tasmania for the diseases of brucellosis and tuberculosis, which have been eradicated. [More…]

• The Bureau of Animal Health has already notified the international animal health organisations and Tasmania is noted in the various animal health year books as being free of these two diseases. [More…]

• There is no reason why any declaration on animal health should not receive the full support of the Commonwealth Government provided that such a declaration does not adversely affect the national interest or does not draw undue attention to relatively minor or doubtful cattle diseases in other States. [More…]

• Would this not apply in Australia to merely a handful of people who would have accumulated their annual leave over perhaps the last two years or so, no doubt to the detriment of their own health? [More…]

• Pursuant to section 76A of the National Health Act 1953 I present the annual report on the operations of the registered medical and hospital benefits organisations for the year ended 30 June 1 977. [More…]

• The Treasurer in his Budget Speech clearly explained that other decisions included in the Budget- I refer particularly to the abolition of the health insurance levy and the reduction in the sales tax on motor vehicles- would counterbalance any adverse effects on the CPI which undoubtedly would occur as a result of the increased costs of petroleum products. [More…]

• Senator Webster said the future emphasis of the bluetongue research at CSIRO’s Division of Animal Health would be towards: [More…]

• For many years the CSIRO Division of Animal Health has been engaged in a nationwide research program aimed at determining the potential insect vectors of diseases of livestock. [More…]

• In conjunction with this program, the Division of Animal Health has also been co-ordinating the regular bloodsampling in 5 1 cattle herds scattered around Australia and Papua New Guinea. [More…]

• Considerable untied grants are given to the States for community health programs. [More…]

• Let us look at the community health program in general. [More…]

• I will not go through the whole method of how they deal with community health programs. [More…]

• Out of the community health program, it funds five women’s centres. [More…]

• That is the only area in community health where the Commonwealth Government does not make just a 50:50 commitment but makes a commitment to meet 75 per cent of the costs, as opposed to the States’ commitment of 25 per cent of the costs. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said: [More…]

• I ask the Minister in charge of the House, the Minister for Science (Senator Webster), to approach the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and ask him whether the Government would fund the efforts of the Salvation Army in this regard; whether the Federal Government could take over some of the responsibility in an area to which it has said it is so financially and philosophically committed, an area to which I too am committed. [More…]

• I hope that the Minister for Health will be able to see his way clear to meet that request. [More…]

• I suggest that the Government have a look at this matter and under the health scheme or in some other way provide financial assistance for families with children who suffer these problems. [More…]

• I suppose that they would be foolish if they did because it has some ill effects on their health. [More…]

• I ask the Minister for Health and the Minister for Social Security to look more closely at the matter that I raised in relation to brain damaged children and to make some investigations of the Australian Centre for Brain Injured Children. [More…]

• I again urge both the Minister for Health, the Hon. [More…]

• The latter raised questions about health controls. [More…]

• The background minute said: ‘Given the anticipated future a real concentration of foreign nationals at the tourist resort with potential for carrying viruses, pathogens and other organisms not normally found in Australia, the concentration of carrier insect pests such as mosquitoes, and the fact that conventional sewage treatment and disposal does not normally eliminate such organisms, blood-borne diseases and pathogens may become a significant public health problem in the vicinity of the site. ‘ [More…]

• Accordingly, we had discussions with Mr L. R. Kentwell, First Assistant Secretary, Agriculture and Food Services Division, Department of Primary Industry; Mr J. T. Snelson, Pesticides Co-ordinator, Pesticides, Agricultural Chemicals and Veterinary Drugs Section, Department of Agriculture who the day after we had discussions with him went overseas for conferences at The Hague of the world Food and Agricultural Organisation and who is regarded as a world authority on pesticides; Dr W. A. Langsford, First Assistant DirectorGeneral, Public Health Division, Department of Health; Dr E. G. Fitzsimmons, Director of the Toxicology Section, Department of Health and Chairman of the Poisons Schedule (Standing) Committee and Pesticides and Agricultural Chemicals (Standing) Sub-Committee, National Health and Medical Research Council; Mr R. E. M. Wilson, a pharmacist, and Secretary, Australian Drug Evaluation Committee, Department of Health; and Mr B. [More…]

• The Federal Department of Health and the State health departments ought to recognise the importance of collating information on birth deformities. [More…]

• Also, I had evidence given to me about a farmer living in the Kyabram district who had suffered considerable ill health for a long time following the spraying of properties in the neighbourhood. [More…]

• We should not accept too readily what is perhaps the desire of people to give a clean bill of health to these instruments. [More…]

• The States Grants (Home Care) Act was introduced in 1 969 on the basis of a recommendation made at the 1968 Health Ministers Conference. [More…]

• Home care services which can be subsidised under the legislation include home visiting, laundry and shopping services, home handyman and related home maintenance schemes, housekeeper and other services which complement health or welfare programs designed to enhance the independence of aged and infirm people living at home. [More…]

• Complementary to the assistance that has been provided under this program, 76 women ‘s refuges have been approved for funding, at an estimated cost of some $3m this financial year, through the Community Health Program. [More…]

• I refer, firstly, to a letter from Robert L. DuPont, M.D., who is the Director of the Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health Administration in the Department of Health, Education and Welfare in the United States. [More…]

• Your emphasis on alcohol and tobacco as the drugs of most serious abuse is also a much needed-recognition of the relative importance of the various types of drug use from a public health standpoint. [More…]

• Will the Minister inform the Senate of the total in the original submission by the Aboriginal Health Service in New South Wales, the amount the Government will appropriate for this program and the amount being donated by the Freedom From Hunger Campaign? [More…]

• Is it correct that the Tasmanian Agricultural Department constantly informs the Australian Bureau of Animal Health as to the disease status of the Tasmanian livestock industry? [More…]

• To the best of our knowledge, it was made without any prior consultation with State Premiers, with State Departments of Health, with State Departments of Welfare, with local government bodies or with any voluntary organisations. [More…]

• Some two years ago the Government set up its own expert inquiries into the future of health and welfare services in this country. [More…]

• We believe the growing awareness in local government circles of its potential to act effectively in the welfare/health field, and its growing capacity, particularly in service delivery, should be encouraged, primarily through influencing the States in this direction rather than by direct Commonwealth action. [More…]

• In the Western Australian Parliament on 7 September the Honourable Lyla Elliott asked a question of the Minister for Lands who represents the Minister for Health in the Legislative Council. [More…]

• Mr Jona, the Acting Minister for Health in Victoria had something to say about this. [More…]

• Furthermore, State funds through the Health Department will continue to be applied to meet existing jointly funded Commonwealth/State programmes where the formula has not been changed unilaterally without reference to the State. [More…]

• It is generally recognised, I believe, that levying local government rates is an unsatisfactory way of financing health and welfare services in the community. [More…]

• What hope is there for any preventive health or welfare measures in this area if the Commonwealth slashes the funds and if the States cannot make up the deficiency- as the States of Victoria and Western Australia say they cannot- and if the councils, because of their nature, cannot raise their rates even further? [More…]

• Professionals in the health and welfare area have warned time and time again how short-sighted it is to force aged people and others into dependence and institutional life. [More…]

• Dr Van Tiggler, Co-ordinator of Geriatric Services for the Victorian Mental Health Authority, said recently: [More…]

• No one should be forced to go into an institution because of the lack of home health. [More…]

• As far as home health services are concerned, the additional money nominally allocated by the Commonwealth will be called on only if the States and the councils themselves can find the additional funds to contribute. [More…]

• Earlier this year the Government established a policy unit within the Department of Social Security to co-ordinate policies on health and welfare. [More…]

• I believe that local government in this country can very well determine the need and the delivery of health services. [More…]

• The Liberal Party health policy says: [More…]

• The States Grants (Home Care) Act was first introduced in 1969 on the basis of recommendations made at a Health Ministers Conference the previous year. [More…]

• This takes on added importance when senior people are in good health, active in mind and body, close to community affairs and close at hand to family. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security in a Press Release dated 3 April 1978 on ‘Community Responsibilities in Welfare and Health Programs ‘ said- [More…]

• In a discussion paper on paying for health care prepared by the Hospital and Health Services Commission, it was estimated that on average patients maintained in the community cost Governments about one-fifth of what it costs to treat patients in hospitals and two-thirds of what it costs to treat them in nursing homes. ‘ [More…]

• The size and nature of the problem facing us is evidenced in information available in the Poverty Commission’s reports on this subject- I refer particularly to health studies of selected disadvantaged groups and homeless persons and the law- together with the excellent document which was recently produced by the Department of Social Security called ‘A Place of Dignity’. [More…]

• The reason given at that time was that the Government had not yet devised a firm direction for the program and had not yet finished considering the Bailey task force report on health and welfare. [More…]

• I suggest that those who have not done so will learn a good deal from a reading of the report on the health screening of homeless men in Sydney called Health Studies of Selected Disadvantaged Groups’. [More…]

• This is something which is significant when considered in the light of the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare of which Senator Baume is the chairman and I and others are members. [More…]

• As Senator Grimes has said, the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare, of which Senator Baume is Chairman and Senator Grimes and I are members, finds that very little evaluation goes on in any departments or voluntary organisations in this field. [More…]

• That we believe that the changes to Medibank will cause many to place their health at risk in an attempt to maintain their standard of living. [More…]

• These are payments for income tax, superannuation contributions, rent or mortgage payments for a dwelling in which the applicant resides, half of any board paid by the applicant, municipal rates and water rates for a dwelling in which the applicant resides, maintenance payments to a spouse and any children of the applicant, payments under hire purchase agreements for household goods and furniture used by the applicant in the home and payments for health insurance to a maximum of $150 per annum for a single person or $300 for a married person. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: Is it correct that officials of the Australian Bureau of Animal Health have been kept informed constantly about the disease status of the Tasmanian livestock industry and the efforts which the Tasmanian Government has made in conjunction with cattle producers in Tasmania to ensure that Tasmania remains the State with the least number of cattle diseases? [More…]

• He did not say that when the Labor Party came into government the health services in the country areas were at rock bottom and that it upgraded them. [More…]

• Another area of importance deals with human health and this involves investigations into the influence of dietary fibre. [More…]

• The CSIRO ‘s research suggests that it is the type of fibre and not the quantity which is important in keeping people healthy. [More…]

• National health schemes have been the thing in Europe for years. [More…]

• The fact is that whether one has full health insurance cover or pays only a levy, the health insurance systems overseas are far different from what the Government visualises for Australia. [More…]

• It is true that they will have to make adjustments at the end of the financial year when filing a tax return, but it is a damn sight worse for them to find in the middle of the year that the package deal in relation to health that is contained in the Budget is to be changed. [More…]

• The quality of service as offered by JAT is below international standards in all respects, and particularly as regards health standards. [More…]

• I draw attention to the community health program under which women’s refuges are funded through the Department of Health. [More…]

• In an attempt to ensure that imported wine is produced with the same degree of care and quality standards as Australian wines, the Wine Board has requested State Ministers of Health to take steps to have the law enforced prohibiting the sale of products which do not meet the prescribed standards for wine set out in the relevant legislation. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, refers to the future of Medibank staff. [More…]

• The Minister will be aware that last week the State managers of Medibank met to consider a report from the Health Insurance Commission in respect of the options which would be available in the campaign to influence people to remain with Medibank. [More…]

• I would need to refer that matter to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health for his advice. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that salinity of the River Murray is over the World Health Organisation level for some 25 per cent of the time and that this will double within the next few years? [More…]

• The British Monopolies Commission found that the pharmaceutical transnational company of Hoffman-La Roche was paying many times the normal price for its raw material imports bought from a subsidiary and charging the British health service 370 sterling and 922 sterling a kilo for two drugs of comparable quality which an Italian company was selling at a profit of 9 sterling and 20 sterling. [More…]

• That gives an indication of how the system is being rorted by those who are in a position to apply pricing policies which are detrimental to the consumer, to governments and particularly to government agencies, involved as they are in health schemes. [More…]

• One can only wonder at the extent to which the over-pricing of imports raises the final sale price of commodities and thus generates inflation and reduces the tax base in Australia and the revenue available for public expenditure on housing, health, education and other publicly-provided goods and services. [More…]

• The quality of service as offered by JAT is below international standards in all respects, and particularly as regards to health standards. [More…]

• The quality of service as offered by JAT is below international standards in all respects, and particularly as regards to health standards. [More…]

• I made inquiries about the health standards about which I was concerned and I found that all the meals for JAT when it leaves Australia are prepared by Qantas and that when it leaves Singapore all the meals are prepared by Singapore Airlines. [More…]

• Therefore, as far as the meals are concerned, the health standards would be the same as those which apply to any other airline leaving Australia or Singapore. [More…]

• Therefore, I am at a loss to understand why we get a petition which complains about the health standards of this airline. [More…]

• A program of public works should be set in train to include, for example, the sealing of rural roads in the Australian Capital Territory, the construction of a bridge at Tharwa, the realignment of the coast road and the construction of the Belconnen Health Centre. [More…]

• At the moment approximately 400 officers are employed by Medibank in the Australian Capital Territory- 5,000 officers are employed nationally- and at least half of these officers are faced with retrenchment soon unless the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, is able to reach some satisfactory arrangement with the private funds whereby Medibank can continue to compete in a realistic way with the private funds by offering a variety of health insurance services to the public. [More…]

• The situation in regard to the basic services in the Australian Capital Territory- education, health, employment opportunities and employment training opportunities- has become totally chaotic. [More…]

• Mr Viner said he was perturbed by a public statement by Dr Joseph Camilleri reported in the press, suggesting that health and education spending would be deliberately cut to offset royalty payments to Aboriginals. [More…]

• I am unaware of the identity of the people ‘high up’ in my Department who Dr Camilleri claims told him that education and health spending would be cut, but if this was said then it is untrue. [More…]

• Even disregarding the fact that it will be a number of years before substantial amounts of uranium royalties are available, it will also be a long time before the handicaps which Aboriginals suffer in health, education and other areas will be overcome. [More…]

• I preface my question, which is directed to the Minister for Science, by stating that I was interested recently to read of the work of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation in the field of health and nutrition in Australian communities. [More…]

• He has since introduced an element of epidemiological research concerned with health and nutrition in the Australian community. [More…]

• The objective of the division at present, I understand, is to study nutritional processes with a view to identifying the existence and consequences for health of nutritive imbalances and deficiencies in the Australian population. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by remarking that it has been reported to me that there are rumours of a recent outbreak of rabies amongst dogs in northern Australia. [More…]

• I have no knowledge of the matters raised by Senator Colston but I will refer them to the Minister for Health and seek information for the honourable senator. [More…]

• In regard to the last part of the question, which related to knowledge of the presence of this disease in Australia being withheld from the Australian people, I am sure that would not be the intention of the Minister for Health, particularly because of his concern to ensure the health of all Australians. [More…]

• Can he comment on the further benefit accruing from the abolition of the compulsory 2i percent health levy? [More…]

• It is equally true that the abolition of the compulsory health levy will considerably increase the pay packets of those wage earners throughout Australia who contributed to Medibank Standard. [More…]

• Does the Minister representing the Minister for Health recall my asking a question about the relationship of histamines to Australian red wines and the report of a Dr Forrest who stated that after three years of research his study showed that there were no untoward levels of histamines in Australian red wines. [More…]

• Will the Minister ask the Minister for Health to make a statement clarifying the situation in regard to the level of histamines in Australian red wines to see whether the position of this Australian industry, which was damaged so much by incorrect information being supplied to members of the general public, can be recovered. [More…]

• I will ask the Minister for Health whether he would feel disposed to make a public statement on this matter which would give correct information. [More…]

• I will draw Senator Young’s further question to the attention of the Minister for Health to see what information can be released. [More…]

• It has been reported in the media that following discussions with the Mayor of Alice Springs, Mr George Smith, and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, regulations are to be introduced by the town council regarding various matters, particularly health, which would affect the Aboriginal people living in the town area. [More…]

• I note that Henry Kyemba, a one-time Ugandan Health Minister, in his book entitled State of Blood, gives us an insight into similar methods and attitudes which prevail in Uganda. [More…]

• Outlays on health and welfare in three years under the Labor Administration rose by $4,600m. [More…]

• Stud cattle producers look forward to capitalising on their reduced disease stock, which has become known between the Tasmanian Government and the Bureau of Animal Health as Tasmania’s advanced disease-free status. [More…]

• It has been my pleasure to enjoy very full and open cooperation with the Tasmanian Minister and through him with his Department, as well as with the Bureau of Animal Health here in Canberra, on this topic of advanced disease-free status for Tasmania. [More…]

• Tasmania has a most enviable situation in regard to its livestock health, and great credit is due to the Tasmanian Department, the Government and the farmers of Tasmania for the present condition of their livestock. [More…]

• He warned us that the Budget would also include tax increases and that there would be significant policy decisions on a number of matters relating to health care and financial arrangements. [More…]

• I want to move quickly now to the area of health. [More…]

• Last year the Department of Health in the Northern Territory spent $2Wm less than was allocated. [More…]

• Senator Ryan in particular has drawn attention to the Aboriginal communities and the health problems they face because of inadequate staffing. [More…]

• I would like to refer to a comment made by Dr Everingham who was probably one of the best Ministers for Health that we have ever seen in the Federal sphere. [More…]

• Aboriginal health has also been hit by this Government despite promises by the Prime Minister and by the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• Because of the lack of preventive medical services and health services, on average urban Aboriginal children cost the Government hundreds of dollars a year per child in remedial medical costs. [More…]

• It has been agreed for many years that the people in the Northern Territory need to go south for the sake of their health. [More…]

• I refer to the provision of adequate social security benefits to help those who cannot support themselves, the availability of a high level of education to all and the insistence that health services are within the reach of everyone. [More…]

• I am sure that Senator Teague will be wishing that he had not interjected in that way because the reduction in the health levy that he talks about is not the sugar-coated pill that he would have us believe, like the rest of the Budget. [More…]

• Health services will be supported and maintained by the provision of $43m. [More…]

• Funds provided in this Budget for health and essential services to Aboriginal communities will be carefully monitored in association with the respective Commonwealth Departments, to ensure that between us - [More…]

• The major areas of expenditure are: Housing $ 1.987m, which is up 38 per cent on last year; health $729,000, which is up 75 per cent; education $83,000, which is up 35 per cent; welfare $86,000, which is up 27 per cent; town management $ 1.992m, which is up 11 per cent and which includes mission and essential services which are funded through the Northern Territory Government; and legal aid $101,000, which is up 19 per cent. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and it is about the expenditure by the Health Insurance Commission on buildings to house its officers. [More…]

• Will the Minister consider changing the provisions of the Health Insurance Act to prevent Medibank from spending taxpayers’ money on erecting Taj Mahals throughout the country? [More…]

• Cuts in community health program spending will mean drastically reduced services by women’s health centres and refuges, despite increased demands and increased costs. [More…]

• I wrote to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs (Mr Viner) because I found that this refuge is existing mainly for the support of Aboriginal women who find themselves in rather delicate domestic circumstances and require some form of home in which to live until government agencies can take up their plight. [More…]

• Since our funding has been stopped, we have tried alternative sources to try to meet the 23 per cent commitment which Emmaus must produce in order to obtain the other 73 per cent from Public Health. [More…]

• Representations have been made to Ray YoungMinister for Health and Welfare. [More…]

• Public Health have arranged for someone from Canberra to come to Penh to ‘assess the situation’. [More…]

• This money is administered through a State committee of the Public Health Department. [More…]

• After six months of operation, Public Health refuse to accept our staff remuneration policy. [More…]

• Total expenditure- $ 1 , 600 per month; Emmaus- 25 per cent contribution-$400; Public Health contribution-$ 1,200. [More…]

• I think it is about time that the Government recognised that there is a need for these refuges and whether they are funded through the Department of Aboriginal Affairs, the Department of Health or the Department of Social Security really does not matter as long as funding is available and in this Budget this year it is not going to be available. [More…]

• As I have already said, cuts in community health program spending will mean drastic reduction in the number of services provided by women’s health centres and refuges despite increased demand and costs, and the figures are there to prove not only increased costs but also increased demand. [More…]

• In brief, the task force was required to take into account the use of such a system to provide high quality radio and television broadcasting and other telecommunications services to all Australians; its application in the areas of health, education, science, transport and defence; its use by the private sector for improved communication information and other services; and the implications of a satellite to current radios and television services and the terrestrial communications system. [More…]

• Only a few days ago, Dr Mahler, the DirectorGeneral of the World Health Organisation, wrote to Mr Thomson, who is the Secretary of the Committee, thanking him for providing a copy of the report. [More…]

• He commented that the World Health Organisation had studied the report and thought that the report presented a logical, common sense approach to dealing with alcohol-related problems and drug dependence and that, if implemented, would provide a sound basis for national policy. [More…]

• This is described in the annual report of the Commonwealth Director-General of Health where he stated: [More…]

• People who work in the drug field, people who work in the health field and people who take a particular interest in the drug problem recognise that alcohol and tobacco are the No. [More…]

• I would like to draw the attention of the Senate to a handbook prepared by the Division of Health Education of the Health Commission of New South Wales which was published in 1 973 and which is called ‘The Use and Abuse of Drugs’. [More…]

• So far as we can see, the Health Commission of New South Wales, in its teachings, considers that the types of drugs most liable to be abused do not include alcohol and tobacco. [More…]

• The Committee was not terribly happy about this because we did not believe that the cigarette warning ‘Smoking is a health hazard’ had any effect at all. [More…]

• Dr Klugman, the Opposition spokesman in the other place for health matters was pleased to read or to have incorporated into the Hansard the organisation’s letter of 23 August as published in the Australian Financial Review. [More…]

• The remarks which I wish to address to the Senate arise from a document which the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has been accused of having suppressed but which in fact is freely available and a royal commission report emanating in South Australia. [More…]

• The report prepared by the drug dependence section of the Commonwealth Department of Health, a report that caused some controversy when it was alleged that this document had been suppressed when in fact it is quite freely available in the Parliamentary Library, is one of the areas which I believe ought to be explored by honourable senators to some advantage. [More…]

• In fact, I would discourage its consumption as a matter of caution, even though the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare remarked that given the length of time cannabis has been in use, nothing has manifested itself in the community in the form of physical ill-health directly attributable to cannabis use. [More…]

• I believe that the crux of the marihuana debate lies elsewhere than in the question of its adverse effect on health. [More…]

• He or she is exposed to unscrupulous traders who have an all too evident interest in greater profits and in leading the user to the use of truly dangerous drugs, deadly and inimical to the user’s health and well being. [More…]

• I believe that in our reaction to the social use of small amounts of marihuana by Australians we have one of the indicators of the health of our democracy. [More…]

• I believe it is not inimical to the general health of the community. [More…]

• In particular, the Government considers it essential for the package of income tax Bills to be passed this week, with the social services Bills and health Bills being available for passage next week and the week after. [More…]

• 2), the Income Tax (Rates) Amendment Bill, the Income Tax (Individuals) Bill, the Income Tax (Companies and Superannuation Funds) Bill and the Health Insurance Levy Bill. [More…]

• Successive British governments have expressed willingness to consult with the Australian authorities in determining whether any further action is necessary on health, safety or other grounds at Maralinga. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 24 August 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) Are only one full-time sister and one part-time sister available at Yuendumu to meet the health needs of a population of 1 ,400 people. [More…]

• Are these sisters expected to train Aboriginal Health workers as well as providing health services to the people at Yuendumu. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• There are three full-time sisters at Yuendumu to meet the health needs of a population of less than one thousand people. [More…]

• There is an Aboriginal Health Worker School at Alice Springs, but the sisters at Yuendumu are required to give inservice training to Aboriginal health workers, who are expected to do much of the Health Centre work. [More…]

• At Yuendumu there is a health centre, not a hospital, which is furnished with equipment relevant to its needs including an oxy-viva respirator and a gas-operated sucker. [More…]

• Life support and emergency systems are normally located in intensive care and similar sophisticated units in large hospitals and as such are unsuited to health centres. [More…]

• I am, of course, concerned that the best health services possible should be provided to the people at Yuendumu, within available resources, and my Director in the Northern Territory is monitoring the situation there with this concern in mind. [More…]

• Will the Minister table the original submission by the Aboriginal Health Service. [More…]

• In 1976 the world spent on the military something of the order of $325-5400 billion, at least as much as it spent on health and more than it spent on education. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and I refer to the Government’s program of assistance to persons who live outside a 200- kilometre radius of medical centres and who require specialist treatment. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Environment, Housing and Community Development: Is it a fact that in 1 978-79 the Federal Government will spend 9c per head on national sport, $1.86 per head on the arts and approximately $200 per head on health? [More…]

• Might an increase not help to reduce the amount needed for health? [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of a report that Tasmanian pensioner health benefit claims will be processed in Melbourne after 1 November? [More…]

• I have some information from the Minister for Health on this matter. [More…]

• The implications of the new health insurance arrangements, including new work arrangements required to implement the Government’s decisions by 1 November this year and the staffing consequences of the changes required, have been under close examination by the Department of Health and the Health Insurance Commission, in consultation with the Public Service Board. [More…]

• The Department of Health, however, will be seeking to employ additional staff in Tasmania to undertake work in connection with other new functions. [More…]

• The overall result will be that additional jobs will be created in the Department of Health in Tasmania. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The matter of sunglasses may be handled by the Department of Health. [More…]

• -Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs been drawn to a statement made yesterday by the Northern Territory Director of Health, addressing the first national conference of Aboriginal health workers in Darwin, that in most cases unemployment in Aboriginal communities ran at more than 50 per cent? [More…]

• In bringing in the Termination of Pregnancy Ordinance 1978, the Government has flouted the democratic principle and reneged on its own promise, given when the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said: [More…]

• The Legislative Assembly was charged by the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, with deciding whether there should be independently run abortion clinics or special abortion clinics run by the Capital Territory Health Commission or whether there should be no abortion clinics in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• The Legislative Assembly did fulfil the responsibility with which it was charged by the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt. [More…]

• Another one, which was the major recommendation because most of the others related to it, recommended the setting up of a special abortion clinic under the control of the Capital Territory Health Commission and within the grounds of a public hospital. [More…]

• As I have said, the Legislative Assembly report made 47 recommendations to the Government, concerning mostly the establishment of a public clinic administered by the Health Commission. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• It would seem that the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, has preferred the advice of Cabinet, a group of men who are not answerable to the people of the Australian Capital Territory, to that of the representatives of the community affected by his decision. [More…]

• For the purpose of stressing to honourable senators the undertaking which was made by the Minister for Health on this matter, I read again what Mr Hunt said: [More…]

• I hope that all senators will agree with me that the principle at issue is the right of all Australian citizens to democratic government and that a Minister who has given publicly an undertaking in the way that the Minister for Health has done should keep that undertaking. [More…]

• The Government, through the Minister for Health, had made a prior undertaking to accept that report. [More…]

• My colleague, Senator Grimes, as the shadow Minister for Social Security will deal with the Opposition’s attitude towards the changes in the health insurance levy arrangements. [More…]

• The real value of these awards has fallen and people accepting them will also be adversely affected by the new health insurance measures. [More…]

• That would be simply done and would probably be acceded to by Arbitration Commission because the rationale of all these leave provisions over many years, as argued in the Arbitration Commission, has been that workers should take leave when it falls due because it is a matter not only of money but also of health, appropriate recreation and so on. [More…]

• If he decides to take out private health insurance on top of that, that is his own decision, and rightly so. [More…]

• In the light of that example, let us look a little further at the position of people who are contributing to private health funds now. [More…]

• A middle income earner who is on the highest medical benefit table is going to save something in the order of $4 a week, according to the statements made by the private health funds last week. [More…]

• Although conceived as a compensatory measure mainly for the benefit of the less fortunate, the need for increasing tax collections to service the areas of social welfare, education and health has been shown on occasions to bring by way of response demands for more pay. [More…]

• If they do not have the wherewithal to join a health fund they will receive only 40 per cent of the money that may be expended on medical accounts in any one year. [More…]

• Another matter that I want to mention refers to the manipulation, or however we wish to describe it, of the health insurance levy. [More…]

• I have received correspondence from the Australian Taxation Office, Adelaide, dated 18 August 1978, informing me that I am responsible for my wife’s Health Insurance Levy since she opted to stay in Medibank Standard. [More…]

• Further, I am told, I have to pay in addition a Health Insurance Levy of $ ISO for myself, even though I have receipts from Medibank Private indicating that I paid out $190.40 in the 1977-78 financial year for health cover. [More…]

• My wife and I were married on 29th July 1977, and have now received an unpleasant delayed wedding present from the Australian Government to the tune of $490.40 for a year’s health insurance, simply because my wife chose to continue her membership of Medibank Standard when she married, and I continued in Medibank Private as a single contributor. [More…]

• Further, my wife has had the Health Insurance Levy taken from her fortnightly pay after changing her name, as her paymaster himself apparently did not Know of the possibility of individuals being made to pay double for health cover when they married. [More…]

• Making a person responsible for his or her spouse’s health cover must be confusing for many newly-married couples, particularly those who married in 1977-78. [More…]

• We are now being told at the end of the Income Year that, while spouses are independent for Income purposes and can submit separate tax forms, they are not when it comes to Health- even when they have no dependent children. [More…]

• The trap which has been sprung for my wife and I- and from what I have learned from Taxation enquiries, for numbers of other newly-married couples- appears to hinge on the definition of the word ‘dependants’ in the Health Insurance Levy section of the Income Tax form. [More…]

• I now find at the end of the Income Year in which I married, and after paying $190.40 to Medibank Private, that husbands and wives living together are defined as ‘dependent upon each other’, and that as he therefore has a ‘dependent’, the husband must pay the Family Rate under the Health Insurance Levy. [More…]

• What is distressing about this legislation is that the literature on the health insurance changeover of 1.10.76 does not warn couples marrying of the dangers of paying double for health cover. [More…]

• It is not good enough to learn of the law at the end of the Income Year, when a large sum of money has been paid out to a private health fund. [More…]

• I have in front of me the booklet issued in August 1976 by the Department of Health on the eve of the changeover to the Levy system, bearing the title ‘How to choose the health insurance cover that’s right for you’. [More…]

• Nowhere does the booklet tell a person that his spouse is his ‘dependent’ for Health Insurance Levy purposes. [More…]

• However, in the confused circumstances of the 1976 changeover in health insurance, this seems unreasonable particularly as a booklet such as the above was issued in order to reduce confusion and ‘explain’ people’s obligations. [More…]

• What appears to have happened is that in removing Medibank, a particularly unfair anomaly has been created and has gone uncautioned in the official literature supposedly guiding people ‘s health insurance decisions. [More…]

• Surely, if the people have been trapped but can show they have contributed to a health fund, they should be able to have the Levy refunded (or health contributions refunded). [More…]

• I do not make any apologies when I say that I think that the Health Insurance Act that the Labor Government brought into being was the best health cover that could be obtained for any person living in this country. [More…]

• But because the present Government is subservient to the private health funds and the Australian Medical Association it has tinkered with health insurance until it is a system now which reeks of utter confusion. [More…]

• The Budget, particularly the taxation measures which we are discussing tonight and the health insurance measures should not have been introduced in view of the promises that the Government made to the electors. [More…]

• Does not the disclosure that about 12,000 East Timorese have been found to be starving and in a dangerous state of health require the urgent attention of the International Red Cross? [More…]

• My question is addressed to Senator Guilfoyle in her capacities as Minister for Social Security and Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As to the other part of the question which related to the Minister for Health, the Minister for Health advises me that he is aware that from time to time the cigarette industry resorts to misleading comment aimed at rebutting the proven association between ill health and smoking. [More…]

• The Minister for Health believes that the occasion warrants a restatement of a conclusion reached by the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare in its report ‘Drug Problems in Australia- an intoxicated society? [More…]

• It supports the view of the Commonwealth Depanment of Health, the United States [More…]

• Surgeon General, the Royal College of Physicians and the World Health Organisation that there is an undoubted association between smoking and a wide range of significant diseases. [More…]

• The Minister for Health further states that there is an overwhelming weight of evidence, statistical and clinical, that smoking is dangerous to health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health does not wish to comment on the legal position of marketing cigarettes as compared with marihuana. [More…]

• I think the matter is one for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This is a matter for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Obviously he has noted that international investigations have been conducted by the World Health Organisation. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has conducted investigations; recently there has been a Victorian study; and recently the South Australian Government has completed a study on the effects of these two herbicides. [More…]

• The Minister for Health in Victoria recently commented in relation to the work that was carried out in Sale. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has said that he sees no reason to have a further national survey of this matter. [More…]

• The use of metrication in the area of health is perhaps far greater than in any other area of public use. [More…]

• I will refer the honourable senator’s question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have heard that many Aborigines have a mind to remove you on 21 September 1978 from your Chairman ,-/ , /- been thrown out of a job as Health Minister and Parliamentarian in 1975 by a Governor-General and an election and so I guess I know the son of feeling this could bring about. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health inform the Senate how many employees of Medibank in Hobart will be made redundant as a result of the Government’s intention to transfer the processing of health benefit claims of pensioners and disadvantaged persons from the Hobart office to Melbourne as from 1 November? [More…]

• Because of ill health he had to retire earlier this year. [More…]

• If this right to annual leave that the unions, and everyone else I presume, consider and believe is a necessity is waived and people are persuaded by their employers not to take it for the benefit of the employer, the health of the employees will suffer. [More…]

• They will be persuaded to go without this recuperative period, which I believe is very important for their health, by the employers virtually holding a carrot under their noses and saying: ‘If you accumulate your leave, you will not have to pay so much tax’. [More…]

• I do not believe that it will do their health any good if they go without leave for five or six years. [More…]

• It is a question of the employer-employee relationship and it is a question of the health and welfare of workers in industry. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council recently endorsed a report prepared following a joint meeting of the Council’s Antenatal Diagnosis of Congenital Abnormalities Working Party and State representatives. [More…]

• I understand that on 24 May the Minister for Health announced that the Commonwealth Government would negotiate with the States measures directed to achieving increased hospital productivity, efficiency and cost containment. [More…]

• Subsequently, with the agreement of State Health Ministers, Commonwealth and State officials have discussed these and other measures suggested by State officials. [More…]

• The discussions were held against the background that all Health Ministers share a concern about the growth in hospital costs. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry any information on the evaluation of trials being carried out by the Bureau of Animal Health and the Victorian Department of Agriculture into the alternative method of detection of brucellosis known as the indirect haemolysis test or IHLT which I understand is hoped to take over from the existing method and which would involve not insignificant savings of both cost and time in the eradication program? [More…]

• I understand that officers from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Division of Animal Health and the Victorian Department of Agriculture laboratories at Atwood, which is very near where I live, are collaborating in a large field trial to evaluate a serological test known as the indirect haemolysis test or IHLT as the honourable senator mentions, for use in the brucellosis eradication campaign. [More…]

• Costs associated with confinements are now largely covered by health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• The normal waiting period of 2 months normally applicable to private health funds will be waived when a person lodges his claim between 1 November 1978 and 31 December 1978. [More…]

• National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• This Bill provides for amendments to the National Health Act 1953 to implement two separate decisions taken by the Government. [More…]

• First, provisions in the Bill together with provisions contained in the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1978, implement the Government’s changes to the health insurance arrangements to come into effect from 1 November 1978. [More…]

• In a statement in another place on 15 August 1978 explaining in detail the Government’s changes to the health insurance arrangements, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) advised that a Commonwealth medical benefit would be payable to all Australian residents for medical and some optometrical expenses incurred. [More…]

• Further, free standard ward treatment in recognised hospitals will continue to be available, under hospital cost-sharing agreements with States for persons who do not have hospital benefits insurance with a health insurance organisation. [More…]

• The principle of universal health insurance cover for all Australian residents remains. [More…]

• In addition to these basic criteria, optional tables must comply with guidelines determined by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• While these guidelines will be flexible to allow registered organisations to offer a variety of health benefit packages, the Government still considers it has a responsibility to ensure that such tables offer adequate benefits for reasonable contribution rates, and will take this into account when considering applications from registered organisations. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has asked me to make it quite clear that the benefits available for exclusions under part (iv) of the optional hospital insurance tables guidelines relate only to benefits for ‘professional services’ and ‘outpatients services’ as referred to in the basic hospital table as defined. [More…]

• Recently the Minister for Health has been made aware of action taken to preclude a. person from becoming a contributor to an organisation where that person is a patient in an institution. [More…]

• New section 73F, in clause 14 of the Bill, provides for the Minister for Health, upon application by a medical benefits organisation, to grant an exemption to the organisation from paying, out of its basic medical benefits table, benefits for specified professional services. [More…]

• It is expected that this convention will be followed by the health funds so that persons are not disadvantaged when transferring from one fund to another fund at the same benefits levels. [More…]

• A significant drawback in the effective analysis of the health insurance system has been, to date, the unavailability of related and adequate information. [More…]

• This question has been raised with representatives of the industry at a meeting of the Health Insurance Advisory Committee where the continued difficulty of maintaining and furnishing proper information has been recognised. [More…]

• New section 74d enables the prescription of information drawn from those records to be furnished to the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• I have already mentioned that this question has been discussed at meetings of the Health Insurance Advisory Committee. [More…]

• However, at present, the National Health Act does not permit dentists to prescribe pharmaceutical benefits, so patients must pay the full cost of medication prescribed by dentists. [More…]

• The same payment conditions will apply to pharmaceutical benefits prescribed by dentists as those which apply to pharmaceutical benefits prescribed by doctors; that is, pensioners with a pensioner health benefits entitlment card will receive them free of charge, while other patients will pay the normal $2.50 patient contribution. [More…]

• Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate contains provisions which give effect to the Government’s changes to the health insurance arrangements announced by the Treasurer (Mr Howard) in the Budget. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), in a statement in another place on 15 August 1978, explained in detail the new arrangements proposed to operate from 1 November of this year. [More…]

• I would point out to honourable senators that the proposals embodied in this legislation, and in other legislation to be considered, arise out of the Government’s continuing review of the costs of health care in Australia. [More…]

• As health insurance has such an important influence on the costs of these services, it is vital that we continue with these reviews. [More…]

• Since approximately 60 per cent of our total costs are in hospitals, cost containment and efficiency in the use of resources in the hospital sector are vital in any program to arrest the accelerating rate of health costs. [More…]

• While the 1 October 1976 changes to Medibank, and subsequent amendments to the health insurance arrangements effected by this Government, have resulted in a significant decline in the rate of acceleration of health costs, this rate of increase continues to be high. [More…]

• Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• While the legislation does not specify that the practitioner shall accept the benefits in full settlement of the expenses involved, the Minister for Health is confident that, in accordance with the policy of the Australian Medical Association, practitioners will continue to waive payment of any payment by the eligible pensioner or his dependant in these circumstances. [More…]

• The Minister for Health also discussed the matter with the AMA. [More…]

• Let me assure honourable senators that arrangements have been made for the Department of Health to watch closely the operation of the new direct billing procedures and to review them after they have been in operation for six months. [More…]

• Firstly, the Commonwealth Department of Health will pay benefits direct to practitioners, for claims made under the new direct billing procedures. [More…]

• Advances will be made by the Department of Health to registered organisations to enable them to make Commonwealth benefit payments for claims lodged by contributors and registered persons. [More…]

• However, the Health Insurance Commission will continue to pay claims for medical benefits for Medibank Standard persons, for services rendered prior to 1 November 1978. [More…]

• This facility will be available only through a medical benefits organisation which has entered into an appropriate agreement with the Minister for Health, on behalf of the Commonwealth, for the registration of persons for this purpose. [More…]

• Periodical inspection of records by officers of the Department of Health; [More…]

• Most medical benefit organisations have advised the Department of Health of their willingness to enter into agreements to pay Commonwealth medical benefits. [More…]

• At present, payments for the operation of hospitals in the Northern Territory are made through the Department of Health. [More…]

• The agreements between the Commonwealth and the Government of the Northern Territory will be based on the heads of agreement in Schedule 2 to the Health Insurance Act, which is similar to existing agreements with the States. [More…]

• This term derives its meaning from sub-sections 3 (7), (8) and (8a)’ of the Health Insurance Act 1973, and relates to a person entitled to both medical and hospital benefits in accordance with standard tables operated by medical and hospital benefits organisations. [More…]

• The effect of a person being deemed to be a ‘privately insured person’ is that such a person is exempt from payment of the health insurance levy. [More…]

• Since the health insurance levy is to be abolished, the term ‘privately insured person’ is no longer relevant in that context. [More…]

• This amendment ensures that the provisions of the Health Insurance Act remain in line with corresponding social security and repatriation legislation to maintain uniformity in the provision of ‘fringe benefits’ to pensioners. [More…]

• The amendment is contained in clause 13a, and enables Commonwealth and fund medical benefits to be paid, after 1 November 1978, for charges made by family planning associations and, where applicable, other organisations receiving health program grants under the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• The abolition of the health insurance levy; or [More…]

• The transfer of functions relating to the administration of certain provisions of the Act and payments under the Act, to the Department of Health from the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill [More…]

• The Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1978 and the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1978 give effect to the Government’s health insurance arrangements to operate from 1 November 1 978. [More…]

• This Bill amends the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 and establishes the role of the Health Insurance Commission in these new arrangements. [More…]

• In framing the revised charter of the Commission, it is the clear intention of the Government that Medibank Private will operate in a competitive position with other health insurance organisations and should be in as flexible a position as possible, having in mind that there is a statutory relationship with the Commonwealth as a Commonwealth authority. [More…]

• The Bill may be divided into four principal parts: Firstly, the reconstitution of the Health Insurance Commission; secondly, the removal of the Medibank Standard functions and the continued operation of Medibank Private; thirdly, provisions relating to the engagement of staff by the Commission after 1 November 1978 and the terms and conditions applying to the staff; and fourthly, the transitional provisions necessary to effect the changeover to the new functions of the reconstituted Commission. [More…]

• Whilst the Bill does not, in any way, affect the corporate identity of the existing Health Insurance Commission, it does, by the amendments contained in clause 11, provide for the Commission to be reconstituted. [More…]

• The abolition of Medibank Standard and the transfer to the Department of Health of the administration of various Commonwealth benefits and payments now made by the Commission mean the principal functions of the new Commission will be the management of Medibank Private and payment of the new Commonwealth medical benefit on the same basis as other registered health insurance organisations. [More…]

• Clause 10 of the Bill provides for the Commission to perform such other functions in relation to health insurance as the Minister for Health directs. [More…]

• This provision enables the Commission to pursue government policy objectives in health insurance where so directed. [More…]

• Further, provision is also made for the Minister for Health and the Commission to enter into an agreement for the payment to the Commission of administrative expenses arising out of the performance of functions which are the subject of a direction by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In order that the Commission can compete with the private health funds on an equal footing, the Bill provides that the Commission will no longer be required to seek Public Service Board approval of its terms and conditions of employment and will be subject to the Conciliation and Arbitration Act. [More…]

• Department of Health, the Department of Employment and Industrial Relations, the Commission and the Public Service Board about this situation. [More…]

• In the first instance they have concentrated on the transfer of staff associated with bulk billing functions to the Department of Health. [More…]

• This is one of the last resorts in a political battle being fought by this Government to ensure that uranium mining is carried out at any cost, including the cost of the lives, health and everything else of the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• I have been thrown out of a job as Health Minister and Parliamentarian in 1 975 by a Governor-General and an election and so I guess I know the sort of feeling this could bring about. [More…]

• I would only want to say that I believe that each government needs to build on what has been done by the government preceding it and that it is a long and continuing program that will see the benefits that we all hope to achieve in education, health, housing and generally in making Aboriginals equal members of our society. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• and (2) The Alcoholism in Industry Program, conducted by the Australian Foundation on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (AFADD), is fully funded by the Commonwealth under the Community Health Program (CHP) as a national project designed to combat alcohol abuse. [More…]

• Commonwealth funding enables AFADD to co-ordinate, in cooperation with State health authorities, a national program involving both industry management and unions. [More…]

• In addition, most general community health projects have a particular emphasis on prevention, including prevention in relation to abuse of alcohol. [More…]

• That we believe that the changes to Medibank will cause many to place their health at risk in an attempt to maintain their standard of living. [More…]

• These actions started with the first legislative act of the Government in 1976 of abolishing the subsidised health and pharmaceutical benefits scheme and continued with a long campaign conducted by Government members against the unemployed and with the failure to increase benefits to pensioners and children as well as supplementary benefits in the time the Government has been in power and they culminate in this legislation. [More…]

• Let us consider the situation with the ordinary man in the street with a dependent spouse, the ordinary Medibank levy payer who did not want to insure privately for health benefits or who was not financial enough to insure privately. [More…]

• So he is $1.80 better off with regard to taxation, and by the time he pays his health insurance of $1.27 he will still be considerably better off. [More…]

• The Minister for Health at that time, Mr Hunt, had introduced a $ 10 charge for hearing aids for pensioners. [More…]

• The Minister for Health then said that it would cause undue hardship. [More…]

• At page 7 of Mr Fraser’s policy speech of last year, under the heading Social Security and Health’, he stated: [More…]

• Secondly, to say that costs associated with confinements are now largely covered by health insurance arrangements is not true. [More…]

• They include: ‘Welfare in Industry: Changing Perspective’, reports; Worker Participation in Management: The Australian Context’; a submission to the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs on migrants in the work force: ‘Social Policy and Problems of the Work Force’, volumes 1 and 2; ‘Adequacy of Income Derived from Work for Low Income Families in the Williamstown- Altona areas’; Development of a Working Women’s Charter’, submission to the Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health; a submission to the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare concerning the inquiry into the adequacy of Australian health and welfare services; and ‘The Collection and Dissemination of Information on Social Welfare Programs and the Role of Trade Unions in the Direct Provision of Welfare Services’. [More…]

• Has the Minister, representing the Minister for Health seen an estimate in the Australian Journal of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence that the cost to the community of the victims of cigarette addiction was $625m a year in 1975-76? [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the estimate in the May 1978 issue of the Australian Journal of Alcoholism and Drug Dependence concerning the costs of tobacco-caused illness in Australia. [More…]

• The Government is most concerned at the damage to health caused by tobacco smoking and the cost of this damage. [More…]

• Can the Minister say how often this raw sewage has been discharged into the lower Molonglo River and what action the Government is taking to ensure that the health of people using water from the Mumimbidgee River is protected? [More…]

• Also, will the Minister not limit the definition of ‘teacher aide’ in this context to that applying in the majority of Australian schools, but relate this career directly to the practical needs of the Aboriginal community where these trainees will serve, so that there may be training not only in educational skills but also in health, social work and community development skills? [More…]

• It was approved by the shadow Cabinet and then, after 1 1 November 1975, when the caretaker government was appointed by Sir John Kerr and I was the caretaker Minister for Social Security, Health, Repatriation and Compensation, the full caretaker Cabinet endorsed the proposal unanimously and endorsed a statement I issued on its behalf promising that this would be introduced immediately if we won office. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security in her second reading speech gave as the reason that the purpose for which the amount was granted is now catered for under the various health services. [More…]

• They are unable to cope with the hard jobs and, as they are not suitable for that work, their health breaks down and they have to go on sickness benefits. [More…]

• In conclusion I once again ask the Minister a question that I have asked her on previous occasions: Will she take some action to see that the ceiling under which pensioners are entitled to a medical health benefit card is lifted so that they are not deprived of their fringe benefits because of the very small automatic increase in their superannuation payments each October. [More…]

• He is the only veteran in war disability without a health benefit card and pensioners concession card. [More…]

• The first question is: Will the Minister state whether the withdrawal of the health benefit card to war pensioners on 90 per cent disability is to remain of a permanent nature especially for veterans in the 70 years of age and over category whose only source of income is the pension? [More…]

• The effect of no health benefit card could be to make it impossible for them to meet medical health costs. [More…]

• A total of$1 1.6m was reported in 1973-74 in the Health group’ of objectives. [More…]

• Within this amount, $2.4m was for ‘Public health’, leaving$9.2m predominantly for research relevant to understanding and defeating human diseases. [More…]

• The relevant objective in the 1976-77 survey results will be ‘Occupational health’. [More…]

• Extensive inquiries by my Department in collaboration with the Department of Health indicate that there are no adequate statistics covering items (d), (e) and (0 of the honourable senator’s question. [More…]

• Has an application to open a shop selling health foods in the Canberra Arcade been rejected because it would lead to ‘too much competition ‘ in the Arcade. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Does she recall her colleague in another place on 15 August 1978 in a ministerial statement in relation to the Government’s latest national health scheme stating that some of the present employees of the Health Insurance Commission will be surplus to requirements; that the Government will be making every effort to re-deploy any surplus staff to the [More…]

• Public Service, to other Commonwealth authorities, to private health funds or elsewhere; that the Minister will be raising employment possibilities with the private funds; and that he has asked that the Public Service Board and the Commonwealth Employment Service give particular attention to the placement needs of Commission staff? [More…]

• I now ask the Minister whether she has seen reports which appeared over the weekend and which stated that as many as 700 employees of Medibank will be made surplus as a result of the Government’s latest national health plan. [More…]

• Today officers from the Department of Health briefed me on the National Health Amendment Bill and associated Bills which are to come before the Senate, I believe, tomorrow. [More…]

• So when the National Health Amendment Bill is being considered in the Senate I will see that the specific matters that honourable senators have raised are covered in the statement that I receive from the officers and perhaps we can discuss them further then. [More…]

• This is the report of the Committee which I appointed in September 1977 after consultation with my colleague the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• The Government’s decisions on the report’s recommendations will await the advice of the Tertiary Education Commission and the reactions of State and Commonwealth health and education Ministers and authorities. [More…]

• About 20 per cent went from various sources into the industrial area and only about 7 per cent went into health and the social sciences. [More…]

• It mentions sirotherm desalination, continuous magnetic ion-exchange and adsorption systems, water clarification and decolourisation, treatment of sewage and sewage effluent, oxidation processes and the environment and public health. [More…]

• These include an Associate Diploma in Residential Care at the Kelvin Grove College of Advanced Education in Brisbane; and courses in Rehabilitation Counselling at the Cumberland College of Health Sciences in Sydney and the Lincoln Institute in Melbourne.’ [More…]

• It is still the position that, if the College establishes a separate research fund exclusively to finance its research studies and which meets the other requirements of the Director-General of Health, income tax deductions would be allowable under section 78 ( 1 ) (a) (x) for gifts to the fund. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I undertook to have information with regard to the staff available when we are debating the health Bills which, I understand, will take place later today. [More…]

• -Tonight when I came into the chamber to speak I found on my desk a note which said: ‘Don, I am terribly sorry I will not be in the Senate tonight to hear your forty-eighth speech on the health insurance legislation. [More…]

• My colleague in another place, Dr Klugman, reminded the House of Representatives that this was the eighth time in the last two years that the national Health Act had been amended and the ninth time in the last three years that the Health Insurance Act had been amended. [More…]

• Prior to that we had had two debates in the House of Representatives and the Senate, a joint sitting and a further two or three debates in both Houses in order to introduce a national health scheme in this country. [More…]

• As I have said on previous occasions during debates such as this, it is a great disappointment to those of us who are interested in health care that for all the words that have been spoken in this chamber and in the other chamber, for all the words that have filled the newspapers and been heard on television and radio programs, we have never done anything that really affects the quality of health care in the community. [More…]

• The result of all the changes, particularly in the last two years, has been confusion in the community and an insecurity which is obvious to all members of parliament when they consider the number of inquiries by constituents about the best action for them to take to deal with their health insurance in the future. [More…]

• As the people of Australia decide this week whether to insure themselves against sickness or injury, they are entitled to ask how long it will be before the national health scheme is once more turned inside out. [More…]

• It has been a feature of the present Government’s management methods to arbitrarily overhaul the rules governing health insurance, personal income tax, company taxation and other areas of government business without giving due regard to the economic and social costs thereby incurred. [More…]

• Significantly, the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, is not prepared to say outright that the health scheme introduced in the Budget, and developed after the Budget, will not be changed again next year. [More…]

• That is a great pity because none of the substantial changes in these Bills will affect the standard of health care in this country. [More…]

• I submit that none of them will increase the efficiency of the system, none will decrease the cost of health care. [More…]

• It expresses our opposition and our desire that the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• At end of motion add- except the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• that the Health Insurance Commission continue to be the paying authority. [More…]

• One of the tragedies in this country is that largely we have no data on which to make judgments about the basis of health insurance planning. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) admitted this in another place on 24 May when he said: [More…]

• Until an improved data base becomes available, the Government believes that it would be premature to proceed further with the consideration of major adjustments to the health insurance system. [More…]

• Despite the fact that a survey of doctors in general and members of the Australian Medical Association in particular showed that a majority of doctors favoured bulk billing, the AMA disregarded its members’ views and, with the assistance of the voluntary health funds, supported the Government’s approach to bulk billing. [More…]

• This ideological blindness, regardless of the facts and regardless of the views of people who conduct health care in this country, bedevils our health insurance planning, and has done for some time. [More…]

• This will add to the general atmosphere of blindness with which we approach health and welfare in this country. [More…]

• There are changes consequent to the changes to the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• They claimed that this would create efficiency, make people aware of the costs of health care and reduce their alleged abuse of it. [More…]

• Payments will be made the responsibility of the multiplicity of voluntary health funds in the community and Medibank Private. [More…]

• There is no doubt in the world, as admitted by the health funds themselves, that they will seek and obtain a considerable increase on the amount of $1.52 per claim that they are to be paid. [More…]

• One of the results of this legislation and the confusion which obviously was not predicted when it was first introduced is that we now have appeals in the letter columns of the newspapers, and advertisements by the Minister for Health, Government representatives and representatives of the Australian Medical Association for people to insure, to take out voluntary health insurance. [More…]

• This new-found concern for universal coverage in health insurance by the AMA arises out of the fact that the young and healthy in this country will eventually do their sums. [More…]

• A result will be that those who take out health insurance will be those with high claim rates- the chronically ill and those who are prone to illness. [More…]

• I believe that the sooner the spokesmen for the medical profession and the Australian Medical Association in particular become concerned about total health care and are not totally preoccupied with methods of payment to themselves and methods of funding, the sooner government will receive sound advice and the sooner we will get a better health system. [More…]

• This gypsy syndrome, as I call it, which is defined as the condition in which proper medical care cannot be provided unless the palms of the doctors are crossed with silver should not dominate health care discussions in this country, as it has in the past. [More…]

• Because of our health system they have had to decide that some people were poor and could not afford the full cost of medical care. [More…]

• The Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) and the Minister for Health have both indicated that bulk billing of this type will be monitored and a careful watch will be kept to see that it is not abused. [More…]

• Another aspect of this legislation is the fact that the abolition of Medibank Standard and the cutting back of the functions of the Health Insurance Commission will, of course, mean a loss of some hundreds of jobs and the loss of skills acquired in the last few years by Medibank personnel. [More…]

• The handing over of the payment of the Government’s 40 per cent benefit to the health funds is done, as I said before, without providing any evidence for administrative or economic advantage. [More…]

• The gathering of statistical information on which to base future reviews of health care and health insurance will be immeasurably more difficult with this division of functions. [More…]

• As I said before, this inevitably will mean a skewing of the pool of insured people towards the unhealthy, towards the high risk patients and towards the high claims group. [More…]

• The reason is that the answer to higher health costs in this country and the answer to a more efficient health service lies not in fiddling with the health insurance system. [More…]

• We need a system of universal health insurance. [More…]

• The claim has always been that the reason this is being done is that the rate of increase in total health costs was too great and that the changes made by the Government each time would bring down that rate of increase. [More…]

• Concern has been expressed about the rate of increase of health costs in this country, not since 1975 when Medibank was introduced, not since 1972 when Labor came to power but back in the late 1 960s when we had the Nimmo investigation into health insurance in this country. [More…]

• Mr Gorton, then Prime Minister, at that time had his famous argument with the profession and with the voluntary health funds, and Mr McMahon- as he was then- in a much milder way, of course, later had his arguments with the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• If we look at the figures in recent years, we find the annual rate of increase in total health costs in this country was 20 per cent in 1 973-74 and 36.6 per cent in 1974-75. [More…]

• This was before the introduction of Medibank and it reflected the reaction of the doctors at the time who were panic stricken at the thought of having a health insurance system introduced. [More…]

• It is important that we have a universal health scheme. [More…]

• It is important that that universal health scheme pays out to those people in need in the community. [More…]

• In my view, it is equally important that contributions to that universal health scheme have as their basis people’s ability to pay. [More…]

• This will mean an imbalance in the contributions to health insurance in this country. [More…]

• As the Minister and the Department well know, if we are to look at the future of health care in this country so that we have efficient and economic health care, we cannot look only at health insurance. [More…]

• In fact, once we have a proper universal health insurance scheme- this scheme will not provide it- we can then look more correctly at the number of hospital beds in this community and their distribution. [More…]

• They are looking at health maintenance organisations. [More…]

• They are looking at other methods of funding health insurance which do not rely on a fee for service system and which do not rely on the crossing of the palm with silver to ensure efficiency. [More…]

• When we get to that stage, when we get over the debate on health insurance which is befuddling or clouding the issue and obsessing doctors, patients, the Press and governments in this country, and when we get down to looking at and evaluating the sort of system that we have now and looking carefully at the methods we use and the distribution of our services, we may end up with an efficient health service: we may end up having in this place and other places debates which involve increasing the longevity of our citizens, improving our infant mortality rate and improving our situation in the world health stakes. [More…]

• We may look at the reason why, in the 1930s, we used to vie with New Zealand as the most healthy country and why now in the 1970s we are eleventh or twelfth on the list of healthy countries. [More…]

• In health matters it still yearns after Medibank, regardless of the explosion of health costs that has been caused by that scheme. [More…]

• Our new health insurance scheme retains the good features of Medibank, principally universal cover, and builds a structure which avoids some of the gross defects of Medibank. [More…]

• Like Senator Grimes I hope thai this will be the end of the major changes to the health insurance system because all the controversy over various insurance alternatives has diverted attention from far more important problem areas of health care. [More…]

• The Labor Party has much to answer for in the way it took up a scheme that had been half worked out by two non-medical doctors, which subsequently became Medibank, and managed to convince the Australian people that this was the solution to all our health care problems. [More…]

• Certainly there were some problems with the health insurance scheme in the late 1960s, the lack of universal cover being the principal one. [More…]

• This could easily have been overcome by relatively minor adjustments to the health scheme without the enormous disruption and spiralling health costs which were caused by the Labor Medibank scheme. [More…]

• Worse still, the decade of argument about the merits or otherwise of Medibank has distracted attention from vastly more important problems areas in health care. [More…]

• This will mean that those people taking out insurance will tend to be those at health risk, which is a bad basis for a health insurance scheme. [More…]

• Moreover, they are a very expensive way of providing primary health care. [More…]

• The success or failure of this new health insurance scheme therefore depends on the co-operation of the medical profession. [More…]

• Although I have argued that the insurance scheme is far from being the most significant problem area in health care, it affects the other areas. [More…]

• It is therefore worth examining the general problems of our health care to see whether this new health scheme does anything to solve them. [More…]

• Perhaps it is the ANZAC tradition of reckless bravery and somewhat casual discipline, but we Australians seem to make two very dangerous and contradictory assumptions about our health. [More…]

• The first assumption is that we will keep our good health no matter what, and the second is that even if we lose it we can always buy it back. [More…]

• In the early 1960s our health care cost about $700m a year; today the cost has gone sky high, with more than $6,000m, over 7 per cent of the gross domestic product, being spent on health care in 1976-77. [More…]

• Australia’s expenditure on health used to be roughly mid-way between the high expenditure in the United States of America and the relatively low expenditure in Britain. [More…]

• But for all this extra expenditure there has not been any real improvement in overall health standards. [More…]

• We have reached the point of diminishing returns in health expenditure. [More…]

• We need immediate action to provide information on a national basis that will allow efficient planning and development of our health care resources. [More…]

• The National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• Another part of the problem of deciding what we should do is our lack of a clear concept of what a health care system should do and how it should operate. [More…]

• We are deceiving ourselves when we think of Australia as a sun-bronzed coastal culture where lifestyle, sand and surf take care of most health problems. [More…]

• More and more frequently serious ill health is not disease related but lifestyle related. [More…]

• We are eating, drinking and driving ourselves at an ever greater rate into the care of a health system which was developed to meet 19th century patterns of disease related breakdowns. [More…]

• We should give some serious thought to redesigning our health care delivery system so that it can influence our lifestyle and reduce the risks that go with it. [More…]

• For instance, the annual health cost of our smoking habits was estimated at $625m two years ago; it would be much more now. [More…]

• Over half of our health resources are spent on people who die in the following 12 months. [More…]

• Another attitude that directly contributes to the high cost of health care is the belief that the best health care is always the most intensive. [More…]

• Although drugs account for only about 8 per cent of total health care expenditure, there would still be a considerable immediate saving if doctors’ prescribing habits were moderated and better directed. [More…]

• What are we offered as measures to control costs in the health industry? [More…]

• Knowing that the patient will have to bear some proportion of health costs, the doctor will be more cautious in what he orders. [More…]

• For a start, health funds can now offer gap insurance, which wipes out the user pays theory in one go. [More…]

• In any case, there is every reason to believe that the more expensive health care becomes, the more anxious a patient is to get tangible services- drug prescriptions and so on- in return for his money. [More…]

• Another suggestion is based on the belief that doctors ‘ incomes are too high, and that we could solve our health costs problems by cutting them back. [More…]

• For one thing, private doctors’ incomes represent only 18 per cent of our total health costs. [More…]

• I would like to see the Australian Medical Association more active and more prompt in changing its recommended fees to take account of abuses, the effects of changing technology and the changing pattern of health care needs. [More…]

• One particular misconception that must be dispelled- a misconception strongly held by some of the more militant doctors’ unions- is that the health industry operates in a free-market situation and will respond favourably to free-market pressures. [More…]

• One extra ordinary feature of the health industry is its reversal of the traditional relationship between supply and demand. [More…]

• The health industry does not work at all like this. [More…]

• In a free market, costs would fall, but in our health care market, demand, in the form of increased elective surgery, instead rises to meet supply. [More…]

• I think that the medical profession has to re-examine very carefully whether it is ethically possible for doctors to be entrepreneurs in these fields, as well as whether it is appropriate for doctors to control health insurance funds, for these funds should be checks and balances on the activities of the medical profession. [More…]

• While on the subject of hospitals, it must be made clear that this is where the vast bulk of our health care expenditure- something like twothirds goes. [More…]

• It need not be at the expense of the quality of health care. [More…]

• This brings us to the point that one way of controlling the costs of health care is to limit the number of doctors. [More…]

• Each additional doctor adds about $250,000 a year to the national health care bill. [More…]

• It is important to realise that because health care is not a free-market, this increased cost per doctor will continue even if we have a surplus of doctors. [More…]

• By 1990 this over-supply of doctors may well be costing the community more than $ 1,000m a year at present prices for a contribution to the quality of our health care that can best be described as doubtful. [More…]

• How good is our standard of health care? [More…]

• International comparisons are extraordinarily difficult, but if there were international health competitions- from which heaven protect us- I think we would find that, as in the Olympic Games, we would have sunk back from being one of the leaders in the 1950s to being one of the also rans among developed countries now. [More…]

• What are the deficiencies of our health care organisations? [More…]

• The car is a health menace, particularly to the young. [More…]

• It is extraordinary that a country which is prepared to spend $6,000m on health care is not prepared to spend one-hundredth as much on encouraging people to take exercise after they leave school. [More…]

• The deficiencies of our health philosophy are causing many intelligent people to turn to the alternative medical field for help. [More…]

• Turning to more specific faults in our health care- I emphasise that no system could possibly be perfect- I list the following shortcomings: We are giving far too much attention to cure rather than prevention. [More…]

• Although, as I said, one could draw up a list of defects for any health care system, these seem to me to be formidable defects which cannot be ignored. [More…]

• Will the new health insurance scheme make any difference? [More…]

• I said earlier that we urgently need information on the costs and benefits of various approaches to health care. [More…]

• But this type of peer review will not really provide what we need- positive incentives to doctors for the economical use of health care resources. [More…]

• Here the Health Insurance Act is mildly helpful. [More…]

• It enables the Minister to approve the establishment of health maintenance organisations- often called prepaid health plans- on the lines of the wellknown Kaiser Permanante scheme in America. [More…]

• They work like this: A group of health professionals, including GPs, some specialists, nursing and administration staff, and perhaps social workers, contract to provide an agreed variety of medical services to contributors who pay an annual fee, fixed in advance as in one of the current health funds, though the fee would normally be lower than in these funds. [More…]

• The costs of providing the services, including the salaries of the health workers, would come out of the fees. [More…]

• The profits could be shared between the health workers, and the contributors as a rebate on their fees. [More…]

• I think that if the schemes are to work effectively in Australia, which has a different health care structure to America, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) will have to be bolder than he has yet shown signs of being. [More…]

• If we wish to give incentives to economy in the use of drugs and hospitalisation- as we surely should- the Minister should provide that health maintenance organisations should receive, for each contributor the average amount spent per head of the community by the Government on drugs and private hospital care. [More…]

• The health maintenance organisation would then pay the full cost for these services and would have strong incentives to use them economically. [More…]

• The health maintenance organisation doctors would have positive incentives not to order unnecessary tests, not to perform unnecessary operations, not to prescribe unnecessary or unduly expensive drugs, not to order unnecessary or unduly prolonged hospitalisation- although of course they would have to provide efficient and adequate services otherwise they would lose their patients. [More…]

• People would have to have the right to opt out to the fee-for-service system if they were dissatisfied with their treatment by the health maintenance organisation. [More…]

• But I believe that such organisations would work very well in our major centres and would provide a useful alternative to the fee-for-service system, as well as providing a valuable insight into the possibility of more economical health care. [More…]

• But we must face up to these problems of the economics of health care. [More…]

• Now that we have, I hope, at last got the long, distracting and wasteful argument over health insurance behind us, we can do just that. [More…]

• The Senate is debating the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• I rise to support the amendment moved to the motion for the second reading of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• It was most refreshing to hear such a perceptive, intelligent and thoughtful analysis of the problem of our health delivery system as has just been given by Senator Hamer. [More…]

• I congratulate Senator Hamer for the excellent contribution he has made to the debate about the training of doctors, medical practice in this country, the delivery of health services, the costing of those services and so on. [More…]

• I address myself to the effect of the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill. [More…]

• This Bill changes the status of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• It redefines the powers and functions of the Health Insurance Commission following the abolition of Medibank Standard. [More…]

• Occupational Health Service [More…]

• Occupational Safety and Health [More…]

• It appears that the Government is so violently opposed to community-owned enterprises, so doctrinaire in its determination to smash Medibank, that it would rather throw hundreds of its employees out of work and pay exorbitant amounts to the private health funds than utilise the talents available within its own Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• There are many members of the Medibank staff who left long-standing employment with private health funds when they were invited to join the Medibank staff. [More…]

• They were told then by their employers that they would not be able to return to jobs in private health funds. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) explained this extraordinary decision by saying: [More…]

• I have to advise that such a subsidy would be contrary to the intent of the Government which has to operate, in its own right, in a competitive market environment with other registered health insurance funds. [More…]

• The possibility of widespread unemployment amongst the people who are currently employed by Medibank and the lowering of conditions in regard to maternity leave for people who join the Health Commission after 1 November are the main issues I wished to raise at this stage of the debate. [More…]

• I am sure that if the people listening to this debate examine how health costs have risen they will understand what I am talking about. [More…]

• In 1960-61 the national health bill was $700m. [More…]

• Nearly 60 per cent of health costs are incurred in institutional care. [More…]

• It was pointed out in the discussion paper on paying for health care that was put out in February this year by Doctor Sax that the main increase in institutional care was the increase in nurses ‘ salaries- a catch up in wages for women with which I entirely agree. [More…]

• Let us see what the people of Australia want by way of health care. [More…]

• If we want the very best of everything- if health is most important to us- we have to be prepared to pay for it. [More…]

• We might of course be quite content with reasonably good health care. [More…]

• Senator Grimes said tonight that no matter what the Labor Party or this Government introduced the health of the community has not been altered. [More…]

• If we are prepared to accept that, that the health of our community is pretty good, we may opt for reasonable health costs. [More…]

• That is just a minor example of what health care costs are all about. [More…]

• It is complete ignorance on Sentor Ryan ‘s part to say that doctors’ fees alone have made health costs rise. [More…]

• Another concern of mine, which was mentioned this evening by Senator Hamer, relates to the number of doctors and the generating of additional health costs by providing additional doctors. [More…]

• Perhaps we should consider the three health insurance categories of people. [More…]

• This Government has insisted on all private health funds introducing a basic level of cover. [More…]

• In doing this the Labor Party is encouraging people to gamble on their health. [More…]

• I believe that this is perhaps one of the most irresponsible statements that have been made by members ofthe Labor Party in the debate on this health legislation. [More…]

• Historically the Australian people have said that they want health insurance. [More…]

• Throughout the history of private health funds, the majority of people have wanted those funds. [More…]

• Contrary to what the shadow Minister for Health in the other place, Dr Klugman, suggested, I encourage everyone not to gamble. [More…]

• I say to them: Insure yourselves and made sure that you are not gambling with your health or your family’s health. [More…]

• Doctors have been allowed to bulk bill for pensioners carrying health cards and are able to claim 85 per cent of the schedule fee. [More…]

• In my remaining five minutes I would like to deal with the Government’s amendments to the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill which are before the Senate tonight. [More…]

• Proposed new section 8DA restricts the power of the Minister to a prescribed function in relation to a direction to the Commission to implement any function in respect of health insurance, and I think that that is a most important change. [More…]

• I support fully the Bills before the Senate and sincerely hope that this is the last time we will see any big changes to the health Acts of this country. [More…]

• However, it seems to me that health insurance is the area that ought to concern people most. [More…]

• My remarks tonight will be directed mainly towards the future of the people who have been employed in the organisation of health insurance and Medibank and also towards the general scheme. [More…]

• In the section of the Budget Papers dealing with the new prescriptions for health that we are discussing tonight, it is stated: [More…]

• Is it designing a new system that will completely disturb not only the contributors to the health system but the staff that has been built up in an organisation which in the first instance was set up by the Labor Government and which has served the people of Australia very well? [More…]

• The fact is that pensioners and average people in the community, who thought that they understood the health system and health insurance and their Medibank contributions, are totally confused about their entitlements and what they should do about the present situation. [More…]

• They have presented a petition on their future to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), pointing out that many of them entered the Health Insurance Commission with the idea that there would be some permanency but presently they have no such guarantee. [More…]

• Surely an organisation such as the Administrative and Clerical Officers Association, which has sought discussions with the Minister for Health in an endeavour to solve this problem, should be entitled to know tonight what is the future of its members. [More…]

• I rise mainly to find out from the Minister- I hope that she will attempt to answer the questions from this side of the Parliament- what guarantees there will be for the permanent and temporary public servants who took on jobs in the Health Insurance Commission expecting that there would be some continuity of employment. [More…]

• I hope, too, that the Minister will explain what should be done by the ordinary citizens in the community who are finding that there is a new environment in which they have to make their health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• in reply- I thank the Senate for the debate on the health measures which have been introduced by the Government as pan of the Budget proposals this year. [More…]

• Senator Grimes referred to lengthy debates which have occurred in the Parliament to establish health schemes in this country. [More…]

• I feel sure that all will recall the many discussions that have been held during the years in which we have been establishing a health scheme. [More…]

• We well recall the discussions during the joint sitting of the Parliament and in a number of other ways about evolving a health scheme. [More…]

• Senator Grimes referred to the health schemes and the standards of health care. [More…]

• Other honourable senators made appropriate comments about the standard of health care as they saw it. [More…]

• A number of points have been raised with regard to the employees of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• I wish to say, on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), that as a result of the new health insurance arrangements certain functions of the Health Insurance Commission are to be transferred to the Department of Health. [More…]

• As a result of the transfer of certain functions to the Department of Health, such as bulk billing, payment to private hospitals and claims review and investigation, a significant number of Medibank staff engaged on these functions will be offered employment in the Department of Health without any loss of present entitlements. [More…]

• There has been extensive consultation by the Public Service Board, the Department of Health and the Health Insurance Commission with the staff associations on staffing matters arising from health insurance changes. [More…]

• The questions that have been raised in this place by honourable senators have been referred to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As I said earlier, until such time as we are aware of the share of the market that Medibank Private is able to obtain and the number of people who register with Medibank for the payment of their claims, it is not possible to estimate the number of staff who will no longer be employed by the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• I understand that the 5,500,000 booklets distributed by the Department of Health to inform people of the new health insurance arrangements specifically mentioned that Medibank Private would continue as a private health fund. [More…]

• As far as the identification of disadvantaged persons is concerned, no criteria, other than the patient not being medically insured, are set out in the health insurance legislation to define a disadvantaged person. [More…]

• Although no specific criteria are to be laid down, as I mentioned in the second reading speech on the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has had assurances from the medical profession through its various representative organisations, not only the Australian Medical Association but also the Doctors Reform Group and doctors throughout Australia generally, that it is prepared to co-operate with this proposal to the maximum extent. [More…]

• A number of honourable senators also referred to the rise in health costs and the comparison of health costs. [More…]

• I do not want to traverse all of the matters that were raised by honourable senators, but I should place on record that health costs between 1974-75 and 1975-76 showed a huge increase of 36.6 per cent. [More…]

• There has been a big reduction as a result of those strategies of the health systems. [More…]

• I think it is important also to compare the share of the gross domestic product which has been absorbed by health costs. [More…]

• This was the first year for many years in which we saw a reduction in the proportion of the gross domestic product that was absorbed by health costs. [More…]

• That year, 1976-77, was the first clear financial year of the Fraser Government’s health schemes which showed this reduction. [More…]

• Those honourable senators who spoke in the debate this evening referred to the cost of health care and the way in which we should be looking to contain those costs for the advantage of all Australians. [More…]

• For instance, Senator Hamer referred to some concepts of health insurance schemes and the lack of concept of a health care system. [More…]

• He spoke of the influence that lifestyle can have on health costs and the costs of smoking and alcohol. [More…]

• With regard to what he said, about lifestyles, I would simply draw attention to the fact that the Bills now provide for health insurance to give us tables of benefit at lower contributions for observing good lifestyles. [More…]

• It is disappointing that the insurers have not taken early action to introduce the plans but the Government is confident that that will come soon, with emphasis on preventive health care. [More…]

• As far as Senator Hamer ‘s discussion on health maintenance organisations is concerned - [More…]

• I think it is well known that health program grants are available to the Government to be equivalent to the Commonwealth benefits, that is, medical and hospital benefits. [More…]

• Now we are giving the Minister power to put the guidelines down but it is a secret document to the Minister and the health organisation. [More…]

• I say to the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) that the Regulations and Ordinances Committee has two health regulations before it now which are receiving attention. [More…]

• A health organisation may blame the Minister for unreasonable guidelines. [More…]

• I draw attention to the remarks I made on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in my second reading speech when I said that the Minister had asked me to make it quite clear that the benefits available for exclusion under Part IV of the optional hospital insurance table guidelines relate only to benefits for professional services and outpatient services as referred to in the basic hospital table as defined. [More…]

• If the Minister for Health is to require that any fund which has optional deductibles makes those deductibles public by way of advertistements, publications and all the other things the Minister listed what on earth is the reason for including sub-section (4) of proposed new section 73E, which states that the Rules Publication Act 1903 does not apply. [More…]

• I seriously suggest at this hour of the night that if the Minister for Health has a further explanation, the Minister for Social Security should seek that information and let us know of it tomorrow. [More…]

• Why is this the first time such a provision has been put into the National Health Act? [More…]

• We may have the greatest faith in the present Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the present Department of Health, but the Minister is not permanent. [More…]

• I have already said and it was stated in my second reading speech that the commitment of the Minister for Health, to make it quite clear that the services which may be the subject of exclusions are only professional services, outpatient services and so on. [More…]

• It is incorrect for her to say that this is a new procedure because in a Bill which we passed through the Parliament earlier this year, a new section 73E was inserted in the National Health Act. [More…]

• That section permits the Minister for Health to lay down guidelines by regulation. [More…]

• Whilst I have some doubt about the ability of the Minister for Health to publicise guidelines once this Bill is passed, even if he can and does them, what is to stop a change being made in the guidelines that will have the effect of disallowing an organisation to issue benefits? [More…]

• As the chief partner in an agreement between a health organisation and me, I am the one who gets the benefit, so surely I should have a right to know whether the health benefit organisation is acting in accordance with the guidelines laid down by the Minister. [More…]

• an amount of medical benefit became payable under Part II of the Health Insurance Act 1973 before the commencement of this section but that amount had not been paid at the commencement of this section; and [More…]

• a claim for that amount is made after the commencement of this section and before a date fixed by Proclamation for the purposes of this section, payment of that claim shall be made out of the Health Insurance Fund in such manner as the Minister determines. [More…]

• At the end of clause 43 add the following sub-clause: “(2) Subject to section 8d ofthe Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, the payment of claims referred to in subsection ( 1 ) shall be made in such manner as the Minister determines”. [More…]

• Clause 40 of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill amends the Heads of Agreement contained in Schedule 2 to the Health Insurance Act 1973. [More…]

• Clause 43 of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• It provides for the payment of such claims to be made in such manner as the Minister for Health determines. [More…]

• It is proposed that clause 10 of the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill 1978 which inserts new Part IIB- ‘Additional Functions of the Commission’ be amended. [More…]

• This amendment will in proposed new section 8D specifically provide for the Commission to meet, until a date to be proclaimed, claims for medical benefits referred to in clause 43 of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• A consequential amendment is necessary therefore to ensure that the provisions of clause 43 of the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) are subject to proposed new section 8D of the Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill 1978. [More…]

• When the changes were first announced the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) referred to ‘socially disadvantaged people ‘. [More…]

• It is one section of the legislation which makes me predict quite confidently that next May or even earlier we will be back here again debating a health insurance amendment BUI as we have done every six months almost since this Government came to power. [More…]

• When the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) responded in the debate in the other place, he said that we have broadly outlined in the second reading speech and also in communications with every practising doctor in Australia the fact that we will give consideration to the groups that are listed in the second reading speech; that will monitor closely the operation of the new bulk billing arrangements. [More…]

• If honourable senators or members come into contact with people who are facing difficulties, the Minister for Health and his Department would want to hear about them because the Government intends to take whatever action is necessary to overcome any difficulties that may result form the Government’s proposals for disadvantaged persons. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill 1978 [More…]

• (1) In addition to the functions conferred on it by Part IIa, the Commission shall perform such other functions in relation to health insurance as the Minister may, from time to time, direct by writing signed by him. [More…]

• Until a date to be fixed by Proclamation for the purposes of this section, the Commission shall receive, deal with and, on behalf of the Commonwealth, pay claims for medical benefits referred to in section 43 of the Health Insurance Amendment Act (No. [More…]

• ( 1 ) The Commission shall perform such functions in relation to health insurance as are prescribed. “ [More…]

• These new sections provide that, in addition to the operation of Medibank Private, the Commission shall perform such other functions in relation to health insurance as the Minister for Health directs. [More…]

• New Part I IB was included in the legislation to enable future Government objectives in health insurance to be implemented through the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• For example, the Government may wish to establish, on a pilot basis, a health maintenance organisation in a particular area in which the registered organisations have not shown interest. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has considered these views and has accepted that the provisions conferring comprehensive powers of direction on the Minister in new Part 1 IB should be deleted. [More…]

• The proposed amendments provide that the Commission, in addition to operating Medibank Private, shall: (i) until a date fixed by proclamation, receive, deal with and pay Medibank Standard claims for medical benefits- it is envisaged that, following the proclaimed date, further outstanding Medibank Standard claims would be met by the Department of Health; and (ii) perform such other functions in relation to health insurance as are prescribed by regulations. [More…]

• The Government believes that the above amendments will permit the full disclosure of any additional Government-initiated functions in relation to health insurance to be performed by the Commission and the arrangements between the Government and the Commission in the performance of those functions. [More…]

• National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission Amendment Bill 1978 [More…]

• The World Health Organisation recommends that, in general, it is desirable for total dissolved solids in drinking water not to exceed SOO milligrams per litre, but it recognises a maximum tolerable level of 1S00 milligrams per litre. [More…]

• But in its intitial stage this is more a problem for the Department of Health than it is for my Department to solve. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether country hospitals in New South Wales are charged an ambulance fee whenever a patient is transferred by ambulance to any other hospital or institution. [More…]

• I will refer it to the Minister for Health, and in consultation with him and with other Commonwealth and State Ministers, who have formed a committee to deal with national projects for International Year of the Child, I will see that the suggestion is subjected to examination. [More…]

• I have a note from the Department of Health that the entire problem comes within the province of the Federal Department of Health. [More…]

• As far as the Department of Health can ascertain, distribution was limited to New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• That is why Queensland has one of the worst health records in Australia so far as Aboriginals are concerned. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that in recent years some six or seven Federal and State inquiries have been established to investigate the use, abuse and potential dangers of cannabis? [More…]

• Have all of the reports from these inquiries endorsed recommendation 60 of the Senate report which called for the Minister for Health to direct that appropriate studies be made of the health implications of cannabis in order to provide data on which an adequate national strategy could be based? [More…]

• If this is so, can the Minister now say why the National Health and Medical Research Council has cut off research funds to Doctors Jackson and Cheshire at the Sydney University School of Pharmacology who are recognised as Australia’s leading researchers in this field? [More…]

• From time to time I have made comments on them for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As far as the provision of research funds for Dr Cheshire’s work is concerned, I shall refer that to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In response to the general matter that was raised, it is true that the National Health and Medical Research Council is unable to renew in 1979 a specific grant into research for cannabis. [More…]

• I explain that in May of this year I asked the Minister whether, as a matter of urgency, he would initiate an inquiry into the health of workers who had been subject to radiation in their work place. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware that expenditure of private health funds in South Australia on payouts for medical services rose steeply in the March quarter this year compared with last year? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that a notice of referral is issued by a doctor to enable a patient to claim the specialist rate of medical benefit for services rendered to him by a recognised specialist in the practice of his specialty. [More…]

• It is an offence under the health insurance legislation for a person to make a statement either orally or in writing or to issue or present a document which is false and is capable of being used to support a claim for payment under the Act. [More…]

• My latest recollection is that the Council has indicated that there is no threat to health. [More…]

• They consist of soils and pastures, animal-pasture relationships, animal health, animal physiology and farm management. [More…]

• It is quite obvious that this has brought back psychological and physical happiness and physical good health. [More…]

• That the resolution of the Senate of 9 November 1978 disallowing the Australian Capital Territory Termination of Pregnancy Ordinance 1978 be rescinded to provide the Government with the opportunity to make a new ordinance containing a provision the same in substance as the provision so disallowed relating to the treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• The United States Navy has advised that it is confident of Todd’s ability to improve its financial health and that it is continuing to place naval overhaul contracts with the shipyard. [More…]

• The paper urged the party to sympathetically consider equalising costs of communication, transport, health, housing, welfare and education between cities and country areas. [More…]

• What commensurate contributions do fat cat nations like France and Belgium ever make to world refugee and health programs? [More…]

• We are spending $7,000m or $8,000m on the area of health which is a very important area. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 2 1 September 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) Did a statement, attributed to the Queensland Minister for Health, Dr Edwards, and published in the Innisfail Advocate on 14 June 1978, suggest that birth deformities in North Queensland were not caused by the herbicide 2,4,5-T but possibly by a very high incidence of venereal disease in far North Queensland. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This may not be the true incidence in the community because some cases of venereal disease may not be reported to health authorities. [More…]

• Construction of Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong (Question No. [More…]

• 1 ) Which consultancy firm was engaged to assist the Department in the design of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong, Victoria. [More…]

• -I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have on a number of occasions expressed the concern of the Minister and myself with regard to Aboriginal health in general and infant mortality in particular. [More…]

• I will certainly refer the question to the Minister for Health and to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and seek responses in relation to the matters raised in the report quoted by Senator Georges. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of the statement on 4 October 1978 by Joseph Califano, the Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare in the United States, concerning a goal in that country for the elimination of measles there by 1 October 1982? [More…]

• If there is not such a goal in Australia, will the Minister undertake to invite the National Health and Medical Research Council to advise him upon strategies which could lead to the elimination of this serious and now preventable illness from the Australian community within a designated period of time? [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the statement mentioned by Senator Baume and I understand that the matter of a national measles eradication campaign throughout Australia is already listed for discussion by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Briefly, the social welfare policy secretariat, which is composed of a small group of people, is responsible to a permanent heads committee and will provide advice on the integrated development of plans, policies and programs in the broad field of health and welfare. [More…]

• The secretariat will be able to provide support to the social welfare policy committee of Cabinet in the broad field of health and welfare and it will assist the permanent heads committee on social welfare to carry out its functions, including those of any sub-committees which might be established. [More…]

• It will ensure co-ordinated development and review of health and welfare policy and that appropriate research activities are directed to these ends. [More…]

• The social welfare policy secretariat is directly concerned with the coordination and development of government policy in the health and welfare field. [More…]

• I desire to ask a question of the Minister representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Will the Minister examine the figures in the annual report of the Department of Health, which was tabled in the Parliament this week, which relate to Aboriginal infant mortality in the Northern Territory and Queensland? [More…]

• I said earlier today that I would draw to the attention of the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the Minister for Health the matters that were raised with regard to infant mortality. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health examined the danger, from a cancer point of view, of using plastic cooking utensils in microwave ovens? [More…]

• I am unaware of any studies or investigations that may have been conducted by the Department of Health with regard to cooking processes through microwave ovens. [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health and seek information on the subject. [More…]

• The Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health produced a report No. [More…]

• I am advised that on 16 March 1977 the Minister for the Capital Territory (Mr Ellicott), after discussion with the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), asked the Legislative Assembly to provide the Minister for Health with views on the issue of private organisations establishing abortion clinics before the Minister instituted positive action of any kind. [More…]

• The Assembly was specifically asked how much control should be exercised over the development of private clinics and whether abortion services should be provided only under the auspices of the Capital Territory Health Commission through its public hospitals. [More…]

• The Menhennitt ruling is basically that an abortion can be lawfully carried out only if it is honestly believed on reasonable grounds that the procedure preserves a woman from serious danger to her life or to her physical or mental health which the continuance of the pregnancy would entail. [More…]

• The powers of the Capital Territory Health Commission in the Australian Capital Territory with regard to the control of private clinics ought to be stated. [More…]

• Under public health regulations the Commission can ensure that such a clinic is maintained in a sanitary condition. [More…]

• It should be said, however, that regardless of which part of the referendum is carried at that time, health responsibilities will not pass immediately to the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly. [More…]

• The Federal Government will have responsibility for health services in the Territory in the foreseeable future. [More…]

• b) to enable the Government to take such other administrative and legislative steps as are necessary to implement the recommendations of the ACT Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health in its Report No. [More…]

• 1 think it would be understood by anyone that the Government does not need to move for disallowance and then amend a motion if it wishes to adopt recommendations of the ACT Legislative Assembly on matters relating to education and health. [More…]

• But I state on behalf of the Minister for Health and on behalf of the Government that the Government’s policy is as in the Ordinance which is being subjected to a disallowance motion. [More…]

• The response of the then Minister for the Capital Territory, Mr Staley, was to request the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly to consider the matter and to give him and the Minister for Health its views. [More…]

• The request was that such views be communicated before the Minister for Health took such positive action as was thought appropriate. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) then came into the picture, and this is the particularly crucial matter which was omitted, regrettably, from Senator Guilfoyle ‘s chronology of events. [More…]

• The substance of the reply by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) to a very important question by Mr Beazley in the House of Representatives on 24 March 1977 was that the decision about what appropriate course of action would be taken would be left to the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly. [More…]

• As a result of that undertaking, accordingly the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly set in train a public inquiry, which inquiry was carried out by the Standing Committee on Education and Health. [More…]

• Turning to the positive side of the ledger, recommendation 5 was: ‘That there should be a clinic, conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission, within the grounds of a public hospital to perform abortions up to eleven (11) weeks of pregnancy. [More…]

• Subsequent recommendations made it clear that the intention was to create thereby a separately administered clinic, a separately staffed clinic, which would only geographically be associated with the hospital, and would only be associated with the hospital in terms of administration to the extent that both would be under the general auspices of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• to enable the Government to take such other administrative and legislative steps as are necessary to implement the recommendations ofthe ACT Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health in its Report No. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• I would be prepared to vote for such a motion, which Senator Rae has foreshadowed, provided that the Government made it clear that it would be prepared to bring in a new ordinance covering all the major health conclusions on the abortion issue reached by the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly, or at the very least not effectively prohibiting them. [More…]

• Of the remainder, there are three main recommendations: Firstly, that private free-standing abortion clinics should not operate in the Australian Capital Territory; secondly, that there should be a clinic, conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission, within the grounds of a public hospital, to perform abortions authorised by law up to 11 weeks of pregnancy; and thirdly, that all women having abortions performed in the Australian Capital Territory after 1 1 weeks and up to 20 weeks of pregnancy should be in-patients in a public hospital. [More…]

• As worded at the moment it could be argued that it applies to all abortion clinics, including ones run by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• The Minister for Health made a crucial statement to the Parliament which has never been disavowed by the Government. [More…]

• The Minister for Health said: [More…]

• The second principal reason why I shall be opposing the motion is that I believe that the organisation of public health facilities in the Australian Capital Territory is a matter not for this chamber but for the Capital Territory Health Commission acting under its Ordinance, as sanctioned by this Parliament. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• Firstly, it prohibits the termination of a pregnancy by a registered medical practitioner otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Health Commission. [More…]

• Conversely, it allows for termination of a pregnancy by a registered medical practitioner at a hospital conducted by the Health Commission. [More…]

• One starts with the basic common law, which is that it is lawful for a registered medical practitioner to carry out an abortion anywhere at any time where he honestly believes on reasonable grounds that it is necessary to preserve the life of the mother or her health, whether it be mental or physical. [More…]

• Thus, it is lawful and requires no ordinance for the Health Commission to provide abortion facilities in public hospitals conducted under its auspices. [More…]

• The designating of facilities - for example, the setting aside of some portion of a building and calling it a clinic- the provision of certain procedures and the provision of counselling can all be provided for by the Health Commission. [More…]

• Secondly, I was putting forward as a reason for voting against the disallowance motion the fact that I believe the organisation of public health facilities in the Australian Capital Territory is a matter not for this chamber but for the Capital Territory Health Commission acting under its Ordinance as sanctioned by this Parliament. [More…]

• I was demonstrating that it is lawful and requires no ordinance for the Health Commission in the Capital Territory to provide abortion facilities in public hospitals conducted under its auspices, and manifestly it does. [More…]

• The designating of facilities- for example, the setting aside of some portion of the building as a clinic in which counselling and termination of pregnancies may take place in the first 1 1 weeks of pregnancyand the provision of in-patient care for women between the 11th and 20th week of pregnancy are matters for the Capital Territory Health Commission acting under its own Ordinance. [More…]

• I contend, and I invite honourable senators to agree with me, that the Health Commission is the proper forum for making those decisions within the usual constraints of its Ordinance. [More…]

• The Health Commission cannot escape its decision-making role. [More…]

• It is for the Health Commission to provide for the implementation of those recommended procedures if it considers them appropriate, given its other expenditure commitments. [More…]

• The Health Commission must wage its own battles. [More…]

• Do not let its members ask me to come to the national Parliament from Tasmania to decide on the public health facilities that can be lawfully provided by the Health Commission. [More…]

• The political fight for the reorganisation of facilities and procedures within the public health system here should be conducted within the Legislative Assembly and via its representatives on the Health Commission acting within the scope and constraints of its ordinance. [More…]

• I see nothing in the ordinance that gives the Senate any sort of indication that it was intended to interfere in the Commission’s relationship with those bodies which have part time commissioners- such as the Legislative Assembly which has three part time commissioners- on the Health Commission; nor are we meant to interfere with the relationship of the Commission to the government ofthe day. [More…]

• This Government has the responsibility of setting up any health regulations in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• It was never conceived at that time that the people of the ACT would be electing people who would have a decision to make on whether abortion clinics or any other health measure would be implemented. [More…]

• The laws in those States stipulate that it should be only when the mental or physical health of the mother is in jeopardy that an abortion should be carried out. [More…]

• Who will be able to say that the diagnosis of the doctor claiming that it is to the benefit of the mental health of the mother that the abortion take place is not justifiable? [More…]

• I am prepared to support the recommendation of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health. [More…]

• I refer of course, as other honourable senators have done, to the quite explicit statement by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in the House of Representatives on 24 March 1977 when he was asked a quite specific question about this matter and gave the following reply: [More…]

• The Assembly commissioned the Standing Committee on Education and Health to report on the matter. [More…]

• The capacity for choice is a very real and important question and it bears on the substance of the report of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health on this matter. [More…]

• I think the report of the Standing Committee on Education and Health should be considered by honourable senators in their deliberations on this matter. [More…]

• In his own briefing note the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) indicated that on an earlier occasion ‘protests were received from, inter alia, the Right To Life Association’- this dealt with Population [More…]

• It ought to be recorded that the Legislative Assembly has passed a resolution claiming that it was misled by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It should be recorded that the Minister for Health sent to the Legislative Assembly a draft Bill the main provision of which was ‘that a registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital operated by the Capital Territory Health Commission’. [More…]

• If honourable senators cannot perceive that questions like abortion are fundamentally different from questions of general public health policy or other aspects over which the Commonwealth has control, quite simply we are in another situation in which perceptions are grossly different. [More…]

• If they really care about the health of the women and children in the Australian Capital Territory they should go out and find those butchers and do something about them. [More…]

• Indeed, it is a fact, as stated at page 38 of the report of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health that 1,106 applications for abortions were received between October 1970 and March 1 977 and that only 49 of these applications were not approved. [More…]

• In particular, I acknowledge the merit of the arguments that were put forward by my colleagues Senator Hamer and Senator Puplick in relation to the legalistic actions of the Government and the answer given by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in the other place. [More…]

• I would also like to pay a special tribute to Senator Tate for what I believe to be the most original contribution to the debate today in that he applied his mind to the Termination of Pregnancy Ordinance and drew to the attention of all of us the fact that the Ordinance allows the Capital Territory Health Commission to do precisely what the Legislative Assembly wants it to do. [More…]

• 5, that there shall be a clinic conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission within the grounds of a public hospital to perform abortions up to II weeks of pregnancy. [More…]

• The second basis ofthe honourable senator’s argument very substantially was that there is power for the Capital Territory Health Commission to go ahead and set up a clinic of its own volition. [More…]

• In doing that he ignores the terms of the Health Commission Ordinance which set up that Commission. [More…]

• The function of the Commission used to be to conduct hospitals; it is now to provide and conduct health services. [More…]

• The Ordinance defines health services in various ways. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has made his position quite clear. [More…]

• The question is that the Minster for Health, Mr Hunt, in 1977, not once but several times, made it clear that it was expected that the Government would allow the Australian Capital Territory, through its representatives, to decide these matters. [More…]

• Until sufficient time is given to enable these matters to be appropriately debated by people at the local level and all the health and legal aspects are given appropriate consideration, PSI - [More…]

• In view of the legal, health and local community attitudes, I think that it would be wise to heed my warning at this stage. [More…]

• Other results were: If the mother’s health is in danger, 22 per cent; if the mother’s life is in serious danger, 12 per cent; and not in any circumstance, 9 per cent; and no opinion, 3 per cent. [More…]

• Of course, we know that two tests of opinion are contained in the very detailed and considered report of the Standing Committee on Education and Health of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly. [More…]

• They were made clear by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) when he wrote to honourable senators on 2 November 1 978 in the following terms: [More…]

• That is, the report of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health- made 47 recommendations; the Government has not agreed to implement 45 of those recommendations which proposed the establishment of an abortion clinic by the Capital Territory Health Commission, the procedures for its operation and the setting-up of counselling services on abortion, contraception and sex education. [More…]

• I am particularly attracted to what Senator Evans has sought to add to the motion, namely, the recommendations that the report of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health be adopted. [More…]

• That the Capital Territory Health Commission shall compile statistics on all abortions performed . [More…]

• That the Minister for Health be asked to seek urgent consultation between - [More…]

• The Assembly recommends that appropriate education authorities and the Capital Territory Health Commission should liaise to determine guidelines for such courses. [More…]

• The recommendations had gone before the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) after he had promised that he would uphold the decision of the Assembly. [More…]

• Is she concerned only about the health of the foetus or about something else? [More…]

• I refer to page 1613 of the Senate Hansard of 25 October 1978 where Senator Walters said, when debating health insurance legislation - [More…]

• -The honourable senator was debating health insurance legislation and referring to health costs. [More…]

• I hope that all senators will agree with me that the principal at issue is the right of all Australian citizens to democratic government and that a Minister who has given publicly an undertaking in the way that the Minister for Health has done should keep that undertaking. [More…]

• The Senate has no executive authority in the field of health. [More…]

• The predictable future is that if we leave this Ordinance as it stands we have an Ordinance which provides in section 3 that a registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• The only place an abortion may be carried out in the Australian Capital Territory is at a registered hospital- a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• The other matters which have been raised are, as Senator Tate has said, in part matters which are within the control of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• In that respect I will refer later to a discussion with the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• I asked the Minister for Health for an assurance as to the facilities that are provided for abortion and the associated cost factor. [More…]

• The workers in the health industry always have particularly good access. [More…]

• The relevant law in relation of unlawfulness is as followsFor the use of an instrument with intent to procure a miscarriage to be lawful the accused must have honestly believed on reasonable grounds that the act done by him was (a) necessary to preserve the woman from serious danger to her life or her physical or mental health (not being merely the normal dangers of pregnancy and childbirth), which the continuance of the pregnancy would entail; and (b) in circumstances not out of proportion to the danger to be averted. [More…]

• Everyone assumes that the doctor is the only person who could have that defence because he would be the person with the knowledge of whether a pregnancy was damaging to a woman’s health or mental condition. [More…]

• It could well be that other people in the community are sufficiently versed in mental health or perhaps physical health to believe on reasonable grounds that a pregnancy should be terminated. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• This Parliament and no one else has the responsibility for matters of health in the Capital Territory. [More…]

• I think it is worthwhile disposing of that contribution in this context: I think that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) should have regard to what Senator Cavanagh said when different devices and methods are available as time goes on. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carr)’ out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• For the use of an instrument with intent to procure a miscarriage to be lawful the accused must have honestly believed on reasonable grounds that the act done by him was (a) necessary to preserve the woman from a serious danger to her life or physical or mental health (not being merely the normal dangers of pregnancy and childbirth), which the continuance of the pregnancy would entail; and (b) in the circumstances not out of proportion to the danger to be averted. [More…]

• I admit that with the type of advances in menstrual regulation which will probably be upon us within the next 10 years, it may be necessary for the Minister of Health to see whether the Ordinance is adequate, but at this time it is generally accepted, except by the clairvoyant Senator Cavanagh, that the ordinance would ensure that abortions will not be legal if they are performed outside a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• In bringing in the Termination or Pregnane)’ Ordinance 1978. the Government has flouted the democratic principle and reneged on its own promise, given when the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) said: [More…]

• What is important in fact is the reference that was made by the then Minister for the Capital Territory (Mr Staley) on behalf of the Minister for Health to the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly on 16 March 1977. [More…]

• The Minister for Health will resume his seat. [More…]

• The Minister for Health will resume his seat. [More…]

• Mr STEWART;ls the Minister for Health aware that his suggestion in the House last week, namely, that Population Services International should defer the setting up of an abortion clinic in Canberra until all the health and legal aspects have been given full consideration, has apparently fallen on deaf ears? [More…]

• The Minister for Health and I have had strong representations against the merit of this proposal and both Ministers have been urged to consider action to prevent the establishment of the clinic. [More…]

• This appears to the Minister for Health to bc a matter of great community interest and one in which he would expect to have the views ofthe Assembly before he institutes positive action, of any kind. [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission is seeking advice on the general issues from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and it should be in a position to offer particular information to the Assembly in the event that the Assembly would wish to consider the general issues and offer advice. [More…]

• In particular there is the question of how much control should be exercised over the development of private clinics or whether such services should be provided only under the auspices of the Capital Territory Health Commission through its public hospitals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health views this as a problem of considerable urgency and would be grateful if the Assembly could indicate that it is prepared to look into the issues quickly through its appropriate Committee. [More…]

• The Minister for Health views this as a problem of considerable urgency and would be grateful if the Assembly could indicate that it is prepared to look into the issues quickly through its appropriate Committee. [More…]

• There is no point in hanging on to the Government an indiscreet statement by the Minister for Health in the circumstances of the cut and thrust of Question Time in the House of Representatives and which was not even considered by the questioner as reflecting the views of Mr Hunt so far as the Legislative Assembly is concerned. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• He is the Chairman of the Capital Territory Health Commission- [More…]

• Finally, I simply want to refer the Senate to the fact that the only recommendation for an ordinance made by the Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health was for this Ordinance. [More…]

• Senator Ryan has shown that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has contradicted his undertaking to the Legislative Assembly that this matter would be dealt with according to the Assembly’s wishes. [More…]

• Paragraph (b) of Senator Evans’s amendment reads: to enable the Government to take such other administrative and legislative steps as are necessary to implement the recommendations of the ACT Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health in its Report No. [More…]

• 26 regarding pregnancy termination of the Standing Committee on Education and Health of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly. [More…]

• It is necessary to refer to the letter which the then Minister for the Capital Territory, Mr Staley, sent to the Legislative Assembly on behalf of himself and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health and I have had strong representations against the merit of this proposal and both Ministers have been urged to consider action to prevent the establishment of the clinic. [More…]

• It is worth pointing out that on that issue- the issue which was basic to the advice sought by the Minister for the Capital Territory and the Minister for Health- the advice of the Assembly was accepted. [More…]

• I think it is worth remembering in this context that the Capital Territory Health Commission is a community based body. [More…]

• Health Commission since that time. [More…]

• If the people of the Capital Territory or a majority of them accept option A the Legislative Assembly will in fact, under Stage 2 of those proposals, have executive power over health matters. [More…]

• If the community does not accept option A the Legislative Assembly will not have executive power over health matters immediately after the referendum or subsequently as a result of that decision, and one must assume that under the Constitution the Parliament will retain this traditional role. [More…]

• If the people opt for proposal A of the referendum proposals then the Legislative Assembly eventually will have transferred to it powers over health matters and will therefore be competent to legislate on them in its own right. [More…]

• He went on to say that Senator Ryan’s statement that the Ordinance prohibits the establishment of abortion clinics by the ACT Health Commission is simply incorrect, and part of the smokescreen that Senator Ryan has set up around her attempts to have easier abortion in the ACT. [More…]

• I would like to repeat, because it is relevant to what Senator Tate said and to comments by Senator Evans to which I have referred, the statement ‘that the Ordinance prohibits the establishment of abortion clinics by the ACT Health Commission is completely incorrect’. [More…]

• In my view, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has purposely hoodwinked this Parliament by introducing this Ordinance into this Parliament so that he can satisfy both of the pressure groups- on the one hand, those people who realise the inevitability of a properly organised clinic and on the other hand those people who, because of religious beliefs or other reasons, are diametrically opposed to the termination of a pregnancy. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• In these matters it is the responsibility of the Commonwealth Government to make ordinances about health in the Territory and it is the right of the Parliament to disallow such an ordinance. [More…]

• I must say, as did Senator Tate and Senator Harradine, that some of the confusion has come from those in this debate who want to hang their hats on the words of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in answer to a question from Mr Beazley in the House of Representatives in March last year. [More…]

• A large part ofthe argument of those who are in favour of the disallowance of the Ordinance rests on a commitment which they suppose the Minister for Health made not merely to receive advice from the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly but to accept it. [More…]

• Senator Harradine has referred to the context of what the Minister for Health said. [More…]

• The Hansard report of 24 March shows that there was uproar in the House of Representatives; it shows a call for order; it shows a very unstable and provoked Minister for Health trying to make a decision in answer to the question asked by Mr Beazley. [More…]

• He therefore pressed the Minister for Health to say how the view of the Parliament could be neglected when procedure was under way for an expansion of abortion in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• The Minister for Health said that the Assembly would be consulted and he mentioned the word decisions’. [More…]

• Senator Tate put it so well at the beginning of the debate when he said that the Minister for Health accepted that there would be decisions about what recommendations the Assembly would give to the Government and the Government would make its decision. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment Ibr the termination of a pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• In that regard I refer to the report of the Standing Committee on Education and Health of the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly- the report that really raises the subject of this debate. [More…]

• The Standing Committee considered that in order to ensure such control the abortion facility should be associated with and in the grounds of a public hospital, and should be under the direct control ofthe Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• As I see the proposition which has been put to us today, if this Ordinance were disallowed it would mean that certain operations might be able to be carried out not in association with or in the grounds of a public hospital; nor need they necessarily be under the direct control of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• If I thought that disallowance of this Ordinance would mean the establishment of a clinic in the grounds of a public hospital, under the control of that hospital and under the supervision of the Capital Territory Health Commission, I would support the proposition. [More…]

• The fact is that the way the Capital Territory Health Commission in its operation of the public hospital system carries out abortions in accordance with the law and the Menhennitt ruling quite clearly is accepted by the bulk of the population of the Australian Capital Territory and is accepted by honourable senators in this chamber. [More…]

• Mr Hunt’s responsibility as Minister for Health is quite clear; he has responsibility for the administration of health and abortion law in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• This appears to the Minister for Health to be a matter of great community interest and one in which he would expect to have the views of the Assembly before he institutes positive action, of any kind. [More…]

• It is, but it is not within the context of the authority and the responsibilities and duties of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The only point that I wish to make in addition to those that I made in the House a few days ago is that the Capital Territory Health Commission considered the safety and medical aspects of the operation of free standing abortion clinics at its meeting yesterday. [More…]

• However, I have been informed that the Capital Territory Health Commission gave consideration to a report from the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists on the health aspects of free standing abortion clinics. [More…]

• It is my understanding that the Commission is concerned that proper health safeguards should be imposed to ensure the safety of patients receiving any clinical service. [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission will be formally reporting this recommendation to the Australian Capital Territory Legislative Assembly. [More…]

• That answer makes it quite clear when considering the questions to which we have addressed ourselves in this debate that this is a health question and not a moral one. [More…]

• On those grounds the Government obviously came to the conclusion to draft the ordinance in the form that it has in order to protect the health of those who within the law are seeking abortions within Mr Justice Menhennitt ‘s ruling. [More…]

• We are addressing ourselves to the question of the Government’s administration of the health facilities in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• The Government has not only a right but also a duty and a responsibility properly to carry out its health activities, especially within the boundaries and parameters of the decisions that relate to the law, and I mention particularly the Menhennitt clauses. [More…]

• Further, I support the proposition that any laws which limit that right should be taken off the statute book, except those laws which concern health procedures and govern the various health institutions. [More…]

• On the other hand, I know that there are people who will seek out these facilities therefore they should be available because if they are not available these people will seek out facilities that are unsafe, which of course would be dangerous to their health. [More…]

• 26 of the Legislative Assembly Standing Committee on Education and Health. [More…]

• A registered medical practitioner shall not carry out treatment for the termination of pregnancy otherwise than at a hospital conducted by the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, made it clear that he was opposed to that. [More…]

• It seems to me that most of those who have been arguing that view are people from the Right to Life Association who claim that they are against private clinics but who also are against public facilities for the performance of abortion and, for that matter, against the provision of health insurance in respect of it. [More…]

• The operation of the Menhennitt rule in New South Wales and Victoria requires that one doctor needs to say that, according to his conscience and medical judgment, the abortion is in the interests of the woman’s health. [More…]

• We are debating it because the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, delegated the decision regarding the abortion clinic properly to the Legislative Assembly and then reneged on its decision. [More…]

• I also know that some women who need abortions will not be able to afford the fares to travel or that some women, having no one to leave their families with for a couple of days, will be forced to go through with a pregnancy that will damage their health and the welfare of their families. [More…]

• Thousands of others have had their health, their sanity and their lives ruined because they could get no assistance in their desperate circumstances. [More…]

• Why should the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, or the Senate reject these decisions? [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Now we have our delayed tax grab effective, and we find we’re paying extra as well, pensioners are unhappy with the reason, and just how many ordinary people really know how best they should act over health insurance? [More…]

• If anything has ever created any confusion in the minds of Australians it is the monkeying around with Medibank and the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• They would not be tolerated by the health department of any State or local authority in Australia. [More…]

• If these premises were not within the confines of the building that houses the national Parliament, they would fail dismally to meet the requirements of any local authority or State health department officer who inspected them. [More…]

• They would be condemned if ever a health inspector were called in to find out whether they came up to requirements. [More…]

• We should bring in some health department experts and other people who have some experience in this field. [More…]

• A great deal of publicity was given to the off-setting reduction of $2 a week for the health fund contribution. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 17 October 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I draw the Minister’s attention to the finding of the recent health survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics that 2.6 per cent of children aged between one and five years had not received any triple-antigen vaccination for whooping cough, tetanus and diptheria and that 3.8 per cent of children in the same age group had not received polio vaccination. [More…]

• Health and refers to the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme which was introduced by the Commonwealth Government on 1 October this year. [More…]

• Firstly, will the Minister consider the placing of advertisements in all country newspapers in Australia to publicise the scheme so that country people will become aware of what is available to them to help equalise health care costs as compared with capital city residents? [More…]

• I am advised on this matter by the Minister for Health that the Isolated Patients Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme was advertised in the national rural Press. [More…]

• Benefits under the scheme are restricted to treatment provided by a medical specialist or consultant physician, as recognised in the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• However, it is the Government’s intention continually to evaluate the scheme to ensure it is meeting its aim of assisting people in isolated areas to meet health costs. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister for Health aware of media reports that a super-international horse race is being planned for Flemington in early 1980, in which overseas horses are expected to take part? [More…]

• Has the Department of Health been contacted on this matter in respect to Australia’s quarantine laws? [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health is aware of the proposal being put forward by certain Victorian racing interests that an international horse race be planned for the early 1980s, in which overseas horses would be invited to take part. [More…]

• I also understand that no official approach has been made to the Department of Health to date. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• On 2 June this year I reminded the Minister that the Minister for Health had reported that sums totalling some millions of dollars were owed to Medibank by private health funds because of payments made by Medibank on behalf of private funds during the period of restructuring the health scheme so that individual contributors would not be disadvantaged. [More…]

• The Minister advised that the matter would be referred to the Minister for Health for reply, but I have received no reply. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen an article in a recent issue of Hemisphere magazine stating that a new medicine, vitex cannabifolia volatile, an extract of a herb, is successful in treating bronchitis, asthma and other respiratory complaints? [More…]

• There must come a time when there is a breakdown of efficiency and health and more people will be applying for long-term sick leave. [More…]

• I wish to speak briefly now on the matter of Aboriginal health on which I spoke during Estimates Committee C hearings. [More…]

• As I have indicated before, I am concerned about the general health of the Aboriginal people and I think that anybody associated in any way with the Aboriginal people would feel the same way. [More…]

• The Federal Health Department is concerned at an increase in the Northern Territory Aboriginal infant mortality rate last year. [More…]

• There are the Department of Aboriginal Affairs, the Department of Education and the Department of Health, so there is a considerable overlapping of authority by those departments. [More…]

• According to the Department of Health annual report the Aboriginal infant mortality rate in the Northern Territory took a sharp percentage rise in the years 1976 to 1977. [More…]

• 1 know that we can raise this matter when the proposed expenditure for the Department of Health is brought on, but I think it is necessary to raise it in connection with this Department’s estimates because I would have thought that the Department of Aboriginal Affairs would have a specific concern about this sharp increase in the Aboriginal infant mortality rate. [More…]

• I do not have any official response from the Department of Aboriginal Affairs or the Department of Health at this stage. [More…]

• The Department is supporting the community-based health services in the areas of Central Australia. [More…]

• In 1978-79 an amount of $ 1.47m will be spent on community oriented health services. [More…]

• That is another matter but I contrast it with what we are doing in endeavouring to correct a very serious situation in the Northern Territory as far as the health of Aboriginal communities is concerned as evidenced in infant mortality figures. [More…]

• I say to the Minister that we cannot let the matter rest, because if there is such a high mortality rate with infants then the overall standard of health of the whole community must be poor because many survive but do so in a very deprived state. [More…]

• For instance, if all these children were to suddenly die by some sudden disaster caused by flood or by earthquake, we would be racing to the assistance of those communities, but because it is an insidious thing which has been suddenly revealed to us in the health report we seem not to give it the importance that we should. [More…]

• I can see a response in the Minister but nevertheless I think we have to take that response further than this place to see whether we can get the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and the Department of Health to consider it to be urgent. [More…]

• Cabinet and the Treasurer (Mr Howard) should also consider it to be urgent and apply the necessary moneys which will provide the health teams to go into those areas to correct the sorry situation. [More…]

• I recognise the genuine concern of Senator Georges in this matter but I doubt that money can really buy the health of the Aboriginal child. [More…]

• The problem is the understanding by the Aboriginal people of matters of health. [More…]

• There are many hundreds of Aboriginal children in the Northern Territory being educated at the Kormilda and Yirara Aboriginal Colleges who have the ability to become health aides. [More…]

• -As Senator Kilgariff and Senator Georges have said, the officers of the Department of Social Security, the Department of Aboriginal Affairs and, I would like to include also, the Department of Health were asked for a tremendous amount of detail by houourable senators on the Estimates Committee. [More…]

• During the hearing of Estimates Committee C, I asked what reserves were considered necessary for a health insurance fund to be viable. [More…]

• Professor Pollard was recently commissioned by the Voluntary Health Insurance Association of Australia to report on the matter of reserves for health insurance organisations in Australia. [More…]

• In his report, which the VHIAA lodged with the Minister, he recommends that there be a regulatory requirement that all health insurance organisations have a minimum reserve of one month with a desirable maximum of three months. [More…]

• One of the major recommendations in that report was that the Commonwealth Department of Health should develop and disseminate a standard protocol for the collection of comparable data and that researchers working on drug use problems should be encouraged to use this protocol. [More…]

• I appreciate that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has replied recently to questions asked by me and other honourable senators but the replies do not give any guarantee of security for the staffs in all States. [More…]

• Perhaps I should first read- and you, Mr Temporary Chairman, would not object to this course- a letter to me dated 14 November from the Minister for Health which, I suppose, gives the latest information. [More…]

• As a result of the new health insurance arrangements certain functions of the Health Insurance Commission have been transferred to the Department of Health. [More…]

• A significant number of Medibank staff currently engaged on these functions, including bulk bill processing and payments to private hospitals, will be offered employment in the Department of Health without any loss of present entitlements. [More…]

• -The letter from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) which was read by Senator Bishop provides the latest information that I am able to offer with regard to the negotiations which are still proceeding with the Public Service Board and the staff associations. [More…]

• At this stage the Department of Health is reimbursing the Health Insurance Commission for the persons who are working in the Medibank centres. [More…]

• As stated by the Minister, there is an undertaking that as much assistance as possible will be given once it is known whether any redundancies will result from the changes to the health schemes. [More…]

• We know that the private health insurance funds have not paid Medibank Private the money that is owing to it. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has made some statements in relation to medical benefits for those suffering from chronic illnesses. [More…]

• I think Senator Melzer, in asking questions about Medibank Private seeks information with regard to a private health fund about which the Government would not be able to make a statement any more than it would be able to make a statement about any other private health fund. [More…]

• However I will refer Senator Melzer ‘s remarks and the questions she has raised to the Minister to see what information can be made available, bearing in mind that this is a private health fund. [More…]

• Estimates Committee C was responsible for looking at the estimates for the Department of Health which are covered in Appropriation Bills (No. [More…]

• That is when it will hand over the health services under its administration in the Northern Territory to the Northern Territory Government. [More…]

• Covered in these Estimates are the sums of money that will fund the Department of Health up to 31 December. [More…]

• Speaking once again of the outback health situation I see that there will be room in this transfer of powers for the re-evaluation of health services to ensure that there is no overlapping and that the money will go further than perhaps it does now. [More…]

• Once again I see a necessity for reviewing health facilities to ensure that there is no overlapping of responsibilities and a resultant wasting of funds and personnel. [More…]

• An unusual aspect of the Health Department estimates this year which is creating interest not only to honourable senators in this chamber but also to the people of Australia is that the Health Department Will be responsible for northern surveillance. [More…]

• I wonder whether the Health Department has considered the woman who is expecting a child. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) said that she would refer Senator Melzer ‘s question to her colleague, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) for reply and amplification. [More…]

• Frankly, it is some time since I have seen the National Health Act. [More…]

• Senator Douglas McClelland raised a question with which we have dealt on Estimates Committee C. We were told that the Health Insurance Commission’s annual report would not be available for some time. [More…]

• In response to Senator Douglas McClelland, I understand that the Health Insurance Commission is compiling a report on Medibank to 3 1 October. [More…]

• It is a private health fund. [More…]

• It has the same responsibility to report under the National Health Act as other private health funds have. [More…]

• I take it that X-rays and health matters will be a separate operation. [More…]

• Little, and sometimes no plumbing, lack of hot water, in fact often only one cold tap to cover the needs of the entire household, poor ventilation, over-heated in summer, frozen in winter, conditions prevail and high incidence of respiratory ailments, chronic chest complaints, jaundice, gastro infections and general poor health are a result. [More…]

• Their health problems, their social problems- every problem may be traced to the fact that we do not house them decently, either in the way that we see decent housing or in the way that they see it. [More…]

• Following additional information received on this case, I recently carefully reconsidered Mr Chowdary ‘s application and I decided to approve the grant of resident status to him and his family provided they meet normal health and character requirements and Mr Chowdary is able to obtain a firm offer of employment as a tradesman tanner or clicker. [More…]

• On having the information passed on to him that provided he was of good health and good character, et cetera, and had a firm offer of employment, he would be eligible to come to Australia he was advised by his brother-in-law to contact the Australian Embassy in Delhi. [More…]

• On 29 February- I speak from recollection- that person had been given a letter from the Department saying that his application for permanent residence had been successful, subject to normal immigration and health requirements. [More…]

• At present the following State Government departments and authorities offer concessions to card holders: The South Australian Housing Trust, the Hospitals Department, the Public Department of Health, the Engineering and Water Supply Department which deals with water and sewerage rates, the Land Tax Office, council rates, legal aid services, the South Australian Gas Co., the Department of Lands, the State Transport Authority Bus and Tram Division, the Department for the Environment, the Department of Further Education, the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, the Adelaide Festival Centre Trust, the State Opera Company of South Australia, the South Australian Theatre Co., the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australia Motor Registration Division and the State Transport Authority Railway Division. [More…]

• We have great problems with the private health funds and with the retention, I hope, of Medibank. [More…]

• 1098 which Dr Klugman had asked of the Minister for Health on 16 August 1977. [More…]

• What are the names of the persons who are the members of the governing boards of the private health funds in Queensland. [More…]

• A question was also asked by Dr Klugman, who is shadow Minister for Health in another place, in relation to the private health funds of Victoria. [More…]

• On 4 November 1977, as reported at page 2924 of the Hansard report of the House of Representatives a similar question was placed on notice by Dr Klugman and replied to by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 28 September 1978: [More…]

• Will the Minister consider recommending an amendment to the Health Insurance Act 1973 to prevent further such extravagant buildings being constructed. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The trading results of Medibank will be contained in the Health Insurance Commission report which will be tabled in the Parliament in due course. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Commission owns one building in Hobart, one in Adelaide and is currently constructing a 10 storey Head Office building in Canberra. [More…]

• The Health Insurance Act 1973 is not an appropriate Act to contain such a provision. [More…]

• Officers of my Department have since been in regular contact with New South Wales fisheries and health authorities advising them on standards and procedures necessary to satisfy the requirements of importers of Sydney rock oysters. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she is aware that the Family Planning Association of the Australian Capital Territory, which is funded by this Government, was supporting the setting up of a public abortion clinic when the issue was debated in this place last week? [More…]

• The Minister for Health does not regard abortion as a desirable method of family planning and does not support the action of the Association in seeking to exert influence on honourable senators in respect of the debate which occurred in this chamber last week on this matter. [More…]

• However, in saying that, I stress on behalf of the Minister for Health that the Association does not carry out abortions at its clinics. [More…]

• I do want to remind all other honourable senators who have an interest in providing the good things for Australians- the social welfare, the health, the education and the defencethat those things come from the mainspring of both company tax and personal income tax. [More…]

• The AMLC also receives assistance from Bureau of Animal Health staff in meatworks and from the State Departments of Agriculture and other State Authorities. [More…]

• On 1 January next year, responsibility in the field of health will be transferred to the Northern Territory and on 1 July 1979 education responsibilities will be transferred. [More…]

• Department of Health, National Acoustics Laboratories, NSW [More…]

• Bureau of Animal Health, Department of Primary Industry, ACT [More…]

• Australian Kidney Foundation, Department of Health, ACT [More…]

• Health Commission of NSW [More…]

• Department of Health Services, Tas. [More…]

• Department of Public Health, SA [More…]

• Department of Health, Qld [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether it is a fact that the Health Insurance Bill reviewed and amended by this Senate was returned to the House of Representatives for concurrence only last week or perhaps the week before- at least in the very recent past? [More…]

• Customarily, at binh, a person’s afterbirth was buried beside a young sapling as part of a complex custom called Kuuten, and the growing tree then came to represent the physical health and spiritual wellbeing of that individual. [More…]

• At about this time we heard that a plane had been chartered by Welfare to go to Ayers Rock with the projects officer, Mr Smith of Stawell Timber Industries, picking up Mr David Hewitt of the Docker River Social Club on the way, and also taking a Health Department Officer to give approval for work to begin on the proposed ‘Aboriginal Enterprise’ service station to be built there. [More…]

• The application of STI to the Health Depanment for approval of plans for the Ayers Rock service station project. [More…]

• Thirdly, the cuts in the program will restrict essential public activities such as the construction of schools, hospitals, housing, health facilities and other essential infrastructure, and substantially increase unemployment by further restricting jobs in the building and construction industry and a number of other industries such as building supplies, transport and the like and removing all growth in State government employment. [More…]

• Consistent with that proposition, the Government cut funds for capital works, both general purpose funds plus the major specific purpose programs such as hospitals, community health, urban public transport and welfare housing. [More…]

• We can only assume that a deliberate decision has been made by the Government, through its Cabinet, that some more unemployment has to be accepted as pan of the cure for getting the nation back to economic health. [More…]

• On the contrary, Tasmanians have contributed massively for many years to the economic health of this nation for very small return. [More…]

• My question is directed to Senator Guilfoyle in her capacities as Minister representing the Minister for Health and Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs. [More…]

• Does the present surplus of doctors cost the community about $250m a year without really contributing much to the standard of health care? [More…]

• This is a matter on which I had some briefing from the Minister for Health last week. [More…]

• The non-free market nature of health care and the nature of medical practice have the combined effect of making medical services and health care relatively expensive. [More…]

• As a consequence, an interdepartmental committee comprising representatives of the departments of Health, Employment and Industrial Relations, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, and Education, and the Tertiary Education Commission has been established and is at present studying the question of medical manpower in detail. [More…]

• Almost all doctors now entering Australia do so in response to a firm job offer extended either by health authorities or by private medical practitioners. [More…]

• Is this expected return on investment consistent with the Government’s attempt to curb rising health costs, especially those generated by hospitals, and is it not considered almost unethical and immoral for multinational organisations not only to monopolise our natural resources but also to plan to turn the misfortune of sickness and ill-health into a profit-making investment? [More…]

• The fact of the matter is that certain items of Commonwealth expenditure have been taking a larger proportion- areas such as health, education and welfare in particular have had an increasing share of Commonwealth expenditure. [More…]

• It is a matter for the States whether they allocate those funds to roads, to the health, education and welfare fields. [More…]

• Again there seems to be a great priority in the health area. [More…]

• Honourable senators will no doubt know that despite the best efforts of health authorities in the countries concerned, rabies continues its steady spread across western Europe. [More…]

• In the animal and plant health fields, I am sure all honourable senators appreciate that Australia’s rural production and the advantages we enjoy on overseas markets for our livestock and agricultural products depend critically on our comparative freedom from serious pests and diseases. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has directed his department to maintain a rigorous approach to quarantine enforcement backed by firm prosecution action where appropriate. [More…]

• It should be noted that it has been agreed that the arrangements will apply only in cases where programs are carried out with the full support of the Australian Agricultural Council’s Consultative Committee on animal health matters. [More…]

• Has the Commonwealth Government, at any stage, relaxed the health criteria for East Timorese, currently residing in Portugal who have applied to enter Australia. [More…]

• Some East Timorese with medical conditions which do not constitute a health risk to the Australian community have been granted entry. [More…]

• The Acting Supervising Scientist is one of Australia’s most experienced health physicists. [More…]

• He has had considerable administrative experience within the Government bureaucracy, was Atomic Energy Adviser to the High Commissioner in London for three years and has served on a number of international panels and committees concerned with the environmental and public health aspects of nuclear energy. [More…]

• He is a member of Committee 4 ofthe International Commission on Radiological Protection, Chairman of the Committee on Radiological Protection and Public Health of the Nuclear Energy Agency of the OECD and Chairman of an ad hoc committee of this Committee concerned with the environmental and public health implications of uranium mining and milling. [More…]

• He was also a member of the working panel set up by the Australian Department of Health that drew up the ‘Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores 1975’. [More…]

• His health has deteriorated to the extent, that he is not expected to live long enough to see his release from detention. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If this is so, does this action have the blessing of the Minister for Health? [More…]

• If a young father took his recreational leave for this purpose his own health could deteriorate if he did not have proper recreational leave available to him. [More…]

• If these people have the responsibility of a young family, mortgage commitments to meet and now greatly increased health insurance payments and everything else, they cannot possibly afford to give up a week without pay. [More…]

• First, to ensure the healthy delivery of a baby and to protect the health of the mother; and, secondly, to allow time to establish a parent-child relationship. [More…]

• I refer firstly to the proceedings of Estimates Committee C of 26 October at which senior officers of the Department of Health were present. [More…]

• I preface my remarks by saying that over 18 months ago I took representatives of the Airline Hostesses Association, with the co-operation of the Minister for Health, Mr Ralph Hunt, to meet the Director-General of Health. [More…]

• We wish to thank you for the copy of the proceedings of the Senate Estimates Committee C, dated Thursday, 26 October 1978, in regard to discussion on aircraft cabin crew and matters of public health. [More…]

• On several occasions mention is made of the Airline Hostesses’ Association and other unions having been a party to discussions with the Department of Health. [More…]

• Dr Evans states that we were told that if any incident arose that had implications for the health of our members it would be brought to our notice. [More…]

• The Association feels that, whilst there is obvious merit in the Department’s overall policy and general activities in this specific area of public health, it is necessary that the Association’s alleged participation and involvement should be clarified as a matter of public record. [More…]

• DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle, Minister for Social Security and Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Department of Health- [More…]

• Mr J. S. McCauley, First Assistant Director General, Health Services Division [More…]

• Dr K. W. Edmondson, First Assistant Director General, National Health and Medical Research Council Division [More…]

• Dr W. A. Langsford, First Assistant Director General, Public Health Divison [More…]

• Mr C. R. Wilcox, Deputy General Manager, Health Insurance Commission [More…]

• Mr E. R. Boardman, Commissioner, Capital Territory Health Commission [More…]

• At what stage could I ask about the discussions that are held between cabin crews on our overseas aircraft and the Department of Health when there is concern about airlifting people from disaster areas? [More…]

• This Conference recognises that the question of access is of fundamental importance to handicapped people, particularly access to health services, employment, education, social and recreational facilities, means of transport and stresses the need to urgently improve access to these areas for the handicapped. [More…]

• This Conference demands that the Capital Territory Health Commission plans to accommodate larger numbers than are being currently planned for and that the accommodation should be available before 1981. [More…]

• This Conference urges the Capital Territory Health Commission to provide short term relief for people with handicaps whose accommodation needs are not currently being catered for. [More…]

• That this working group arrange for the wider distribution of information of health, welfare and education services as well as employment opportunities in the A.C.T. [More…]

• I can merely say that I will seek from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) some response to the comments made by Senator Mulvihill. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Under the provisions of the Nursing Homes Assistance Act proprietors of nursing homes are required to submit to the Department of Health for approval, budgets of their operating payments and receipts prior to the commencement of each financial year. [More…]

• At the end of a financial year proprietors are required to submit audited final accounts to the Department of Health by 31 October (or such later date as may be approved). [More…]

• and (3) (a) I understand that Dr Subandrio is currently in Nirbaya prison in Jakarta, where he is reported to be in very good health. [More…]

• Others expressed concern that much of the advertising directed at children encouraged them in dietary habits that could pose long term dental and nutritional health risks. [More…]

• All National Health and Medical Research Council Regulations applying to wines produced in Australia be rigidly applied to and enforced upon wine and brandy imports. [More…]

• As a result of that submission all we have seen is a letter from Mr Ralph Hunt Minister for Health, commenting upon that aspect of the submission. [More…]

• I believe that the case put by the Wine and Brandy Co-operative Producers Association of Australia, which still stands before the Industries Assistance Commission and which has been very responsibly argued with regard to a national register of vineyards, with regard to a national pricing scheme and with regard to wine and brandy imports being required to meet the National Health and Medical Research Council regulations applying to wines produced in Australia, is vital in remedying the serious situation before the grape industry. [More…]

• It is a vertically integrated industry wherein the growers, having no economic alternative source of production, are locked into the total health of the processing and the marketing sectors. [More…]

• As honourable senators are aware, there are three principal elements concerning the payment of medical benefits under the new health insurance arrangements which commenced operation on 1 November 1978. [More…]

• As I indicated in my second reading speech when introducing the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1978, these tables, which must conform with guidelines determined by the Minister for Health, enable registered organisations to offer a variety of medical benefit packages, including deductibles. [More…]

• Before outlining in detail the provisions of the Bill before the House, I would like to inform honourable senators that the Government’s new health insurance arrangements are working exceptionally smoothly, except for a small, but most important, group of contributors, who are subject to the medical benefits exclusions rules of registered organisations. [More…]

• Section 73BE of the National Health Act provides for the Minister for Health to give directions to registered medical benefit organisations, including directions with respect to the scope and level of benefits available to contributors. [More…]

• The first objective is to prevent discrimination in the payment of medical benefits for medical services rendered on or after 1 November 1978 which is, in the opinion of the Minister for Health, improper discrimination. [More…]

• 1 am sure honourable senators will accept that, as a principle, persons affected by new or restructured tables under the new health insurance arrangements should be able to maintain their full medical benefits entitlements which existed prior to 1 November 1978. [More…]

• In a Press statement made on this issue on 30 April 1978 by the Minister of Health in New South Wales and the Commonwealth Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) it was stated that when evidence on these nonpayments of benefits was received, action would be taken to safeguard patients. [More…]

• Section 73E of the National Health Act provides for the Minister for Health to determine guidelines relating to optional medical and hospital benefit tables. [More…]

• Benefit tables satisfying the guidelines, and criteria specified in the National Health Act, are declared, by the Minister, to be optional tables. [More…]

• The Bill, in clause 8, amends section 78 of the National Health Act. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate confers on the Minister for Health powers of direction to safeguard membership and benefit entitlements of contributors. [More…]

• -The opposition does not oppose the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• This Bill, like so many before it, has the general aim of increasing the powers of the Minister for Health to regulate the voluntary health funds in this country. [More…]

• It is with some amusement that whenever an amendment Bill of this type comes up I remember the days in 1974 and 1975 when, as a supporter of the then Government, I spoke on many occasions on amending legislation introduced to give the then Minister for Health the powers to control the voluntary health funds. [More…]

• Of course the Government realised then as it realises now that the voluntary health funds in this country are controlled by and contain some of the slipperiest and shadiest characters in the business. [More…]

• As the Minister for Social Security pointed out in the second reading speech which she made on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), among the shadiest and slipperiest are the gentlemen from the Hospital Contributions Fund, who in order to avoid their responsibilities recently tried to exclude large numbers of disadvantaged members from receiving benefits. [More…]

• It has been an unfortunate fact that the voluntary health funds in this country have repeatedly, time and time again, tried to avoid their responsibility and tried to exclude various groups from receiving benefits at the same time as constructing large buildings, buying aeroplanes and other things. [More…]

• I make the same prediction about this Bill as I made about the other health amendment Bills which have been introduced this year. [More…]

• This legislation will be back again next year for further amendment to enable the Minister yet again to curb the slippery and shady characters who will continue to manipulate the national health legislation of this country as much as they can to avoid their responsibility. [More…]

• Nevertheless, following the discussion that the Senate had on 25 October concerning a particular clause of certain health legislation, a few things should be said. [More…]

• Although my contribution, which concerns section 73E of the National Health Act, would perhaps be better made in the Committee stage, it may take longer to outline than the stipulated time in the Committee stage would permit. [More…]

• It is peculiar to note that the taking of power from the Parliament that has taken place under this Government seems to be happening in relation to the activities of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• Honourable senators will recall that in the debate in this chamber on abortion in the Australian Capital Territory the Minister for Health did not want to accept the decision of the Australian Capital Territory Legislation Assembly. [More…]

• We understand the needs of the people and their interests and that amendments are required to the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• It is a speech that should have the proper consideration of those who draft legislation to put into effect policies of government, particularly policies as important as a health policy. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question relating to components in first aid kits sold in Australia which may or may not be marked as Australian first aid kits. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Department of Health is interested in standards control only of therapeutic substances which are contained in these kits- for example, antiseptic creams or liquids- and that there is no control on other goods such as bandages and lint that are contained in the kits? [More…]

• Will the Minister ask the Minister for Health whether the Department could look at the possibility of a quality control of all components of first aid kits, in view of the fact that many of the components now being put in the kits come from countries with very different standards of public health and hygiene from Australia’s? [More…]

• -I ask the Minister for Education: When will the nursing degree programs for registered nurses at the Western Australian Institute of Technology and the Lincoln Institute of Health Sciences be approved by the Tertiary Education Commission? [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• For the information of honourable senators I present the text of a statement by the Minister for Health relating to the June 1978 report of the Senate Standing Committee on Science and the Environment: Herbicides, Pesticides and Human Health. [More…]

• Let me give a hypothetical example so that people will be able to understand what I am talking about: Firm A is employing union labour, is honouring its awards both in spirit and in the letter, is enabling the union to go into the plant, is ensuring that safety, health and welfare provisions and procedures are followed and is able to ensure that there is proper consultation between the management and the employees so that the employees are not unfairly disadvantaged. [More…]

• We extend, too, best respects to Ken’s charming wife and wish them both good health and happiness. [More…]

• We say to Mr and Mrs Ingram and their family that we wish them good health and happiness for the future. [More…]

• We join with you, sir, in thanking Mr Worth and wishing him every happiness and health for the future. [More…]

• May I wish us all for 1979 all the good health, happiness of spirit and all the adventure of the mind and body to which we can as eager Australians look forward. [More…]

• The second matter is- and this does not involve the Minister for Social Security- that I have absolute evidence, in writing, that a member of my profession, the medical profession, forwarded a patient’s medical report to the Department of Health without the permission of that patient and without the permission of that patient’s general practitioner. [More…]

• Incidentally, this doctor has been the source of many reports to the Department of Health and, I understand, to the Department of Social Security because of his attitude to members of the Greek community. [More…]

• I believe that one of them is from the Victorian Branch of the Department of Health. [More…]

• In addition, the State Government will spend monies to the benefit of the two communities from their general allocation for Health, Housing and Education services. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 12 September 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The following statutory corporations operating within my portfolio have a responsibility to report to Parliament: (a) Health Insurance Commission; (b) The Capital Territory Health Commission; (c) Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission. [More…]

• (a) Health Insurance Commission Act 1973-Section 42; (b) Health Commission Ordinance 1975- Sub-sections 72 (1) and 72 (2); (c) Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Act 1961 -Section 44 (4). [More…]

• (a) Health Insurance Commision; (b) The Capital Territory Health Commission; (c) Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission. [More…]

• (a) The annual accounts of the Health Insurance Commission for 1976-77 were formally submitted to the A.C.T. [More…]

• Under the provisions of Section 42 ( 1 ) of the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973, the Commission is required each year to submit its financial statements . [More…]

• Neither the 1975-76 nor the 1976-77 reports of the Capital Territory Health Commission have been published. [More…]

• the first report of the Capital Territory Health Commission, has been primarily due to the difficulties of establishing an agreed format for the financial statements. [More…]

• With the resolution of that matter, draft accounts were prepared by the Capital Territory Health Commission in the early months of 1978 and the Commission understands that the audit is near completion. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 November 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) What is the reason for the National Health and Medical Research Council’s refusal to fund a research project entitled ‘The Pharmacology of Cannabis in Laboratory Animals’, being carried out at Sydney University’s Pharmacology Department. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Applications for National Health and Medical Research Council project grant support are reviewed annually on scientific merit through a peer review system. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has, over the past eight years, provided substantial support for research into the pharmacology of cannabis at the Sydney University’s Pharmacology Department. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council’s project grants are intended to supplement- not supplantgovernment, academic, voluntary and industrial support of medical research. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 November 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will seek the information from the Minister for Health and if I have it before the end of Question Time I will ensure that the honourable senator is advised. [More…]

• Where such a minimum is lacking, efforts at ‘development’ and improved health will probably come to little. [More…]

• It is much easier administratively to pay officials to ‘look after’ the poor and people of low status than to give to such groups those basic resources which they need for safe living, health and economic development. [More…]

• All the time the results of the reduction in Aboriginal welfare ends up in the Department of Health which pointed out in its last report that infant mortality in the Northern Territory had decreased in Labor’s years and is increasing continually year by year under this Government. [More…]

• The Department of Health’s report says that it jumped 44 per cent in 1977-78. [More…]

• He cut down and cut down and disregarded the health, welfare and lives of babies in the north and got away with it. [More…]

• This is due certainly to our geographical isolation, to our high standards of public health and equally as certainly to the efficiency of our quarantine service and procedures. [More…]

• In my own State of Tasmania the syrex wasp still inflicts damage on pine plantations and every year in Estimates Committee discussions the Minister representing the Minister for Health, I and others have an interesting discussion on the efforts to eliminate the oriental fruit fly. [More…]

• Although the methods of protection are improving the thought of this disease reaching our continent is a considerable worry and enough to give any health authority nightmares. [More…]

• Seeds and plants are still smuggled in and health regulations are still ignored, quite often merely to save time at medical checks and customs checks at international airports. [More…]

• The possibility of this country having to take large numbers of refugees increases the need to upgrade and to assist our quarantine services, both in the Department of Health and in the Bureau of Customs. [More…]

• If it were, we would be living in a dream time and a dream country; but unfortunately the fact of the matter is that, while the country requires these vast resources to be spent in the fields of education, health and social security, someone has to pay. [More…]

• Levels of Uranium, radium (226Ra) and radon (222Rn) have been measured in these waters and are below the maximum permissible concentrations applicable to members of the public set down in the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores (Commonwealth Department of Health, 1975). [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 24 October 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• No, but it is assumed that the ‘secret’ report refers to a long report written to the General Manager of the Health Insurance Commission by an employee, who was certainly not a senior executive, whose duties involved investigation of possible cases of fraud or oversupply of services. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 7 November 1978: [More…]

• 1 ) How many applications were received for National Health and Medical Research Council grants from 1 November 1 977 to 3 1 October 1 978. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 15 November 1978: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• when the question of possible termination of pregnancy arises the Committee requires medical certificates from two medical practitioners indicating that continuation of pregnancy is likely to seriously endanger the life or health, including mental health, of the mother. [More…]

• necessary to preserve the woman from a serious danger to her life or her physical or mental health (not being merely the normal dangers of pregnancy and childbirth) which the continuance of the pregnancy would entail; and [More…]

• 1 ) Has the Minister ever made any representations to either the Bureau of Animal Health or the Department of Health, seeking a relaxation of quarantine regulations as they apply to the importation of livestock; if so what was the nature of the representations. [More…]

• There has been, for example greater interest shown in the possibility of importing various classes of livestock since the Government decisions to proceed with the off-shore animal Quarantine Station at Cocos Islands and the Australian National Animal Health Laboratories at Geelong. [More…]

• Where appropriate, representations concerning quarantine issues are referred to my colleague, the Minister for Health, for consideration and decision or advice. [More…]

• I do not make direct representations to the Depanment of Health. [More…]

• The Bureau of Animal Health in my Department provides me with advice on the complete range of animal health matters required from dme to time. [More…]

• I have made no representations to either the Bureau of Animal Health or the Department of Health that could in any way be regarded as seeking a relaxation of quarantine regulations. [More…]

• President, Lindisfarne Child Health Association. [More…]

• Judith Roberts (South Australia)- Trained nurse; associate member of National Council of Women of SA; member of number of local community organisations (in the fields of health, welfare and education) including Unley Mothers and Babies Health Association ( former President, Secretary and Treasurer), Unley Royal Institution for the Blind, Unley Auxiliary of Crippled Children’s Association, Royal District Nursing Society, Red Cross, Good Neighbour Council of SA, State Committees of Schools’ Commission, Council of Governors of Walford CEGGS, Federation of Parents and Friends Association of Independent Schools in SA. [More…]

• The main area for concern is their ineligibility for issue of the Pensioners Health Benefit Card. [More…]

• Your Petitioners therefore humbly pray that in this International Year of the Child all Australian children be considered an equal part of this country’s wealth and that the Health Act be amended so that Pensioners Health Benefit Cards can be issued to those receiving Supporting Parents Benefit. [More…]

• Has the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health been drawn to the fact that, due to financial cuts, the services provided by the National Acoustics Laboratory have been curtailed in many provincial areas of Victoria- to name three, Geelong, Bendigo and Warrnambool? [More…]

• We cannot look at the economics of the situation without giving recognition to the enormous growth of expenditure on health and welfare. [More…]

• Budget for the year 1967-68 the health and welfare allocation was $1.4 billion. [More…]

• Equally, I give recognition to the growth in the health and welfare expenditure of this country. [More…]

• Another figure which I think indicates relativity is that about 85 per cent of all personal income tax collected in this country is spent on health and welfare. [More…]

• It has been agreed that this two-year fare is necessary for the health of the people who are working. [More…]

• How much more necessary is it for those people who perhaps are not as healthy as the people who are working because they are approaching the end of their lives? [More…]

• Of course, many people would say that they cannot live in the south, that they must live in the tropics for their health. [More…]

• Right across the community, insufficient money to buy proper food means an increase in ill health, which means additional cost. [More…]

• We used to have Medibank to assist people in ill health, but this Government has destroyed Medibank. [More…]

• Now pensioners have to take out private health insurance, and that means more expense. [More…]

• Elderly pensioners in some areas will be lucky to be able to take out private health insurance because many of the health insurance funds have stopped offering health insurance to elderly people. [More…]

• Anybody who has had children, anybody who has any imagination, realises that when there are young children in a family the need for health care rises dramatically. [More…]

• Everybody knows that families have high expenses in this area and everybody knows that many pensioners are now left with the burden of covering the gap between the standard health benefit that they can claim and the actual fees that doctors charge. [More…]

• So the health of these people deteriorates even more. [More…]

• Some women bringing up families on their own have health care available to them and some of them have no health care; some of them are helped with prescriptions at the chemist and some of them are not; some are assisted with fares and some get no assistance whatsoever; some have assistance with rates or telephones and some have none at all. [More…]

• When one looks at other areas of involvement, such as education, health, defence and communications, one can see that the Government’s program is quite immense. [More…]

• The fields of research have now’ been classified broadly under the headings of: Disease, Nutrition, Physiology, Anatomy, Management and Public Health. [More…]

• In November 1977 a Press report disclosed that the New South Wales Health Commission had closed down a factory in Griffith, New South Wales, belonging to the Bartters, which had been sending contaminated egg pulp into Victoria. [More…]

• In fact, the record of the dismal Menzies epoch- those long 23 years- shows that public transport, public education, public health and public services generally in Australia deteriorated to a marked degree. [More…]

• In fact, the States remain responsible in fields such as health, education, welfare and, of course, land, which is of vital importance to Aboriginals. [More…]

• health and education services to be extended; [More…]

• Whether they are health services, welfare services, housing policies or community development activities, they are all part of the same kind of interventions by government aimed at giving people a better chance. [More…]

• In theory and in concept, it is not really different from housing, taxation policy, health, the cash transfer system, the provision of services or community development. [More…]

• The third point he made was quite medical: that personal health care is only one determinant of health. [More…]

• It does not matter whether it is in health, welfare, legal aid or housing. [More…]

• The same thing applies within the different sectors, even within health or the legal aid areas. [More…]

• There is no way, for example, that we can continue indefinitely to increase our appropriations for health as a percentage of the gross domestic product. [More…]

• I know the position at the moment in Senator Baume ‘s profession, in the health areas and so forth, where some terrible wastes are going on. [More…]

• Since the number of permanent residents allowed into Australia has been reduced we have been finding it difficult to get a teacher into the country to replace the current teacher, Mr Alex Vaitheeswaran who is currently employed by the Health Commission of New South Wales as a psychiatric nurse. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that requests for curtailment have arisen, not from the United States of America as might have been suggested in some reports, but from the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs. [More…]

• Landscaped gardens and recreation facilities will add to the resort atmosphere- swimming pools, tennis courts, bowling and putting greens and a health club. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether any consideration is being given to establishing external studies for nurses in the community health field? [More…]

• The matter that Senator Walters has raised is being considered in the context of the report of the Committee of Inquiry into Nurse Education and Training- the Sax Committee- which I set up in co-operation with my colleague the Federal Minister for Health. [More…]

• It is important that post-basic nurse education courses in such fields as community health are widely available in all States. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• That question is one I will need to direct to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Corals make up a small area of the biomass of the reef and the continued health of the rest of the living area there depends on live coral. [More…]

• My question is directed to Senator Guilfoyle both as Minister for Social Security and as Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that the Commonwealth Radiation Laboratory is responsible for monitoring and minimising radiation dosage received by patients through the medical use of X-rays. [More…]

• Currently, it is conducting a dose assessment survey with a grant from the National Health and Medical Research Council, and results should be available in the latter half of this year. [More…]

• Two additional groups, the new Radiation Health Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Ionising Radiation Advisory Council, participate in promoting the safe use of X-rays. [More…]

• I now have information from the Minister for Health to which I draw the Senate’s attention. [More…]

• Although under the National Health Act the Parliament has the right to reject an order of the Minister, there is no compulsion to bring the matter on for consideration within 15 days. [More…]

• But that provision does not govern the Aborigines or, under the health regulations, the unhealthy. [More…]

• The next recommendation was that the Commonwealth Department of Health monitor consumer usage of and attitudes towards the proprietary medicines to measure the effects of the various intervention strategies. [More…]

• But six months have elapsed since that statement was made and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has sought an extension of time. [More…]

• There is no point whatsoever in setting up educational programs in high schools, in primary schools or, as we are now told should happen, in kindergartens, if at the same time those children see their parents using on every possible occasion amounts of alcohol that can only be detrimental to their health and to their conduct and using alcohol as though they intend to go on drinking it forever. [More…]

• Cigarettes, according to doctors- one of my colleagues, Senator Baume, has often said this- are bad for the health. [More…]

• -My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that there is no evidence to support the assertions made in the letters referred to. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware also of a recent Capital Territory Health Commission report which claims that cigarette smoking is costing Australia $800m a year in medical bills, lost production through absenteeism and fires caused by cigarettes? [More…]

• Certainly honourable senators should recognise the fact that a large number of Australians use tobacco products and, whatever the health authorities may suggest, will continue to do so. [More…]

• It might be considered that a more appropriate and objective criterion would be to have regard only to his or her mental and physical health in applying the work test. [More…]

• It goes on to question whether the only criterion by which people should be judged as to whether they should accept work of the nature they usually undertake is their mental and physical health. [More…]

• One doubts very much whether the assessment of their mental health is a very objective form of measurement, no matter what claims are made for modern psychiatry and psychology. [More…]

• Some of us involved more intimately in the medical profession may even question how objective the measurement of their physical health may be under these circumstances. [More…]

• In view of the Western Australia’s Government’s attempts to force people to leave the town because the asbestos tailings are said to be a health hazard, will the Commonwealth government either compensate the people or remedy the damage that it has done? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• With regard to the first part of the question as to the right related to 25 per cent of the doctors’ earnings, I am not able to advise specifically on that matter on behalf of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• However, as to the more general part of the question related to the Auditor-General’s report, I understand that the Minister for Health has not yet had an opportunity to study the report. [More…]

• However, if the honourable senator is referring to some other extra charges for use of equipment, this is a practice that is unknown to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As the question also asked whether the Minister for Health would investigate the matter, I will see that the whole of the question is referred to him to see what information can be provided. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In September 1978, the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare published a report which stated that 40 per cent of all cancer deaths in the United States were due to exposure to occupational carcinogens such as asbestos, uranium, benzine, nickel oxide, chromium and petroleum factions, to mention just a few. [More…]

• I remind the Senate that the Government is committed to the building of an animal health laboratory at Geelong and to the establishment of a high security animal quarantine station on Cocos (Keeling) Islands. [More…]

• On the other hand, Government agencies which ought to be offering support in these circumstances, such as the Health Commission or the welfare branch of the Department of the Capital Territory, are unable to give adequate service to the public because of the Fraser Government’s policies of staff ceilings. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I understand from the Minister for Health that this was the influenza virus, A (HINI), popularly known as the Russian flu. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Government aware of the results of two studies recently released by the Colorado State University and the Miami University’s School of Public Health which show that over six years miscarriages among women in the Oregon town of Alsea rose to the unprecedented rate of 130 per thousand live births in June of each year, just after surrounding forests were sprayed with 2,4,5-T, and that this figure represents almost three times the miscarriage rate in two control areas where miscarriages averaged 45 and 46 per thousand? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of a telex message sent this morning in which a Health Department spokesman in Brisbane expressed anger about the slowness of the National Health and Medical Research Council in getting the facts on the Alsea incident which has led to additional restrictions being placed on the use of 2,4,5-T in the United States of America? [More…]

• Is it a fact, as has been reported also from Queensland, that the Federal Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, has said that the National Health and Medical Research Council’s pesticides sub-committee will not consider this matter until 2 1 March? [More…]

• I will need to refer them to the Minister for Health to get his reaction for the honourable senator. [More…]

• I have some information with regard to 2,4,5-T and with regard to the special working party of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• However, as the information does not specifically answer the questions raised by Senator Mason, I will see that his question is answered in detail by the Minister for Health without delay. [More…]

• I will refer that matter to the Minister for Health and see whether I can facilitate an early reply. [More…]

• The 1977 report of the Royal College of Physicians entitled Smoking or Health stated: [More…]

• Last year’s health bill, as Senator Baume will know, was $9,000m. [More…]

• While the Government cuts back on the areas of expenditure which could promote physical fitness, it ignores, or refuses to deal with, health hazards such as smoking, analgesics and alcohol. [More…]

• A response to the general health problems of the community as embodied in its national ‘Life. [More…]

• Is it any wonder that we are making no headway in coming to terms with this dreadful health problem in our community? [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health estimates that alcohol has been a major factor in about 3 per cent of deaths in Australia and in about 30,000 deaths over the last 10 years. [More…]

• At least 10 per cent of the nation’s health costs is related to alcohol. [More…]

• Hospital statistics show that 14 per cent of all patients entering mental health institutions are admitted with a diagnosis of alcoholism or alcoholic psychosis. [More…]

• The burgeoning fast food industry presents a serious health problem to our community. [More…]

• In countries such as the United States of America and Great Britain, governments are concerned at the health risks which are presented by the increasing use of chemicals in food. [More…]

• Processed foods are also dangerous to health because they frequently have no food value. [More…]

• If the Government is serious in claiming to be concerned about the general fitness and health of the community, it must do more than fund an advertising campaign such as the ‘Life. [More…]

• Chapter 5, which deals with health and medical services, contains three clauses, two of which I want to read into the record. [More…]

• Clause 3 of chapter 5 which deals with health and medical services provides that: [More…]

• A subsequent statement was put out and deals with the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service. [More…]

• Urgency for this family to be adequately housed was supported with letters to the Department from myself, the Aboriginal health Team and Health Department of Ayr. [More…]

• That letter was signed by Josephine Sailor, Behavioural Health Technician of the Aboriginal and Islanders Community Health Service. [More…]

• It deals with complaints of racial discrimination, discrimination in Queensland, racial discrimination at Ceduna and its aftermath, discrimination and the police, discrimination in the courts, discrimination in employment, discrimination in local government, discrimination in Aboriginal housing, discrimination in health services, discrimination in education, discrimination in school text books, discrimination in the media, discrimination in hotels, and so it goes on to chapter 19, dealing with the dissemination of racial hatred and many other important matters, to which I am attracted. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she is aware that advertisements are at present appearing on commercial television advertising the wares of a firm of cigarette and tobacco merchants, the House of Dunhill, and that although no reference is made to cigarettes reference is made to the various more esoteric accoutrements of the vice of smoking so that it would be clear to any reasonably intelligent observer that what is in fact being advertised is cigarettes. [More…]

• Will the Minister ask her colleague the Minister for Health to examine this question to see whether the spirit, if not the letter, of the requirement that there be no advertising of cigarettes on the electronic media is being complied with? [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that representations have been made on incidental and corporate advertising of cigarettes. [More…]

• A working party was set up by the 1977 Health Ministers Conference to meet with representatives of the manufacturers and the Media Council to negotiate a voluntary code for the advertising of cigarettes outside the broadcasting media. [More…]

• It will report to the 1979 Health Ministers Conference. [More…]

• I will refer the particular matter raised by Senator Wheeldon to the Minister for Health and obtain up to date information for him. [More…]

• Apart from ill health, the requirement for rotation has dictated the short tenures. [More…]

• The Government has commissioned a task force on co-ordination in welfare and health, the report of which has become known as the Bailey report. [More…]

• He is the Chairman of the Senate Standing Committee on Health and Welfare. [More…]

• It is all right for Senator Baume while he is sipping a sherry at the University Club to be discussing with others around him that smoking and the taking of alcohol is injurious and dangerous to the health of people and to say that his Committee proposes to ban cigarette advertising and sponsorship and brewery sponsorship and advertising and if the people in the Federal Department of Health- these troglodites there- get their way they will close down cigarette factories and breweries. [More…]

• With his medical training he is quite right in his personal intelligent observations that cigarette smoking and the drinking of alcohol may be injurious to our health, but he branches out on a campaign, as he is doing today, soliciting support from and exciting people whom I referred to a while ago as troglodytes in the Department of Health in this city, as a result of which they say they will not rest satisfied until they close down the cigarette factories and the breweries. [More…]

• It has a large number of spectators, often passive spectators, who follow their teams for pleasure and enjoyment but there is very little health promotion or participation by those people. [More…]

• But what is emerging from the study of Dr Garry Egger in New South Wales, for example, is that whereas in 1972 tobacco was probably a net money raiser for government, in other words the amount coming in from excise exceeded the amount going out in terms of health costs and pensions, by 1976 that was no longer the case. [More…]

• It is a net revenue loss owing, of course, to the very sharp rises in health costs and the advances in social welfare benefits and so on. [More…]

• According to evidence presented by the New South Wales Health Commission before the New South Wales parliamentary select committee on extended liquor trading hours, alcoholism now is a very significant factor in community health. [More…]

• The bulk of advertising revenue comes from those groups that I suggest to the Senate are doing irreparable harm to the whole social fabric of our society and creating the sort of conditions which will be detrimental to public health and to the wellbeing of our community. [More…]

• If it is wrong, as has been suggested by the Senate Committee, to have this emphasis on cigarette and alcohol advertising, it seems to me that it is wrong for us to give any credence to a suggestion that in this country we should divert resources from what is needed in education, community health and public facilities generally into subsidising the whim of a person who sees a chance to get in on the ground floor in respect of a communications satellite. [More…]

• We pay for it in a loss of good health. [More…]

• Senator Baume is quite correctand I am sure that this is what he is agreeing with me about- when he says that we pay for it in respect of the medical benefits that are paid by Medibank or the private health funds. [More…]

• Nutritionists have suggested to me in one or two submissions to me as Labor’s spokesman on consumer affairs that the medical profession is starting to appreciate what thus sort of thing is doing to community health. [More…]

• But I question whether from a social point of view the promotion of this sort of food is desirable particularly at a time when we are concerned about community health and the health of individuals. [More…]

• I seek the indulgence of the Senate to raise another matter which I am concerned about, namely, community health. [More…]

• Recently I asked Senator Guilfoyle, as Minister representing the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), a question about X-ray exposure. [More…]

• I am not satisfied that the Government is applying itself in the way that it should, which is to protect community health. [More…]

• That statement implies- this is most importantthat the Australian community can be exposed to any level of a possibly hazardous productwhether it be X-rays or the insecticide which was talked about in recent weeks, 2,4, 5-T- unless it can be proved definitively that the product seriously threatens human health or life. [More…]

• It is held by some people that the substance is very seriously affecting public health and that it causes mutations in future generations of human beings. [More…]

• I quote now from the cable sent from Washington to the Australian Health Department prior to the answer that Senator Guilfoyle gave me. [More…]

• We are not saying that the health effects in humans are positively proven or that 2,4,5-T should never be used again. [More…]

• Here we have a situation where the United States has taken a position, concerned as it is with the state of health of those who may be affected by this chemical. [More…]

• It seems the principle upon which the Government should act is that when in doubt it should act to protect the health of those people who may otherwise be affected by the use of such a chemical. [More…]

• What has happened is that the States have been as reluctant to move as the national health authorities have been federally. [More…]

• But when the United States takes some steps of a positive nature that have as their objective the protection of public health and individual health, we seem to be reluctant to follow the particular lead. [More…]

• One would have expected that the Minister for Health would have supplied the Minister for Social Security with a more detailed answer than she gave me. [More…]

• One would have thought that this Government would have been very interested in that, having regard to the constant complaints that we have heard from the Minister for Social Security and the Minister for Health about the increasing costs of our medical scheme. [More…]

• It has been put to me by large sections of Australian medical service recipients that those allegations have some substance and that many people in Australia are being subjected to unnecessary health impairing radiation. [More…]

• If the Government of Australia is spending too much on health and X-rays, one would have imagined that at least we would know. [More…]

• I accept the fact that there are members of this Government who are concerned about public health, but if this Government is concerned about the safety of Australian medical service recipients, or the safety of those sections of the global community exposed to the growing radiations from the nuclear industry, it should have acted already in response to the growing international concern about nuclear radiation generally. [More…]

• A small but unresolved threat to health posed by radiation in low dosages - [More…]

• What I am saying is that whilst the Senate standing committee has drawn attention to some aspects, there are wider implications that ought to be examined by those who know the industry, who know that risks exist and who are concerned about public health. [More…]

• It is leading us into an area which does not have regard for the health of individuals and for the best interests of the Australian community. [More…]

• The matter has been continuously under review by the various public health bodies, including the National Health and Medical Resarch Council. [More…]

• It has been meted out to workers who have been helpless, who up until now have been unorganised and whose poor health has been aggravated by their poverty and the neglect by their former employer which in fact is the Federal Government. [More…]

• These people have no pensioner health entitlements and no fringe benefits. [More…]

• Recently in Victoria the State Health Minister, Mr Vasey Houghton, advised against using 2,4,5-T in Melbourne and other built-up areas. [More…]

• The State governments of Victoria and Queensland and the National Health and Medical Research Council have cleared the herbicide 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• I want to say something about that later because it appears from a recent statement by the Minister for Health in Queensland, Sir William Knox, that no real inquiry was carried out. [More…]

• On Friday, 9 March 1979, in a statement published in the Press, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) warned State governments about jumping to conclusions on the possible side effects of 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• The State Health Minister (Sir William Knox) said the latest American action had caused new concern. [More…]

• Last year Mrs Rosemary Belbin together with other concerned mothers in the Innisfail area, claimed that they had sufficient evidence to prove that their children were suffering from ill health because of this herbicide, that low flying planes were using this particular herbicide over canefields and the wind drifts and whathaveyou were causing it to come into the area where people were living. [More…]

• He said the Health Department’s Cairns study was not available in any documented form- [More…]

• March 21, 1 978- Assistant Health Minister Mr Jona dissociates himself from Mr Houghton’s view, reported in The Age, that families in the Yarram area were blaming herbicides for the birth abnormalities, because they felt guilty. [More…]

• Late June, 1978- Mr Houghton lifts ban on 2,4-D after the National Health and Medical Research Council gives the -chemical a clean bill of health. [More…]

• October 17, 1978- Mr Houghton repeats in the House that both weedicides are ‘now free of any restrictions by the Department of Health’. [More…]

• A community health nurse read the letter to the Committee in Narrabri last week during a hearing on the conditions of Aborigines working in the cotton fields near Narrabri and Wee Waa, in the north-west of New South Wales. [More…]

• A health officer with the Narromine Shire Council said yesterday there was some evidence that chippers, who remove weeds from around the growing cotton, had been sprayed on other occasions. [More…]

• The people involved should be given the opportunity to have a thorough medical examination in order to ensure that there is no lasting damage to their health. [More…]

• I hope that the State and Commonwealth Health Ministers will take note of them and I hope that in their deliberations this week or next week they will decide to ban 2,4,5-T, if not permanently, until such time as the whole case has been properly researched and examined. [More…]

• This would give Australians, particularly young Australians, an opportunity to live a healthy life. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Meanwhile, the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine has agreed to undertake prospective surveys in the community to assess the level of immunity and to monitor progress over the next few years. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council has recommended that the ‘congenital rubella syndrome’ replace ‘rubella’ on the list of recommended notifiable diseases. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The pamphlet is available from all offices of the Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 28 February 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The article referred to information provided by the Minister for Health in answer to a question from the Leader of the Opposition (House of Representatives Hansardof 20 February 1979, p. 1 1 1 , Question No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information on these services: [More…]

• The Department of Health, as with all other Departments, reviews its financial position midway through each financial year and, following the review, NAL services continued at their former level. [More…]

• However, a Joint Management Review conducted by an outside consultant firm, the Public Service Board and a senior officer of the Depanment of Health has recently submitted its report. [More…]

• This is now being considered by the Depanment of Health and could lead to further improvement in the services provided. [More…]

• -On 8 March 1979 Senator Mason asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 627-8) concerning the implications of the studies that were conducted by the Colorado State University and the Miami University’s School of Public Health into the use of Herbicide 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Government is aware of the results of studies prepared by the Epidemiologic Studies Program, Human Effects Monitoring Branch, Benefits and Field Studies Division- Office of Pesticide Program(OPP)- Office of Toxic Substances (OTS) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the USA in which the Colarado State University and the Miami University’s School of Public Health took an active part. [More…]

• I am not aware of a telex message from a Health Department spokesman in Brisbane expressing anger at the slowness of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) in obtaining facts of the Alsea incident. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister for Science and the Environment or alternatively to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It relates to the use of the herbicides 2,4-D and 2,4,5-T and to the inadequate investigations so far conducted into their effect on the health of those who come into contact with them. [More…]

• The matter basically lies with the Minister for Health, although obviously some areas of my Department have an interest. [More…]

• The latest information available from the Minister for Health is that public opinion, together with extensive media coverage, has resulted in the need for a meeting of the special working party of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• My understanding is that the report of studies on 2,4,5-T, which claimed a possible linkage with high miscarriages and perhaps the ill health suggested by Senator Missen, has been received from the United States of America. [More…]

• Copies have been sent to individual members of the special working party of the National Health and Medical Research Council and to members of the pesticides and agricultural chemical subcommitteethe PAC Sub-Committee- and to departmental offices. [More…]

• It concerns the report on Aboriginal health presented to the [More…]

• Does the report recommend, among other measures, involvement of Aborigines in decisions affecting their health, involvement in the delivery of their own health care and recognition of the special health needs of Aborigines? [More…]

• Does the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service meet these criteria? [More…]

• What other measures will the Minister take to improve the health of Aborigines in view of the alarming conclusions of the report to which I have referred? [More…]

• It is true, as Senator Chipp suggested, that the report recommends, among other measures, involvement of Aboriginals in decisions affecting their health. [More…]

• I agree with Senator Chipp that the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service meets the criteria that he mentioned. [More…]

• It is an example of successful Aboriginal involvement in the delivery and planning of health services. [More…]

• I hope that all statements made during the recent problem that the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service has had with respect to financing have made it clear that the Government supports the Service in its work. [More…]

• I make it clear to the Senate, however, that there are difficulties when the Government is funding a multitude of organisations in health and other areas when those organisations go beyond the amount of funds which have been made available in any budget for their operation. [More…]

• In the field of health alone, there is a whole series of organisations. [More…]

• There are three community health services. [More…]

• An amount of $ 12.6m is provided in State grants for health. [More…]

• The Victorian Aboriginal Health Service has on its own initiative and with the co-operation of my Department but very much under its own control revised its operations and taken action to ensure that it continues to deliver health services within the budgeted amount available to it. [More…]

• Senator Chipp asked me what other measures I will take to improve the health of Aborigines in the light of the conclusions in the report. [More…]

• No one could be at all satisfied with the state of Aboriginal health in Australia. [More…]

• I can only draw attention to the fact that the Department actively pursues health programs both in conjunction with the States and through independent Aboriginal efforts. [More…]

• Personally, I think that they are a very successful element in improving the delivery of health care to Aboriginals. [More…]

• Undoubtedly 1977-78 was Compol ‘s year for success against offences involving social security and health services legislation. [More…]

• Over the last few years in debates on the national health service we have heard a lot from honourable senators about the confidentiality of medical records and the importance of their being kept confidential. [More…]

• In at least one case a private practitioner, a specialist, gave to the Department of Health a report on a private patient without the approval of the patient and without the approval of the patient’s general practitioner. [More…]

• It could involve the Department of Health as the Commonwealth doctors act for our Department in matters of eligibility and so on. [More…]

• There has been discussion of the origin of the alleged frauds which were detected from information from members of the Greek community which flowed through to my department, the Department of Health, the Commonwealth Police and the law authorities so that the proper course could be followed in dealing with the matters. [More…]

• We sent to Greece a medical team consisting of Dr Webb, the Victorian Director of the Commonwealth Department of Health and Dr Spragg, a senior psychiatrist from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. [More…]

• Is the Attorney-General aware that the National Health Act was last reprinted to December 1973? [More…]

• Can the Attorney-General say when the National Health Act will be reprinted incorporating all amendments to date? [More…]

• I am aware of the problem of reprinting the National Health Act and a number of other Acts of this Parliament. [More…]

• The National Health Act falls into this category along with others such as the Income Tax Assessment Act and the Family Law Act. [More…]

• It is hoped that a new reprint of the National Health Act will be available before the end of the year. [More…]

• Where I refer to a first person singular pronoun, I am referring to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• Honourable senators will be well aware of the debate as to the implications for our health services of the projected levels of supply of doctors in Australia. [More…]

• It is concluded that by having more doctors than we need health costs will rise unnecessarily, medical services which are not needed will be provided and that there will be little or no improvement in the health of the community. [More…]

• Department of Health, from the Departments of Education, Employment and Youth Affairs, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and from the Tertiary Education Commission. [More…]

• I think it is also worthwhile mentioning that even the expert Committee took different views about the extent to which the increasing supply of doctors will affect health costs and the contribution it will make to the well-being of the community. [More…]

• As the first step in the further examination of the matter, I believe that widespread reaction and comment on the officials ‘ report from the community generally, the medical profession and those working in the health services would be most valuable. [More…]

• Because future action on the matter extends beyond the responsibilities of the Commonwealth, I will be approaching State Health Ministers to seek their views and their co-operation in this examination. [More…]

• I would remind honourable senators that sickness benefits carry no entitlements to health, travel or other concessions. [More…]

• He decided that HCA could dispense health care as profitably as the Kentucky Fried Chicken organisation. [More…]

• No individual, except the really wealthy, can pay the real costs of today’s health bill. [More…]

• Obviously health insurance premiums would go up and would be reflected in the cost of living index- the consumer price index. [More…]

• How much harder it will surely be to contain the escalating health bill. [More…]

• Has it had placed before it an article- in fact, the cover story- of the August 1978 edition of Modern Health Care”! [More…]

• One wonders how this statement on Health is related to the following figures for 1975-76 from the Queensland State Government itself. [More…]

• Their health is excellent. [More…]

• There are also risks relating to human health, which of course are the responsibility of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In the interests of public health and safety, when will the Minister authorise the installation of air-conditioning in all Commonwealth vehicles? [More…]

• -I am not aware of any provision which could provide financial assistance through the Department of Health on this matter. [More…]

• I will also refer the question to the Minister for Health for his consideration. [More…]

• The provision of aids and appliances for handicapped people generally is covered under section 9A of the National Health Act, which is administered by the Department of Health. [More…]

• As I said earlier, I will refer Senator Bonner’s question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Although the first question was asked on 2 1 November last year I am still waiting for the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) to indicate the Government’s reaction. [More…]

• It is about time the Government had a policy- one consistent with its assertions that the escalating cost of health in Australia must be contained. [More…]

• On reading the letter written by the Minister for Health I got the feeling that the Minister was not too happy about the situation. [More…]

• I now ask, and I hope that the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle), who is in the chamber, will convey what I have to say to the Minister for Health: Does the Government look with complacency at the entry into Australian hospitals of multinational outfits concerned with high profits? [More…]

• Do we want the expensive and grossly inequitable American system of health care? [More…]

• Does the Department of Health have economists capable of providing the Government with adequate cost-benefit studies? [More…]

• I further ask whether the Minister had drawn to his attention an article in the journal Modem Health Care for August 1 978 in which the following is stated: [More…]

• He was remarkably frank in an interview quoted in the Modern Health Care article to which I referred earlier. [More…]

• Is the Government serious in its attempt to persuade the States to rationalise their hospital networks or is health care to be a lucrative foreign investment? [More…]

• No government in Australia can retreat as this one is trying to do from the provision of comprehensive health care facilities. [More…]

• This amounts to virtual blackmail of governments in an area of basic human right- access to health care. [More…]

• The Modern Health Care article says that this $8m profit of these two hospitals is to be transferred to Australia as part of the company’s initial investment. [More…]

• Its pre-tax profit margins were about 8 per cent of revenues for United States hospitals, 1 6 per cent for foreign hospitals and 1 3 per cent for established health care services. [More…]

• This latter revenue, that is, from health care services, has risen from under $1.4m in 1971 to more than $22m in 1976-77. [More…]

• You were concerned with the application of the health insurance levy at family rates within your assessment, pointing out that both you and your wife were in receipt of income and that you elected to pay a single levy while your wife elected to obtain private hospital and medical cover. [More…]

• A person will be free of the levy otherwise payable if he or she and all of the person’s dependants are covered by appropriate private health insurance for the whole of the year. [More…]

• You were concerned with the application of the health insurance levy at family rates within your assessment, pointing out that both you and your wife were in receipt of income and that you elected to pay a single levy while your wife elected to obtain private hospital and medical cover. [More…]

• A person will be free of the levy otherwise payable if he or she and all of the person’s dependants are covered by appropriate private health insurance for the whole of the year. [More…]

• Thus, in your case, as you are considered to be a dependant of your wife and you do not have appropriate private health insurance cover, your wife is also not free of the levy otherwise payable. [More…]

• The health insurance levy applicable to you has been calculated as follows: 2.5 per cent of your taxable income of $9,187 which equals $229.67. [More…]

• Are British ex-servicemen receiving Australian service pensions entitled to the pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• In November 1977 a Press report disclosed that the NSW Health Commission had closed a factory in Griffith, New South Wales, belonging to Bartters which had been sending contaminated egg pulp into Victoria. [More…]

• -On 28 February 1979 (Hansard, page 335) Senator Young asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question, without notice, concerning the registration in Australia of overseas medical practitioners. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• In cases where doctors are not Australian nationals but are registered in Australia and wish to immigrate, not only must they satisfy the usual immigration requirements relating to good character and health, et cetera., they must also produce evidence of having a firm job offer within Australia. [More…]

• -Is the Minister representing the Minister for Employment and Youth Affairs aware of recent statements by Mr Hunt, the Minister for Health, and by Mr Robinson, the Minister for Finance, suggesting that the increase in unemployment amongst males, particularly young males, is due to the increasing participation in the work force of married women? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that cutbacks already approved by him and his predecessor, Mr Viner, during the current financial year have proved to be disastrous for Aboriginal programs in housing, employment, land rights and land development, education, legal problems and health and in the latter case are the cause of a dramatic rise in Aboriginal infant mortality? [More…]

• In health, $4.822m was provided this financial year, as against $3. [More…]

• In health, they rose from $ 12.366m last financial year to $ 12.654m this financial year. [More…]

• The Victorian Government was funded for the implementation of Aboriginal health programs. [More…]

• The State Health Department received the funding. [More…]

• The money was spent on aides who in some cases are used to ferry people to hospital but who are not used for any real health program in Victoria. [More…]

• Regarding the use of 2,4,5-T in controlling many of our noxious weeds, particularly in open pasture conditions, but more importantly its exclusive ability to control brigalow regrowth, which of course is of great significance in central Qld, has our National Health and Medical Research Council been able to justify reports from the United States America on the supposed deleterious effect of this weedicide on human life? [More…]

• I mentioned last week that a working party of the National Health and Medical Research Council would be looking at the United States report, and my advice is that the ad hoc committee of the Council on the use and safety of 2,4,5-T met in Adelaide on 23 March to formulate a report to the Council on the current position with regard to this herbicide. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether the Government is aware that one of the American investor owned chains of private hospitals seeking to take the place of public hospitals in Australia is in a list of 53 companies which made disclosures to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission indicating that they had either made foreign pay-offs or were investigating to determine whether they had made foreign pay-offs. [More…]

• Finally, is there any reason for the reluctance of the Minister for Health to answer the questions I have previously asked relating to these foreign owned companies taking over Australian hospitals? [More…]

• I am not aware of what information has been brought to the attention of the Minister for Health in this regard. [More…]

• I will draw them to the attention of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As far as the unanswered questions are concerned, I will seek early advice from the Minister for Health on this matter and see that Senator O ‘Byrne is advised of his response to the questions that have been raised. [More…]

• Is the Government concerned that despite the actions of authorities in the United States of America, the National Health and Medical Research Committee in Australia has advised the Government that there is insufficient evidence to warrant withdrawal of the herbicide 2,4,5-T even if only as a precaution until Australian authorities can carry out their own research? [More…]

• -This matter relates to the interests of the Department of Health and the Minister for Health as well as to my own interests in science and the environment. [More…]

• The information which I gave the Senate earlier indicated that a working party of the National Health and Medical Research Council devoted its time to this issue on 23 March and made an evaluation of all the information which had come forward, including the United States report. [More…]

• The Acting Supervising Scientist appointed under the Environment Protection (Alligator Rivers Region) Act 1978, is Mr R. M. Fry a distinguished Scientist, who is one of Australia’s most experienced health physicists. [More…]

• I seek permission of the Senate to incorporate in Hansard the statement that was made by the National Health and Medical Research Council in relation to this matter. [More…]

• I have used the word hypocrisy, let honourable senators note, because while the Fraser Government preaches wage restraint and belt tightening for ordinary citizens, while it deprives pensioners of the ability to keep up with inflation, while it slashes public expenditure and allows a rundown to occur in the services in such crucial areas as health, Aboriginal affairs and legal aid and while it continues to justify nearly half a million people being unemployed with hidebound ineffectual theories about inflation, it is engaged in an extravagant, selfindulgent irresponsible squandering of the taxpayers ‘ money on its own image building. [More…]

• Jobs are disappearing from the health, education and welfare areas. [More…]

• As with many welfare and health areas in this country, we have been bedevilled by a lack of ideas as to the size of the problem with which we have been presented and the nature of that problem. [More…]

• It contains ASTEC ‘s views and recommendations on the organisation of Science and Technology in Australia and on the specific areas of fundamental research, industrial research and development, the marine sciences and technologies and health. [More…]

• In this Volume, ASTEC has identified four main areas of concern in Australian science and technology: Industrial research and development; marine sciences and technologies; fundamental research; and health. [More…]

• ASTEC has also recommended an increase in funds for projects of merit and promise in health research and basic research. [More…]

• In the current year, pending consideration of the ASTEC Report on Basic Research, funding for the Australian Research Grants Committee and the National Health and Medical Research Council, has been maintained at the same levels, in real terms, as in 1977-78. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Capital Territory Health Commission has placed with the Attorney-General’s Department instructions to update the draft ordinance and these are currently being considered for incorporation in a new draft ordinance. [More…]

• -My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, arises out of the Birmingham smallpox disaster of last year and the subsequent administrative arrangements which are being considered in Britain to end the present voluntary system for controlling laboratories handling dangerous pathogens such as smallpox virus. [More…]

• I understand that the World Health Organisation was officially notified in March 1976 that no stocks of smallpox virus were held in Australia. [More…]

• The Victorian Health Commission, with Commonwealth assistance, is constructing a containment laboratory at the Fairfield Infectious Diseases Hospital in Melbourne. [More…]

• I understand that the Department of Health is currently in the process of establishing a body to accredit pathology laboratories throughout Australia. [More…]

• If I have left any parts of the question unanswered I will refer them to the Minister for Health and seek further information. [More…]

• Therefore he was unable to be registered in my State, despite the fact he had been the only practitioner in this town for several years and had looked after the health and the welfare of the people there to their satisfaction and everybody else’s satisfaction. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 March 1979: [More…]

• Was a meeting held in August 1978, between representatives of Commonwealth and State Departments of Health, on hospital productivity, efficiency, and cost containment; if so: [More…]

• was agenda item (2), suggested by the Commonwealth Department of Health at that meeting, the rationalisation of private hospital utilisation and resources. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Commonwealth officials of the Social Welfare Policy Secretariat and the Department of Health convened and had meetings during August and September 1978 with officials of the respective State Health Departments/Commissions. [More…]

• The Leader of the Government subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Government is concerned about the possible association of mass media advertising and increasing drinking by the young, and the Commonwealth Department of Health has taken an active role in the ongoing development of guidelines for the voluntary control of advertising. [More…]

• I shall draw it to the attention of the Minister for Health under whose programs this sort of shelter is financed. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that such lengths of air travel can impose severe health risks on some people, particularly older persons? [More…]

• Will the Minister ask the Minister for Health to issue a statement containing ways of minimising health risks to air travellers who do travel for long periods? [More…]

• I will see if that information is available from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will see what the Minister for Health considers appropriate and I will see that Senator Townley is advised. [More…]

• Senator Harradine is supported under the community health program. [More…]

• I will refer the advertisement in relation to the shelter to the Minister for Health and seek information for Senator Harradine. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health what action the Government has taken to ensure that accurate records of birth deformities are kept throughout Australia with the object of establishing possible causes for such deformities? [More…]

• The Minister for Health presented a statement to the House of Representaties on 24 November 1978 which referred to the establishment of a perinatal statistical unit and prospective study on pregnant women with regard to problems associated with the herbicide 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• I understand that the specifications for this unit are now finalised and these will be forwarded to the State health departments and advertised in the Press for the advice of those interested in establishing the unit. [More…]

• The feasibility and desirability of conducting the prospective study on pregnant women will be considered by a committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council at its next meeting. [More…]

• If other matters are comprehended in the question of Senator Jessop, I will refer them to the Minister for Health in order to obtain further information. [More…]

• The direct matter of quarantine procedures would be one for the Department of Health. [More…]

• 29 Health Care-Financing Review-Papers. [More…]

• 42 Health Insurance Commission- Annual Report 1976- 77-Papers. [More…]

• 59 Welfare and Health Co-ordination Task Force- Social Policy Development- Papers. [More…]

• Many experts agreed that the radiation posed no immediate threat to health, but others- that is other experts- warned of cancer, genetic damage and other longterm effects from the low-level emissions. [More…]

• It is potentially dangerous to people’s health. [More…]

• At Question Time, in first reading debates and by way of questions on notice, I have tried, to no avail, to elicit some information from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) relating to the intrusion of the largest hospital corporation in the United States of America, the Hospital Corporation of America, into the acquisition of a chain of hospitals. [More…]

• The silence and the secrecy surrounding this matter are obviously a cover-up of the Government’s retreat from providing a comprehensive health care facility ibr the people of Australia. [More…]

• What is actually happening is that the Government is narrowing the area of publicly funded health care. [More…]

• The area in which there is a narrowing is in the provision of services, in the reduction of Medibank services, in the provision of hospital and health centres and in the provision of Capital Works funds available to the hospitals. [More…]

• The withdrawal of those funds leaves the field wide open for opportunist and profit-seeking transnationals to exploit the provision of health care services in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has been very slow to answer my questions. [More…]

• Yesterday my colleague in another place, the honourable member for Maribyrnong (Dr Cass), asked the Minister for Health a question. [More…]

• Has the Minister for Health asked HCA about these investigations? [More…]

• My reference for this is the cover story on HCA in the August 1978 issue of Modern Health Care. [More…]

• It is now over four months since I asked the Minister for an explanation of this new development in health care in Australia. [More…]

• -On 1 March 1979, Senator Messner asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 399-400) concerning the hospital cost-sharing arrangements between the Commonwealth and the States and the report on hospitals in South Australia prepared by the South Australian Public Accounts Committee and tabled by the South Australian Government on 28 February 1979. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• As already indicated to you, discussions have been held on hospital productivity, efficiency and cost-containment involving representatives of the Commonwealth and State/ Territory health authorities. [More…]

• As a result of those discussions, I have received a report from the Commonwealth officials and I have recently requested the comments of the State Health Ministers on the proposals contained in that report. [More…]

• I draw the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health to the reported recommendation of Federal energy officials that the lead content of petrol be increased as part of an overall plan to reduce Australia’s total oil consumption. [More…]

• The Government’s decisions on the report’s recommendations must await advice from the Commission and from Commonwealth and State authorities in the fields of health and education. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, follows from a television program concerning X-rays which, I understand, was screened some three or four weeks ago and which appears to be causing some concern in the community. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that dental film of sensitivity lower than speed Group D is no longer being manufactured in or imported for use into the United States or other countries for use because of the established high level of patient exposure and the subsequent risk to patients’ health? [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health and seek an early answer for Senator Coleman. [More…]

• in setting the long term goals and objectives which the government should pursue and the programs it should adopt in such areas as Aboriginal education, housing, health, employment and legal aid; [More…]

• Of course, the other day when I asked the Minister about cutbacks in health - [More…]

• He and his brother, Kevin Stewart, who is now the Minister for Health in the New South Wales Parliament, became joint patrons of that club in 1971. [More…]

• His brother Kevin is the present Minister for Health in the New South Wales Government. [More…]

• He of all Ministers, without exception, was the one who realised that the health of the nation depended upon physical fitness through sport. [More…]

• Unfortunately, Sir David did not enjoy good health after he retired from Parliament, and he died in his sleep early on 15 April. [More…]

• In his latter years as Premier his health deteriorated, and I believe that when he left office as Premier and shortly afterwards retired as leader of his Party in the State Parliament he had literally burnt himself out through his endeavours in service to his State and the people of Western Australia. [More…]

• I inform the Senate that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) left Australia on 21 April 1979 for the United States of America and Canada where he will attend a meeting of Commonwealth Health Ministers, and for Switzerland where he will attend the 32nd World Health Assembly. [More…]

• During his absence Mr Fife will be acting as Minister for Health. [More…]

• In addition to transport portfolio considerations, the statement reflects the responsibilities of, and advice from, my colleagues the Minister for Science and Environment (Senator Webster), the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), and the Minister for National Development (Mr Newman). [More…]

• At the outset, however, 1 must emphasise that the Commonwealth Government is committed to protect the health and the environment of the Australian people. [More…]

• However, all governmentsState, Territory and Commonwealth- must also, in the national interest, have regard to the effects of proposed measures, not only on health and the environment but also on impacts on the consumer, industry, resources and the economy. [More…]

• At this point, some general background would be appropriate on the origins of the problem, its extent and its effect on health. [More…]

• Among various atmospheric pollutants of potential health concern, ozone has been widely considered and its levels can be taken as being representative of oxidant levels as a whole. [More…]

• It is also recognised that ozone does have certain health effects depending on the level of concentration. [More…]

• Attempts to relate the onset of specific health effects to varying levels of ozone in the atmosphere have been made but the difficulty of associating a particular health effect to a specific air pollutant is immense. [More…]

• The Commonwealth is concerned that any association between health incidents and photochemical pollution should be adequately researched and established before a causal relationship is assumed. [More…]

• The World Health Organisation level of 0.06 parts per million for ozone must be seen in this context. [More…]

• In developing a framework for future action, it is clear that a number of steps must be taken to improve the implementation, administration and durability of emission control systems in the context of realistic health, environment, transport and energy objectives. [More…]

• This has been highlighted by many bodies including the Senate Select Committee on Air Pollution, the Australian Environment Council, the National Health and Medical Research Council, as well as ATAC. [More…]

• The Commonwealth sees a need to define air quality guidelines for Australia with respect to health. [More…]

• Although not directly relevant to the special ATAC meeting in April, lead issues will form an important and integral part of future motor vehicle emissions strategies in terms of protection of health and the environment and vehicle and energy costs and efficiency. [More…]

• I would like to see the Government perhaps giving that a little more attention and seeing an electric vehicle not only as providing a solution to a problem of fuel conservation but also as providing a solution to a problem with our total environment in our cities and perhaps as making a much greater contribution towards community health than the Government realises. [More…]

• There is very little doubt that the motor car running around the cities constitutes a major health hazard. [More…]

• The Commonwealth is concerned that any association between health incidents and photochemical pollution should be adequately researched and established before a causal relationship is assumed. [More…]

• Mr Virgo, the Minister for Transport in South Australia, said that the health of Australian citizens was more important than the expense to this country of motor vehicle emission control. [More…]

• So fuel consumption is the main thing and the health of Australian citizens is a secondary consideration. [More…]

• Is human health more important than lowering fuel consumption? [More…]

• What I am pointing out is that the South Australian Minister of Transport believes that the health of the citizens of that State comes before the question of petrol consumption. [More…]

• The health of the citizen does not matter; fuel consumption has become the important question. [More…]

• There we have it: The health of the people is to be sacrificed- on the score of the fuel savings involved. [More…]

• At the outset, however, 1 must emphasise that the Commonwealth Government is committed to protect the health and the environment of the Australian people. [More…]

• Territory and Commonwealth- must also, in the national interest, have regard to the effects of proposed measures, not only on health and the environment but also on impacts on the consumer, industry, resources and the economy. [More…]

• Therefore, more than health and the environment is to be taken into consideration. [More…]

• I have not read further to seek justification for such glaring statements, but surely we have not degenerated to the stage that we believe this capitalist economy is all we should protect and not give a damn about the health of the citizens of Australia. [More…]

• When we discuss this statement we should give consideration to, and certainly not condemn, the views of those States which find that pollution is a problem and which consider the health of their citizens as being more important than achieving fuel economies. [More…]

• Frankly, I think that this is a scandalous statement by the Government insofar as it relates particularly to the health and welfare of the people of Sydney. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1 to 3 ) Full-time acoustic facilities for supply of hearing aids are located at the following twenty-four centres: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• 1 ) What is the total amount of money which has been granted to the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and its Family Medicine Program by the Department of Health since the first grants were made by the Federal Government. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Under the conditions of approval attached to Community Health Program grants to national projects such as the Family Medicine Program, the recipient organisation is required, each year, to provide my Department with a statement of income and expenditure and a balance sheet. [More…]

• During each of the first five years of the Program, justification for the funding of the Program, and for the expenditures proposed in each annual budget, were closely considered by the former Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• The initial grant to the Family Medicine Program in 1 973-74, and the grants in the following four financial years, were approved on the recommendation of the former Hospitals and Health Services Commission. [More…]

• Similar Community Health Program grants have not been made to other professional organisations such as the specialist colleges in medicine. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 March 1979: [More…]

• Will the Minister for Health make a commitment that he or the Government will not. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has no statutory power to control the numbers of private hospital beds in the various States. [More…]

• Under the Health Insurance Act ( 1 973 ), the Minister may approve premises as hospitals and determine the number or beds to which the approval relates. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 March 1979: [More…]

• May the Commonwealth define the number or private beds for which it will provide subsidy, or which will bc recognised for the payment of health insurance benefits. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• If the former, then the Minister for Health has power, under the Health Insurance Act 1 973, to approve premises as private hospitals and to determine the number of beds to which the approval relates. [More…]

• Hospital benefits organisations arc required under the National Health Act to pay hospital benefits in respect or such approved beds occupied by insured patients. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 March 1979: [More…]

• 1 ) Who arc the members of the Special Working Party of the National Health and Medical Research Council, referred to in an answer by the Minister for Social Security to my Question without Notice of 8 March 1979, and the Minister for Health’s subsequent answer to the Question (see Hansard, 8 March 1979, page 628, and 20 March 1979, page 796). [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Dr W. A. Langsford, First Assistant DirectorGeneral, Public Health Division, Commonwealth Department of Health (Chairman). [More…]

• Acting Assistant Director, Public Health Division (Food and Drugs Section), Victorian Health Commission, and Chairman, Yarram Consultative Council on 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• Dr P. Clarke, Director of Occupational Health. [More…]

• SA Health Commission, and SA Committee on 2.4,5-T. [More…]

• Dr R. G. Edwards, Pathologist, Institute of Medicinal and Veterinary Science, SA, and a member of the National Health and Medical Research Council (N. H. and M. R. C). [More…]

• Professor C. Kerr, Geneticist and Professor of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, NSW. [More…]

• Government Departments both State and Federal, to clinical medicine, pathology, public health, pharmacology and toxicology. [More…]

• Discharge is in compliance with a discharge authorisation approved by the Maritime Services Board and the NSW Health Commission, and agreed to by the State Pollution Control Commission. [More…]

• The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Food Standards developed by the Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council (N.H. and M.R.C.) [More…]

• 1 have arranged fora document entitled ‘Summary of Nutritional Labelling Requirements within National Health and Medical Research Council Approved Food Standards’ which has been prepared by my [More…]

• -On 20 March 1979 (Hansard, page 732) Senator Wheeldon asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice on whether the spirit of the law prohibiting cigarette advertising on television was being breached. [More…]

• In my answer I undertook to refer his question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information on this subject: [More…]

• -On 27 March 1979, Senator Bonner asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 965 and 967-8) concerning assistance to invalid pensioners with the provision of air-conditioners. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• However, an airconditioning unit would not come into the category of a medical aid or appliance for the purposes of section 9a of the National Health Act. [More…]

• -On 4 April 1979, Senator Townley asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 1273 and 1274) concerning the health risks to air travellers. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• In addition to the numerous publications put out by travel organisations mentioned by Senator Guilfoyle, my Department has recently prepared a small booklet called ‘Fit to Travel and Return’ that emphasises the health aspects of travel. [More…]

• This booklet is being printed and should soon be available from the immunisation centres in the various State and Territory Divisional Offices to the Commonwealth Department of Health. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I undertake to refer this matter to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• If this involves negotiations between the doctors and the Government of South Australia, I am sure that he or his Department will instigate such discussions in order to preserve the health system and the way in which it is able to operate between the Government and the community. [More…]

• I will treat the question as urgent and refer it to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of Press reports that a domestic electric heater known as the . [More…]

• If the answer to that question is in the negative can the Minister say what steps the Government is taking or contemplates taking to warn consumers of this potentially serious health hazard? [More…]

• Not only has the Government made massive cutbacks in education, roads, health, housing and many other areas, but also has it transferred to the State governments responsibility for financing other programs. [More…]

• However, there is a limit to which any government can cut funds for education, roads, health and housing without causing a major public outcry. [More…]

• Not-costed items include: The expansion of the kindergarten system; development of local arts centres; clerical staff for schools; replacement of old buildings in the health policy: expansion of day hospitals; the operation of a Land Commission; and the progressive reduction of public transport fares. [More…]

• Labor would increase the staff employed by the Mental Health Authority by some 400 at a cost of $ 1 2m. [More…]

• Mr Wilkes has also promised an expansion of the kindergarten system, development of local art centres, provision of clerical staff for schools, replacement of old buildings in the health policy, expansion of day hospitals, new developments in respect of a land commission, and the progressive reduction of public transport fares. [More…]

• I bring to the attention of the Senate a document entitled ‘A Report on Health Conditions of Aboriginal Children in Western Australia’. [More…]

• This report by the Western Australian Section of the Women’s International Leage for Peace and Freedom is concerned with the health of one group in this ocean of suffering- the Aboriginal children of Western Australia. [More…]

• There is no doubt that gastroenteritis remains a major health problem in Aboriginal infants and children. [More…]

• One reason for ill health,’ she said, ‘is that too many Aboriginal children are bottle fed. [More…]

• The National Trachoma and Eye Health Programme of the Royal Australian College of Opthalmologists has found that WA has the highest trachoma rate of any State for children under 1 1 years- 41 per cent of the 13,018 Aborigines seen. [More…]

• The health maintenance concept is a practical proposition, lt could be introduced immediately at only a fraction of the cost of crisis medicine. [More…]

• However, the WA representative of the College of Opthalmologists is reported as saying that the efforts of the Minister for Health alone will not be sufficient to stamp out the problem. [More…]

• Not only are millions of dollars spent on hospital treatment which a healthier living environment would make unnecessary, but more millions have to be spent on unemployment relief because Aborigines have not received the training and skills which would qualify them for employment. [More…]

• With regard to health, much could be done by on site training of Aborigines as recommended in the 1978 report on Health by the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs. [More…]

• Minister for Health and Welfare.) [More…]

• Before I address the Senate on the subject upon which I wish to speak, I want to say how pleased I am that Senator Coleman seems to have caught up with the health problems of Aboriginal children and how pleased I am that she referred to the report of the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs which dealt with this subject. [More…]

• I have already apologised to the honourable senator for not being here to hear her comments about the problems relating to Aboriginal child health in Western Australia. [More…]

• My colleague Senator Guilfoyle was here and she, of course, represents the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I would like to say, without wishing to diminish any concern that she may have raised about the health of Aboriginal children, that the Senate should know that substantial funds are put into Aboriginal health in Western Australia. [More…]

• Over $6m is paid to the State for its community health program, which employs a large number of Aboriginal health workers and which is meant to meet the problems of Aboriginal health. [More…]

• In the last couple of weeks I have talked with the State Minister for Health about some of the areas of concern. [More…]

• On 7 November 1978, Senator Jessop asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 1698 and 1699) concerning the payouts of each private medical benefits organisation in South Australia for the March quarters of 1 977 and 1 978 and seeking information on the payouts for general practitioner and specialist services in all States. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Information is not available to the Department of Health on benefit payments for the March quarters of 1977 and 1 978 in respect of services provided by separate categories of specialists and general practitioners. [More…]

• On 2 June 1976 the Senate gave to its Standing Committee on Social Welfare a reference on the evaluation of the adequacy of Australian health and welfare services with four particular subreferences, lt is now my honour to present to the Senate the Committee’s report on this matter. [More…]

• In particular, these include a paper to represent the views and concerns of agencies and another dealing with the problems which face any one of us as clients, as users, of our health and welfare services. [More…]

• What we have sought to assess is what mechanisms exist within the health and welfare systems in Australia that will enable anyone to know anything about how the various parts of the system work. [More…]

• Although expenditure on health and welfare dominates annual budgeting at Federal Government level, little seems to be known about what effects this is producing. [More…]

• Questions we have addressed include the following: On what basis do the health and welfare systems make policy and administrative decisions? [More…]

• Do the health and welfare systems know what needs exist in the community? [More…]

• Do the health and welfare systems know what each is doing, or should be doing, or what each has achieved over any period? [More…]

• They are central to the determination of whether our system or any system is or can be effective or efficient, or whether it is even the right system within which health and welfare services should be developing and operating. [More…]

• Nevertheless, for the purposes of this inquiry we have accepted the present system of health and welfare as the framework within which we examined Australian practice. [More…]

• Too little is known of the working or effects of the Australian health and welfare system to enable proper and necessary decisions to be made for its management. [More…]

• It seems inescapable that the health and welfare system has operated without clearly identified policy goals and program objectives, without an adequate system of social indicators, without clearly stated standards of provision or performance, without adequate evaluation technologies, without a pool of people trained to use such technologies as are available, and without resources committed to measurement and to knowing in the health and welfare services. [More…]

• Whilst we would all want efficient health and welfare services, what we are seeking more than anything is services that are effective in doing something useful for the community that they have been established to serve. [More…]

• If a health and welfare system, whether in the government or the nongovernment sector, cannot make itself effective and rational, reasonable observers may be led to conclude that the system itself is inadequate for what society expects from it. [More…]

• I think it is fair enough to say that the Committee concluded that, in the area of health and welfare and its evaluation in this country, we do in fact live in sin. [More…]

• It is important to emphasise to those who are involved in the delivery of health and welfare services in this community that no member of the Committee has any desire to flood those who deliver benefits and services in this country with a torrent of bureaucratic red tape, with requirements that would inhibit the effectiveness of their programs. [More…]

• indiscriminate cuts in funds, indiscriminate handing out of funds, continuance of the present ad hoc decisionmaking process, perpetuation of the present inadequacies in the health and welfare system, and a possible lack of alternative solutions to problems in health and welfare. [More…]

• I hope the response to the report will not be a feeling of threat or a feeling that anyone in the welfare or health community is under attack. [More…]

• The Bureau of Animal Health, in conjunction with the States and the cattle industry, is presently reviewing the program to ensure that government resources and producer support are adequate at present. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for National Development, concerns increased motor vehicle pollution in Australian cities, necessitating further emission control systems to safeguard health. [More…]

• Will Queensland Mines be required to check constantly the health of miners and will Queensland Mines be responsible for any loss of wages arising from such closure of the mine? [More…]

• The requirements of urgency that are generally associated with the gathering of intelligence, in my submission at least, are likely to be very much narrower in practice than those associated with the requirements of urgency if we are actually seeking to prevent something taking place which is criminal or physically dangerous to the health or life of the populace. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 March 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In addition observers from the Departments of Business and Consumer Affairs, Capital Territory Health and the National Parks and Wildlife Service attend meetings of the Committee. [More…]

• a continuous review of species suitable for inclusion in or exclusion from the list will be maintained by the Advisory Committee and by the Departments of Health, Business and Consumer Affairs, and the National Parks and Wildlife Service. [More…]

• Within the Commonwealth Government, responsibility for environmental policy advice and the co-ordination of Government policy on the matter rests with the Minister for Science and the Environment and the administration of import controls and quarantine rests with the Ministers Tor Business and Consumer Affairs and Health respectively. [More…]

• 1 ) The recommendations of the Australian Fisheries Council on the importation of live aquarium fish have been referred to the Ministers responsible for the implementation of importation and quarantine control, that is the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs and the Minister for Health respectively. [More…]

• Should Australia become involved in the commercial implementation of these projects, it is likely that inputs from government organisations, including the Bureau of Meteorology and the Department of Health, will be required. [More…]

• -Does the Minister representing the Minister for Health generally endorse the conclusions of Professor Opit and Doctor Dunt about policy concerning the installations of computerised axial tomography head scanners in Victoria? [More…]

• The Minister for Health does endorse the general philosophy of the Victorian studies with regard to CAT scanners. [More…]

• At that time the Minister for Health asked for public comments on the report to be made by the end of March of this year. [More…]

• The views expressed on the report together with comments received will assist the Government in formulating a national approach to deal with the problems concerning modern technology in health care. [More…]

• The honourable senator will know that it is a matter for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The health services which were interrupted are now being provided in the area by the Utopia Health Service. [More…]

• Mr Ian Tuxworth, the Northern Territory Minister for Health and Community Development, has convened a conference at Lake Nash on 19 May to discuss the situation. [More…]

• As I have already indicated, health services are currently being provided by the Utopia Health Service. [More…]

• There Will be discussions between my Department and the Health Service in the near future to ensure that properly trained people are attending to the medical needs of the Lake Nash community. [More…]

• The Sydney Morning Herald of the following day carried this headline: ‘Health benefit cut believed to be approved’. [More…]

• Some very senior Ministers have stepped outside the area of their portfolios and commented on social security and health and welfare. [More…]

• They regularly advocate a cut in government expenditure in the fields of welfare, health and education. [More…]

• They advocate cuts in health insurance and public hospital expenditure, but they never advocate cuts in government subsidies to private hospitals. [More…]

• Sir Roderick Carnegie and others also dutifully advocate cuts in the fields of health, welfare and education. [More…]

• I repeat: The purpose of these rumours and statements, which I believe are mostly government-induced, is to brainwash people into believing that health and welfare expenditure in Australia is some sort of luxury. [More…]

• The aim of this motion is to draw the attention of the Senate and the Parliament to the fact that a campaign is being conducted in the Press, by leaders of industry, by senior ministers of the Government and by back benchers in the Government to reduce the amount of expenditure on welfare, health and social security in particular, but also on education, in the Budget this year. [More…]

• I think that one of the things which ought to be put on record is the recent comment by Dr Scotton who was the Chairman of the Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• If we relate what is paid through the Department of Social Security on income security and other welfare matters, we find that about 85 per cent of all personal income tax collections are spent on health and welfare. [More…]

• I think we cannot ever have a discussion on anything relating to the Budget without recognising that, last year, health and welfare was a $10 billion figure. [More…]

• If we look at figures that were expended on health and welfare we can see that expenditure on the age and invalid pension in 1939 represented about 20c for each employed member of the work force. [More…]

• Certainly there have been cuts in public expenditure- time will not permit me to enumerate them in detail- in areas such as pensions, child care, legal aid, Aboriginal health programs and community health programs. [More…]

• Recently this organisation had to close its health centre because it was unable to get from State or Federal government the $20,000 it needed to maintain the service until the end of the financial year. [More…]

• For want of $20,000, an essential community health service is being closed down. [More…]

• This is the first consolidated report of the activities of the Australian Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• We now know full well- and Mr Gee has given conclusive proof of this- that it was a Labor Government that set up the Australian Bureau of Animal Health in 1974. [More…]

• The reference to the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory gives some very revealing statistics. [More…]

• So we had a wait of 10 years from the time that these discussions first took place to the establishment of a national animal health laboratory. [More…]

• We had to wait until we had a Labor Government in office actually to do something for which primary industry in Australia had been crying out- that was the setting up of a national animal health laboratory- so that we could have some control over any exotic disease outbreak should it occur in this country. [More…]

• I advise every farmer who is listening today to obtain a copy of this report which has been tabled, to read it thoroughly and find out the correct position as to what has happened to the Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• We are still waiting for an animal health laboratory to be established by a government which repeatedly claims that it has the interests of the farmers at heart and that the [More…]

• In conclusion, I say that the Senate is indebted to the Director of the Bureau of Animal Health for putting down this report. [More…]

• If it had not been for a Labor government and the advocacy of Senator Wriedt who was Minister for Agriculture and Dr Everingham who was Minister for Health and who insisted that we go ahead with a scheme that had been first advocated in 1964, a report on the Bureau of Animal Health would still not have been tabled in this Parliament. [More…]

• There would not have been a bureau of animal health under this Government. [More…]

• I present the report and transcript of evidence from the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Government Operations on its inquiry into the Capital Territory Health Commission Annual Report 1975-76. [More…]

• In August 1 977 we became concerned about the delay in the presentation of the 1975-76 report of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• We have subsequently taken evidence at public hearings from the Capital Territory Health Commission, the AuditorGeneral’s Office, the Department of Finance and the Department of Health. [More…]

• The history of the 1975-76 report of the Capital Territory Health Commission represents a totally unacceptable standard of accountability. [More…]

• The Department of Health admitted in evidence that the system does not disclose the true cost of Australia’s hospital service because items such as the provision for superannuation and long service leave and a number of other matters are omitted. [More…]

• We therefore intend to request that the Committee be given additional terms of reference which would enable us to investigate hospital costs so that the real expense of the provision of hospital services in Australia may be taken into account in determining health policy. [More…]

• We note the report of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare entitled ‘Through a Glass, Darkly; Evaluation in Australian Health and Welfare Services’ which was tabled in the Senate on 3 May 1979. [More…]

• The Committee, in its report, expressed its primary concern over the lack of evaluation of Australia’s health and welfare system and also stated that bodies should be accountable for the public moneys which they use. [More…]

• That we deplore the reduction in Federal Government expenditure on Community Health programmes which could lead to a severe reduction in services offered to the residents of our community. [More…]

• Urgently remedy this situation by restoring the entire range of community health services which existed prior to the freeze in funding. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Productivity, refers to the hazards to health occasioned by working with or in close proximity to asbestos. [More…]

• A most recent case in Adelaide involving waterside workers handling asbestos indicates that asbestos is a health hazard also on the waterfront. [More…]

• In my own State of Western Australia, the town of Wittenoom, has been the subject of a great deal of action because of the health hazard that has been related to asbestos mining there. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is she aware that part of the success of the multinational private hospital companies can be attributed to their working the medical benefit system to their best advantage or, put another way, at greater cost to the health funds and, ultimately, to the Government and the taxpayer? [More…]

• Will the Minister confirm that when he wrote to the National Times on 12 May this year stating that between 1975-76 and 1978-79 funds for the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service have increased by 56 per cent he included in that calculation the capital cost of establishing a dental service? [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that on the recommendation of the National Therapeutic Goods Committee he instructed his Department to prepare a draft ministerial order that would require the childresistant packaging of drugs known to be commonly implicated in the accidental poisoning of children. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has asked the Attorney-General whether this and a number of other therapeutic goods orders could be expedited. [More…]

• I am advised that as soon as it is finalised the Minister for Health will take steps for its immediate promulgation and implementation at the earliest feasible date. [More…]

• On 4 April I asked the Minister *br Social Security, who represents the Minister for Health, a question concerning the Victorian Western Region Women’s Refuge advertisement which appeared in the Age and which stated: [More…]

• I have received a copy of a letter sent presumably by the Victorian Refuge Group to the Assistant Director of the Department of Health in Canberra. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that in this letter the Victorian Refuge Group states that the original and continued funding of the refuge program was for more than emergency accommodation for women and children at risk, and that in an attachment to the letter the refuge group declares that women’s refuges are ‘primarily concerned with the status of women in society and not with providing welfare and health services’. [More…]

• How can the Government continue to fund such political refuges through the community health program? [More…]

• Will the Government ensure that sufficient funds are made available through the community health program to groups with bona fide welfare experience to meet the needs for women’s refuges? [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided information on that question. [More…]

• Community health program salary funds in relation to women ‘s refuges are intended solely for the employment of workers to undertake the care of women and children in refuges and not for outside activities of any kind. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health further advises that the Victorian welfare authorities, which have the immediate responsibility for the supervision of refuges in that State and through which the Commonwealth funds are channelled, will be requested to obtain from the organisation a firm written undertaking that future advertisements will not contain statements of this type and further that in the course of their employment refuge workers will be engaged fully in the care of refuge residents and not in any other outside activities such as political actions. [More…]

• Senator Harradine asked a further question with regard to the funding of new groups under the community health program. [More…]

• I will refer that part of the question to the Minister for Health for his consideration. [More…]

• I undertook to refer the question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Community Health Program salary funds, in relation to women’s refuges, are intended solely for the employment of workers to undertake the care of women and children in refuges, not for ‘outside’ activities of any kind. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I would just wish to mention that although the presentation of this report is obviously late, I do not propose to move that it be referred to the Committee because the Committee has just completed an investigation of the 1975-76 report of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• The Committee’s report, which was tabled on 9 May, sets out the reasons for the delay generally in relation to the presentation of the Health Commission’s reports. [More…]

• They were forced into these particular areas in the belief that it was for their own good, for their education and health. [More…]

• It improved Aboriginal health and it provided education for Aboriginal children. [More…]

• I have since received a report on your supervised practice from Mrs Tupling, chief physiotherapist at Wollongong Hospital, and am arranging through Miss Doreen Moore, Head of the School of Physiotherapy at the Cumberland College of Health Sciences, for your clinical examination to be held. [More…]

• Ms Doreen M. Moore, a member of the Council and Head of the School of Physiotherapy at the Cumberland College of Health Sciences has kindly agreed to talk with you to explore what action might now bc taken. [More…]

• Cumberland College of Health Sciences, [More…]

• One aspect of health about which I am concerned is the increase in the incidence of cancer, especially cancer that is caused by the environment in which we work and live. [More…]

• Professor Epstein is Professor of Occupational and Environmental Medicine at the School of Public Health, University of Illinois at the Medical Centre, Chicago. [More…]

• Children’s Cancer Research Foundation in Boston, Senior Research Associate in Pathology at Harvard Medical School, and Swetland Professor of Environmental Health and Human Ecology at Case Western Reserve University Medical School. [More…]

• If we are to know the real causes of illnesses which result in increases in health expenditure, I believe that it is essential for this to be done. [More…]

• There was less maintenance on the machines and the health of the people improved simply because this fact was brought to the employers’ attention. [More…]

• With commonsense attitudes not only can people’s health be restored and safeguarded but also a great deal of expense can be saved by the whole of the community. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 27 February 1979: [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -My question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health is prompted by certain expressions of concern within the community regarding measles vaccination during measles epidemics. [More…]

• I therefore ask: Has the United States Public Health Service Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices recommended the use of measles vaccine in children exposed to natural infection up to 72 hours previously? [More…]

• Finally, is it opportune for all doctors concerned with child health to encourage the use of proven safe immunisation practices, and should Australia be pursuing vigorously vaccination against, and elimination of, measles? [More…]

• The Minister for Health advises that the United States Public Health Service Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices, in the weekly bulletin of the United States Centre for Disease Control dated 3 November 1978, stated in a discussion on measles immunisation: [More…]

• The present standardised basic immunisation schedule was recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council at its 86th session in October 1978. [More…]

• It is also considered opportune for all doctors concerned with child health to encourage the use of proven safe immunisation practices. [More…]

• The possibility of a campaign aimed at eradicating measles in Australia was discussed by the National Health and Medical Research Council at its last meeting in February 1979. [More…]

• The Opposition believes that there is a serious need for the provision of telephone, radio, perhaps television, and certainly a need for improved health and education services which could flow from satellite facilities. [More…]

• A system which can enhance Australia’s defence communications, its aeronautical and maritime communications, its public telecommunications both national and international, its broadcasting services, which can offer high potential for improvements in the delivery of health care services, in education, in helping our Aboriginal settlements and the people of the remote outback, offers advantages which cannot be measured solely in financial terms. [More…]

• It will be used for health, welfare, education, defence, communications and transport. [More…]

• As I have said, it should be capable of use in the fields of health, welfare, education, defence, ordinary communications, transport and so forth. [More…]

• In our submission, these should be expanded by including powers over land use and zoning, mining, public hospitals and health, conservation and national parks, law enforcement and management of historic sites. [More…]

• World Health Organisation Act 1 947- s. 4. [More…]

• Where there are staff in the Public Service or in prescribed authorities whose services cannot be used efficiently by the department or authority in which they are employed whether on grounds of excess numbers, ill health or ‘for any other prescribed reason’, for example, relating to efficiency, the department oi authority is required to declare such staff to the Public Service Board for redeployment. [More…]

• This special benefit does not apply to staff who are excess to requirements or who are retired on ill health grounds for whom separate provisions already exist. [More…]

• The former Bill provided for staff to be identified for redeployment and retirement ‘for any other reason ‘ in addition to the specified reasons of excess numbers and ill health. [More…]

• It has been necessary for the continuing efficient operation of departments to transfer officers of the Service to the unattached list pending retirement for health reasons. [More…]

• Finally, it enables the payment of a special benefit to those who are retired between the ages of 55 and 60 for reasons other than excess to requirements or ill health. [More…]

• What normal accountability procedures are used by the Department of Aboriginal Affairs under the Housing, Health, Education, Employment and Welfare States Grants Program for the performance of State Government Departments. [More…]

• Are the doctors appointed by the Department of Health or by the Department of Social Security. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 April 1979: [More…]

• 1 ) What changes has the Government recently made, or does it contemplate making, regarding the funding of health services for Aborigines in Australia, including arrangements for the Australian Aboriginal Medical Service. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• He also approved that established Aboriginal medical services be given the opportunity of applying for Health Program Grants as an alternative to bulk billing. [More…]

• The offer of a Health Program Grant to the established Aboriginal medical services as an alternative to bulk billing was in recognition ofthe valuable role these services play in the delivery of health care and the special needs of the Aboriginal people. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 2 May 1979: [More…]

• 1389 (Hansard, 20 March 1979, p. 795), only one part of action proposed by the Department of Health in relation to food poisoning outbreaks, and were voluntary codes of Good Hygienic Practice and Product Recall procedures also to be introduced by industry. [More…]

• Has industry response in these three areas been satisfactory; if not, is the Department of Health prepared to move to the implementation of mandatory laboratory registration and codes of practice. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question. [More…]

• -On 4 April 1979, Senator Walters asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, page 1270) concerning an advertisement by the Hobart Women’s Refuge. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Accordingly, the Department of Health will be requesting the Tasmanian Department of Social Welfare to advise the Hobart Women’s Refuge that, for the reasons stated above, future advertisements should contain no such statement. [More…]

• In the event that this refuge does not comply, the question of continued funding under the Community Health Program will be reconsidered. [More…]

• On 5 April 1979, Senator Gietzelt asked the Minister representing the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs a question without notice (Hansard, page 1361) concerning the health hazards of aerosol sprays and the steps taken to protect consumers. [More…]

• The Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Acting Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Poisons Schedule (Standing) Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) and the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee have investigated aerosol products and concluded that the dangers to consumers were minimal when such products were used correctly and for the purpose intended. [More…]

• Statistics collected by the National Poisons Service of the Depanment of Health support the conclusions of these Committees that the incidence of accidentia! [More…]

• pyrethrins in insect sprays are usually in concentrations too low to present any danger to human health or are, in themselves, innocuous substances. [More…]

• The environmental and public health effects of these aerosol propellants are being kept under continuing review by the Australian Environment Council and the NH & MRC. [More…]

• -On 10 May 1979, Senator Harradine asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a further question (Hansard, pages 1797 and 8) concerning an advertisement appearing in the Age for the Victorian Western Region Women’s Refuge. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• A letter purporting to have been forwarded by an organisation known as the Victorian Women’s Refuge Group was received in the Department of Health on 3 May 1 979. [More…]

• Community Health Program funds are not available for political activities. [More…]

• This enabled continued Community Health Program funding of 19 refuges that had been approved prior to 1977-78, as well as the commencement of funding of an additional 64 refuges. [More…]

• I draw the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health to the widespread belief that many surgical operations performed in Australia are unnecessary, a view strengthened recently by the Doctors Reform Society’s call for the introduction of a system of compulsory second opinions and the statement by Mr Brian Morgan, Chairman of the Manpower Committee of the Royal Australian [More…]

• On 9 May this year the Minister tabled in the Parliament the first consolidated report of the activities of the Australian Bureau of Animal Health since its inception in 1974. [More…]

• I now ask the Minister: What is the present stage of construction of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong in Victoria which is to be administered by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation for which the Minister has responsibility? [More…]

• The Senate will recall that some $80m- if I recall the figure correctly- is involved in the building of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask that the Minister for Health request a meeting with both the Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs to discuss that motion specifically in relation to its implication for the Tasmanian oil poppy industry. [More…]

• If I recall correctly, I believe that the Minister for Health answered a question on this matter yesterday. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing both the Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether any specialised sections of the departments concerned- the Department of Health, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs and the Department of Employment and Youth Affairs- are dealing with research or information related to the occupational hazards of working in the environment of that herbicide? [More…]

• I am not aware of what specialised studies may be undertaken in any of the departments mentioned, but I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health, in the first instance, to see what advice he can give. [More…]

• I will be tabling later today the statement that was tabled by the Minister for Health in the House of Representatives yesterday, but it does not provide the sort of information that has been sought by Senator Bishop. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission. [More…]

• -On 10 May I was asked by Senator Melzer about the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service, and in particular whether the medical part of that service had had an increase in funding or whether the increase was concentrated in the dental section. [More…]

• I seek leave to incorporate in Hansard a table which provides details of the funding of the Victorian Aboriginal Health Service from 1975-76 to 1978-79. [More…]

• The table is split between health and dental services and indicates a 20 per cent increase in funds for health services over that period and a 127.3 percent increase in funds for dental services. [More…]

• This was advanced in the other place as one of the suggestions that had been made by Turnbull; that eventually the royalties would be sufficient to ensure that no money from the taxpayers need be spent on Aboriginal communities for education, health, welfare and so on. [More…]

• On behalf of the Opposition, I rise to make a response to the statement just put down by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• The statement we have just heard is a disaster for the health standards of Australian citizens, lt completes the destruction ofthe universal health insurance system to which the Labor Government was committed and lo which on many occasions we had been led to believe that the Fraser Government was also committed. [More…]

• First of all, the subsidy for primary health care has gone. [More…]

• The subsidy for preventive health care is gone. [More…]

• The fact is that the subsidy for primary health care has gone. [More…]

• The fact is that people will be forced into private health funds, whether or not they can afford to join them. [More…]

• There are only private health funds, and the scale of rates for insuring with them will increase on an average by $3.50 a week. [More…]

• The statement before us has failed to attack the fundamental cause of rising health costs throughout Australia, which is the fee for service payments of doctors at hospitals. [More…]

• Does a saving of $381 m justify the disruption that will occur to health services throughout Australia and the extreme inequality in the way the new burdens will fall upon the community? [More…]

• Health insurance and medical insurance will increase, according to the Government’s own statement- which may well be inaccurate- by $3.50 a week. [More…]

• I claimed at the outset that the subsidy for primary health care has gone. [More…]

• So primary health care, which is the first stop at the general practitioner, is no longer subsidised. [More…]

• Where is the sense in destroying the subsidy to primary health care? [More…]

• I quote from the National Health and Medical Research Council Discussion Paper 1978. [More…]

• Primary care accounts for only IU percent of total health expenditure and. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, claims in his statement that, despite these new impositions and new costs, the Government will offer continued support for less costly, non-institutional care, including community health and school dental programs. [More…]

• There were cuts in those very services which the Minister for Health pretends that he is going to maintain. [More…]

• 6m; a cut in the allocation for the school dental scheme of $5.1 m; a cut in community health funding of $7m; and a cut in funding for children’s services of $7m. [More…]

• The end result will be poorer health for the community. [More…]

• I will give one example concerning the school health system. [More…]

• I have taken this up with the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• I have simply had from the Health Commission the bland statement that the guidelines are being considered and that doctors have to make the decision. [More…]

• Clearly, because of the measures outlined tonight, people will be forced into joining private health funds. [More…]

• I remind the Senate just how wasteful and inefficient is the operation of private health funds. [More…]

• Again I quote from a report of the Health Insurance Commission of 1976-77. [More…]

• The administration expenses of administering private health insurance constituted 1 5.7 per cent of benefits paid. [More…]

• That comes from a report of the Health Insurance Commission, Senator Teague. [More…]

• It demonstrates that the administrative costs of private health insurance funds are very much higher than Medibank. [More…]

• It is quite clear, at least to Opposition senators, that the cost of administering private health funds is much higher than was the cost of administering Medibank standard, which no longer exists. [More…]

• Therefore people will be forced into expensive, inefficient and wasteful private health funds. [More…]

• I would suggest that if the Government thinks that simply by reducing the number of beds in public hospitals it is doing anything to improve the health standards of the community it is quite wrong. [More…]

• In fact, if it becomes an objective of the Government to reduce the number of beds available in hospitals, I suggest that that will increase the health problems of the community because the community is now denied primary care. [More…]

• The statement brought down this evening on behalf of the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, is only the last of a series of disasters by Mr Hunt which the Australian public has been forced to put up with. [More…]

• For example, in 1976 Mr Hunt said that health maintenance organisations would move in and start to take over a lot of health costs. [More…]

• We have no health maintenance organisations. [More…]

• Every move by the Government, with Mr Hunt as Minister for Health, has been a move against the patient. [More…]

• I remind the Senate of other things that Mr Hunt has said in his inglorious career as Minister for Health in this country. [More…]

• My Government recognises that an important key to the containment of health costs rests in the hospital area. [More…]

• In summary, the revised Medibank arrangements will provide a better and simpler system of universal health insurance for all Australians. [More…]

• The universal health insurance system has been abolished and everything has been handed over to the private funds. [More…]

• I know that all members of the Opposition and, I believe, the Australian public generally will continue the health insurance debate. [More…]

• I believe that the measures brought down tonight- the destruction of the universal health insurance scheme, the removal of subsidy for primary health care and preventive care- will be totally unacceptable to the Australian public. [More…]

• The Opposition will continue to agitate for a restoration of universal health insurance and it will have the support of the community in doing so. [More…]

• At the earliest possible opportunity the Opposition will overturn the inequitable, irrational and, economically, totally unjustified measures which will do nothing other than to add to the burden of health costs and create a situation in which the health of the Australian community must necessarily suffer. [More…]

• The Labor Government brought in Medibank because 90,000 people were not covered by health insurance. [More…]

• As Senator Cavanagh has pointed out, it would be remiss of us Opposition senators if we did not continue the debate on this statement tonight, in view ofthe fact that, on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), the Minister for Social Security made a statement in this chamber tonight to the effect that Medibank is to be completely destroyed, despite the fact that the Prime Minister (Mr Malcolm Fraser) gave a categorical assurance in the 1975 election campaign- it was one of the main points of his platform- that Medibank would not be interfered with. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 April 1979: [More…]

• ls the Department of Health currently funding or undertaking research into the problem of excessive surgery. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• ) No statistics are currently available within the Department of Health which could positively show that excessive surgery is taking place in Australian hospitals. [More…]

• However, statistics available within the Department of Health show, for each State, for the years 1973-74. [More…]

• These figures were derived using sample data based on claims processed by the major private health insurance organisations and Medibank. [More…]

• in association with the National Standing Committee on Health and Vital Statistics, it is hoped that eventually all States will bc able to provide this information. [More…]

• The Department is currently funding, through Health Services Research and Development Grants, three projects concerned with surgery in hospitals. [More…]

• Autopsy in Quality Assurance in Hospital Practice- A Pilot Study at Royal Brisbane Hospital to examine the effectiveness and quality of health care and services by using autopsy data. [More…]

• On 5 April 1979, Senator Missen asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 1359 and 1360) concerning the lead content of petrol and the effect of lead on the brain and central nervous system of young children. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• In this context I think it is important to appreciate that whilst lead in petrol itself constitutes primarily an occupational health hazard, it is lead in the exhaust emissions that has created potential problems in relation to the population as a whole. [More…]

• Views on lead in petrol and methods to reduce pollution have been the subjects of comments by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) on several occasions. [More…]

• Furthermore Council considered that, should the strategies for controlling the total mass emission of lead include the use of lead catchment devices, the health hazards arising from the handling and ultimate disposal of spent devices should be given due weight by authorities considering the possible introduction of such devices. [More…]

• Highly toxic particulate lead in the spent devices will bc hazardous to the health of persons handling them, consequently safe handling methods, include medical surveillance of workers and close supervision of the ultimate disposal methods will be required. [More…]

• Council recommended that its views be widely circulated to the appropriate authorities, including the Australian Minerals and Energy Council and Australian Transport Advisory Council, to health and environment authorities, to industry and other interested authorities and organisations. ‘ [More…]

• There have been many reports in recent years that have indicated that human lead levels previously thought to be of no sign i Ilea ncc may indeed be producing adverse health effects. [More…]

• More work therefore needs to be done to establish at what particular air and blood lead levels serious health effects arc produced. [More…]

• Methods of reducing the lead emissions from motor vehicles arc topics of continuing concern not only from the health aspect but also economically. [More…]

• The major concern is to protect the health ofthe population at large from untoward citcas of lead in air. [More…]

• I am confident that an acceptable solution will bc forthcoming that will in no way compromise the health of the people. [More…]

• as Minister representing the Minister Ibr Health, a question without notice (Hansard, pages 1363 and 1364) concerning the health risks of dental X-rays. [More…]

• The Minister Ibr Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• page 1546), Senator Gietzelt asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the possible health hazard ofthe Potterton Heat Bank electric heater. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• I am informed that this investigation did not reveal any hazard id human health. [More…]

• as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the payment of registration fees by doctors in South Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• In releasing the names of the doctors remaining unregistered on 15 May 1979. the Acting Minister for Health said that one effect of non-registration would bc to preclude patients of the doctors from Commonwealth medical benefits. [More…]

• The danger of poisonous chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Division of Animal Health is making a reappraisal of the relative importance of the predisposing causes of strike. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health had her attention drawn to an article in the Mercury of Saturday, 26 May, in which the Tasmanian Minister for Health is reported as having stated that 500 people could lose their jobs from within the State hospitals system. [More…]

• I draw attention to the statement of the Minister for Health last Thursday in which he said that the Government would establish a national inquiry to examine the efficiency and administration of hospitals throughout Australia. [More…]

• The Government’s deliberate policy to allow social security and health services to decline. [More…]

• The Government’s deliberate policy to allow social security and health services to decline’. [More…]

• It is the contention of the Federal Opposition that the contents of the mini-Budget reveal a determination- a deliberate policy- on the part of the Fraser Government to reduce the standard of living of all Australians and, in particular, to withdraw proper provision of social security and health services for the community. [More…]

• It exposed the total failure of the Government’s economic strategy and the chaos of its health and welfare programs. [More…]

• Secondly, universal health insurance was finally and totally destroyed. [More…]

• The subsidy for primary health care was abolished and hospital charges were increased. [More…]

• The end result will be that most Australians, particularly those with families, will have to pay more than they can afford for health care. [More…]

• As a result, the health of the community will deteriorate and consequently the overall cost of health care to the community will increase. [More…]

• I would like to specify one group of people who have suffered dreadfully as a result of the Government’s failure with regard to health insurance provisions. [More…]

• I contend that these pensioners cannot, on the sum of $76.30 a week, afford health insurance of $ 1 5 a week. [More…]

• This is only one group which will be very seriously disadvantaged by the changes in health insurance and by the abolition of universal health insurance which the Government has just perpetrated. [More…]

• The effects on social welfare and health services of the mini-Budget are, I believe, of basic concern to the entire community. [More…]

• The words of Cardinal Freeman are very pertinent to what I am saying today because the tax and health measures of the mini-Budget will force more Australian families than the 7.3 per cent who are already in poverty into poverty and into the concomitant distress of living in poverty. [More…]

• The Opposition was shocked and horrified to see universal health insurance abolished. [More…]

• We know that the failure of the Government to secure the health services of this community will be counterproductive both in an economic and in a social sense. [More…]

• In conclusion, I allege again that the decline in the living standards of pensioners in the community, the anxiety and distress caused to genuinely unemployed persons, the difficulty they have in getting unemployed benefit and, particularly now, the total disruption to the health services, are matters of urgency. [More…]

• In introducing the debate on this matter of urgency, Senator Ryan referred to the deliberate policy of the Government to withdraw social security and health services. [More…]

• Senator Ryan has referred to a number of matters, but I feel that we cannot look at an urgency debate of this kind without going back to the economic realities which must be faced as a Government puts together both sides of a Budget including the revenue which we extract from the Australian people in direct taxation and through other Government charges, the expenditure which arises from the enormous systems of social security and health cover which have been developed, and other matters that have been referred to in the debate today. [More…]

• It might be appropriate to quote R. B. Scotton on a day such as this when we may* be talking about health insurance schemes. [More…]

• If we are to talk about policies, perhaps the only document which we could relate to the debate of today, where we are charged with withdrawing social security and health services, is the Hayden alternative budget presented at the time of the Budget last year in which we saw that family allowances would not be indexed. [More…]

• In regard to health care, reference has been made to difficulties experienced by Commonwealth Government employees. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has supplied figures in regard to people who are in the lowest income groups and the way in which they have been covered by the systems for low income earners in this country. [More…]

• I should like to refer to some of the matters in the new health arrangements that were mentioned by the Minister for Health in his statement last week. [More…]

• I think we cannot look at health care without facing economic reality. [More…]

• When we consider the figures that have been revealed, of a national health bill in 1978-79 of $8 billion, we must start to have some regard to who will pay. [More…]

• It is sheer nonsense to talk of free health care that can be given to one group and not covered as a cost by another. [More…]

• If we look at a cost of some $8 billion- remember that I said $8 billion was spent on social security and welfare payments- we start to see the magnitude of the commitment of government to maintain its programs in health and welfare. [More…]

• The Government decided that there would need to be a reduction of direct financial support for those who are able to pay for their health care and that there needed to be a promotion of measures to contain future cost escalation, while providing a better system of health care for every Australian. [More…]

• That system of health care does need to take into account health costs. [More…]

• It is for this reason that the Government believed that if it was to be responsible it had to establish a national inquiry to examine the efficiency and administration of hospitals throughout Australia, recognising that about 60 per cent of Commonwealth expenditure on health services is spent on hospital services, and that State governments, which also share heavily in the cost of hospital and health care, agree that hospitals are disproportionately costly. [More…]

• Other figures which I think were salutory in the statement by the Minister for Health last week were those relating to the average occupancy rate of hospital beds. [More…]

• The Australian people have a right to see that there is efficiency in health care as well as the provision of health care. [More…]

• Perhaps as a general comment I could say, in regard to both social security and health services, that it should never be thought that compassion and efficiency are incompatible. [More…]

• I say that with regard to unemployment benefits, and I know that the Minister for Health would wish to say that with regard to expenditure which is under his control. [More…]

• Pensioners with health benefit cards will continue to be eligible to receive an 85 per cent benefit in respect of each scheduled medical service, with a maximum payment by each patient of $5 for any one service where the scheduled fee is charged. [More…]

• It is important to recognise that under social services legislation a very large percentage of our pensioners hold health benefit cards. [More…]

• I understand that about 80 per cent of age pensioners have health benefit cards. [More…]

• Thus it will be seen that a great majority of our pensioners is treated under the health benefit card system whereby 85 per cent of the scheduled fee is paid by the Government. [More…]

• These changes also apply in respect of optometry services covered by the health insurance scheme. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has released information about health insurance contribution rates. [More…]

• People will need to understand what their responsibilities are in relation to health care for themselves and their families. [More…]

• After all, health care is a responsibility and in this country it is one that has shown an enormous growth in expenditure, to the extent that the Government felt it needed to take some decisions prior to the Budget which will be presented in August. [More…]

• I will give an instance of the sort of expenditure involved: In 1972 health costs represented 5.97 per cent- almost 6 per cent- of the gross domestic product. [More…]

• In 1975 health costs represented 7.76 per cent of the gross domestic product and they continued to grow as a proportion of the gross domestic product. [More…]

• In 1977-78 health costs represented 7.89 per cent of the gross domestic product. [More…]

• However, it was necessary to clarify the Government’s proposals with regard to personal income tax and to be specific with regard to health. [More…]

• The matter of urgency that has been stated as the Government’s deliberate policy to allow social security and health services to decline’ has not been properly sustained in the argument that has been presented. [More…]

• If there is to be a policy to maintain social security and health services in this country it needs to be one which recognises economic responsibilities, the capacity of people to pay and the role of the Government to marshal the resources available in Australia in order to see that those people who are the least advantaged receive special protection. [More…]

• It is also the responsibility of the Government to see that there are systems which provide the health care demanded by a community of the standard of the Australian community. [More…]

• It is because of this Government’s failure to adhere to its undertakings to the Australian people that the Opposition today has moved a motion attacking the Government’s policy to allow social security and health services to decline. [More…]

• If that has not been a decline in social security and health standards- and Senator Teague has denied that there has been a decline- I do not know what is. [More…]

• That, too, is a decline in social security and health standards. [More…]

• As has been said by Senator Ryan, the health scheme is now a sick scheme. [More…]

• Because of 23 years of neglect by a series of conservative governments, one million people in Australia could not afford health insurance when the Labor Government came into office in 1972. [More…]

• When we came into government one million people, or 10 per cent of the Australian population, could not afford health insurance benefits. [More…]

• The Government’s deliberate policy to allow social security and health services to decline. [More…]

• In a short sentence it makes two completely false statements: There is no such government policy and social security and health services are not in decline. [More…]

• I wish to give a little more detail on what is going on in the health field. [More…]

• The criticism of the standard of health services comes rather oddly from the Australian Labor Party. [More…]

• When it was in government it failed to formulate a health policy which bore any relationship at all to economic facts. [More…]

• That is particularly true in the health area. [More…]

• When the health scheme of . [More…]

• Resources were not directed as they should be directed in a proper social security or health policy, namely, to the areas of greatest need. [More…]

• I am delighted that Senator Douglas McClelland mentioned that plan because it was a perfect example of gross mismanagement and waste in a health care system. [More…]

• In 1972-73, when the Whitlam Government came to power, health costs represented just under 6 per cent- 5.97 per cent actually- of our gross domestic product. [More…]

• Since then, through careful management, we have been able to maintain health costs at about 7.85 per cent of GDP. [More…]

• Control of the amount of our resources which is put into health care is vital in the battle to control the national inflation rate. [More…]

• As has been announced, under the proposals relating to health services which will come into force on 1 September, the Government will meet all scheduled fees of more than $20. [More…]

• This is an important way in which the Government is achieving its objective of getting the best value in health care for the dollars spent. [More…]

• We must remember that 60 per cent of our health costs go in hospital care. [More…]

• These are real problems for any health care system, and we badly need a national inquiry into how to ensure that our hospitals are properly and economically used. [More…]

• We must aim, in our health insurance system and health care system, to endeavour to achieve those ends. [More…]

• This, of course, is in line with the general Government policy on health care and social welfare benefits. [More…]

• As a government we must be economic with community resources and at the same time provide excellent health care to all who need it, with no one denied such care because of social disadvantage. [More…]

• I take it that it is the program that was circulated to honourable senators last Thursday, but the Leader of the Government has not told us that today, in the other place, a series of six or seven Bills associated with the two statements made in the Senate last Thursday- that of the Treasurer (Mr Howard) and that of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), as presented by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle), will be introduced. [More…]

• The Minister must accept the responsibility for his Government’s having withdrawn health improvement programs, some medical services and a whole lot of other things. [More…]

• If anybody has been despicable it has been the Minister, for attempting to defend an indefensible policy of his Government, that of cutting back expenditure on Aboriginal affairs, health, welfare and education, and in regard to land and mining rights. [More…]

• I can only say, that earlier this month the Department of Health in the Northern Territory sent me a document dated April this year, which reports on the latest infant mortality figures. [More…]

• I am pleased to say that the information sent to me by the Northern Territory Department of Health shows a resumption of the downward trend in infant mortality in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• The discoveries have not been made by the medical profession or by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Last Tuesday night, I said that the Waterside Workers Federation had sent six people to the National Health and Medical Research Association for tests. [More…]

• This information is taken from a report by the Department of Health, Education and Welfare and is authorised by the most distinguished governmental scientists in carcinogenesis statistics. [More…]

• If we look at the records and the history of all this, we find that in 1918 asbestos was considered to be a serious health risk to workers. [More…]

• I think that it is much more important to keep workers healthy and to be able to provide for their families. [More…]

• Why have not the medical authorities or the Department of Health explained to the workers what are the problems? [More…]

• I believe that we should endeavour to overcome many of these health problems in our society. [More…]

• When one has an hereditary head of state, one is really saying that access to decent living conditions, proper health care and a stimulating and full education for one’s children, depends on the family into which one is born. [More…]

• After all, in Australia we believe that everyone, into whatever family he or she is born, ought to be given a fair go with access to living conditions of a decent standard, adequate health care and proper education, without regard to family ancestry. [More…]

• What am I to say to a family man who faces an extra $3.50 a week for health insurance costs as a result of last Thursday’s mini-Budget’s breaking the Medibank promise? [More…]

• I emphasise the words ‘first priority’- to operational safety which includes maintaining at the Research Establishment the highest possible standard of surveillance of all environmental and working conditions which could affect the health and safety of Commission employees. [More…]

• The upshot of all of this was the part that the Department of Productivity played in regard to health, safety and welfare was explained to the Committee. [More…]

• I was asking whether, in matters of health, safety and welfare, the Commonwealth would be subject to the state inspectorates. [More…]

• Frankly, I do not believe in gentlemen’s agreements when it comes to health, safety and welfare. [More…]

• I also give fair warning to the Department of Productivity that it should make available its experts in the field of industrial health, safety and welfare because I intend to find out just how far the Department has gone. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 March 1979: [More…]

• 1 ) Who are the members of the Pesticides and Agricultural Chemicals Sub-committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• I ) Dr E. J. Fitzsimons, Director, Toxicology Section, Commonwealth Department of Health (Chairman). [More…]

• Senior Chemist, Commonwealth Department of Health (Convenor and Secretary). [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she recalls the Treasurer, in introducing the miniBudget last week, saying: [More…]

• I did note the report in the Melbourne Age newspaper this morning but I have had no information from the Minister for Health with regard to its accuracy. [More…]

• I will refer the report and the question that was asked to the Minister for Health and obtain information as soon as possible. [More…]

• As 1 said, I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health and seek this information. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I have no detailed knowledge of the matter, but I will refer it to the Minister for Health and ask that he give consideration to the people who may be victims of a deregistration of which they were not aware. [More…]

• I can assure the honourable senator that the Government is concerned about the maintenance of the good health and prosperity of Tasmania and its people. [More…]

• I am advised that under the States (Personal Income Tax Sharing) Act 1976 the States are entitled to receive 39.87 per cent of the preceding year’s net personal income tax collections, excluding receipts from the health insurance levy, subject to a guarantee that until 1979-80 each State will receive at least the amount it would have received under the old financial assistance grants arrangements. [More…]

• For instance honourable senators may have noted yesterday that Senator McLaren asked me about the development of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong. [More…]

• by leave- In Senator Webster’s reply to both Senator Georges and Senator Archer he implied that yesterday I gave him a prepared question on the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• It is funded by that organisation with the support of a salary for a social worker from the State Government, through the Public Health Department of Western Australia. [More…]

• At present we are funded 75 per cent from funds made available through the Commonwealth Governments Community Health Programme and 25 per cent from the State Government. [More…]

• In 1974, the then Minister for Health approved the first women’s refuge for funding under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• When the change of government took place at the end of 1975, a total of 19 women’s refuges in the States were approved under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• There were also two refuges in each of the Territories which are separately funded by the Territories’ health authorities. [More…]

• In the 1977-78 Budget, the Cabinet decided that the funding of women’s refuges should be continued under the Community Health Program and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) announced that in that year, in addition to the funds required for the continuation of the 19 refuges previously funded, Sim would be made available for the funding of refuges which had not been approved previously. [More…]

• Therefore, by way of background we see that in 1974, when the first refuge was funded, there was an expenditure of $59,000 under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• So it can be seen that there has been a growth in the establishment of refuges and that there certainly has been a growth in the funds which have been provided by the Federal Government, through the Community Health Program, and by State governments as their contributions to that program. [More…]

• Perhaps I ought to put the record in order by saying that when the Commonwealth’s funding of additional women’s refuges resumed in 1977-78, it was at the same rates as the funding of general community health projects, that is, 50 per cent of capital costs and 75 per cent of operating costs. [More…]

• In this financial year, the Commonwealth’s funding of general community health projects has been at the rate of 50 per cent for capital and operating costs, but it ought to be noted that funding of women’s refuges has been maintained at 50 per cent of capital costs and 75 per cent of operating costs. [More…]

• In accordance with the arrangements which were introduced in 1976-77, the Commonwealth’s funding of women’s refuges under the Community Health Program is by way of block grants to the States. [More…]

• In each financial year the Minister for Health approves a block grant to each State for that State’s total program of women’s refuges. [More…]

• In Western Australia, the State administering authority is the Department of Public Health. [More…]

• I understand that there have been difficulties with regard to the future of the Emmaus women’s refuge and I am told that on the recommendation of the State Department of Public Health it was approved for Community Health Program funding in 1977. [More…]

• In February 1979, the Director-General of Health informed the Minister for Health that complaints had been received from residents in the area of the refuge concerning noise, drinking, indecent language and other problems. [More…]

• I am unaware of the present situation with regard to it, but I am told that in April 1979 the Western Australian Department of Public Health advised the Commonwealth Department of Health that in the past there had been problems of an accounting nature and that, more recently the organisation had struggled to maintain hygiene standards. [More…]

• As the Community Health Program is a joint Commonwealth-State program, the withdrawal of the State approval resulted in the cessation of both Commonwealth and State funding for the refuge. [More…]

• As far as new refuges are concerned, I am told that the Minister for Health is seeking discussions with the Minister for Finance (Mr Eric Robinson), with regard to the provision of seven new refuges in a number of States. [More…]

• These are, of course, matters for Budget consideration and discussion at the Premiers’ Conference, at which the Community Health program itself is considered. [More…]

• The arrangements that have been made by the Office of Child Care, in regard to child care facilities, resources and programs for the assistance of refuges that are funded under the Community Health Program, will be of great benefit to children who need to take refuge in the way that we have all described. [More…]

• I repeat, the Community Health Program will be the subject of the Premiers’ Conference in June. [More…]

• This week we have learned of a proposed increase in the cost of health services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) himself admitted that an increased cost of at least $ 12 a week will be usual for families. [More…]

• We know that doctors’ fees will increase and families will be faced with the terrible situation of not knowing how they are to pay for the health care of their families. [More…]

• The Minister also commented that the Commonwealth Government views shelters as a very special part of the community health program. [More…]

• We have not reduced the Commonwealth’s share of funding of women’s refuges as has been done in other health programs to the 50-50 share basis on both capital and operating costs. [More…]

• At the moment the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the Minister for Finance (Mr Eric Robinson) are discussing the provision of seven new shelters. [More…]

• It was entirely in response to his concern for the children in that shelter that the State Minister for Health made this order. [More…]

• The country faces major problems in rebuilding its infrastructure, in the provision of transport services and communications, in the distribution of food and in the maintenance of health services throughout the shattered country. [More…]

• The changes which the Government is making to health insurance and oil pricing and the revenue tariff on previously duty free imports will add at least two per cent to the consumer price index in the next 12 months. [More…]

• The massive increase in health care costs and taxes that have just been announced will lead to higher wages which will further lead to under capacity, more inflation, more unemployment, a larger deficit, and more cuts. [More…]

• I would like to speak briefly about health insurance because I was personally involved in it. [More…]

• We will maintain Medibank, and ensure that the standard of health does not decline. [More…]

• I believe that a compromise was necessary in respect of the then existing health scheme. [More…]

• I said at the time, and still believe, that that scheme was one of the best national health schemes in the world. [More…]

• We will deal with some of these matters when we debate the statement on income tax and the statement on health measures. [More…]

• Tax levy stays, health aid goes’. [More…]

• If honourable senators look at the expenditure on health, in the last Budget of 1972-73 the Liberal Government spent $783m, which was lifted to $2,953m by the Labor Government. [More…]

• What was wrong with spending that money on health and the care of the Australian people, on increasing medical services and benefits from $229m to $774m? [More…]

• What was wrong with increasing the expenditure on hospital services, on nursing home and domiciliary care service and benefits, on community health services and on health schemes for school children, and doubling the amount of money spent from $ 12m to $24m? [More…]

• It is reported that Australia’s biggest industry body, the Confederation of Australian Industry, in its submission to this Government in respect of the Budget preparations that are taking place at the moment, has called upon the Federal Government to cut spending in social security, health and welfare payments. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer to the announcement by the Minister for Health of the establishment of the National Health Promotion Program, which seeks to place emphasis on the prevention of disease and unhealthy lifestyles. [More…]

• Can the Minister say whether the Government has noted the various statements by scientists and nutritionists that consumption of fast food and excessive consumption of sugar and salt contribute to the ill health of great numbers of Australians? [More…]

• Can the Minister assure the Senate that the statement of the Minister for Health that ‘despite huge national expenditure on health services the overall health of Australians is not improving’ means that the Government will seriously begin a campaign to educate the community about such dietary problems, or is this just another piece of Government gimmickry? [More…]

• I have noted the many matters raised by Senator Gietzelt with regard to the eating habits of Australians and the effect this has on the general health of members of the community. [More…]

• I think that the Minister for Health was drawing attention to the health of the Australian community, the need for preventive medicine in many ways and programs to alert people to their own responsibilities with regard to their health care and the health care of members of their families. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, but it also has some implications for her portfolio of Social Security. [More…]

• Will the Government make its own investigation of this important research study, especially its reported assertions that lead in the body ranks after only nutritional problems and accidents as a child health hazard? [More…]

• The attention of the Minister for Health was attracted to the article referred to by Senator Mason. [More…]

• The report to which that article referred is one of many which are under study by the Department of Health and the committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council assisted in the funding of research into the lead burden of Sydney school children. [More…]

• The report suggested that lead in the body comes behind only nutritional problems and accidents as a child health hazard. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council first recommended a lower content of lead in petrol in 1973. [More…]

• The lead issue is seen as part of the wider problem of pollution caused by motor vehicles and the Council is working to establish health oriented guidelines in relation to the most significant pollutants. [More…]

• I draw the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health to a photograph in the 15 May issue of the Mount Gambier newspaper, The Border Watch. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: Were quarantine officers from the Commonwealth Department of Health present at Mount Gambier for the arrival of this flight? [More…]

• I am not able to respond to the question with regard to quarantine requirements but I will refer it to the Minister for Health and seek the information for Senator McLaren. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health produced a report entitled An Environmental Survey of Aboriginal Communities 1977-78’? [More…]

• I am advised that the Prime Minister went through the normal health checking requirements in Darwin before proceeding to Mount Gambier, or wherever else it was that he arrived. [More…]

• The Commission strongly recommended that the Commonwealth of Massachusetts oppose all phases of offshore oil development until a number of conditions are met, including waiting ‘until blow-out and spill prevention technology have sufficiently improved to be clearly fail-safe and until oil spill technology can adequately cope with an ocean spill in adverse seas and weather conditions so as not to cause any damage to the marine environment and public health from its own effects. ‘ [More…]

• As a member of Estimates Committee C I must say that in the hearings which took place on Friday, 4 May, we saw the departments of Social Security, Finance, Health, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs and Veterans’ Affairs come forward with very complete accounting of their estimates. [More…]

• However, reference was made to the need for more evaluation in a report of a committee which dealt with health. [More…]

• In the intervening period- I am speaking broadly, but the Departments of Social Security, Health and Immigration and Ethnic Affairs were mentioned- it had become obvious that the need for evaluation had been realised. [More…]

• I want to discuss another matter and ask a couple of questions about an associated areathat of health- which is closer to the portfolio of the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle). [More…]

• The first is an appropriation of nearly $6m for the Department of Health. [More…]

• It seems quite ironical that we are dealing with an appropriation of $6m for health and yet within the next week we are to deal with a health Bill associated with a statement put down by the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) which could well have been made when these estimates were before the Estimates Committees. [More…]

• That is why I say that it is quite ironical that we should be asked to pass an appropriation for health here tonight when next week we will have before us a Bill bringing forward all the ramifications of what is going to happen to the deserving people of this community. [More…]

• Had we known about the new health arrangements when the Estimates Committees were sitting we could have asked questions about them. [More…]

• I am talking particularly about the estimates for the Department of Health. [More…]

• 1 3 which concerns expenditure by the Department of Housing and Construction on behalf of the Department of Health. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1 979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• This unique design, which won the Australian Broadcasting Commission’s Inventor of the Year award in 1978 and the World Health Prize of a gold medal at Geneva in the same year, has the potential to earn many millions of dollars for Australia in exports. [More…]

• I address a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and draw her attention to claims made by a Mrs English who is a senior nutritionist with the Department of Health, that the widespread habit of families living on what she called ‘fast foods and takeaway meals’ was having serious consequences. [More…]

• ls the Department of Health aware that evidence to the Committee indicated that 44 per cent of advertising time between 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. was devoted to fast foods, compared with 6 per cent in the next time period? [More…]

• Will the Minister draw to the attention of the Department of Health the terms of the Senate Committee’s recommendation in the report which calls for a conference to be held between the Department, the Australian medical and dental associations and the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal? [More…]

• I know that it has received the close attention of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will seek a reaction to that suggestion from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• 1 do agree with the honourable senator- and I know the Minister for Health agrees- that the study does emphasise the value of measuring the effects of social interventions. [More…]

• In the course of this inquiry, the Subcommittee heard evidence from a number of departments, in particular, the Departments of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Ethnic Affairs, Primary Industry and Health. [More…]

• The Committee is pleased to report that already plans are being implemented by the Department of Health to increase animal quarantine activity in the Torres Strait area. [More…]

• For instance, it has proposed that corruption in the Department of Motor Transport, which is now the subject of a magisterial investigation, funding of community health services, the question of organised crime in New South Wales, the question of the Port Kembla coal loader and the very important issue of the escape of notorious criminals such as Cribb and Munday, should be discussed as matters of public importance in the Parliament of New South Wales. [More…]

• The Committee has now received a letter from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in which the Minister gives the following undertaking: [More…]

• The Committee will be asking the Minister for Health to consider amendments of the Ordinance in the light of the other matters which the Committee has raised. [More…]

• It is pointed out that it is the policy of both State and Federal governments to require local government authorities to accept a much higher level of responsibility for locally based programs such as community programs, health programs and welfare programs. [More…]

• Since March we have had three Ministers for Foreign Affairs, three Ministers for Defence, three Ministers for Health, three Ministers for Education and Science, three Attorneys-General, two Treasurers, two Ministers for Labour and National Service, two Ministers for Immigration, two Ministers for the Navy, two Ministers for Housing, two Ministers for Aboriginal Affairs and two Ministers for Supply. [More…]

• The danger of poisonous chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining or uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• Smoke emission from the Yabula plant is something like 3 per cent above the level allowable under World Health Organisation regulations. [More…]

• Page 6 of the new guidelines states that the following bodies may act as advisory bodies: Department of Aboriginal and Islanders Advancement, Department of Commercial and Industrial Development, Department of Education, Department of Forestry, Department of Harbours and Marine, Department of Health, Irrigation and Water Supply Commission, Land Administration Commission, Local Government Department, Main Roads Department, Department of Mapping and Surveying and Office of the Surveyor-General, Department of Mines, National Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of Police, Department of Primary Industries, Queensland Fisheries Service- that does not necessarily make it a fishy statement- Queensland Water Resources Department, Railway Department, State Electricity Commission, Department of Tourism, Department of Transport and Department of Works. [More…]

• Mr Wells said it was important that officers of the State Health Department be sent from Brisbane with sophisticated equipment to make an accurate assessment of the danger if any, to workers in the adjoining warehouse being used by Suzanne Shoes. [More…]

• Many honourable senators would know that subsidies were paid to stations for education, if education was not provided by the Department, for health care and for messing. [More…]

• Shortly after he took up his duties he sacked the sister who was providing the health care. [More…]

• He said, firstly, that he did want to employ Aboriginal people; secondly, that, he wanted nothing to do with health care; and thirdly, that he was considering closing down the store to force them to move. [More…]

• When we had a big meeting with Alice Springs, Utopia health people, D.A.A., and Mt Isa Legal Aid, he just sat down and didn’t say anything. [More…]

• Mr Ian Tuxworth, the Northern Territory Minister for Health and Community Development, has convened a conference at Lake Nash on 19 May to discuss the situation. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) is acting as Minister for Social Security until Senator Guilfoyle ‘s return to Australia on 24 June. [More…]

• Mention was made on AM this morning that a report from the Department of Science and the Environment indicates that radioactivity levels at Nabarlek uranium mine in the Northern Territory are higher than was previously indicated, and that the health of workers there may be endangered. [More…]

• The Department’s report recommends that appropriate environmental protection measures be taken in order to safeguard the health of workers. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for National Development seen the report of a two-year survey, headed by Professor L. Smythe of the University of New South Wales, which states that almost a quarter of 1 ,200 children tested in Sydney had levels of lead in their blood above those found to cause adverse effects on health and behaviour? [More…]

• I also ask whether it is reasonable that large sections of the community be exposed to high levels of lead, carbon monoxide and dioxide and sulphur dioxide, when the remedy is in the Government’s hands- to promote the use of liquid petroleum gas, which contains only minute quantities of pollutants and, at the same time, to bring about huge savings in oil imports and public health costs. [More…]

• This question, insofar as it relates to a report, of which I am not aware, of a Professor Smythe concerning the level of lead in children and others in New South Wales, would appear to be more appropriate for reference to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• -Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen a report in the Press from the drug rehabilitation agency, We Help Ourselves, suggesting that a critical situation in drug use exists across Australia and that an even more critical situation might exist in the next few years? [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Advice has been given that packets of contraceptive pills in Britain are to carry an official health warning. [More…]

• Also we are to consider the National Health Amendment Bill and the Health Insurance Amendment Bill. [More…]

• Recovery of part of the costs of inspection and animal health certification for live animal exports is also intended. [More…]

• It can be seen that education, as an item, ranks only behind social service and welfare payments to the States and health as the most important single component of a Commonwealth Budget. [More…]

• In 1975-76, $26.4m was allocated to the health scheme in schools. [More…]

• The Mental Health Authority took over the old building and put in it grossly and severely retarded babies. [More…]

• In August 1977- the same year- the superintendent agreed to purchase a Possum communication device costing $5,000, and the purchase was approved by the Mental Health Authority. [More…]

• By this time other people outside the Mental Health Authority and outside this establishment had become interested in these children and were impressed by them. [More…]

• The Mental Health Authority was not prepared to let anybody else into its area, the Department of Education did not have the strength or the will to move in, and the Ministers could not have cared less. [More…]

• He referred it to the State Minister of Education and to the Minister of Special Education, who replied that it was a matter for the Mental Health Authority and that they should not interfere. [More…]

• So the Health Department is left with the problem, and by now it must have built up some sort of barrier which guarantees that the hurt will not get through. [More…]

• The Health Department maintains that these people are mentally handicapped and that their proper place is in institutions for the mentally retarded. [More…]

• They asked: What will be the extent of departmental restructuring following the imminent disbandment of the Mental Health Authority? [More…]

• Victoria no longer has a Mental Health Authority. [More…]

• It just has a Health Authority. [More…]

• These children are now caught up entirely in the functions of the Health Authority and the Education Department has no word in it. [More…]

• The Union sent letters to the Minister for Health, Mr Houghton, and the Minister for Special Education, Mr Scanlan, in September of last year. [More…]

• The Ministers were advised that education staff in the old building at Drummond Street, Carlton, which was formerly the Children’s Hospital, were jeopardising their health and the safety of the students by carrying the children frequently on a 16-step fire-escape which provided the only access between the dormitories and the education area. [More…]

• The Union has held discussions with the Mental Health Authority and the Minister for Health. [More…]

• At a time when only 55 of the 108 children can receive any help from teaching staff, only 38 of them participate in group ward programs and 17 receive any intensive programming, there appears to be prolonged procrastination between the Health, Public Works and Special Education Departments. [More…]

• Presumably, that is outside Victoria- children moderately or severely handicapped arc regarded as a health or mental health responsibility- Victoria regards them as trainable and educable’. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 28 March 1979: [More…]

• The Minster for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (l)and(2)Yes. [More…]

• Other than health and welfare programs to relieve stress and anxiety, the Government is also providing young unemployed people with various means of support. [More…]

• Department of National Health and Welfare [More…]

• Department of Health, Education and Welfare [More…]

• Bearing in mind that aviation fuel is becoming increasingly in short supply and that there are already in the outback instances of fuel not being available to aircraft, what action is being taken by the Government to ensure that Avgas- the lifeblood of reconnaissance and surveillance activities, the Royal Flying Doctor Service, aerial health facilities, and the daily supply of various commodities to isolated communities, including Aboriginal settlements, mining fields, homesteads, contractors, tourist organisations, et cetera- is kept in regular supply for these most necessary outback services and communities? [More…]

• I will refer the question to the Minister for Health for a more authoritative and definitive reply. [More…]

• Consequently, it was necessary- which necessity was well judged by the Fraser Government- to take action at the time it saw fit to do so, namely 24 May, to introduce measures which would restrict the growth in the money supply and apply some restraint on the growth of expenditures by the Federal Government to ensure that inflation did not increase at rates that might jeopardise the future health of the Australian economy. [More…]

• So, this Government has set out to see that ordinary men and women have less wages, less food, less education, less health and, in the long run, of course, less security. [More…]

• It has set out to reduce pensions, the dole, health insurance cover and family allowances. [More…]

• The mini-Budget attacked the health system. [More…]

• Whilst this Government states that it is still concerned that there should be adequate health care and cover for people, it does not look at the vast numbers of low income people who are uninsured for health care costs. [More…]

• These people are not classed as disadvantaged but they do not have the money to pay for health insurance and to pay doctors’ bills. [More…]

• Twenty-four per cent of families in Australia are living near or below the poverty line and some of them already are paying for health cover that they cannot afford. [More…]

• In the preliminary Budget it was made evident that the first lift in costs will be from 1 September, when the Federal Government’s new health measures will take effect. [More…]

• The president of the Health Benefits Council of Victoria and general manager of HBA . [More…]

• The Government has broken an undertaking we had reached with the Minister for Health that we were to make necessary rate change adjustments just once a year, from November 1’, he said . [More…]

• The Minister for Health himself has said that there will be increases of between $1.50 and $2.50 a week for families, that it is inevitable. [More…]

• Even the Australian Medical Association was reported as saying that people should keep on private health insurance because large families could face crippling costs is a result of having to pay the whole $20. [More…]

• Doctor Repin should come down to earth too because so many families will face crippling costs if they try to keep on private health insurance. [More…]

• Families in some areas are faced with paying $12 a week more or over $600 a year more than they have been paying for basic health insurance. [More…]

• The final link with any sort of health care will be cut off. [More…]

• The Government says: ‘We are still concerned, we still have universal health care and we will assist through calling people disadvantaged ‘. [More…]

• Last year I asked the Minister for Health for a definition of ‘disadvantaged ‘. [More…]

• In September last year I received the following answer: lt is not intended to set out any such criteria in the legislation covering the new health insurance arrangements, it is considered preferable to leave the identification of persons who would fall into the disadvantaged category in the medical profession’s hands. [More…]

• They should be able to go along to a doctor as persons in their own right and not have to ask the doctor to declare them some sort of disadvantaged person, to label them in some way, so that they can afford to pay for health care. [More…]

• They are now also being cheated in the health care area. [More…]

• We are now to have increases in personal tax, increases in health costs, rigorous pruning in the field of education, no benefit to those not genuinely seeking work irrespective of whether the work is there to seek or not, less money for housing and less money for public transport. [More…]

• It is no wonder that we cannot afford the unemployment benefit, health care, care of the aged and decent education for all children in Australia. [More…]

• We have been told that the taxpayers paid for the minerals, the proceeds from the mining of which have been sent out of Australia; that the Government does nothing but make the rich richer and the poor poorer; and that people will have to pay at least $12 a week for their health insurance and so on. [More…]

• Of course, that brings forward quite graphically the fact that, in addition to other areas of government expenditure and activity, such as health services, education is now to be a sufferer as a result of this Government’s economic mismanagement. [More…]

• There is general agreement in principle between State health ministers and the Commonwealth Minister for Health that action should be taken to reclassify long term patients in public hospitals whose situation is similar to nursing home patients. [More…]

• The matter of the levels of hospital benefits payable by health insurance organisations in respect of nursing-home type patients is included in complementary provisions which amend the National Health Act 1953. [More…]

• Further, the amendment made by clause 10, varying the Heads of Agreement in Schedule 2 to the Health Insurance Act 1973, enables the appropriate patient contribution to be levied on patients who are not hospital insured. [More…]

• In a statement made in another place by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) on 24 May, advising details of the revised health insurance arrangements to operate from 1 September 1979, it was stated that a key element would be the introduction of a universal medical guarantee for doctors ‘ fees over $20 for each schedule service. [More…]

• The proposal will be that Commonwealth medical benefit will be payable only for medical benefits schedule fees above $20 except in the case of pensioners with pensioner health benefit entitlement cards and patients classified by their doctors as disadvantaged. [More…]

• This provision enables Commonwealth medical benefits payments under the Health Insurance Act 1 973 to be paid out of the National Welfare Fund, as are similar type Commonwealth benefits, such as pharmaceutical benefits, and covers unforeseen circumstances such as large scale epidemics. [More…]

• The amendment, together with those in Part III of the Bill, has the further effect of permitting the Department of Health to pay medical benefits which become payable in respect of services rendered before 1 November 1978, the date the current medical benefit arrangements came into effect. [More…]

• Presently, these payments are made by the Health Insurance Commission on behalf of the Commonwealth. [More…]

• The Bill before the Senate contains provisions relating to three principal matters: Firstly, benefits payable under revised arrangements; secondly, amendment to procedures relating to the tabling of ministerial directions and revocations under the National Health Act; and, thirdly, improvements to the isolated patients travel and accommodation assistance scheme. [More…]

• The first group of provisions relating to health insurance benefits concerns the revised medical benefits arrangements to operate from 1 September 1979. [More…]

• The details of these arrangements were contained in a statement made by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in another place on 24 May 1979. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health further mentioned in his statement of 24 May 1 979, a period of two months from 1 September 1979 will be allowed during which persons who enrol with registered medical benefits organisations for benefits from a basic or optional medical benefits table, will receive immediate entitlement to such benefits without any waiting period being applied. [More…]

• The second group of provisions relating to health insurance benefits concerns the level of hospital benefits to be paid by registered hospital benefits organisations for nursing-home type patients. [More…]

• These provisions are complementary to provisions contained in the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979. [More…]

• 1 will not speak in detail on the provisions in that Bill, but I draw the attention of honourable senators to the terms nursing-home type patients’ and ‘patient contribution’ which are defined in the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979 and which were explained in my second reading speech on that legislation. [More…]

• As I further mentioned in my second reading speech on the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979, the proposals in relation to nursing-home type patients envisage fees being charged, under Commonwealth-State hospital agreements, in recognised hospitals, related to these types of patients. [More…]

• This benefit is specified in section 47 of the National Health Act and ranges from $11.75 a day in Western Australia to $20.40 a day in Victoria. [More…]

• Presently nursing home benefits payable under the National Health Act by registered hospital benefits organisations are specified in basic and optional hospital benefits tables operated by these organisations. [More…]

• In brief, the benefit for insured nursing-home type patients in recognised hospitals will be an amount equal to the fees payable by the patient, less the patient contribution, as defined in the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979. [More…]

• The condition of registration contained in clause 14 of the Bill ensures that the patient contribution, as defined in the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979, will also be payable by nursing-home type patients who insure for hospital benefits above the level payable under a basic or optional hospital benefits table. [More…]

• Section 73BE (2) of the National Health Act provides for the Minister to give a direction in relation to matters of discrimination and the level of medical and hospital benefits payable. [More…]

• During the debate in the Senate in November last year on the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) 1978, which inserted the relevant provisions into the National Health Act, it was pointed out that, although a motion upon notice for disallowance of the direction or instrument of revocation might be tabled, there is no obligation that such a motion be dealt with. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has taken cognisance of the points made during the debate in the Senate on the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) 1978 and accepted that the procedure provided for was not suitable for the circumstances specified under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Clauses 4 to 8 of this Bill, and regulations that are proposed to be made, will give effect to the changes to the scheme that were foreshadowed by the Minister for Health on 24 May 1979. [More…]

• The remaining provisions of the Bill are technical amendments which enable committees established under section 136 of the National Health Act to consider matters relevant to the Health Insurance Act, and an amendment consequential upon the amendment made in clause 10 to section 73BE. [More…]

• Mention was made on AM this morning that a report from the Department of Science and the Environment indicates that radioactivity levels at Nabarlek uranium mine in the Northern Territory are higher than was previously indicated, and that the health of workers there may be endangered. [More…]

• The Department’s report recommends that appropriate environmental protection measures be taken in order to safeguard the health of workers. [More…]

• 3 ) The danger of poisonous chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium or mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• ) That, if the Senate be not sitting when the Standing Committee on Social Welfare has completed Volume Two of its Report on Evaluation in Australian Health and Welfare [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether his attention has been drawn to the voluminous report on the incidence of lead in the air and its harmful effects on children in Sydney arising from the growing use of petroleum products. [More…]

• Will the Government reconsider its position in view of its stated purposes to take steps to improve public health and prevent illnesses generally? [More…]

• The Minister for Health wrote to me on 25 May stating that he still could not answer my questions and was waiting for Treasury’s comments. [More…]

• I remind the Leader that the questions I raised included reference to specifically Health Department responsibilities such as the way the company maximises profits through sophisticated filling in of medical benefits claims. [More…]

• As the Government is about to inquire into the entire hospital system in Australia, will the Leader of the Government suggest to the Prime Minister that the terms of reference of the inquiry be widened to cover the impact of these investor owned profit-making hospital companies on the provision of Australian health services in both Commonwealth and State areas? [More…]

• My question, like that asked by Senator Gietzelt, relates to the serious effects that lead levels in petrol appear to be having on the health of Australian children. [More…]

• I think that matter should be referred to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As recommended by the Ranger Uranium Environmental Inquiry under the chairmanship of Mr Justice Fox, the health and environmental aspects of uranium mining are regulated under applicable Northern Territory law but the supervising scientist for the Alligator Rivers region, who is appointed under Commonwealth statute, has an overall supervisory and co-ordinative role. [More…]

• Under the Northern Territory Mines (Radiation Protection) Regulations the company is obliged to meet the requirements of the code of practice on radiation protection in the mining and milling of radioactive ores (published by the Australian Department of Health in August 1975) as amended from time to time by the regulations. [More…]

• The company’s proposals for radiation protection have been studied in detail by the Northern Territory Department of Health (advised by the Australian Radiation Laboratory), the N.T. [More…]

• Industrial research and development is vital to the health of industry and consequent national development. [More…]

• The first of those is that an independent regulatory authority be established to be responsible for nuclear-related environmental protection, health, safety, security, safeguards and other non-proliferation activities. [More…]

• It is clearly appropriate in an area of such obvious conflicts of interest that the organisational arrangements should reflect a desire that the best possible research, the most competent commercial exploitation and the most vigorous health and environmental safeguards should be promoted by separate bodies not answerable to a single set of commissioners. [More…]

• an independent regulatory authority responsible for nuclear-related environmental protection, health, safety, security, safeguards and other nonproliferation activities; [More…]

• We don’t know what effect this is going to have on our health in another 20 years or so ‘. [More…]

• Dr Joseph Wagoner, special assistant for occupational carcinogenesis at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, has been studying uranium mining since that 1 960 beginning. [More…]

• I regret that I do not have with me the figures released by the United States Department of Public Health on the effect of coal-fired thermal stations on the health of the American population, but that effect is considerable. [More…]

• Occupational Health Service- [More…]

• Occupational Safety and Health- [More…]

• We have seen already 300 Medibank employees declared redundant, with goodness knows how many more joining that category as a result of the latest and greatest exercise in the Government’s avoidance of its health care obligations. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Commonwealth Government has supported some 24 separate research projects, at a cost of over $700,000 under Health Services Research and Development Grants, that are directly concerned with activities associated with peer review. [More…]

• I am aware of reports circulating some weeks ago that a few political prisoners in bad health had been released. [More…]

• 1 ) That, if the Senate be not sitting when the Standing Committee on Social Welfare has completed Volume Two of its report on Evaluation in Australian Health and Welfare Services, the Committee may send this Volume of its Report to the President of the Senate, or, if the President is unavailable to the Deputy President, who is authorised to give directions for its printing and circulation, and in such event the President or Deputy President shall lay Volume 2 of the Report upon the Table at the next sitting of the Senate. [More…]

• It seems to me that all these chickens will come home to roost with this Government: There will be an increase in the use of the social welfare system; an increase in the incidence of breakdown in the health of people employed in the work force, and an increase in health costs because of these breakdowns. [More…]

• This is obviously a very different proposition from the present terms in relation to invalidity retirement, which provide for payment of 70 per cent of salary on retirement due to ill health. [More…]

• Whilst it is appreciated that the taxpayer should not have to support a number of people who are manipulating invalidity retirement provisions, the fact remains that there will be genuine cases of ill health. [More…]

• We see in the two Bills before us changes to the health insurance system and the provision of health services that will take this country back to the 1 940s and 1 950s in terms of health care cover. [More…]

• That was a time when there was no universal health insurance. [More…]

• In attempts to hide the destruction the Government has wrought on Medibank and health insurance, its spokesmen now speak of the commitment to continue universal health protection. [More…]

• I suggest that confusion and costliness are all that are universal now in relation to health insurance. [More…]

• We welcome the inclusion of measures that improve travel entitlements for people seeking health services outside their own area and we approve the inclusion of benefits that improve accommodation assistance for people who have to travel to obtain health services. [More…]

• We also support the inclusion of the extension of eligibility for domiciliary benefits that was announced by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in his second reading speech. [More…]

• As I said, the main purpose of the Bills is to destroy universal health insurance, to force people back, into private funds and to transfer much of the burden for providing health services from the public sector to the private sector. [More…]

• Firstly, we oppose the abolition of the 40 per cent Commonwealth health benefit; secondly, we oppose the increases in hospital charges; and thirdly, we oppose very strongly the provision to reclassify long-term geriatric patients in hospitals as nursing home patients. [More…]

• We oppose the changes on the ground of the inefficiencies inherent in them and on the ground that they lack real incentive to economise health resources and costs. [More…]

• We also believe that the changes may not in fact substantially reduce Commonwealth expenditure on health services despite this being the alleged basis for the Government’s actions. [More…]

• On looking at the amendments being made to the Health Insurance Act to abolish the 40 per cent Commonwealth medical benefit- which was, incidentally, the universal benefit glowingly described in the last round of Medibank changes- it is necessary to state that withdrawal of this benefit will push the cost of private medical insurance up by more than 40 per cent. [More…]

• As many people will find it too expensive to continue insuring themselves and their families, they will take risks in the hope that they will stay healthy and will not need insurance. [More…]

• That will leave the less healthy, privately insured persons subsequently paying higher health insurance premiums. [More…]

• Many people will find that they just cannot afford to pay this much a week for health insurance. [More…]

• The people who are forced, through cost, to drop private health insurance will have to think twice about seeing a doctor when ill. [More…]

• I allege that the effect of the abolition of insurance cover for primary health care will be to increase the overall cost to the taxpayer of the provision of health services. [More…]

• What sort of health reimbursement system do we have if it leads to that situation? [More…]

• The number of primary health care or preventive health care visits to general practitioners will decrease. [More…]

• It is argued that if more people drop out of health insurance because of its cost the doctors at the primary care level will be faced with the prospect of seeing fewer patients or, alternatively, more people who will ask to be put in the socially disadvantaged category. [More…]

• We know that many people who are not categorised by their doctors as socially disadvantaged nonetheless could not afford under the previous scheme to pay the full cost of either health insurance or doctors fees. [More…]

• Of course, now that the 40 per cent benefit is to be removed entirely and there is to be no primary health care cover, the Opposition believes that the number must increase drastically. [More…]

• The fact that no proper data base was available to predict the effectiveness or otherwise of the socially disadvantaged category is just another example of the fact that the Government constantly tampers with the health insurance system for reasons of ideological prejudice that have nothing to do with the efficient or proper provision of health services or health insurance cover. [More…]

• One thing of which honourable senators can be sure as a result of these most recent changes is that there will be massive confusion throughout the community as, yet again, people have to decide what level of health insurance they can afford or need. [More…]

• It is to be hoped the usual period of grace will be extended to enable them to take the necessary steps with a health fund if their decision is to take private insurance. [More…]

• That is just a further example of the waste and inefficiency that flows from all these destructive changes to the health insurance system. [More…]

• The President of the Victorian Health Benefits Council, Mr Derek Shaw, was reported in the Age as saying: [More…]

• The Government has broken an undertaking we have reached with the Minister for Health that we were to make the necessary rate adjustments just once a year, from November 1. [More…]

• Undoubtedly the health insurance choices will be accompanied by a variety of information which will confuse and mislead many. [More…]

• For example the National Times has already given its readers the message, which is that they should drop health insurance. [More…]

• Whilst this message is in line with the overall concern of the National Times for minimising taxation so that consumers will have more money to spend on wine and travel, people could miscalculate their health needs and expenses, to their financial detriment. [More…]

• It is the Government’s version of Russian roulette, except that people’s health is at stake. [More…]

• In one sense it would be a relief if we could be assured that these latest changes mark the end of the health insurance revisions, to use a Government euphemism, but it appears that the continual changes of direction that create more confusion, cost, insecurity and probably sickness are to be a permanent feature of the administration of health services under Fraser and Hunt. [More…]

• Already, one noted expert on health costsProfessor George Palmer from the School of Health Administration of the University of New South Wales- has forecast that the Commonwealth may next decide to re-impose a means test on admission to hospital public wards to stem a likely increase in demand for free public hospital treatment. [More…]

• This would place health insurance in Australia right back to the early 1950s when another Liberal-Country Party government with a Country Party Minister for Health did precisely that. [More…]

• These services have been traditionally used as primary health care by low income earners, even though it is an expensive and medically inappropriate way of providing primary health care. [More…]

• In addition, I would like to know the impact that rising health insurance contributions will have on the consumer price index and, from there, into the wages and social security benefit areas. [More…]

• I wish to comment briefly on another aspect of the health package proposed by the Government. [More…]

• However, it is true, as noted by the Treasurer, that hospitals take up 60 per cent of the Commonwealth’s total health services budget. [More…]

• The Treasurer and Minister for Health have fastened on to excessive numbers of hospital beds as the reason for excessive costs. [More…]

• Health planners have known these facts for year and there have been a multitude of reports on the subject. [More…]

• In 1974 the Hospital and Health Services Commission- it was abolished by the Government as a measure of its commitment to health planning- produced a report entitled ‘Hospitals in Australia’ which gave us a wealth of statistical information gathered in cooperation with the States and with a series of concrete proposals aimed at better utilisation of existing facilities, regionalisation and rationalisation of services and a generally better use of resources. [More…]

• The present Government has ignored that report but used some of its authors, notably Dr Sax, Dr Hennessy and Mr Matt Carroll from the Department of Health to produce a report on the rationalisation of hospital facilities and services to which I referred earlier. [More…]

• The inquiry has all the hallmarks of a rushed, botched job concocted by the Treasury while the Minister and Director-General of Health were overseas. [More…]

• I am surprised that the Minister has agreed yet again to carry the can for another unpopular government health measure taken without his approval. [More…]

• On the radio program AM last week the Minister stated- I think I paraphrase him correctlythat the low income earner had to realise that he had to pay for his health costs in some way, either directly as contributions or as increased taxation. [More…]

• Has the Minister forgotten yet another report he commissioned- ‘Paying for Health Care’- which discussed the relative equity of fiat-based contributions, as he is now proposing, versus progressively based tax payments? [More…]

• This Government clearly favours health policies which advantage the rich and disadvantage the low and middle income earner. [More…]

• The Labor Party opposes this principle and will continue to press for an equitable and universal system of health care protection. [More…]

• I now take the opportunity to move my amendment to the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979 and foreshadow my amendment to the National Health Bill 1 979. [More…]

• I foreshadow that I will move at the appropriate stage the following amendment to the motion for the second reading of the National Health Amendment Bill 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health in my own State of Tasmania has made outlandish statements such as: At least 500 jobs will go by the board; we are going to have massive cuts in the number of hospital beds; hospitals will be closed; and Tasmania will have to do without $9m as a result of the Government’s freezing hospital costs to the States. [More…]

• Health which was compiled by the various States. [More…]

• No doubt Senator Cavanagh would say that that is accounted for by the fact that we are a healthier population. [More…]

• Yet the surveys prove that the health of Victorians is certainly no worse than the health of Tasmanians. [More…]

• I want to back the Minister for Health in his request for an investigation. [More…]

• Senator Ryan has blandly said that families will pay $ 12 a week for their health care. [More…]

• It may suit her politically to make those statements, but to blandly say that families will have to pay $12 a week for their health care shows that she has no human compassion at all. [More…]

• Obviously, that area of health care is working. [More…]

• But let us refer to the families whom Senator Ryan said will have to pay $12 a week for health care. [More…]

• Let me simply explain the basic health care provisions. [More…]

• People who want to insure against their health care will receive 75 per cent of the medical schedule fee and they do not pay any more than $10. [More…]

• That is the payment for the basic health table. [More…]

• So, a family which wishes to have the basic health care does not have to pay $12. [More…]

• But the family will pay about- we do not know the amount yet-$1.50 to $3.00 for health care. [More…]

• The only thing left for me to say is that costs of health care are going up in leaps and bounds. [More…]

• I would like it to refer to the three big spending areas- health, education and welfare. [More…]

• We could introduce the most expensive and the best health care, with all the technology that is available. [More…]

• But if the Government introduced the best health care system available- with the best technology- the best education system and the best social welfare system, our taxes would go up tremendously. [More…]

• The Government is being forced into the position of having to rationalise and make cuts in health care costs. [More…]

• This Mr Barnard is the Minister for Health in my State. [More…]

• It is not my intention to deal with all of the proposed changes in the two Bills but purely and simply to deal with a rather small section of one of the Bills, namely, the National Health Amendment Bill 1979, in relation to the Isolated Patients’ Travel and Accommodation Assistance Scheme. [More…]

• I am not blaming anybody, but I think the Department of Health or whoever is responsible for these sorts of schemes should look deeper into these sorts of schemes before they start drawing boundaries on maps. [More…]

• They presume that because Canberra has all sorts of grandiose health services, which are very necessary, every other city with a population in excess of 100,000 would also have similar health facilities and personnel. [More…]

• I would like to quote from a letter that I wrote earlier this year to the Minster for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• -The Senate is dealing with the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979 and the National Health Amendment Bill 1979. [More…]

• My colleague Senator Walters has dealt with some of the details ofthe Bills as they affect personal health costs. [More…]

• To the extent that it will free some resources to help other people in need in the health area, I think it is something which we should promote. [More…]

• It should also help in getting a more realistic measure of the number of hospital beds which are really being used as hospital beds in the different States and we might be able to plan our health services with some greater degree of reality. [More…]

• Once again, in all these types of debates we see confusion between health care, on the one hand, and health financing on the other. [More…]

• The financing in the health system is no guarantee of any kind of outcome at all. [More…]

• There is nothing in these measures likely to increase total health costs. [More…]

• Until we start to identify this problem and work towards some proper bed-population ratio, we will never come to grips with the health care problem. [More…]

• It wants more services in health, more in welfare and less taxes, if you please! [More…]

• Yet, Senator Baume gets up and tries to make excuses for it and tries to blame the Labor Party, by saying that the Opposition opposes any tax increases but cries out for better health services for the people of this nation. [More…]

• I agree with Senator Baume that the burden ought to be shared, but I do not agree with his use of this health legislation as a platform to attack the Labor Party. [More…]

• The Labor Government endeavoured to bring about justice for the people in need of health and medical care. [More…]

• That is the reason, or one of the main reasons, why in announcing the new measures the Minister for Health (Mr [More…]

• The new arrangements were made in an attempt to reduce the total national health cost which is around $8 billion for the current financial year. [More…]

• Health and Senator Walters took up a valuable half hour of my drinking time and convinced me that they saw my point. [More…]

• A few of these bodies which may be authorised recipients of that information under section 16 (4) ofthe Act are the Repatriation Commissioner, the Director-General of Social Services, the Director-General of Health, and so on. [More…]

• The Minister subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health, who has provided the following information: [More…]

• In Australia, the National Health and Medical Research Council, (N.H. and M.R.C.) [More…]

• -On 10 May 1979 (Hansard, page 1791) Senator Bishop asked the Minister representing the Minister for Productivity a question without notice concerning the part taken by the Government in monitoring and preparing statistics on asbestos-caused diseases so as to ensure there will be as much public awareness as possible of the health hazards of asbestos, and in producing whatever remedies are available after proper monitoring. [More…]

• The Minister for Productivity subsequently referred the question to the Minister for Health, who has provided the following information: [More…]

• The prevention and control of the asbestos hazard and health provisions relating to asbestos-caused diseases are primarily matters for the States. [More…]

• The legislation that exists in the States, or is soon to be brought about has been influenced by model regulations developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NH & MRC) which acts in an advisory capacity to all Governments in Australia on public health matters. [More…]

• Occupational Health Guide- Asbestos. [More…]

• The NH & MRC has examined and reported on the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos on a number of previous occasions. [More…]

• However, in view of considerable recent publicity on diseases alleged to have been caused by exposure to asbestos, and as I announced in March, a Subcommittee of the NH & MRC has been set up to enquire into and report to the Public Health Advisory Committee of the NH & MRC on risks to health caused by exposure to asbestos or products containing asbestos to: people at work; members of the public exposed to asbestos from work activity; and members of the public exposed to asbestos from consumer products and asbestos waste. [More…]

• The Sub-committee comprises Commonwealth and State health officials and representatives from the trade unions and relevant areas of industry. [More…]

• The Sub-committee will progressively report through the Public Health Advisory Committee of NH & MRC, so that appropriate recommendations can be endorsed by Council and widely publicised. [More…]

• Will Queensland Mines be requested to check constantly the health of miners? [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Is it a fact that a Commonwealth Department of Health survey showed a high incidence of the Anopheles mosquito at the Jabiru town site? [More…]

• The Parliamentary Counsel advises me that the word shall’ was changed to ‘may’ in this clause so as to give a new judge of the Tribunal a discretion to take new evidence and argument as well as the existing evidence and argument before the judge who is unable to continue because of, say, ill health. [More…]

• This matter is very important because of the effect on the health of children. [More…]

• It is obviously very important to the public whether they will have to pay 5c a litre more or lc a litre more for petrol that does not harm the health of as many as 20 per cent of all children in our cities. [More…]

• I do not think that health hazards - [More…]

• That sounds like a great deal of money, but it is only as much as we spend on education, it is less than we spend on health and it is only a third of what we spend on social security and welfare. [More…]

• A report tabled by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) showed that by 1981 Australia would have one doctor to 543 people. [More…]

• This makes one wonder whose fault it is that health costs are rising so rapidly. [More…]

• The fluoridation of water supplies is carried out as a preventive health measure of great importance. [More…]

• The request for the program came through the Health Commission of New South Wales and involved a dental scientist. [More…]

• The study and a couple of publicity handouts that accompanied it were eventually reviewed by various public health officials, including Thomas Mack, M.D., of Los Angeles, an associate professor of community medicine and an expert in cancer epidemiology. [More…]

• The scare tactics of the NHF and other antifluoridationists scored a stunning victory over dental health: [More…]

• Like the National Health Federation, Dr Burk is a leading advocate of the worthless cancer drug Laetrile (Consumer Reports, August 1977), and he shares the NHF’s aversion to fluoridation. [More…]

• It was written on 30 May 1979 to Mr Graeme Dunn, the President of the Dental Health Education and Research Foundation, in which the ABC admits that there was probably a lack of balance in the program. [More…]

• I readily concede- the Minister for Science and the Environment (Senator Webster) will probably make the point in his closing remarks- that a levy for a similar purpose was imposed by the Federal Labor Government in 1973, but we have been persuaded to modify our view on this matter for the following reasons: Firstly, to a substantial extent, the brucellosis and tuberculosis eradication campaign is a public health measure. [More…]

• But there is a public health component in the disease eradication Bills, and for that reason we believe that there is a much stronger case for a greater contribution from public funds. [More…]

• Firstly he said that it was justifiable to try to make political capital by saying that the Bill should be thrown out, on the grounds that it involves a public health and is not a meat matter. [More…]

• It does not matter whether it is a health matter. [More…]

• I respectfully suggest that to say that this is a public health matter will have no reaction at all in the place where we are selling meat. [More…]

• Human brucellosis is an insignificant health problem in Australia when compared to the damage to society caused by such agents as alcohol and motor vehicles. [More…]

• The human health hazard in Australia could be reduced without resorting to an expensive brucellosis eradication campaign by emphasizing increased attention to personal hygiene and by controlling the disease instead of eradicating it. [More…]

• He is indeed a good and loyal friend, tried and true, to whom, together with his good wife Jean, I tender on behalf of all honourable senators best wishes for health and happiness in his retirement. [More…]

• -On 10 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 1 793-4) Senator Sibraa asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question without notice concerning private medical benefits funds reducing the level of benefit to 75 per cent, because of the number of claims that have been made. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• -On 29 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 2219 and 2220) Senator Young asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question without notice concerning the loss of entitlement to certain Commonwealth health benefits, by patients of doctors whose names had been removed by the State authorities from the South Australian Register of Medical Practitioners for failure to pay the required annual practising fee. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• It was in order to minimise the effect on patients that the Acting Minister for Health issued a press statement on IS May 1979 listing the names of doctors concerned, so that their patients could be aware that Commonwealth benefits were not payable. [More…]

• -On 29 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2217), Senator Evans asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question without notice concerning the accuracy of a report in the Melbourne Age regarding the cost of medical services. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• There will, however, be no change in the current arrangements for pensioners with health benefit cards and persons classified by their doctors as disadvantaged. [More…]

• The Government has been forced to introduce this and other measures in the health insurance area because it cannot afford to continue to subsidise health costs at the present rate if the Budget deficit is to be kept at an acceptable level. [More…]

• His health has deteriorated to the extent, that he is not expected to live long enough to see his release from detention. [More…]

• The priority given by the Government to the attack upon inflation has been vindicated by the steady improvement in Australia’s economic health over the past three and a half years. [More…]

• Veterans in receipt of the Service pension, which is similar to the social security age pension, could be entitled to a pensioner health benefit card to show their eligibility for full free medical treatment under the arrangements administered by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The indexation of disability pensions has taken a number of Service pensioners beyond the limit of other income on which eligibility depends, and so they have lost pensioner health benefit entitlement and eligibility for certain fringe benefits which all add up to a considerable saving in a year. [More…]

• The limit for pensioner health benefit card has been $33 a week in the case of the single pensioner and $57.50 in the case of a married pensioner. [More…]

• The lifting of pensioner health benefit income limits will lead to additional Commonwealth expenditure through the Department of Health. [More…]

• These increases in benefits, restoration of six-monthly indexation, lifting the limits applying to pensioner health benefits and the restoration of full, free medical treatment to veterans who have suffered tuberculosis, plus inclusion of Allied veterans into the Australian repatriation system, is evidence for the whole country that this Government has compassion and is very mindful of the needs of the veteran and his dependants. [More…]

• Minister for Health: The following matters, previously the responsibility of the Minister for Health, have been transferred: [More…]

• As from 1 January 1979 the Northern Territory Government assumed responsibility for the provision and maintenance of all health services of types ordinarily provided and maintained by State Governments. [More…]

• As from I July 1 978, Commonwealth funding of capital costs of health facilities provided under the hospitals development program ceased. [More…]

• Minister for Veterans’ Affairs: Negotiations are now in progress with the Northern Territory Department of Health concerning the transfer of responsibility for the provision of orthoses to non-repatriation beneficiaries resident in the Northern Territory to the Northern Territory Government. [More…]

• Is the Government concerned that, despite the actions of authorities in the United States, the National Health and Medical Research Council in Australia has advised the Government that there is insufficient evidence to warrant withdrawal of 2,4,5,T even if only as a precaution, until Australian authorities can carry out their own research. [More…]

• and (3) The matters raised concern the responsibilities of the Minister for Health and accordingly I have referred them for reply. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 April 1979: [More…]

• 1 ) Why were brochures on Domiciliary Nursing Care Benefit not available in the Brisbane Office of the Department of Health before I asked Senate Question No. [More…]

• Were the brochures that are currently available prepared by the Department of Health; if not, which Department prepared them. [More…]

• 3 ) Are sufficient quantities of the brochure currently held by offices of the Department of Health for Members of Parliament to send to interested constituents. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Some reserve stocks were available in Canberra and these were distributed to Department of Health offices in the States. [More…]

• Health, safety and environment remain primarily matters ibr individual Governments and unilateral action by Australia would not be appropriate. [More…]

• They are required to undergo normal x-ray and medical requirements to ensure they do not represent a health risk to the Australian community. [More…]

• Will Queensland Mines be required to check constantly the health of miners. [More…]

• Operations with respect to radiation safety and protection at Queensland Mines ‘ Nabarlek Project are subject to the requirements of the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores, Department of Health 1975, and to certain environmental requirements attached to the Northern Territory Special Mineral Lease which authorises the project. [More…]

• When can a considered, detailed comment be expected from the National Health and Medical Research Council on reports provided to it in early 1 979 of events at Alsea, Oregon, which led to the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s extension of bans on the use of 2,4,5T. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has responsibility for examination of possible health effects of agricultural chemicals through the machinery of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• The matters raised in questions 2, 3 and 4 are the responsibility of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In relation to (2), 1 understand that a special meeting of the National Health and Medical Research Council was held on 26 March 1 979 to consider the United States report. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 28 May 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• These services are funded through Health Program Grants which are paid direct by the Commonwealth to the Associations. [More…]

• In 1978-79 approved Health Program Grants payments for these clinical services amounted to S2.4m. [More…]

• As mentioned, Commonwealth funding is made available under the Family Planning Program for information, education and training programs for health and health-related professionals, community groups and the general public. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 May 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 3 1 May 1979: [More…]

• What action is proposed to introduce a monitoring system such as those now operating in New York and in Saskatchewan, or some other form of second opinion system, in order to protect the public and reduce health costs. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• Will the Government reconsider its position in view of its stated purpose to take steps to improve public health and prevent illness. [More…]

• I understand that the complex issues raised in the report have been referred to the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Environment Council for consideration. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 6 June 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Does the high toxicity or many agricultural chemicals used in spraying mean that any mistakes in proportions used could cause serious health and environmental hazards. [More…]

• Even when diluted they could cause health or environmental hazards if improperly used. [More…]

• -On 9 November 1978 (Hansard, page 1835) Senator Townley asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the possible health hazards of using plastic cooking utensils in microwave ovens. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• -On 22 May 1979 (Hansard, page 1900), Senator Tate asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the immigration of doctors. [More…]

• I undertook to refer his question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: 1 am aware of the speech by Dr Brian Morgan of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons which was referred to by the honourable senator. [More…]

• The Tasmanian Minister for Health has advised me of his willingness for Tasmania to participate in further discussions on the medical manpower supply issue. [More…]

• -On 30 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2314) Senator McLaren asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the quarantine procedures carried out on an aircraft on which the Prime Minister was a passenger. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• -On 30 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2310) Senator Gietzelt asked me, as Mininster representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning nutritional aspects and the establishment of the national Health Promotion Program. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• This year a number of publications have been produced including the large full-colour teaching poster Good Food for Good Health’ and a 76 page book ‘Your Health and Your Figure’ which addresses itself mainly to people who are overweight- the major problem of malnutrition in our community. [More…]

• The poster’Good Food for Good Health’ will also be printed in a number of languages for the migrant community. [More…]

• It is expected that food and nutrition will be an important component of the recently announced National Health Promotion Program to develop and test an initiative aimed at persuading all Australians to adopt healthier lifestyles. [More…]

• -On 31 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 2418 and 2419) Senator Peter Baume asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the intentions of the Northern Territory Government with respect to random breath testing of motorists. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• -On 31 May 1979 (Hansard, page 2415) Senator Davidson asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning fast foods and takeaway meals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Chairman of the National Health and Medical Research Council (N.H. and M.R.C.) [More…]

• On 4 June 1979 (Hansard, page 2S20) Senator Peter Baume asked Senator Chaney, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the level of drug use in Australia. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• It is also known that the numbers of patients treated for drug dependence (not only heroin) by State Government health services have continued to increase. [More…]

• In the most recent of the surveys of the NSW Health Commission*, it was shown that just under S per cent of 1,443 fourth formers reported having tried opiates and that half of these indicated that they were still using drugs. [More…]

• • Egger, G. and Champion, R., ‘Adolescent Drug and Alcohol Use in New South Wales, 1 97 1 to 1 977 ‘, Division of Health Services Research, Health Commission of NSW, March 1978. [More…]

• Health, a question without notice concerning health warning leaflets in packets of contraceptive pills. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• -On 8 June 1979 (Hansard, page 2920) Senator Robertson asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health a question without notice concerning the incidence of Anopheles mosquitoes at the Jabiru Town Site and the siting of the town. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Northern Territory Health Department is continuing this activity. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 5 June 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• Minister for Health (Mr Hunt). [More…]

• I have mentioned this to health investigators and narcotics investigators, and a cross-section of sociologists who have studied the problem both here and in the United States of America. [More…]

• That does not mean to say that we are less healthy than the United States, because in that country there now seems to be a turn away from narcotics to other forms of drugs, particularly alcohol; but, in terms of heroin addiction, that is the information that I have. [More…]

• In all recent cases of exotic human disease in Australia, effective detection and treatment have been possible through our present public health systems. [More…]

• Officers of my Department have since been in regular contact with New South Wales fisheries and health authorities advising them on standards and procedures necessary to satisfy the requirements of importers of Sydney rock oysters. [More…]

• I emphasise that the Minister said that the Federal Department of Primary Industry had been in touch with the NSW fisheries and health authorities advising them of standards and procedures necessary to satisfy the requirements of importers of Sydney rock oysters. [More…]

• Whilst the Federal Department of Primary Industry was prepared to advise New South Wales State Fisheries and the New South Wales health authorities on standards and procedures necessary to satisfy the requirements of importers of Sydney rock oysters, I also wondered what the Federal Department of Primary Industry might have done in respect of Commonwealth establishments that were on or adjacent to the banks ofthe Georges River. [More…]

• What I am saying is that the Federal Department of Primary Industry obviously, according to the Minister’s reply to me, was prepared to give advice to the New South Wales Fisheries Department and to the New South Wales Department of Health as to what standards they should impose in order to bring about a non-polluted state so far as the Georges River was concerned. [More…]

• Wales health authorities on standards and procedures that are necessary to satisfy the requirements of importers of Sydney rock oysters, it should be giving some advice also to the Department of Defence with regard to the Holsworthy defence establishment and to the Federal Department of Transport with regard to Bankstown aerodrome. [More…]

• Discharge is in compliance with a discharge authorisation approved by the Maritime Services Board and the NSW Health Commission, and agreed to by the State Pollution Control Commission. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• The organisation is also funded under the deficit funding arrangements of the Commonwealth Department of Health under the Nursing Homes Assistance Act. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health has called for a review of the arrangements within the organisation to see that the principles of the deficit funding arrangements are being adhered to. [More…]

• My Department is conferring with the Department of Health and other relevant funding departments to see whether the matter can be resolved. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by saying that in spite of the fact that Press coverage would indicate otherwise, no doubt the Minister realises that of all Australia’s drug problems alchohol is by far the most serious one. [More…]

• Therefore, I ask: Will the Minister recommend to the Minister for Health that the States be requested to see that the percentage of alcohol in beers is printed on the labels of the containers, as is done already in such countries as Canada? [More…]

• I also ask the Minister to suggest to the Government that, in the interests of health, there be a reduction in the excise on low alcoholic beers so that companies will be encouraged to produce and promote those beers. [More…]

• I will see that the Minister for Health has his attention drawn to the suggestion made by Senator Townley with regard to the percentage of alcohol being stated on the labels of bottles containing alcoholic drinks. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• To alleviate misconception and public discontent about alleged profitability, including the reserves of the public health funds, will the Minister give consideration to a requirement that these funds submit to their contributors or policy holders an annual statement of profit and loss together with a balance sheet? [More…]

• Control efforts should therefore concentrate on drugs having the most adverse public health effects, particularly where use puts others at risk. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Minister for Health should have primary responsibility for Commonwealth action relating to all forms of drug use and abuse. [More…]

• From memory, the World Health Organisation now rates alcohol as the third largest killer of the human race. [More…]

• For years I have been pleading for a health education program to be introduced into the schools in the State education system to teach young children from an early age about their bodies, their minds and their souls and about these facts of life. [More…]

• The same happens with other health education problems. [More…]

• At times- in fact, probably at most times- during this debate I felt that it probably would have been more appropriate if my colleague, the Minister for Health ( Mr Hunt) were sitting in my seat in this chamber and were listening to this debate. [More…]

• It will continue to take note of the views that are expressed in relation to it, as indeed I am sure my colleagues, the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs (Mr Fife) and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), who are more directly responsible for this matter than I am, will take note of what has been said in debate on this measure, both here and in another place. [More…]

• -On 7 March 1979, (Hansard, pages 554 and 555) Senator Jessop asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the South Austraiian Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee’s Report on the financial management of the Hospitals Department and allegations therein of salaried doctors under private practice rights exceeding their income entitlements. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The South Australian Minister of Health has provided the following reply: “In its report on the financial management of the Hospitals Department in South Australia, the Public Accounts Committee of the SA Parliament made a number of observations about arrangements controlling the exercise of the rights of private practice by salaried medical specialists in State hospitals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Certain foreign investments in private hospitals in Australia have been approved by the Government after consultation with State and Commonwealth health authorities on the basis of specific proposals involving the contribution of financial, managerial and technical skills in the operation of a number of private hospitals. [More…]

• These approvals were subject to conditions requiring the operation and development of the hospitals to be subject to consultation with and, as necessary, approval from State and Commonwealth health authorities. [More…]

• I would like to clarify the role of the State health authorities in the granting of approvals for private hospitals. [More…]

• The total hospital sector is in many areas already over supplied with beds, and additions to existing hospital bed supply could exert upward pressure on the overall costs of providing health care in Australia. [More…]

• ) The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• As far as the remainder of the question is concerned, I will discuss the matter with the Minister for Health and the Minister for Finance. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen the report concerning a medical practitioner who falsely bulk-billed Medibank for more than $ 1 7,500? [More…]

• I have received some information from the Minister for Health on this matter. [More…]

• I have been informed by my colleague, the Minister for Health, that the relationship between levels of lead additives in petrol, and lead in the atmosphere and in human tissues is continuing to receive the active consideration of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• At that time, I anticipate that the Minister for Health will be in a position to indicate desirable goals and appropriate guidelines designed to ensure the maintenance of health standards. [More…]

• The State Minister for Health, Mr Duncan, representing the Elizabeth sub-branch moved to direct branch delegates at next month’s national Labor policy convention to support the current Federal platform on uranium. [More…]

• It has been proved safe by the State Department of Health and a statement has been made accordingly. [More…]

• (Source: World Health Organisation, 1961 and “Contingency Plan”) 1958-Waltz Mill, U.S.A. [More…]

• (Source: World Health Organisation and “Contingency Plan”) 1961-ldaho Falls, U.S.A. [More…]

• (Source: Les Amis de la Terre) 1965 - U.S. Public Health Department [More…]

• These figures and others show that nuclear reactors are health hazards even when operating normally. [More…]

• Two years before the death workers had complained of a health problem which they thought was related to their work with epoxies. [More…]

• Dr Joseph Wagoner, Special Assistant for Occupational Carcinogenesis at the Occupational Safety and Health Administration has been studying uranium workers since 1960. [More…]

• This Bill provides for an amendment to the National Health Act to increase the general patient contribution for pharmaceutical benefits, as announced by the Treasurer (Mr Howard) in his Budget Speech. [More…]

• As in the past, pensioners holding a pensioner health benefits card will not be charged for pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• The Budget also provides for the extension of eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards to supporting parent beneficiaries. [More…]

• In this Budget, I take great satisfaction from the fact that from November of this year we are able to extend the pensioner health benefit card to supporting parent beneficiaries. [More…]

• We estimate that some 56,000 supporting parent beneficiaries- this would cover about 96,000 children- will now qualify for the pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• Their health costs will be reduced significantly. [More…]

• Dr Scotton, formerly the Chairman of the Health Insurance Commission- established by the Whitlam Government- put it in the following way: . [More…]

• Over that period meat prices rose by 400 per cent, rents increased, transport charges rose, doctors’ fees rose and the cost of health schemes rose. [More…]

• While pensioner health benefit schemes go up, the pensioner health benefit card is made available to a few more- a little more charity is handed out. [More…]

• I have listened to young people, who did not know who I was, talking about paying $51 a month for health benefit schemes- for things that they will never need. [More…]

• They will never be so ill that they will need to spend that sort of money, but because of the scare tactics put out by the health benefit associations, assisted by this Government with its propaganda, people are paying out extraordinary amounts of money that they cannot afford. [More…]

• If it believes that health care is an area in which it is quite justifiable to make a profit, it should say so and give the people of Australia the chance to choose. [More…]

• When it was shown that there would have to be rises in health benefit payments I noticed that Derek Shaw, President of the Health Benefits Association Ltd in Victoria, issued a warning about the rises that this would entail and the risks that this would involve people in. [More…]

• The Government has broken an undertaking we had reached with the Minister for Health that we were to make necessary rate change adjustments just once a year. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) broke a promise to the HBA and to the health benefit funds. [More…]

• So much destruction has been wrought on Medibank that now in Australia we have no health scheme worth talking about. [More…]

• At the same time the cost of health care has risen enormously. [More…]

• People with young families need health care because of the things that can happen to kiddies. [More…]

• Let us hear some of the eight statutory authorities that are to be axed under his new sweep clean’ policy of looking after the finances of the State, after the tragedy of the Department of Health losses which were made quite clear as a result of the report of the Public Accounts Committee last February. [More…]

• On top of that there are housing grants, grants for immigration services, grants for health services through deficit funding of hospitals in South Australia, and so on. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• These Committees consist of representatives of the Commonwealth Departments of Health and Social Security and the relevant State health authorities. [More…]

• When these Committees consider such proposals the meeting is chaired by the relevant State health authority representative and the report of the Committee is considered by the State health authority which makes the initial decisions and advises the applicant accordingly. [More…]

• This Committee which is chaired by a State health representative consists of representatives of the Commonwealth Department of Health and the Queensland State health authority. [More…]

• The Victorian health authority assumes the sole responsibility for the initial assessment of applications for new hospital facilities. [More…]

• Under section 24 of the Health Insurance Act approval of premises as a hospital may be refused if the premises are not ‘fitted, furnished and staffed’ to the Minister’s satisfaction. [More…]

• However, the relevant State Government health authority in each State has the primary responsibility for licensing of premises as hospitals and if a State licence is not issued Commonwealth approval for the payment of the $16 a bed day benefit would not be granted. [More…]

• It is my understanding that the figures were compiled by the Department of Health in the Northern Territory but I will seek confirmation of that. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: Are registered health insurance organisations required under section 76(2) of the National Health Act to furnish a copy of their financial accounts and statements for the previous financial year to the Permanent Head of the Department of Health by 30 September each year? [More…]

• Which health insurance organisations in New South Wales failed to furnish their 1977-78 financial accounts and statements to the Permanent Head of the Department by the required date? [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health in relation to this matter. [More…]

• The answer to the first part of the honourable senator’s question would be yes, that section 76 (2) of the National Health Act requires that registered organisations shall, within three months after the expiration of each financial year ended on 30 June, furnish to the Department head their financial accounts and statements in respect of that year. [More…]

• I understand that only the following organisations in New South Wales failed to lodge financial accounts and statements for 1977-78 with the Permanent Head by 30 September 1978: The Australian Catholic Guild Friendly Society, the Health Insurance Commission and the New South Wales Teachers’ Federation Health Society. [More…]

• Health Insurance Commission, 20.10.78 (unaudited). [More…]

• New South Wales Teachers’ Federation Health Society, 3. [More…]

• I take it that the fund that is operated by the Health Insurance Commission is Medibank. [More…]

• I am not aware of the present status of the Health Insurance Commission’s accounts, but I will refer the honourable senator’s question to the Minister for Health and seek further information. [More…]

• -by leave- On Tuesday, 28 August, I received from the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), through the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle), a reply to Question on Notice No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Certain foreign investments in private hospitals in Australia have been approved by the Government after consultation with State and Commonwealth health authorities on the basis of specific proposals involving the contribution of financial, managerial and technical skills in the operation of a number of private hospitals. [More…]

• These approvals were subject to conditions requiring the operation and development of the hospitals to be subject to consultation with and, as necessary, approval from State and Commonwealth health authorities. [More…]

• I would like to clarify the role of the State health authorities in the granting of approvals for private hospitals. [More…]

• The total hospital sector is in many areas already over supplied with beds, and additions to existing hospital bed supply could exert upward pressure on the overall costs of providing health care in Australia. [More…]

• -The National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• But when the effects on various groups of patients in this country are considered, when other actions by the Government in the area of health care are considered, indeed when this Bill is considered in the light of the whole Budget and is put into context in that way, it becomes a more serious piece of legislation. [More…]

• It will not affect the pensioner who has a pensioner health card, and it will not affect those supporting parents who now have pensioner health cards and who get their prescriptions free. [More…]

• First of all it will affect the unemployed, who do not receive pensioner health benefits and who do not therefore receive the free pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• It will affect the sickness beneficiaries and the special beneficiaries who also do not qualify in this country for a pensioner health card or free pharmaceuticals. [More…]

• It is worth while mentioning that the single parent in the first six months will not get the free pharmaceuticals because he or she will not get the pensioner health card as he or she will when he or she comes under the Commonwealth scheme after six months. [More…]

• People who are chronically ill, who need repeated prescriptions for any reason, who have a low income or an inconstant income, will have to spend, we believe, far too high a proportion of their income on pharmaceutical benefits or they will have to go without them and neglect their health. [More…]

• The first two Bills passed by the LiberalCountry Party coalition in 1976 were in fact Bills to abolish the subsidised pharmaceutical benefit scheme and to abolish the subsidised health benefits scheme. [More…]

• It is not recognised by the Government that they are an especially poor group in the community although it has been recognised by most people in this society, including people on both sides of the Parliament, that health care in our society is a special case. [More…]

• To introduce a user pays principle into health care leads to gross inequities because frequently those who can afford to pay the least are those who need the service the most. [More…]

• This action, taken in conjunction with the other actions of the Government in the health care field, is going to lead to considerable disadvantage. [More…]

• The basis of any civilised system of health care throughout the world should be that those who need assistance with health care should get it, so that the poor, the disadvantaged, the chronically ill or the large families do not suffer from lack of access to our health care system. [More…]

• We know from the second reading speech in another place made by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) that the Government has saved some $8m in this year and some $15. [More…]

• I repeat that I do not accept- the Opposition does not accept- that increasing the patient contribution in this way is a sensible way to curtail the increasing health costs in this country that we are all talking about. [More…]

• Inconsistencies like this in our health care system can be overcome. [More…]

• These people already have enough problems getting proper access to the health system at a reasonable cost. [More…]

• Australia has a large number of people who have no access to the ordinary pensioner health benefit cards because they are unemployed and the system does not apply to them. [More…]

• We cannot go on adding to their burden by increasing the cost of pharmaceuticals, by removing from the pharmaceutical benefits list items which they may well need, by changing the national health insurance system so that the cost of insuring themselves to cover the cost of treatment becomes so excessive that they cannot bear it. [More…]

• A better way must be found for identifying the people in the community who are in need and for providing them with the access to the health care that they need. [More…]

• To merely add to the cost year after year will not decrease the consumption of drugs, it will not change the prescribing habits of doctors, if we believe that to be one of the problems, and it will not decrease the overall cost of health care in the community. [More…]

• It is for those reasons, and because of increasing unemployment, continuing inflation and the confusion which appears in the health delivery area, that the Opposition asks the Government to forget the $8m that it will get by introducing these new charges next weekend. [More…]

• We will then have equitable access to our health care system; we will then remove a burden from the people involved and enable them to have their illnesses treated early and effectively. [More…]

• That will cut down the long term costs to the community of illness and ill health. [More…]

• Mr President, you may recall the debate on the Health Insurance Amendment Bill 1979 in June of this year. [More…]

• Senator Ryan made some forecasts about what health insurance costs were likely to be. [More…]

• On 7 June she made a forecast about the rise in health insurance fees. [More…]

• That will leave the less healthy, privately insured persons subsequently paying higher health insurance premiums. [More…]

• The Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, had said $1.50 to $2, not $3 or $4 as Senator Ryan said. [More…]

• Many people will find that they just cannot afford to pay this much a week for health insurance. [More…]

• The cost of family health insurance has risen to $6.77 and $7.10. [More…]

• He said that Senator Ryan was not taking about the basic health and hospital table that the average person contributes to. [More…]

• Senator Grimes, Senator Ryan and Senator Melzer said in that debate also that the people will not be able to afford to cover themselves for health insurance, that they will have to be uninsured and that we will have quite a disaster amongst the lower income groups. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) has extended the eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• The extension of the eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards to sole parents will enable an additional 56,000 sole parents and 96,000 dependants to qualify. [More…]

• That is, an additional 182,000 people in Australia will be eligible for a pensioner health benefit card and to have prescriptions filled free of charge. [More…]

• When I pointed out these facts in the newspapers in Hobart I was taken to task by Michael Barnard, the Minister for Health in Tasmania. [More…]

• He applauded the extension of the eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards to some needy groups but said that the move would be offset by the 25c increase in prescription charges. [More…]

• I challenged this and said that he well knew that eligibility for the pensioner health benefit cards entitled pensioners to receive free prescriptions. [More…]

• He retorted by calling it ‘a health blast for Walters’. [More…]

• I pointed out also that there was a low table providing basic medical cover for those who could not afford higher health insurance. [More…]

• I have in my hand at the moment a statement on that from the Tasmanian Minister for Health. [More…]

• -We are debating the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The basic income test limits for eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit Cards have not been altered since 1 973. [More…]

• I interpose there and mention that I received a number of representations during the recess, just like other honourable senators, concerning certain people who had pensioner health benefit cards and therefore enjoyed some of the fringe benefits that are enjoyed by pensioners and who, because of an increase in other income, usually through a low superannuation payment, have lost their entitlement to a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• So on Saturday morning some people will go along to the pharmacist and will be eligible to have a pensioner health benefit card in November when the legislation is introduced according to the Budget but will not have the pensioner health benefit card on Saturday morning and will have to pay the increased charge. [More…]

• We have decided to extend eligibility for Pensioner Health Benefit Cards to supporting parents and their dependants. [More…]

• Some supporting parents will be eligible on 1 November for a pensioner health benefit card but, even though they will be on a small income on the first of next month- Saturday- they will not be able to get their pharmaceutical benefits free of charge. [More…]

• As far as I am aware- the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) will be able to correct me, I am sure, when she replies to this debate if I am wrong- people on sickness benefits are not eligible to receive a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• If people are on sickness benefits surely they need medication of some sort; but these people cannot receive a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• We do realise that people can be on sickness benefits for extended terms, but as far as I am aware, they do not receive a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• These people, if they are not able to receive medication without charge, or at a reduced charge, will be disadvantaged next Saturday morning as will the unemployed, especially the unemployed with large families who cannot receive a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• Some pensioners, due to the fact that they have a health benefit card, may receive benefits which other people in the community do not receive. [More…]

• Maybe that is why the unemployed are not receiving pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• I outlined that earlier when speaking about particular groups who do not receive health benefit cards. [More…]

• -In speaking this afternoon to the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• The first is that this increase does not apply, and cannot apply, to people classified as eligible pensioners- in other words, those who hold a pensioner health benefit card- and to repatriation pensioners. [More…]

• The Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has acknowledged this and his Department is currently examining ways of assisting such disadvantaged people with their pharmaceutical costs. [More…]

• I recognise and support the extension of the pensioner health benefit card to include supporting parents and their dependants and also certain veterans of Allied forces and their dependants. [More…]

• Associated with the Bill has been an increase in the means test applied to the pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• It is not good enough to drive society into a situation in which its members must play a game of chance with the health of their children. [More…]

• It is a very small but significant additional impost that will make the burden of health care heavier for those who can least afford it. [More…]

• The Government is, with this measure and others, striking a blow at the health of the nation in a significant sense. [More…]

• There are many Australians to whom this additional burden will make all the difference between going ahead with a prescription that would improve their health materially or not doing so. [More…]

• People in bad health are aften placed in a position in which they use several drugs so that each of many visits to the chemist during a year would now cost them an additional dollar or more. [More…]

• At this stage I will foreshadow a submission from the Australian Democrats policy group in this area- a group which includes doctors and pharmacists- to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) which might suggest streamlined methods by which this major item of some $345,000 a year could be very much reduced. [More…]

• Health services are one of the holy cows of the community. [More…]

• There is a need for preventative health areas in the society. [More…]

• If the Government wants to reduce health costs enormously, I would suggest that that is one place where it should look. [More…]

• -The National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1979 seeks to amend section 84 of the National Health Act to allow for an increased charge for pharmaceutical benefits from $2.50 to $2.75 per item. [More…]

• The measure should be seen as part of the Government’s proposals in the Budget on health generally. [More…]

• I am sure that all honourable senators would agree that, whatever our views on the provision of health care, an independent inquiry into hospitals is needed. [More…]

• I am reminded that yesterday in another place the Minister for Health ( Mr Hunt) stated that the Government is now in the process of developing a proposition which would overcome the concerns people have for disadvantaged folk who may have special needs in this area. [More…]

• As Senator Colston pointed out in his contribution, it also extended the right of access to pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• So, the Government is taking steps in a number of areas, which Senator Guilfoyle has already identified, to extend the pensioner health benefit to a number of other groups in need in the community. [More…]

• There is nothing in the arguments I have heard this afternoon which makes a compelling case for not proceeding with this legislation, especially in light of the promise by the Minister for Health that he is examining the issues and any problem areas. [More…]

• On Senator Walters’ figures, a family will have to pay $2.68 for cover by a health fund, $10 for its share of each visit to the doctor and $5.50 to fill two prescriptions, which is the average these days after a visit to the doctor. [More…]

• This Government has to bear responsibility for the costs of health care in this country rising considerably. [More…]

• I wish to discuss that matter, as Senator Baume did, as part of the Government’s proposals for health care. [More…]

• I, along with other speakers in the debate this afternoon, have to point out that pensioners who are outside the charity of the pensioner health benefit card will face increased costs. [More…]

• These people now pay extra to the health funds, extra for visits to the doctor and extra for medical care all round. [More…]

• Although the eligibility for the pensioner health benefit card has been extended to a much larger number of pensioners, there is still a tremendous number of people in the community to whom that eligibility does not apply and there are enormous numbers of unemployed people who do not benefit from eligibility for the pensioner health benefit card, who become ill and who will have to pay these increased costs. [More…]

• We have said consistently in the last two or three days that the costs ordinary people now have to pay for health care have risen enormously. [More…]

• Some of the bill can be claimed from a health insurance fund but only if the person can afford to be in one in the first place. [More…]

• The charges of health funds have risen, as I said when I began my address. [More…]

• Despite what Senator Walters has said, all authorities associated with this area acknowledge that the charges of health funds have risen enormously. [More…]

• The general practitioners, the Doctors Reform Society and the health funds themselves have acknowledged that the costs will rise very much. [More…]

• It was difficult enough for families to afford health insurance when they were paying out $400 or $500 a year for cover. [More…]

• Now, families are faced with going without any medical cover whatsoever and wondering what will happen to them or paying out $700 a year for health insurance. [More…]

• These sorts of increases in health costs will again put great pressure on public hospitals. [More…]

• Already the Western General Hospital in Footscray, which covers the vast western area of Melbourne, is asking local doctors and local health centres to do all they can to keep patients out of the hospital because the hospital facilities are being extended far beyond what the hospital can cope with. [More…]

• They cannot afford to pay to be covered by some of the health funds. [More…]

• With the increased health care costs they will come under even greater stress, and some areas will not be able to cope with the problems. [More…]

• In that context I want to raise the subject of community health services, which have been told that they must now charge for their services. [More…]

• The Health Commission advised: [More…]

• Following agreement between the Commonwealth and State Governments, the Commission instructs Health Centres that effective from the 1st September, 1979, charges will be raised for Privately Insured patients receiving professional services in centres where doctors are employed on a salaried or sessional paid basis. [More…]

• The income derived by the Community Health Centres from such charges will be credited to the Centres gross Operating Costs in such a way as to reduce the Community Health Program ‘s contributions by both the Commonwealth and the State. [More…]

• But can I go just a little further and deal with the establishment of community health centres. [More…]

• There were literally no medical services there, and so the Deer Park Community Health Services was established. [More…]

• We have the ridiculous situation where health centres are being asked to charge privately insured patients for the professional services they receive. [More…]

• In the first place, this is an entirely unworkable system because it encourages people who are in private health insurance funds to drop out of those funds. [More…]

• People are left wondering whether they should go on paying for private insurance and pay at the centre or drop out of a private insurance fund and get their health care free. [More…]

• But how does the centre find out whether people are covered by health insurance? [More…]

• It is very easy to prove that a person is covered by health insurance but it is very difficult to prove that he is not covered. [More…]

• In another area, additional costs will now be incurred by health centres which follow the Health Commission’s orders. [More…]

• Salaries will have to be paid to the extra staff brought into the health centres and additional expenses will be incurred by way of payroll tax and other administrative expenses. [More…]

• The income derived by the Community Health Centres from such charges will be credited to the Centres gross Operating Costs in such a way as to reduce the Community Health Program’s contributions by both the Commonwealth and the State. [More…]

• It means that a health centre which was supplying a great service in an area where no services existed is now in the extraordinary position of having to winkle through all its patients and sort the sheep from the goats. [More…]

• People will be forced back to the hospitals, and in that regard, I quote from a letter I received from the Deer Park Community Health Services: [More…]

• An alarming aspect of such a scheme would be the result of a transfer of work load from Community Health Centres to the Casualty/Out Patient sections of the public hospitals. [More…]

• It is the end of a concept that was conceived with the express purpose and intention of producing primary health care, paramedical and other ancillary services under one roof to all members of the community. [More…]

• This year there have been 2,550 new registrations at the Deer Park Community Health Services. [More…]

• In an area with a population of 17,000, medical attendances last year totalled 36,436, paramedical and welfare attendants totalled 35,498 and health, education and other meetings accounted for 11,677 attendances. [More…]

• If the Government is looking to cutting the ever-rising costs of health services it should look to this area. [More…]

• The Australian public wants positive health preservation policies which this sort of scheme puts forward. [More…]

• Finally, I will give the Senate some idea of the sort of services available at this community health centre. [More…]

• None of those services even existed in that area of Melbourne before this community health service was established. [More…]

• It will be an appalling tragedy if this scheme to charge people in private health funds does anything to break up this tremendous service that is being given to people of this area. [More…]

• We want positive health preservation policies. [More…]

• I thank the Senate for the debate on the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• A number of speakers have canvassed very widely not only the proposed increase to the pharmaceutical benefits scheme but also many aspects of the health schemes in Australia. [More…]

• The effect of this Bill will be to increase the contribution of persons who are not holders of pensioner health benefits cards from $2.50 to $2.75. [More…]

• The Government is fully aware, as many people have stated, that the new increase could cause some further difficulty for disadvantaged people in the community and, as has also been stated, the Department of Health is currently examining possible ways in which assistance with pharmaceutical costs can be given. [More…]

• I believe it has been acknowledged that considerable assistance with health costs is already available to disadvantaged people under the medical benefits scheme. [More…]

• The extension of the pensioner health benefits card to supporting parents and their dependants and to certain veterans of Allied forces and their dependants, together with the change in eligibility for pensioner health benefits cards, is further evidence of the Government’s efforts to see that people on low incomes and others who are disadvantaged are assisted in the provision of pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• One matter raised by Senator Colston which requires a response from me concerns the question of whether sickness beneficiaries are holders of health benefits cards. [More…]

• I wish to advise Senator Colston that they are not holders of health benefits cards; they are not eligible to hold those cards. [More…]

• But specifically, in answer to Senator Colston’s question these people do not receive fringe benefits or the pharmaceutical benefits that arise from being a holder of a health benefits card. [More…]

• The Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare took on board with some trepidation the task of making an assessment or evaluation of Australia’s health and welfare services. [More…]

• What we did not expect, first of all, were the reactions we experienced in the welfare and health service community generally to the fact that we were to look at the state of the evaluation of health and welfare services. [More…]

• The aim of the exercise was to study the quantity and the quality of the evaluation of health and welfare services in this community. [More…]

• At no stage did the Committee seek to evaluate any particular welfare services, any particular health services or any particular organisation. [More…]

• We lost a year, I believe, reassuring most of the health and welfare community in this country that we were not about tearing them to pieces. [More…]

• We found in general that there had not been much evaluation of any quality of any of the health and welfare service in this community. [More…]

• This does not mean that we found that the health and welfare services of this community were particularly inefficient or particularly efficient. [More…]

• One pleasing thing is that there was an upsurge of interest in the evaluation of our health and welfare services, within both the Public Service and the voluntary sector, as a result of the inquiry and even before the report came out. [More…]

• We had very few means of measuring some of the most basic health and welfare problems because in the past we had not thought that this was necessary. [More…]

• Unfortunately, some journals have misused the report to confirm their own political or philosophical prejudices about the state of health and welfare delivery in this community. [More…]

• I believe that it should be read by anyone involved in the health and welfare area, and that includes everyone in this Parliament. [More…]

• I hope that more people in this very important area, which is an area of huge expenditure in this country, will look seriously at the recommendations in the report in order to develop a more rational, economic and humane welfare and health system in this country. [More…]

• Over the past three years there have been a number of changes to health insurance schemes. [More…]

• I do not intend to speak politically about the different health schemes this evening. [More…]

• Nevertheless I can say without being political that there was often confusion in the minds of the public about the full details of the Government’s health proposals. [More…]

• One thing was quite clear, however, and that was that between 1 October 1976 and 31 October 1978, health insurance was made compulsory for the people of Australia. [More…]

• It is in relation to the compulsory nature of health insurance that I address my remarks tonight. [More…]

• Let me stress that I have no basic argument with the concept of compulsory health insurance. [More…]

• When Medibank was introduced it provided compulsory universal health insurance in an equitable and simple package. [More…]

• In fact, there are strong arguments in favour of some form of compulsory health insurance. [More…]

• Without the compulsion, people may be inclined to gamble on their health and subsequently find themselves in serious financial difficulties. [More…]

• The benefit of compulsory health insurance is that every person in the community is guaranteed protection against ill health and accidents. [More…]

• That guarantee is surely the whole purpose of making health insurance compulsory rather than voluntary. [More…]

• He had entrusted his health insurance, then compulsory under federal legislation, to this society. [More…]

• When Mr Smith sought my assistance I immediately contacted the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) to seek an assurance that contributors such as Mr Smith would not be penalised because of the failure of the fund. [More…]

• Mr Smith points out that Governments are quick to aid failing building societies, but are reluctant to come to the aid of health benefit societies whose members seek health insurance, not profit. [More…]

• The management committee of the Hibernian Society took the decision to cease operations with effect from 28 August 1 978, and in accordance with the provisions of the National Health Act made application to the Federal Court of Australia to have the medical and hospital funds wound up. [More…]

• Within this context, the circumstances of contributors to the medical fund and contributors to the hospital fund were considered separately by the Court as such funds are separate entities in accordance with the registration provisions under the National Health Act and may not necessarily have the same membership. [More…]

• There is no provision under the National Health Act whereby I can approve of the Commonwealth underwriting organisations in financial difficulties. [More…]

• Subsequently, the organisation ceased operating at very short notice and, under the provisions of the National Health Act, an application was made by the Management of HACBS to the Federal Court of Australia to have the organisation wound up. [More…]

• So, the position of Mr Smith was that by law he was forced to take out some form of health insurance. [More…]

• I do not subscribe to that view but, even so, health insurance at the time of which I speak was not voluntary. [More…]

• It was a fund approved by the Federal Government at a time when health insurance was compulsory. [More…]

• In other words, the whole point of compulsory health insurance as imposed by government decree was lost. [More…]

• People had no guarantee that even after taking out insurance they were covered against health costs. [More…]

• It is no wonder that some people think they are taking a bigger risk by paying health insurance than by remaining uninsured. [More…]

• Mr Hunt said that there was nothing in the National Health Act whereby he could approve of the Commonwealth underwriting organisations in financial difficulties. [More…]

• The Government, through its Minister for Health, says it was the organisation’s management which decided to follow the course of action it did, and it was the management which opted to wind up the organisation. [More…]

• Firstly, they give me concern because of the methods used to indoctrinate their victims which present a serious threat to the mental and physical health and which have resulted in some instances in the admission of people to psychiatric institutions. [More…]

• However, if practices are being employed which affect or endanger people’s health and extort large sums of money from converts and their families, I believe it is time that the governments of Australia had a look at them. [More…]

• At Maubisse in February 1 979 an average of 1 50 people a day came for treatment to the poorly stocked Government Health Centre whilst ‘at the same time there were medicines for sale in the Chinese shop (at prices) people could not afford to pay’. [More…]

• Unfortunately, I have not been able to be present throughout the whole of it, but I understand that Senator Colston raised the matter of a health insurance fund in Queensland. [More…]

• As that falls within the area of responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), I will draw his attention to the remarks that the honourable senator has made. [More…]

• He referred those resolutions to the Minister for Business and Consumer Affairs, to the Minister for Health who, of course, is associated with the health aspects, and to me. [More…]

• There is general agreement that health and environmental risks have been taken in the past with the number of varieties of fish that have been introduced. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• On behalf of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare I present volume II of the report of the Committee’s reference on the evaluation of Australian health and welfare services. [More…]

• -On 2 June 1976 the Senate referred to its Standing Commitee on Social Welfare the matter of the evaluation of the adequacy of Australian health and welfare services. [More…]

• Some were written by academics with Australian and overseas expertise and others by professional people who have been active in programs and services in health and welfare. [More…]

• We believe that the papers are valuable additions to the body of knowledge available and we hope that this volume will help to improve the understanding of evaluation in the Australian health and welfare context. [More…]

• John Davoren, contributed a paper on The Evaluation of Health and Welfare Services in Australia, With Particular Reference to Agencies. [More…]

• Also, a paper was written jointly by Anne Stevenson and Wendy Chew on need and demand in the making of planning decisions in the evaluation of health and welfare services. [More…]

• The Budget was presented by a government which has been characterised by a penchant for ad hoc decisionsdecisions which have given the Australian people a succession of different health insurance programs which have never really been fully understood before being superseded, decisions which have taken from the pensioners conditions for which they fought for years. [More…]

• In the meantime, while we are waiting for that surcharge to go, medical fees and health insurance will increase. [More…]

• The overall health of the economy depends both on our response to these issues and our management of longer-term issues, such as trade and industry development. [More…]

• The sustained health of the economy depends on enlightened and mutually compatible responses by governments to both. [More…]

• Changes in health care which have disadvantaged thousands of people will also increase inflation- all to the benefit of a profession which now accounts for 47 per cent of all income earners who earn over $50,000 per annum. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• The organisations associated with this matter have taken it up as a question on which they are to report to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My understanding is that that would be a matter primarily for the Department of Health. [More…]

• I repeat, this general area is, in the Federal sphere, the responsibility of the Department of Health. [More…]

• I will refer the honourable senator’s question to the Minister for Health and endeavour to obtain further information for him. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, relates to reports in today’s Press concerning the United States Senate subcommittee’s inquiry into the use of the drug Valium, in the course of which 8 witnesses are said to have testified that they had become addicted to the drug. [More…]

• I ask him whether the code of practice agreed upon between broadcasters, the Tobacco Advisory Committee and the Department of Health and Social Security in Britain includes the following note: [More…]

• Representations have been made to the Minister for Post and Telecommunications and to the Minister for Health and the matter has already been the subject of discussions between the two Ministers. [More…]

• I am sure that he, in consultation with the Minister for Health, will examine the applicability of the British arrangements to Australian circumstances. [More…]

• The Radiation Health Committee has reported to me. [More…]

• I have sent the advice that it has given to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My understanding is that he has the recommendations of that Committee under scrutiny by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Senate that the Fraser Government is a government which promised to govern for all Australians and which has presided in the intervening years over a declining standard of living for most Australians, a fall in the value of disposable income for most families, increased health costs, higher interest rates and increased petrol prices. [More…]

• At the same time, I point out that, as the ordinary family is being burdened with additional health charges, there have been steadily and rapidly rising incomes for members of the medical profession. [More…]

• The average cost, estimated by the Department of Health, of training a doctor in Australia- a member of the medical profession- is $7,500 a year. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health gets its estimates of the numbers of doctors in Australia from, of all places, a journal put out by the drug trade and its mailing list. [More…]

• That is where the Department of Health gets its information about the number of doctors in Australia. [More…]

• The high levels pose serious questions about the equitable sharing of resources available for health care. [More…]

• Doctors on high incomes are not only indulging themselves with very high incomes as against the rest of the community but are also using that extra tax-haven money, which is obtained at public expense and by abuse of the public health system of this country, to indulge in greater perks and rip-offs than one could imagine in circumstances where such high salaries are paid. [More…]

• This whole question of the over-use of services, which was referred to by Dr Margarey, in fact is an abuse of the health insurance system, an abuse of the public health system of this country, and is being carried out by highly paid professional men who are the most costly people to educate in terms of taxpayers’ input into their education. [More…]

• In talking about an incomes policy in a country such as this, as I said before, the Government cannot on the one hand charge ordinary people more for health insurance, attempt to reduce real wages constantly, and reduce family income standards, and at the same time have insufficient guts as a government to stand up to a system which allows these sorts of incomes to be made without any firm hand or direction. [More…]

• All sorts of loose allegations have been made; allegations that living standards have fallen, which are utterly wrong, and that health costs are higher. [More…]

• The fact is that if the Hayden health scheme were functioning today health costs would be considerably higher than they are. [More…]

• Every time some company makes a dollar of profit some 46 or 47 per cent of it is taken in company tax for payment out for social services, health or education. [More…]

• If a government introduces high sickness benefits it is subsidising sickness, not health; if it has high unemployment benefits it is subsidising unemployment, not employment; and high pension benefits subsidise not wealth but poverty. [More…]

• We make no apologies for the fact that in our first Budget we increased education expenditure by four times; that in our second Budget our allocation for social security went up by 50 per cent; that in our first Budget we increased by 339 per cent the amount of money going to the States for public housing; that we increased by 1 93 per cent the allocation for urban affairs in the previous Liberal Budget; that we increased the money going to culture and recreation by 85.6 per cent; and that in our third Budget we increased the money allocations for health and welfare by 130 percent. [More…]

• Four years later in its fourth Budget the Government knows that unemployment is up, that inflation is beginning to rise again, that there is a lack of business confidence in this country- except in the big corporate sector- that the small business sector is reeling as a result of the downturn in the economy and that the average Australian has no confidence in the Budget’s strategy or in its objectives of trying to get some health back into the Australian economy. [More…]

• They have welcomed the return of twice-yearly indexation of pensions and benefits, the wider eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards and, for small businesses, a very considerable expansion of the retention allowance- a rise from 60 per cent to 70 per cent. [More…]

• Community Health Programmes- Down 68 per cent [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• My advice is that unless large scale humanitarian relief is provided soon, famine and associated health problems will result in a further major human tragedy in Kampuchea. [More…]

• Is the Minister representing the Minister for Health aware of reports that prices for proprietary pharmaceuticals can vary by as much as $ 1 from chemist to chemist and that this is due to the pricing policies of the drug companies? [More…]

• I ask: Do all the food handling facilities in this building comply with the standards of hygiene laid down by public health authorities? [More…]

• As to the microbiological investigations, I can assure the honourable senator that health requirements are met absolutely in this place. [More…]

• -Can the Minister representing the Minister for Health advise me whether the National Health and Medical Research Council has standing committees on health education and health promotion? [More…]

• In fact, Dr Charles Gurd, who is the Secretary of the Department of Health in the Northern Territory, has replied directly to Senator Keeffe, but I think that as this is a matter of general interest and of interest to a number of honourable senators I should provide the Senate with the gist of that reply. [More…]

• Dr Gurd has advised that the Northern Territory Department of Health continues the practice established in Commonwealth days of publishing a quarterly bulletin and annual report. [More…]

• I thought that the Senate should have its attention drawn to that response from Dr Gurd although it was sent directly to Senator Keeffe by the Northern Territory Department of Health. [More…]

• In other words, a situation of grace on the part of the Commissioner of Taxation creates an impression on other persons within the community that the company or firm concerned is in quite good health. [More…]

• I suppose that there is no policy area in which the Prime Minister’s credibility has suffered more than in the field of health insurance. [More…]

• In the field of health insurance the people of Australia are now in a worse situation than they were in prior to the establishment by Medibank by the Labor Government. [More…]

• Today Mr and Mrs Citizen are faced with a bewildering array of insurance options- an array which resembles a tin of worms or a bag of eels- and all this in a climate of fear perpetuated by health insurance organisations in their advertising for clients. [More…]

• Thousands of citizens of Australia are overinsured because of the fear syndrome that this Government has created with its demolition of Medibank and the fear that is being created daily by the various health insurance organisations as they spend thousands and thousands of dollars in advertising. [More…]

• He shall be entitled to grow and develop in health, to this end special care and protection shall be provided, both to him and to his mother, including adequate pre-natal and postnatal care. [More…]

• The child shall not be admitted to employment before an appropriate minimum age he shall in no case be caused or permitted to engage in any occupation or employment which would prejudice his health or education, or interfere with his physical, mental or moral development. [More…]

• It is to be seen in the activities of the Department of Health, the Australian Medical Association and the Australian Dental Association in matters of nutrition. [More…]

• Some of those children were fortunate enough to go home to a warm, familiar surrounding with parents who battled valiantly to give them some sort of normal life, without any assistance by way of education, health care or relief from the overpowering 24 hours a day, seven days a week problems that they are faced with all their lives. [More…]

• They live in institutions in these sorts of conditions, without these sorts of health and life preservation systems. [More…]

• Elsewhere children moderately or severely handicapped arc regarded as a health or mental health responsibilityVictoria regards them as trainable and educable. [More…]

• Graduates from a certificate course specialising in mental retardation have been forced onto the dole or into other jobs because the Health Commission could not find them work and would not find them work. [More…]

• We need direct government assistance to accelerate research in these areas, to open up mental health institutions to new ideas and to education, to bring these people into a world of normal living. [More…]

• Most of the institutions are about 100 years old and arc massive fire and health risks. [More…]

• I understand that the announcement in the Budget by the Minister for Health referred to the provision of health interpreter and translator services and that this may involve the training of some personnel. [More…]

• I am advised that the Minister for Health has written to the health authorities in each of the States and the Northern Territory advising them of the terms of the Commonwealth’s offer and inviting each State and the Northern Territory to submit proposals for the employment of additional health interpreters and translators. [More…]

• The Ministers have also been advised that Commonwealth funds for this purpose would be made available to the States and the Northern Territory by way of a specific block grant allocation within the community health program. [More…]

• As with all other projects approved for funding through the States under the community health program, the States and the Northern Territory health authorities will have responsibility for detailed administration and supervision of the additional health interpreters and translators, and the Commonwealth and State health authorities will have a joint responsibility in relation to ongoing project appraisal and program effectiveness. [More…]

• My question of the Minister representing the Minister for Health follows my question last week requesting an investigation into the rate of use of the drug Valium. [More…]

• Is it a fact that 9, 1 1 8 prescriptions were written last year under the national health program for Valium in the form of a paediatric syrup for use by young children? [More…]

• I undertake to refer to the Minister for Health the further question from Senator Mason regarding the incidence of the use of Valium. [More…]

• -by leave- During Question Time Senator Collard asked a question in relation to a report on the health of miners at Radium Hill in South Australia which he had noticed in a newspaper. [More…]

• The Minister for Health in South Australia has established an inquiry by his Department as a result of the effects on those who worked at Radium Hill in South Australia. [More…]

• All aspects of Antarctic operations including survival techniques, health, first aid and management of cold injuries, are covered. [More…]

• In the case of the committee of which I am chairman, if a report is brought down which relates to the Minister for Health, we would expect that the response from the Government would come down to this chamber, since the Senate committee made the report. [More…]

• But obviously the Minister for Health in another place would want it to be presented there because it related to his portfolio. [More…]

• What progress has been made in the Cocos (Keeling) Islands towards providing the inhabitants with the rights and responsibilities of Australian citizenship, in particular as regards wage rates, health, education and welfare. [More…]

• Health cure of the Islands’ inhabitants has been improved by the employment from I February 1979 of a doublecertificated Malay-speaking nursing sister to conduct public health and hygiene programs on Home Island. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• For instance, how much was allocated to housing, health, education and so on? [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I understand that prior to self-government in the Northern Territory the then Northern Territory Division of the Commonwealth Department of Health sponsored a scheme now known as Medivac whereby patients needing to travel outside and inside the [More…]

• I am informed that this scheme has been continued by the Northern Territory Department of Health. [More…]

• Other travel within the Northern Territory has been and is covered by normal health service facilities such as the aerial medical service and inter-hospital transfers. [More…]

• This scheme comes within the portfolio of the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, and therefore any publicity or advertising concerning the scheme is a matter for the Minister. [More…]

• The Minister for Health may be involved with some of the answers. [More…]

• The Department of Health keeps some statistics but only on the numbers of animals imported into Australia for research purposes. [More…]

• However, I understand that the Minister for Health requires an annual authorisation of persons who perform experiments on live animals in the Australian Capital Territory. [More…]

• The honourable senator may care to know that CSIRO, in co-operation with the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research and other research organisations, has developed a code of practice for experiments on animals as a reference for Australian research workers and to promote humane behaviour towards experimental animals. [More…]

• Regrettably, in debates on most of the Bills over which the Minister has had control in this chamber, particularly the health Bills, I have claimed that this Government is attempting to take all power away from the Parliament. [More…]

• I said also that an eligible employee retired as a result of a health condition may also receive an invalidity superannuation pension. [More…]

• This matter was the subject of a subsequent letter to you from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The same thing has happened in relation to health and education. [More…]

• The next document concerns Little Johnny, who is a little old man living at Kowanyama for whom the State Health Department provided a wheelchair, which was taken away from him by the Queensland Department of Aboriginal and Islander Advancement. [More…]

• Next is a sensational document signed by 14 doctors- Senator Walters knows what a doctor is- who have decided that they do not want anything to do with the Queensland Department of Health arrangements, they want all Aboriginal health matters to come under the Commonwealth. [More…]

• Many months ago I wrote to your predecessor, the then Minister Tor Health Dr Edwards, and requested assistance in obtaining a wheelchair Tor an Aborigine ( Little Johnny) who lives at Kowanyama and who has only one leg. [More…]

• Ministerfor Health, [More…]

• A RECOMMENDATION TO THE DIRECTOR GENERAL OF HEALTH, BRISBANE [More…]

• We, the undersigned doctors, involved in aboriginal health in North Queensland consider that aboriginal health in this region has reached a crisis, and that there is an urgent need to improve this situation by the following measures. [More…]

• The appointment of a Regional Director of Health to co-ordinate all health services in this area. [More…]

• should immediately relinquish health care, including public hygiene measures, to the Health Department. [More…]

• Hence all hospital administration and all hospital staff should be under the control of the Regional Director of Health. [More…]

• The Royal Flying Doctor Service should work in close co-operation with the Regional Director of Health and assist in programs and transport of personnel when relevcnt. [More…]

• All doctors working in remote areas of North Queensland should be involved in training programs for doctors and sisters and in discussions with the Regional Director of Health regarding health deliver)’ planning in their regions. [More…]

• These now present the single most important health issue in these communities. [More…]

• We consider that self determination and a sense of ownership of land is a basic human need, without which physical health cannot be improved. [More…]

• All health policies must consider the health of the community as defined by the World Health Organisationthe social psychological and physical well being of the people. [More…]

• by the undersigned doctors as an indication of their commitment to the promotion of coordination of the health services with which they arc associated, on a personal basis, until such time as a Regional Director of Health is appointed to this region, who can then take over this role. [More…]

• Uranium miners receive a radiation dose far below the level where there are any detectable health consequences. [More…]

• Recently an intensive study was made of the health of long term nuclear power plant workers who receive radiation doses comparable to open cut miners. [More…]

• The health of the nuclear power plant workers in every respect, including incidence of all types of cancer, was found to be marginally better than that of their peer group in the community. [More…]

• This is not surprising, but imagine the song and dance there would have been if their health had been marginally worse than their peer group. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: (1)I have taken no action nor has my Department to implement Resolution 10 of the Eighth meeting of the Australian Fisheries Council held on 10 November 1978, calling for a restriction in the number of live aquarium fish species proposed for continued importation to a limited number of species and genera. [More…]

• The Government is presently considering the reports referred to, and the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal, which has responsibilities in the area of television advertising content, has advised that the advertising to children of sugared food products is being examined by a working party ofthe National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• In deciding upon an appropriate course of action, the Tribunal will take into account the findings of the Council relating to the health aspects of the matter as well as advice from its own Children’s Program Committee and the views of the commercial station operators. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, concerns the drug Depo-Provera whose technical name is medroxyprogesterone acetate. [More…]

• Is it a fact that the Department of Health has sent a letter to family planning clinics saying that they may use it as a contraceptive after obtaining the informed consent of the client? [More…]

• Could the Minister say how the action of the Department of Health squares with that refusal by the Food and Drug Administration and other drug control authorities? [More…]

• To facilitate this, the Department of Health has prepared a common data pack of financial and commercial information relating to the group. [More…]

• However, following the recommendations of the Animal Health Committee of the Standing Committee on Agriculture, the States and the Bureau of Animal Health will be developing a routine diagnostic surveillance system using sentinel herds. [More…]

• The Lionel Rose Laboratory will still be collaborating with CSIRO’s various divisions, particularly the Division of Animal Health, on bluetongue research. [More…]

• Any moneys returned in the health area have, on my understanding, been returned because of the actions of the Department of Health in not spending the money in Queensland. [More…]

• This is a very important matter in respect of Australian health consumers, if I can call them that. [More…]

• The proposal which is contained in the Ralph Committee report really changes the whole basis of the payment for drugs very much against the health consumer. [More…]

• One suggestion that already has flowed from the recommendations of the Ralph Committee is that Australians should insure not only for normal health cover, whether hospital or medical, but also against the cost of more expensive drugs which may be prescribed in the event of their becoming seriously ill. [More…]

• I believe that the Auditor-General has not yet audited the 1977-78 annual report of the Medibank Private health insurance fund. [More…]

• This is the only health insurance fund with an outstanding unaudited annual report for 1977-78. [More…]

• -Under the terms of its legislation the Health Insurance Commission is required as soon as possible after 30 June to submit to the Minister for Health a report on its operations during that year, including the financial statements of the hospital and medical benefits funds conducted by the Commission. [More…]

• The audited report was forwarded to the Minister for Health on 5 September. [More…]

• Under the Health insurance Commission Act he has 15 sitting days in which to table the report. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• 1 ) Has construction of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory at Geelong been contracted out to John Holland (Constructions) Proprietary Limited on a ‘design and construct’ basis while the Minister’s Department drawing office at Hawthorn is almost idle. [More…]

• Following invitation of competitive tenders John Holland (Constructions) Proprietary Limited was awarded a contract to provide construction management services for the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory project. [More…]

• Most of the Department of Housing and Construction’s design work is carried out in its regional offices and consistent with this practice design of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory is being handled in the Department’s Victorian Regional Office. [More…]

• I ask the Minister whether there are any Federal laws which set out the employer’s legal responsibility to inform and train his workers in handling dangerous chemicals and other materials that may be injurious to health. [More…]

• Is there any Federal body which inspects premises where dangerous chemicals are manufactured or used and overviews legal compliance in the handling of health hazardous materials? [More…]

• If there are no Federal laws to cover health standards, will the Minister, in association with the States, consider setting up laws to ensure health standards in industry and to train and inform workers in the safe handling of dangerous materials? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Has a disaster plan been adopted by hospitals under Commonwealth control, such as repatriation hospitals or Australian Capital Territory hospitals, to cope with emergencies such as bombing or other major civil disasters? [More…]

• I understand that a symposium on the management of mass burns casualties was sponsored jointly by the Departments of Defence and Health and was held at the Australian Counter Disaster College, Mt Macedon in Victoria, in June of this year. [More…]

• The matter is being discussed with State and Territory health authorities, along with other aspects of the treatment and handling of mass casualties. [More…]

• In the States, each State health authority is responsible for the control of health counterdisaster measures. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health and concerns the Government’s recent decision to order off the market a range of commonly used drugs which in tests on rats were shown to contain the cancer-causing substance methapyrilene. [More…]

• Will the Minister inform the Senate why it took the Australian health authorities until early September to make this decision, given that in mid-June these drugs were withdrawn from the American market following intensive tests? [More…]

• If so, will the Minister assure the Senate that in future efforts will be made to take immediate protective action when there is suspicion that a particular drug may be injurious to the public’s health? [More…]

• The Minister for Health advises that, despite immediate requests to the United States authorities following Australian Press reports of the proposed withdrawal of methapyrilene in that country, it was many weeks before the detailed scientific data on the animal studies conducted in the United States was made available for consideration by the Australian Drug Evaluation Committee. [More…]

• I add the comment that it would not be responsible for the Australian health authorities to take precipitate action often on the basis of unverified Press reports of adverse effects of drugs particularly where the effects are noted in animals. [More…]

• The Minister for Health agrees that immediate protective action should be taken but only after the most expert advice that is available in Australia and overseas indicates that a drug may be injurious to the public’s health. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I refer the Minister to a statement made this week by an officer of the Department of Health that the Department had made health checks on several hundred miners working in the uranium areas of Rum Jungle and Moline some 25 years ago; that there appeared to be no illeffects from uranium mining at that time; that the checks had continued until the late 1960s; and that the results had been deposited in the archives. [More…]

• I ask: In view of the importance of these records, will the Minister request the Minister for Health to prepare a report on the contents of these documents for the information of the Parliament? [More…]

• Also, will the Government carry out further health checks on the many miners who can still be contacted in order to measure their present state of health? [More…]

• I recall the statement on the subject that was made to an Estimates committee of the Senate by an officer of the Department of Health. [More…]

• Until these are obtained and examined, and the names and original addresses are verified, it will not be possible to determine whether the further health checks which are sought by the honourable senator would be possible. [More…]

• However, I will ask the Minister for Health to advise the honourable senator as soon as the information is obtained. [More…]

• Is it- a fact that Premier Wran complained that State taxes would rise, that unemployment would rise as a result of State taxes, that work programs would be slashed and that the hospitals and community health programs would suffer? [More…]

• I want to recount some of the latest events in the battle which is going on between the tobacco industry and its lobby and the health industry, which is attempting to mount an anti-smoking campaign on the north coast of New South Wales. [More…]

• The tobacco industry continues to challenge any association between smoking and ill health. [More…]

• In 1962 with a report by the Royal College of Physicians entitled: Smoking and Health’. [More…]

• In 1964 an advisory committee to the Surgeon-General of the Public Health Service in the United States published a report entitled ‘Smoking and Health’. [More…]

• Since these diseases as a group are responsible for more than 85 per cent of the higher death rate among cigarette smokers, they arc of particular interest to public health authorities and the medical profession. [More…]

• In 1971 the Royal College of Physicians published another report reviewing the evidence entitled ‘Smoking and Health Now’. [More…]

• In 1977 the College published yet another report this time entitled ‘Smoking or Health’. [More…]

• One cannot continue to smoke and be healthy. [More…]

• It is either smoking or health. [More…]

• Again it is called ‘Smoking and Health’. [More…]

• It states that the 1979 report reinforces the major conclusion from 1964 that cigarette smoking is a health hazard of sufficient importance in the United States to warrant appropriate remedial action. [More…]

• Early in 1978 Mr Joseph Califano, then Secretary of Health, Education and Welfare in the United States, had this to say about smoking? [More…]

• Their attempts to deny the overwhelming medical evidence about smoking and health are in essence, an attack upon science. [More…]

• The social goal which we are seeking is one which was set out by the World Health Organisation Expert Committee on Smoking Control. [More…]

• One cigarette company has acknowledged the link between smoking and ill health. [More…]

• The World Health Organisation Expert Committee on Smoking Control had this to say about the industry: [More…]

• The common view of all those seriously concerned to reduce smoking is that no worthwhile progress can be achieved unless governments are prepared to put the interests of public health before those of private tobacco enterprise . [More…]

• The North Coast of New South Wales is a very active health region. [More…]

• It did a survey recently to find out what people knew about the health risks of cigarette smoking. [More…]

• The decision to smoke is a personal decision, but once this is said, it remains unquestionably the responsibility of health officials to ensure that smokers and potential smokers are adequately informed of the hazards. [More…]

• With that diminished smoking rate there has been shown to be a diminished death rate and an improvement in health. [More…]

• In the Canberra Times of June last year there appeared an article from Adelaide in which it was reported that 22 per cent of 9-year-old Australian boys and 5 per cent of 9-year-old girls are smokers, according to a survey which had been conducted for the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• Therefore, the North Coast health region has designed and put into action a new kind of health promotion program -not the old kind of elitist program. [More…]

• These advertisements were submitted by the Health Commission of New South Wales to the solicitors who advise it- Messrs Dawson Waldron in Sydney, who, we understand, act for many of the cigarette advertisers and are renowned in the field of advertising examination. [More…]

• Their judgment, according to the information given to me by the Health Commission, was that the advertisements were satisfactory. [More…]

• A health message had been put on tape by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners, and the anti-smoking message which the RACGP had put on tape for general use was forced to be taken off on complaint, I think, from the tobacco industry. [More…]

• The Media Council of Australia said that it believed that sufficient grounds were present to sustain the complaints and requested substantiation of certain facts from the Health Commission. [More…]

• No evidence was taken from the Health Commission when the complaint was heard. [More…]

• The Joint Committee for Disparaging Copy wrote to the Regional Director of the Health Commission, Mr McKay. [More…]

• The Health Commission, not surprisingly, wrote back, saying: ‘Please tell us exactly which bits you are objecting to. [More…]

• But it was not until two days ago, not until 24 September, almost a month after the advertisements had been suspended, that any specific complaints were made available to the North Coast health region. [More…]

• QUOTE OF LETTER SENT TO REGIONAL DIRECTOR, HEALTH COMMISSION OF NEW SOUTH WALES NORTH COAST REGION FROM AUSTRALIAN PUBLISHERS’ BUREAU DATED 24 SEPTEMBER 1979. [More…]

• My concern is that the cigarette manufacturers have moved to delay the provision of the information which the North Coast health region needed to get these advertisements back into the print media, and that on the basis of an ex parte judgment there was an unconscionable delay in making essential information available. [More…]

• I believe that the tobacco industry is determined to try to stop, to inhibit, to destroy this campaign for healthy life style and this ‘Quit Smoking’ campaign, that it has decided to stand and fight, and that it has decided that the Lismore region will be the place where it will do this. [More…]

• The first of them is from Sir George Godber, Chairman of the World Health Organisation Expert Committee on Smoking Control. [More…]

• Sir George Godber puts that down as the inevitable result of the failure of a society such as ours to take on the tobacco industry head on and to introduce a sensible public health policy which will sell the virtues of non-smoking and sell the virtues of moderation. [More…]

• The tobacco industry will remain as a wealthy influential and irresponsible force for ill health in the community. [More…]

• Dealing with the broad manpower-wage structure, if one looks closely at working conditions in eastern and western Europe one finds that health and medical costs are the stable components in their wage structures. [More…]

• I can remember that in the 1966 to 1969 era when we started our Senate committee system, we had a committee of which Senator Douglas McClelland was a member, dealing with health insurance. [More…]

• The czars of the private health organisations, Mr Cade and another gentleman whose name temporarily escapes me were grilled by both committees. [More…]

• He was another one of the brigands of the private health funds. [More…]

• In relation to the health schemes about which we are talking, Mr Justice Nimmo ‘s inquiry, quite apart from the high-powered Committee of which Senator McClelland was a member, advocated reforms within the ambit of private insurance. [More…]

• Every time an adjustment is made the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), says that it is only a matter of $3 or $4. [More…]

• The Minister for Industrial Relations (Mr Street) could go into a huddle tomorrow with the Australian Council of Trade Unions and say: ‘We will give you what the Scandanavian and Eastern trade union movements have got in relation to stability of health costs’. [More…]

• If we want some form of employment stability, a vital component is health cover. [More…]

• It would be quite impossible today for a Mr Hayden to come along and sell a universal health scheme, covering everyone for $120m, such as he did between 1 970 and 1 972. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that the report of the case of the congenitally acquired infection as described by Senator Baume is basically correct. [More…]

• I understand that in June of this year the National Health and Medical Research Council agreed that there was no justification for routine vaccination against smallpox, and that therefore vaccination should be limited to travellers to countries requiring vaccination as a condition of entry, and to persons in certain at-risk occupations, for example, medical practitioners, hospital and certain laboratory personnel, and airport and ambulance service employees. [More…]

• The contra-indications to smallpox vaccination have been drawn to the attention of medical practitioners by means of the National Health and Medical Research Council publications, the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories handbook, and the leaflets incorporated into every pack of smallpox vaccine distributed by the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has also stated that the communicable diseases intelligence bulletin drew attention to the contra-indications of vaccination in its issue of 6 July of this year. [More…]

• This bulletin is distributed fortnightly to approximately 700 persons and institutions in this country concerned with health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Although the demands Tor our services continue to grow in both the educational and clinical fields, we have insufficient funds to meet them and we are under instruction from the Federal Department of Health not to increase our clinic services. [More…]

• Has the Department of Health instructed the Family Planning Association of Tasmania Incorporated not to increase its clinic services? [More…]

• -In 1975 approval was given for the Family Planning Association of Tasmania to receive a grant and, since that year, the Department of Health, through the Minister, has continued to support the clinical activities of the Association and has increased its grant therefor in each financial year. [More…]

• In this context, the Tasmanian Association, along with associations in other States, was advised that there should be no expansion of current activities without the prior approval of the Department of Health. [More…]

• On 29 March of this year, in the other place, the Minister for Health appealed to the State governments to support the development of a comprehensive Australia-wide family planning program. [More…]

• It is not usual for State governments to provide to the Department of Health details of grants made to family planning organisations. [More…]

• This question relates to the report of the Inquiry into the Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Industry which Senator Durack, on my behalf, recently tabled in this place and which the Minister for Health tabled in the House of Representatives in September. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has advised that he will not be commenting on the report until after the Government has considered it. [More…]

• How does the Government see its responsibilities in the areas of health, education, community projects, et cetera? [More…]

• Notwithstanding the fact that once at an outstation one is likely to find that there is better social order, that drink is less of a problem, that diet improves and even, it is thought, that health improves, clearly there are problems in the areas raised by the honourable senator in his question in the delivery of services. [More…]

• The Commonwealth has retained responsibility for assisting outstations in the Northern Territory, but departments such as Health and Education are closely concerned with the need to provide facilities. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I said that the Minister for Health had some information on that study but, as it had been supplied to him on a confidential basis by the former South Australian [More…]

• Minister for Health, he was unable to release it. [More…]

• Findings of the study to date have also been made available to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This suggests an increased mortality from that cause, but in this respect the Minister for Health repeats what was said in September: There are a number of well-established causes of lung cancer amongst miners and it would be important to exclude these before it could be inferred that the excess mortality has been due to radiation. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for Health seen the recent recommendation of the World Health Organisation that non-smoking should be regarded as normal social behaviour and that all action which can promote the development of this attitude should be taken and, further, that there should be a total prohibition of all forms of tobacco promotion? [More…]

• Has the Minister noted the attempts of the tobacco industry to frustrate a public health campaign in northern New South Wales on the dangers of cigarette addiction? [More…]

• Is that despite the fact that the very serious health dangers of smoking are known and that the Australian Medical Association has confirmed the medical accuracy of the advertisements in question? [More…]

• Does the Minister accept as proper that the purveyors of a dangerous drug- cumulatively the most dangerous of all the addictive drugs in Australia- should be able to disrupt a public health campaign in this way? [More…]

• If the Minister cannot do anything about this procedural manoeuvre, will she have the Department of Health make a formal protest so that the tobacco industry is similarly forced to justify claims such as that a certain type of country is marlboro country, that a particular type of cigarette is cool and that another is as fresh as an alpine stream and so that such advertising is stopped until these claims can be clinically justified before an impartial tribunal? [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the recommendations of the World Health Organisation’s expert committee on smoking control. [More…]

• I understand that the dispute is between the advertising industry and the Health Commission of New South Wales. [More…]

• The Commonwealth is not directly involved in the dispute, but the Minister for Health regards health promotion as a most worthwhile activity and he deplores any attempts to disrupt it. [More…]

• The Minister for Health reminds honourable senators that smoking has been shown, beyond doubt, to be the major cause of diseases such as lung cancer and to contribute substantially to the development of many other diseases. [More…]

• The Government’s support for health promotion is evidenced by its recent allocation made to test a national health promotion program in 1979-80. [More…]

• 1 think that I will need to refer the specific questions raised by Senator Hamer to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I ask: In the information she has received from the new Government in South Australia, has she ascertained or will she attempt to ascertain whether the State Department of Health in South Australia investigated 600 employees out of a total of 3,000 employed on Radium Hill? [More…]

• I would need to have them referred to the Minister for Health to see whether he has that information from the report of the South Australian Government. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 1 8 September 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 19 September 1979; [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The laboratories in Western Australia (Kalgoorlie) and South Australia (Port Pirie) are small and do not have specialist medical pathologists on the staff; in these centres the local hospital or the State health authority is responsible for the performance of autopsies. [More…]

• -On 13 September 1979 (Hansard, page 657) Senator Gietzelt asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the variation in prices of proprietary pharmaceuticals from chemist to chemist. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Other than for pharmaceutical benefits, the Government has no power under the National Health Act to control prices charged by drug manufacturers or chemists for proprietary pharmaceuticals. [More…]

• The Trade Practices Commission does not come within the scope of the Health portfolio and I am unable to comment regarding what relief the Commission could provide to bring about some standardisation of prices to those pharmaceuticals which are not pharmaceutical benefit items. [More…]

• -On 13 September 1979 (Hansard, page 665) Senator Coleman asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the National Health and Medical Research Council ‘s activities in respect of health education and promotion. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• In view of the high priority placed by Council on prevention of disease, both a Health Education (Standing) Committee and a Community Health Promotion (Standing) Committee have been established. [More…]

• Both Committees work closely together and maintain close liaison with the Department of Health on the formulation of recommended policies aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles in the community. [More…]

• The Community Health Promotion (Standing) Committee investigates the problems of creating awareness amongst the practising medical profession and the necessity for a preventive approach to health problems by doctors and other health care professionals engaged in primary health care. [More…]

• The major target group is therefore the health care professionals themselves. [More…]

• The Health Education (Standing) Committee on the other hand examines the problems of arousing community and individual awareness. [More…]

• The objectives are the effective communication to members of the public of health information and the motivation to adopt healthy lifestyles. [More…]

• Community Health Promotion (Standing) Committee [More…]

• the goals of health promotion in the Australian community; [More…]

• appropriate strategies of health promotion; [More…]

• the role of health care professionals in preventive medicine. [More…]

• Dr R. Pigott, Health Commission of New South Wales (an educator) [More…]

• Dr T. Beard, Commonwealth Department of Health (co-opted member) [More…]

• An officer ofthe Commonwealth Department of Health (Secretary) [More…]

• Health Education (Standing) Committee [More…]

• To advise the Public Health Advisory Committee on matters concerning health education of the public. [More…]

• Mr J. T. Carr, Executive Officer, Health Education Council, Western Australia [More…]

• Dr C. O. Fuller, Principal Medical Officer, Environmental Health, South Australian Health Commission [More…]

• Ms C. Hawken, Capital Territory Health Commission [More…]

• Dr F. S. Soong, Health Education Specialist, Department of Health, Northern Territory [More…]

• Dr D. Sawyer, Health Commission of Victoria [More…]

• Dr D. A. Smith, Department of Health, Queensland [More…]

• Dr R. Piggott (nominee of Community Health Promotion (Standing) Committee) [More…]

• An officer of the Commonwealth Department of Health (Secretary) [More…]

• -On 24 May 1979 (Hansard, pages 2089-90) Senator Bishop asked the Minister representing the Minister for Veterans ‘ Affairs and the Minister for Health a question without notice concerning research into the occupational hazards of workers using the herbicide 2,4,5-T. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The Department of Employment and Youth Affairs has no further information but the function of collating and analysing such data is primarily the responsibility of the National Health and Medical Research Council in the Commonwealth sector. [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council which reports to the Minister for Health has kept the health aspects of the use of 2,4,5-T under review for many years. [More…]

• The Occupational Health Committee of Council has considered 2,4,5-T exposure and agrees with the Working Party that further restrictions are not warranted. [More…]

• Although the Department of Health itself has not carried out studies of occupational exposure to the herbicide, the officers of the Department are continuing to study scientific literature both from Australia and overseas. [More…]

• Routine biological monitoring of 2,4,5-T spray operators is carried out by State health authorities. [More…]

• The chemical used in Australia corresponds to the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council as to the dioxin content. [More…]

• The Joint Meeting of Experts on Pesticide Residues of the Food and Agriculture Organization and the World Health Organization. [More…]

• The World Health Organization Data Sheets on Pesticides. [More…]

• -On 28 August 1979 (Hansard, page 271), Senator Watson asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning possible profits made by public health funds. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The health insurance funds are registered under the National Health Act and are non-profit organisations. [More…]

• The contribution rates which are charged by the health funds must be approved by the Minister for Health after examination by the Registration Committee which is established under the National Health Act. [More…]

• Health funds are required under the Act to submit detailed financial statements, including income and expenditure statements and balance sheet, to my Department within three months ofthe close of each financial year. [More…]

• The financial operations of health funds are therefore subject to wide public scrutiny. [More…]

• It would be unnecessarily costly to distribute reports to all members and it is considered that the present arrangements provide sufficient scope for interested contributor members to obtain financial information on their health funds if they desire it. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 29 August 1 979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In 1977, the Health Insurance Act was amended to provide for fines of up to $ 10,000 or prison sentences of up to five years for each offence upon which conviction was announced. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 25 September 1979: [More…]

• Why have restrictions on leave of absence for long term nursing home patients been imposed by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• That the lead content levels in Australian motor spirit have been proven to have detrimental health effects on our child population. [More…]

• That the lead content levels in Australian motor spirit have been proven to have detrimental health effects on our child population. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I undertook to seek further information from the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The information available to the Minister for Health refers only to the deaths I have mentioned, which total 58. [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health developed its Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores in 1975 to ensure that the health of miners would not be affected. [More…]

• I indicated an attitude at that time but I have since had confirmation that the Department of Health has taken action at both ministerial and departmental level to obtain the agreement of registrars of births and deaths in all States, the Northern Territory and the Australian Capital Territory for the separate identification of Aboriginal Australians in birth and death registrations. [More…]

• The amendments will require a Commissioner to consult with his Deputy President before making or varying an award relating to wages and conditions; prohibit the Commission from ordering, recommending or sanctioning in any way, an employer paying wages to an employee for time when the employee was engaged in industrial action; provide for the expeditious hearing of stand-down applications, either before a single member of the Commission or a Full Bench; provide that the question of whether an industrial dispute exists may be the subject of a reference to a Full Bench; enable an industrial dispute or part of an industrial dispute to be referred to a Full Bench at the conciliation stage; reinforce the powers of the President of the Commission by enabling him to withdraw a matter from another member of the Commission and either deal with it himself or refer the matter to a Full Bench; and provide increased protection for the community by creating an alternative path to the deregistration of organisations and thereby remove delays in the deregistration process in cases where the safety, health or welfare of the community are put at risk by industrial action. [More…]

• The Government does not believe that any member of our community, whether a direct participant in industrial relations or not, should have to put up with tactics which threaten their health, safety or welfare. [More…]

• We will not stand by and watch while individual Australians are denied their right to obtain goods and services affecting their safety, health or welfare. [More…]

• The Government believes that the present deregistration provisions are not adequate to deal with the special circumstances where organisations, or sections of them, endanger the safety, health or welfare of Australian families. [More…]

• The Minister may apply to a Full Bench of the Commission for a declaration that industrial action by an organisation or a group of its members has had, is having, or is likely to have, a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community or a part of the. [More…]

• These new provisions are designed specifically to protect the job security, safety, health or welfare of Australian men and women and their families. [More…]

• I refer to the proposed new clause 7E where one of the specific grounds upon which an authorised officer can refuse a passport is a situation where the Minister has formed the opinion that if an Australian passport were issued to the person, the person would be likely to engage in conduct outside Australia that might, among other things, disrupt public order in the country or would endanger the health or welfare of persons in a country other than Australia. [More…]

• It seems to me that the grounds upon which that opinion can be formed about disruption of public order and endangering the health or welfare and so on are potentially enormously wide. [More…]

• 1 ) An authorised officer shall not issue an Australian passport to a person if the Minister has notified the authorised officer that, having had regard to the conduct of the person, the Minister has formed the opinion that, if an Australian passport were issued to the person, the person would be likely to engage in conduct outside Australia that might prejudice the security of, or disrupt public order in, a country other than Australia or would endanger the health or welfare of persons in a country other than Australia. [More…]

• One could equally draw attention to the fact that the increases that have taken place in the Budget for the National Health and Medical Research Council in the next year have been extremely small, that is, from $ 12.8m to only $14m, an increase in real terms of about half of one per cent. [More…]

• It goes on to make recommendations about the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Australian Research Grants Committee, the distribution of university funds, the central role that ASTEC has to play and the nature of the reports of the Universities Commission and various other groups and organisations which have made recommendations to the Government in this field. [More…]

• That requests for Commonwealth funds for scientific equipment or facilities costing between $0.15 million and $1.0 million in the medical and dental sciences be assessed by the National Health and Medical Research Council, placed in order of priority and submitted to the Minister for Health with supporting documentation; and that, if such requests are approved, the Government allocate funds to the National Health and Medical Research Council specifically [More…]

• That the funds available to the Australian Research Grants Committee and to the National Health and Medical Research Council for the support of research projects having exceptional merit and promise be steadily increased (in real terms) over the next five years; and that more emphasis be placed on the vigorous support of excellence. [More…]

• That the Category B research grants proposed by the Universities Commission in its Sixth Report (1975) be implemented as soon as possible and that ASTEC and other bodies such as the Australian Research Grants Committee and the National Health and Medical Research Council be consulted when the Centres of Concentration are being determined by the Tertiary Education Commission. [More…]

• That the funds available to the Australian Research Grants Committee and to the National Health and Medical Research Council for the support of research projects having exceptional merit and promise be steadily increased ( in real terms) over the next five years; and that more emphasis bc placed on the vigorous support of excellence. [More…]

• In the Department of Aboriginal Affairs there is the Australian Institute of Aboriginal Studies; in the Department of Administrative Services there is a commission of inquiry into drugs; the Attorney-General’s Department conducts criminology research and family studies; the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs has the National Standing Control Committee on Drugs of Dependence; the Department of the Capital Territory has a nature conservation committee; the Department of Defence has a defence science and technology organisation; the Department of Education has the Curriculum Development Centre and the Education Research and Development Committee; the Department of Employment and Youth Affairs has the National Training Council; the Department of Foreign Affairs has all of our international agreements; the Department of Health has the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories, the National Acoustics Laboratories, and the Australian Dental Standards Laboratory, et cetera; the Department of Home Affairs has the National Library of Australia; the Department of Housing and Construction has the Australian Housing Research Council; the Department of Immigration and Ethnic Affairs has the population study; the Department of Industrial Relations has the Trade Union Training Authority; the Department of Industry and Commerce has the Australian Manufacturing Council; the Department of National Development has the Bureau of Mineral Resources, Geology and Geophysics, the Australian Atomic Energy Commission and the Water Resources Council; the Postal and Telecommunications [More…]

• Department has the Overseas Telecommunications Commission (Australia); the Department of Primary Industry has the Bureau of Animal Health, the Commonwealth Council for Rural Research and Extension and the Australian Wine Research Institute; the Prime Minister’s Department has the Australian Science and Technology Council; the Department of Productivity has the industrial research and development bodies; the Department of Science and the Environment has a whole string of them; the Department of Social Security has the National Advisory Council for the Handicapped and the Social Welfare Policy Secretariat; the Department of Trade and Resources has the Uranium Advisory Council; and Treasury has the Bureau of Statistics. [More…]

• Wool Testing Authority, the Bureau of Meteorology, the Canberra College of Advanced Education, the Australian Chicken Meat Research Committee, the Commonwealth Practitioners Board, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, the Commonwealth Serum Laboratories Commission, the Criminology Research Council, the Curriculum Development Centre, the Environment Protection Commissioner, the Fishing Industry Research Committee, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the Institute of Family Studies, the Medical Research Endowment Fund, the Metric Conversion Board, the National Health Act Committee, the National Health and Medical Research Council, the Australian National Library, the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the National Standards Commission, the National Television Advisory Committee, the Oilseeds Research Committee, the Pig Industry Research Committee, the River Murray Commission, the Schools Commission, the Supervising Scientist for the Alligators Rivers Region, the Tertiary Education Commission, the Therapeutic Goods Committee, the Whaling Inspector and the Wheat Industry Research Council. [More…]

• As a comparison I draw attention to the extremely low levels of funding for research and investment through the National Health and Medical Research Council and seek similarly to incorporate in Hansard a table taken from the 1977 report of the National [More…]

• Health and Medical Research Council on comparative funding for medical research in selected countries. [More…]

• will suffer loss, injury, noise nuisance and injury to health as a result and will otherwise be damnified as set hereunder and whereas there are viable alternatives for the housing of the said substandard tenants which your Government has not explored [More…]

• AND WHEREAS the undersigned will suffer loss, injury, noise nuisance and injury to health as a result and will otherwise be damnified as set hereunder [More…]

• Your petitioners anticipate suffering health problems arising from the accumulation of large deposits of unsanitary domestic rubbish [More…]

• Your petitioners foresee that you intend to construct numerous special houses as aforesaid and to undermine the quality of life, general health, happiness and quiet enjoyment of life thereby depriving your petitioners of the minimum expectations of any Australian following the working ethic and contributing taxes to her Majesty’s Government [More…]

• We, the undersigned doctors, involved in aboriginal health in North Queensland consider that aboriginal health in this region has reached a crisis, and that there is an urgent need to improve this situation by the following measures. [More…]

• These now present the single most important health issue in these communities. [More…]

• We consider that self-determination and a sense of ownership of land is a basic human need, without which physical health cannot be improved. [More…]

• All health policies must consider the health of the community as defined by the World Health Organisationthe social psychological and physical well being of the people. [More…]

• The improved health policy in the Northern Territory was established by the Whitlam Labor Government. [More…]

• But a previous Minister for Health who sat in this chamber decided that the death rate at the Alice Springs Hospital was not really worth worrying about. [More…]

• I hope that the relevant documents and the facts I have outlined tonight will be referred to the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs and the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt), and that the Government will take some note of it. [More…]

• My colleague the Minister for Health has advised me that no anomalous increase in airborne radioactivity has been detected in this surveillance program. [More…]

• Has the health maintenance organisation operated by the Geoffrey Edelsten Foundation since 1 September 1979 become an authorised insurer under the Act? [More…]

• I am advised that the Insurance Commissioner has initiated inquiries for the purpose of establishing whether the activities of the health maintenance organisation operated by the Geoffrey Edelsten Foundation are insurance business within the meaning of the Insurance Act. [More…]

• I have just been reading the additional information supplied by the Department of Health. [More…]

• Health and agricultural authorities in this country have always been acutely aware of the dangers to our population and to our agricultural industries in general from the importation of overseas pests and diseases. [More…]

• These diseases are always present and ready to break out at times when public health facilities and provisions break down and when the general hygiene of the community fails. [More…]

• When health facilities break down in this way the danger to this country is very real and we must guard against it. [More…]

• I confess a similar problem but I suspect, although it is not explained in the second reading speech, that it is because of the huge volume of travellers now coming to Australia and because the health cards, which are checked at the port of entry, are considered to be sufficient protection for the Australian population and for the Australian livestock and plant industries. [More…]

• Senator Thomas’s reference to foot and mouth disease reminded me of a letter by Mr Toomer who, as honourable senators may already be aware, has now tendered his resignation on the grounds of ill-health. [More…]

• The cheese import restriction may or may not be valid but on performance it is unlikely that the Department of Health is capable of judging this. [More…]

• He devoted his entire working life to the Quarantine Division of the Department of Health. [More…]

• He was concerned that officers in the Health Department had no knowledge of quarantine procedures. [More…]

• Other reports were headed: ‘Hedland health threat from sea’ and Council to ask for quarantine incinerator’. [More…]

• The activities of the Department and the bureaucracy over the last few years have caused a breakdown in his health. [More…]

• As I see it, there has been an enormous shift throughout this century in relation to our perspective of quarantine, from an emphasis on human health to matters of animal and plant quarantine. [More…]

• The Act that it is proposed to amend by this Bill was first passed in 1908 and the parlance of the Act is in terms of human health matters, human quarantine. [More…]

• Right from the beginning the Department concerned with the question of quarantine has been the Department of Health, and the Minister responsible for quarantine has been the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This follows this early emphasis upon human health. [More…]

• Our primary industries, let alone the health of the Australian people, are of enormous consequence to our country. [More…]

• Despite this shift of emphasis in all the instances that I have mentioned, to animal and plant disease rather than human health quarantine, we have not yet seen a reflection of the change in the legislation which has passed through the Parliament and which guides the maintenance of quarantine procedure by the Government. [More…]

• I have high respect for the officers of the Department of Health who are pressing ahead with negotiations and discussions with industry leaders to develop such contingency plans, but the plans are not fully and publicly able to be circulated in every industry. [More…]

• In fact, as honourable senators know, when one re-enters Australia or when one comes into Australia for the first time one receives from the Commonwealth Department of Health a little yellow pamphlet- a health warning- which one is advised to hold for six weeks and to hand to one’s doctor if one becomes ill in that period. [More…]

• Of course, I speak for the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in this matter and I can only say, from the interests that I have in a connected way relating to the research into some of the problems that are aimed at by the amendment to the Quarantine Act, that it presents perhaps one of the most important aspects of legislation in this country. [More…]

• I have no doubt that the comments made will be taken into account by the officers of the Department of Health, and certainly by the Minister as he studies those remarks. [More…]

• When there is argument in relation to a particular policy or procedure taken by the Department of Health certainly we would seek to amend it, but it probably could be done in a less expensive way than Mr Toomer has sought to do. [More…]

• I noted that Senator Thomas’s Committee had shown its interest by visiting ANAHL- the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory- just a week or so before I was there and had seen that quite impressive building getting under way. [More…]

• I believe that a good government and a good Minister, led by a department with the record that the Department of Health has, will give every consideration, as the Bill allows, to what is appropriate. [More…]

• He relies on always having a good, reliable Minister for Health and a good, reliable Department of Health. [More…]

• I would have thought that as officers of the Department of Health were at most of the hearings that our Committee held, some action would have been taken to put a clause in this Bill so that we could destroy imports like this immediately they are brought to the attention of the authorities. [More…]

• These things are well known to the Department of Health. [More…]

• The language reinforces the fact that the Minister for Health is given a discretion to award or approve the payment of compensation. [More…]

• The Minister also said that there may be cases where the Minister for Health thinks that the person concerned may have himself introduced the disease into his herd by presumably illegally importing some materials, plant or animal which itself was diseased, but in a way which has not been susceptible to proof before the court, and is just known to the quarantine service. [More…]

• There is very close co-operation between officers of the Bureau of Customs and the Department of Health, and there is close consultation on all these matters. [More…]

• In relation to the point of appeal that was mentioned, I am informed by officers of the Attorney-General’s Department that the appropriate form of appeal against a decision of the Minister for Health not to approve compensation would be to the Federal Court of Australia under the provisions of the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act. [More…]

• The points that have been raised by honourable senators will be taken into account by the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I did not think I would have to speak to the motion for the third reading of the Bill but my contribution has been brought about by a statement made by the Minister for Science and the Environment (Senator Webster) in his reply to the second reading debate when he made mention of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory in Victoria and said that primary producers should be grateful to his Government for establishing the laboratory. [More…]

• I think the Minister is well aware that it was the Labor Government which acquired the old Geelong rifle range and which made the public announcement to which I have referred in this Parliament many times that it was prepared to provide funds to the tune of $56m for the establishment of an animal health laboratory. [More…]

• Committee, the National Health and Medical Research Council, the National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Council and the Education Research and Development Committee, which are responsible to my colleagues the Ministers for Science and the Environment, Health and National Development and myself respectively. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 13 September 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The danger of poisonous chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• That the lead content levels in Australian motor spirit have been proven to have detrimental health effects on our child population. [More…]

• Your petitioners most humbly pray that the Senate, in the Parliament assembled, should, being mindful of the recreational needs, health and well-being of present and future generations, including the Scout and Cub Groups whose hall is sited on Fisher Place Park, take measures to ensure that this parkland be preserved and gazetted a parkland. [More…]

• If so, in view of the Ranger report findings that Aboriginals procuring food and water from the Magela catchment are likely to be exposed to high levels of ingested radioactive radium, around the maximum allowed by the recommendations of the International Commission on Radiological Protection, and considering that these findings do not take into account the even larger releases of radium from the Pancontinental mine, can the Minister say whether the health of Aboriginals at the Cannon Hill outstation will be jeopardised by mining at Ranger and Jabiluka? [More…]

• It deals with the recent utterances of senior Ministers of the Thatcher Government in which they have accused overseas visitors of sponging and of being bludgers- a word which I do not use- in relation to the British health system and even employment rights, as though they are going to put the cleaners through everybody. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: What legislative safeguards and penalties are provided to ensure that all organisations providing health insurance benefits and /or pre-paid health services have their operations registered under the National Health Act? [More…]

• Is the health maintenance organisation operated by the Geoffrey Edelsten Foundation in the western suburbs of Sydney registered as a benefit organisation under the National Health Act? [More…]

• There are no legislative provisions or penalties which ensure that all organisations which provide health insurancetype benefits and /or pre-paid health services are registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• I understand that the Geoffrey Edelsten Foundation is not registered under the National Health Act. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she recalls replying last Thursday to a question that I had asked on the previous Tuesday and giving figures of deaths from cancer in the various classifications of employment at Radium Hill, South Australia. [More…]

• I will be happy to seek from the Minister for Health any further information that can be provided on the question that was answered for Senator Cavanagh. [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health: Do safety containers for medicines add to the difficulty many elderly or disabled people experience in keeping to their prescribed medication regime? [More…]

• I will refer that question to the Minister for Health for a response. [More…]

• However, I will see what the Minister for Health is able to provide by way of a response to the matter that was raised. [More…]

• In the light of this and other questions which have been raised since the Government produced its nuclear safeguards proposal, will there now be a reexamination to ensure that those safeguards are adequate for the health and welfare of people involved in the mining, processing and transportation of uranium or yellowcake and particularly the health and welfare of those people who are presently living in the vicinity of the nuclear installation at Lucas Heights? [More…]

• Senator Maunsell dealt quite correctly with the fact that this Government has encouraged primary industry in all its forms and has been responsible to some extent for the continued health of our various primary industries. [More…]

• Not having it made a great deal of industrial disruption and there’s finally a need to protect the public interest where the safety health and welfare . [More…]

• the industrial action has had, is having, or is likely to have, a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community or of a part of the community, the Full Bench shall make a declaration that it is so satisfied and cause the declaration to be recorded in writing. [More…]

• A Minister by his own action can march before the Full Bench, and the Full Bench obviously has to make the declaration if there is what is claimed to be a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community, which could be anything. [More…]

• In defence, it is argued by the Minister that there has to be a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health and welfare of the community. [More…]

• The provisions to which I have referred will remain, so the court will retain those powers but similar powers to act will be granted to the Executive after a Full Bench of the Commission has determined that industrial action by an organisation or a group of its members has had, is having or is likely to have, a substantially adverse effect on the safety, health and welfare of the community, or a part of the community. [More…]

• Finally, they provide increased protection for the community by creating an alternative path to the deregistration of organisations and thereby remove delays in the deregistration process in cases where the safety, health or welfare- in other words, I believe, the public interest- of the community are put at risk by industrial action. [More…]

• There is no shadow of doubt that this sort of severe penalty would be applied only in the most severe circumstances, which under this legislation are a threat to health, to welfare and to safety. [More…]

• The Minister can ask that a matter be considered by the Full Bench of the Commission as it is a threat to the safety, health or welfare of the community- in other words, a threat to the public interest. [More…]

• Minister of the Crown a right to start deregistration proceedings against a union or part of a union engaging in any industrial action that is considered to be harming community safety, health or welfare. [More…]

• This legislation before the chamber tonight is further evidence that my Government is prepared to fight for the rights of the individual and the rights of the Australian people to be able to go about their way of life- I quote from the legislation- free of any: substantial adverse effect on their safety, health and welfare. [More…]

• That is the amendment which says that if the Minister believes that industrial action is likely to have or is having substantial adverse effects on the safety, health and welfare of the community he may apply to the Full Bench of the Commission for a declaration. [More…]

• It is then up to the Full Bench to say whether it believes that that industrial action is having a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health and welfare of the community. [More…]

• I believe that that is a typical example of a strike affecting the safety, health and welfare of the community. [More…]

• The Full Bench must agree with the Minister that there are in fact grounds for a declaration of substantial adverse effects on the health, safety or welfare of the community. [More…]

• As I outlined to this Parliament before, Bartters are the same people who dumped contaminated egg pulp in Victoria and could not give a hoot about the health and welfare of people in cafes and baker shops and those sorts of places who used their contaminated pulp. [More…]

• Action had to be taken by the New South Wales Health Commission to prevent Bartters from continuing with that practice. [More…]

• I preface my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health by drawing the Senate’s attention to the recent Australian Broadcasting Commission television program in which a scientist from the Research School of Biological Sciences at the Australian National University stated that many of our quarantine laws are framed in biological ignorance. [More…]

• An announcement to this effect was made on 9 July last in a joint press statement by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and the Australian Associated Brewers. [More…]

• In addition, there are the Family Support Services Scheme, the Community Health Program and the welfare housing programs. [More…]

• It will have a threshold role of making a declaration if an application is made to it- a declaration which can be satisfied in really the most extraordinarily trivial circumstances- for example, if there are but two or more individual unionists engaged in some form of industrial action which could be taken by the Commission to constitute and to amount to some substantial interference with the health or welfare of the community. [More…]

• Honourable senators know how wide the definition of industrial action is since the recent amendments to this legislation- and (b) the industrial action has had, is having, or is likely to have, a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community or of a part of the community . [More…]

• A strike by two milkmen in a country town of 35 people could constitute a substantial threat to the health and welfare of a part of the Australian community. [More…]

• In relation to this matter of deregistration the words used must refer to a substantial effect on safety, health and welfare of the community or part of the community. [More…]

• In Western Europe the state picks up the tab, by taxation, for medical and health charges. [More…]

• The people there are not in the desperate position of the people here when it comes to health insurance. [More…]

• If this Government wanted to do something positive it would have kept its word when it was returned to office in 1975 and emulated Western Europe and the United Kingdom by having a set policy whereby the state provides universal health insurance via taxation. [More…]

• Each time the Government meddles with the health funds, as it does, it creates more and more uncertainty with her. [More…]

• the industrial action has had, is having, or is likely to have, a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community or of a part of the community, [More…]

• But for example, if people have a genuine, informed belief that their lives or health and that of their fellow workers are being unnecessarily endangered by substandard procedures or conditions, they are justified in refusing to work. [More…]

• If the Minister decides that an issue affecting the health, safety and welfare of the community is of such importance that deregistration action should be taken, he must make application to the Full Bench and he has to justify his position in a Full Bench hearing. [More…]

• The industrial action has had, is having, or is likely to have, a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community or of a part of the community. [More…]

• Safety, health and welfare are very vague terms, and a small part of the community may well be affected by some industrial action. [More…]

• It is so unusual, discourteous and unparliamentary for the Attorney-General to walk out of the chamber that I am worried that something has happened to him or that he is ill. Perhaps we should make some inquiries about his health. [More…]

• There is a provision in the legislation which says that the declaration must be made if the health, safety and welfare of any people are affected. [More…]

• If we go to page 2 of the second reading speech, we find the Minister saying that the legislation will provide increased protection for the community by creating an alternative path to the deregistration of organisations, and thereby remove delays in the deregistration process in cases where the safety, health and welfare of the community are put at risk by industrial action. [More…]

• There is no thought for the health and welfare of the workers at large who have to go on strike to get justice. [More…]

• The legislation will require a commissioner to consult with his deputy president before making or varying an award relating to wages and conditions; prohibit the Australian Conciliation and Arbitration Commission from ordering, recommending or sanctioning an employer paying wages to an employee for time when the employee was engaged in industrial action; provide for the expeditious hearing of a stand-down application, either before a single member of the Commission or a Full Bench; provide that the question of whether an industrial dispute exists may be the subject of a reference to a Full Bench; enable an industrial dispute or part of an industrial dispute to be referred to a Full Bench at the conciliation stage; reinforce the powers of the President of the Commission by enabling him to withdraw a matter from another member of the Commission and either deal with it himself or refer the matter to a Full Bench; and provide increased protection for the community by creating an alternative path to the deregistration of organisations in cases where the safety, health or welfare of the community are put at risk by industrial action. [More…]

• This provision means that in special cases where there is a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community because of industrial action, application can be made to the Full Bench of the Commission, which has to hear the application and to deter mine whether those conditions are satisfied. [More…]

• The Full Bench has to determine whether in fact the industrial action has had, is having, or is likely to have, a substantial adverse effect on the safety, health or welfare of the community or a part of the community. [More…]

• It is only because of the urgency of the matter in the particular threat to the safety, health or welfare of the community that the Government is proposing these additional and more expeditious powers. [More…]

• Noting that, while millions starve, expenditure on the arms race is $1,000 million per day for the World, and $7m per day for Australia; and noting that the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has listed ‘peace and disarmament’ as a theme for the International Year of the Child; and further noting that a reduction in expenditure on arms could contribute in both developed and developing countries to the eradication of hunger and disease and to the provision of more adequate housing, education, health services, economic security and social welfare for all people: [More…]

• I understand that the Vietnamese authorities have not agreed to date to allow Australian migration officers to interview persons seeking entry to Australia for residence, nor is it possible for applicants to undergo other normal migrant procedures such as health examinations within Vietnam. [More…]

• -Certainly senators from Tasmania, indeed all honourable senators, will be interested to know that on 22 October the chief veterinary officer of the Tasmanian Department of Agriculture reported to the Director of the Bureau of Animal Health that there was a possibility of an exotic disease in a piggery near Launceston. [More…]

• Although the Minister claims that there will be enormous benefits in the delivery of health and education services through a communications satellite, there has been no mention of either the Department of Health or the Department of Education or, for that matter, the Schools Commission, and no details at all have been given as to how these Departments could use the technology to improve their services. [More…]

• This Bill does extend the program, but neither the Bill nor the second reading speech tell us very much about the future of the program, except that some youth refuges will be established under the Youth Services Program in the Office of Child Care, that some homeless people already receive support under the Community Health Program- that is, women’s shelters, and they have done so for four or five years- and that other homeless people receive support from welfare housing and the Family Support Services Scheme. [More…]

• That women’s refuges ended up with the Community Health Program because of impatience with progress at the time- it was done when Labor was in officeand because more funds were available in that area is to be regretted. [More…]

• I recall that last time we debated this legislation I quoted from the poverty inquiry papers such as ‘Health Studies of Disadvantaged Groups’ and ‘Homeless Persons and the Law’. [More…]

• All of these papers point out that we have a group which has a consistently higher rate of alcoholism, of general health problems, of respiratory and hepatic diseases, of tuberculosis and of venereal diseases, a high pattern of inadequate or broken schooling- although some are quite well educated- a consistent inability to maintain reasonable personal relationships, a consistently high unemployment rate, a high rate of clashes with the law for vagrancy and other petty crimes. [More…]

• Most need shelter, a home base and treatment of their health, nutritional, alcoholism or other problems, but they do not wish to be told how to live or how to conform to society’s ideas of what is proper. [More…]

• Mrs Jennifer Adamson, the Liberal member for Coles and now Minister for Health in South Australia, wrote on 6 April 1979 to the directors of Advertiser Newspapers Ltd. She addressed the letter to Mr John Bonython, Chairman of Directors, and sent copies to the following directors: Sir Arthur Rymill, J. McEwin, Mr E. H. Burgess, Mr B. Macklin, Sir Phillip Jones, Mr P. J. Owens and Mr Brian Sallis. [More…]

• This is an international program designed to expand Bangladeshi facilities for maternal and child health care and for family planning services. [More…]

• This project will be followed by the Second IDA Bangladesh Population Project which is designed to reduce fertility, mortality and morbidity by strengthening the Bangladesh population and health programs. [More…]

• In Thailand, Australia is provoiding an estimated $2.6m in a co-financing arrangement with the IDA for the expansion of family planning services and the extension of the Thai rural health network. [More…]

• Aspects of other projects, such as those oriented towards health and nutrition, can of course also be considered as involvement in the population sector. [More…]

• Since the World Population Conference in 1974, assistance to the population sector is no longer considered to be limited to family planning activities, but instead is considered to embrace activities in all areas that influence population- such as nutrition, sanitation, health, education, the status of women and economic factors. [More…]

• Has the Minister representing the Minister for National Development seen the report of a two-year survey, headed by Professor L. Smythe of the University of New South Wales, which slates that almost a quarter of 1,200 children tested in Sydney had levels of lead in their blood above those found to cause adverse effects on health and behaviour? [More…]

• I also ask whether it is reasonable that large sections of the community be exposed to high levels of lead, carbon monoxide and dioxide and sulphur dioxide, when the remedy is in the Government’s hands- to promote the use of liquid petroleum gas, which contains only minute quantities of pollutants and, at the same time, to bring about huge savings in oil imports and public health costs. [More…]

• I am aware of the report prepared by Professor Smythe and I would like to point out that this is more properly a matter for the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I would also like to assure the honourable senator that the matter of lead emissions is kept under continuous review by the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• And noting that the U.N. Children’s Fund, UNICEF, has listed ‘peace and disarmament’ as a theme for the International Year of the Child; and further noting that a reduction in expenditure on arms could contribute in both developed and developing countries to the eradication of hunger and disease and to the provision of more adequate housing, education, health services, economic security and social welfare for all people: [More…]

• -I refer the Minister representing the Minister for Health to an item in the daily Press which quotes the Minister for Health as stating that in 1970-71 the total expenditure on health was less than $2 billion, whilst it is now between $7.5 billion and $8 billion. [More…]

• The Minister stated further that, even accounting for inflation, health expenditure as a percentage of gross domestic product had grown from 5 per cent to nearly 8 per cent in the past eight years. [More…]

• Can the Minister inform the Senate how the present per capita expenditure on health in Australia compares with such expenditure in other countries? [More…]

• I understand that in Australia expenditure on health costs is approaching 8 per cent of gross domestic product. [More…]

• The strategy of the Commonwealth Government has been to contain health costs, and the actual rise in total health costs between 1 976 and 1977-78 was successfully held to about 10.7 per cent, compared with a 35 per cent increase a few years previously. [More…]

• State governments are increasingly supporting the Federal Government in the containment of health costs. [More…]

• I draw to the attention of the Minister representing the Minister for Health the fact that today is Universal Children ‘s Day and that the theme ‘Adequate NutritionThe Right of Every Child’ is being promoted. [More…]

• Will the Minister advise the Senate what steps have been taken by the Department of Health to implement the recommendations of the Senate Standing Committee on Education and the Arts report on children and television, which was tabled in the Senate last year and which referred to the health and nutrition of children? [More…]

• Has there been a meeting between the Commonwealth Department of Health, the Australian Medical Association, the Australian Dental Association and the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal with a view to drawing up a set of proposals to control the advertising on television of products which pose a health and nutrition risk to children? [More…]

• I am advised by the Minister for Health that in June of this year a working party of the National Health and Medical Research Council was set up to consider television advertising of foods which was directed to children. [More…]

• The membership of the working party includes representatives of the Commonwealth Department of Health, the Australian Medical Association, the Australian Dental Association and the Australian Broadcasting Tribunal. [More…]

• I am sure that the Minister for Health will make a comment at that time. [More…]

• Pursuant to section 76A of the National Health Act 1953 I present the annual report on the operations of the registered medical and hospital benefits organisations for the year ended 30 June 1978. [More…]

• The United States has made clear that a primary consideration in deciding whether to proceed will be the health, safety and environmental impact of such a project. [More…]

• Over the last few weeks I have answered, on behalf of the Minister for Health, questions from both Senator Collard and Senator Cavanagh relating to individual aspects of a study of causes of death amongst miners formerly employed at Radium Hill. [More…]

• I am advised that there is no formal written report of this study, which is being carried out by officers of the South Australian Health Commission. [More…]

• To protect miners’ health, the Department of Health developed the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores in 1975. [More…]

• But the governments of the Third World are now spending as much on military programs as on education and health care combined. [More…]

• Public health expenditures amount, on a world scale, to only 60 per cent or so of military expenditures. [More…]

• In all cases, the amount of resources consumed in the military sector is very large compared with the social expenditure of governments, even in such important fields as education and health, indicating the unfortunate priorities that govern the allocation of public funds throughout the world. [More…]

• The vast benefits which could result from even trifling cuts in military expenditures and the reallocation of the funds thus saved are particularly obvious in the field of health. [More…]

• The World Health Organisation spent around $83m over ten years to eradicate smallpox in the world. [More…]

• What is of concern at the moment is that the governments of the Third World, the underdeveloped countries, are increasing their expenditure on armaments at the expense of urgently needed programs for education and health and the development of their infrastructures. [More…]

• He pointed out that even trifling cuts in military expenditure could bring about immense benefits for mankind, particularly in the field of health. [More…]

• He pointed out that the World Health Organisation spent around $83m- a mere $83m, mere compared with military expenditure- to eradicate smallpox over a 10-year period. [More…]

• We have an absolutely irrational, diabolical situation in which the world continues to engage in expenditure which has as its aim the maiming and killing of fellow human beings instead of the re-creation of the face of the earth, sustaining people and enabling them to grow in a relative degree of health and with hope. [More…]

• The Social Services Amendment Bill, the Repatriation Acts Amendment Bill and the National Health Amendment Bills account for some 25 per cent of Budget expenditure, and some 50 per cent of taxation revenue. [More…]

• Extension of the standard rate of pension to wife pensioners where they or their pensioner husbands are likely to lose the economies of living together by reason of failing health. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) indicated in his ministerial statement on 21 August one area of great concern to pensioners has been the income test limits for pensioner fringe benefits. [More…]

• Commonwealth fringe benefits available to pensioners holding pensioner health benefit cards include access to bulk billing of medical fees; a range of free pharmaceuticals; access to free optometrical consultations and hearing aids; a one-third reduction in telephone rentals and some reductions in fares on Commonwealth rail and shipping services. [More…]

• It is estimated that some additional 25,000 pensioners and recipients of sheltered employment allowance with 5,000 dependants will qualify for pensioner health benefits as a result of these increases. [More…]

• As the Minister for Health also indicated in his ministerial statement of 2 1 August, the Government has for some time been aware of differences in the treatment of sole parents receiving Class ‘A’ widow’s pension and supporting parent’s benefit. [More…]

• They were not eligible for pensioner health benefits. [More…]

• We have now decided to extend eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards to supporting parents subject to the liberalised pensioner fringe benefit income test outlined above. [More…]

• The extension involves amendments to the National Health Act and the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• It is estimated that some 56,000 supporting parent beneficiaries, including 2,500 men, with 96,000 dependants will qualify for pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• As a result their health costs will be reduced significantly. [More…]

• Eligibility for fringe benefits provided by State government and other organisations is usually restricted to holders of pensioner health benefit cards. [More…]

• The extension of these benefits to supporting parent beneficiaries and to pensioners with private income between the existing and proposed income limits of pensioner health benefits eligibility will be a matter for the States and other responsible bodies. [More…]

• I have already introduced the National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• This Bill contains a further measure to give effect to the Government’s decision, as announced by the Treasurer (Mr Howard) in the Budget Speech, to extend eligibility for pensioner health benefit cards to supporting parents. [More…]

• By virtue of section 10 of the Health Insurance Act 1973, eligible pensioners, as defined in the Act, are entitled to Commonwealth medical benefits at the rate of 85 per cent of the schedule fee, or the amount of the schedule fee less $5, whichever is the higher. [More…]

• As honourable senators will realise, the effect of the amendment will be to entitle supporting parents who satisfy the pensioner health benefits income test to Commonwealth medical benefits at the level applicable to eligible pensioners generally. [More…]

• As I stated when introducing the National Health Bill (No. [More…]

• This Bill provides for amendment of the Repatriation Act and the Seamen’s War Pensions and Allowances Act to give effect to the Government’s Budget decisions covering introduction of service pensions for allied veterans; twice-yearly indexation of the main repatriation pensions; increases in the contribution that service pensioners in benevolent homes must make towards meeting the cost of their care and accommodation; easing of access to pensioner health benefits by raising the maximum levels of income that a service penioner may receive before becoming ineligible to receive such benefits; and increases in the levels of Attendant’s Allowance and Orphans’ Pension. [More…]

• The only other benefit which they may be able to receive would be a pensioner health benefits card, issued to age and service pensioners by the Department of Social Security and the Depanment of Veterans’ Affairs respectively and which requires the veteran to satisfy a further income test. [More…]

• The maximum levels of income which a service pensioner may earn before becoming ineligible to receive pensioner health benefits, repatriation medical treatment and other Commonwealth benefits, such as telephone rental concessions, are to be increased from 1 November 1979. [More…]

• Last night we heard Senator Grimes, as a medical practitioner, speak of some of the pressures which are being applied to those people and which are affecting their health. [More…]

• However, as has been stated throughout the debate, the youth services program is one in which the States are working on a matching basis with the Commonwealth Government, and the community health program, under which women’s refuges are funded, is another program where the States are working well with the Commonwealth Government. [More…]

• At the end of 7 June 1979 there were 3 12,000 people on unemployment benefits, 32,400 on sickness benefits, and 12,000 on special benefits, making a total of 357,300 beneficiaries who are not entitled to health, pharmaceutical, transport and telephone concessions. [More…]

• It is actions like this- the failure to index unemployment benefits for those without dependants and the failure to recognise that those under 18 years of age have a considerable problem when they are unemployed- that belie the statement which is repeated in various forms by the Minister for Social Security in every second reading speech which has been made in the social security and health package of Bills. [More…]

• They do not include health care entitlements and other fringe benefits available to pensioners and not available to the unemployed. [More…]

• I suggest to the Government- I implore the Government- that now that it has taken the step of giving the pensioner health benefit card to lone parents, having ignored the objections of and not having consulted with the medical profession, it is time for the unemployed, or at least the long term unemployed, to be considered disadvantaged in the terms of the National Health Act for the period of their unemployment as part of the law of this land and for the medical profession to be required to treat them as such. [More…]

• For some of these benefits the Commonwealth Government is responsible but the States also provide certain assistance to those who hold a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• Both supporting mothers and fathers are now entitled to the fringe benefits that are associated with possession of the health benefit card. [More…]

• That the lead content levels in Australian motor spirit have been proven to have detrimental health effects on our child population. [More…]

• 3 ) The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• Noting that, while millions starve, expenditure on the arms race is $ 1 , 000m per day for the World, and $7m per day for Australia; and noting that the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has listed ‘peace and disarmament’ as a theme for the International Year of the Child; and further noting that a reduction in expenditure on arms could contribute in both developed and developing countries to the eradication of hunger and disease and to the provision of more adequate housing, education, health services, economic security and social welfare for all people: [More…]

• -The Minister for Health has seen the criticism by the General Practitioners Society in Australia. [More…]

• I ask: Having in mind the problems that exist in the fields of Aboriginal health, education and employment and the fact that a large number of organisations, including government departments and authorities and community organisations, participate in these areas, does the Government acknowledge that there appears to be a lack of efficiency and a degree of high cost associated with many, although not all, of these organisations, where consultation and liaison is minimal, and there is much overlapping and duplication of effort? [More…]

• I assure the honourable senator that I do have in mind the problems, which he described in prefacing his question, in the fields of Aboriginal health, education and employment. [More…]

• In the field of health, I have promoted a series of discussions among State health authorities, Aboriginal medical services, my own Department and the Commonwealth Department of Health to try to ensure that we do reduce to a minimum any areas of duplication and waste, and also in the hope that we can develop more common approaches to the problems that have been tackled by different agencies. [More…]

• I also question the fact that I, as Opposition spokesman on health, have yet to see the report. [More…]

• We concede that the Social Services Amendment Bill, the National Health Insurance Amendment Bills, the Repatriation Acts Amendment Bill and the Overseas Students Charge Bills are important, but we do not concede that it has been necessary for them to be so delayed in coming into the House of Representatives or the Senate. [More…]

• I wish to respond to a point that Senator Grimes made and to place on record the fact that the delay in passing the social service and associated health and repatriation Bills in another place was due, at least in part, to the Government’s responding to a request by the shadow Minister in that place and as a result of special arrangements being made to allow him to attend an Estimates committee hearing. [More…]

• I would expect that these people in homes would be largely elderly people who may smoke and who may well not achieve anything by way of longevity or good health by giving up smoking. [More…]

• I wonder what the justification is for such a very small sum, even though it corresponds with other sums available under the health legislation. [More…]

• Under the health scheme we have the disadvantaged patients’ scheme which is implemented at the whim of the doctor. [More…]

• They would not have this extra burden of health costs which, if the patients are not in a suitable area or not near to public health facilities, may mean them taking some of their meagre income to pay health insurance costs. [More…]

• The surveys carried out by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show that a disturbing number of the percentage of the people on unemployment benefit have to contribute to voluntary health funds for their own peace of mind and protection. [More…]

• I am sure that if there is a way of dealing with those who are longterm unemployed people, we would wish to see that they have some access to health care and other benefits as do those who are on the more permanent pensions and other benefit schemes. [More…]

• Many of the problems in the areas of social welfare and health stem from the fact that families are under economic pressure. [More…]

• -The National Health Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 3) 1979 and the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• In fact, it provides for them to become holders of pensioner health benefit cards and to be entitled to free pharmaceutical benefits. [More…]

• Lone parents will now receive the health benefits and pharmaceutical benefits that should be available to disadvantaged people in the community. [More…]

• I am reminded of one of the national health debates we had in this place when I was sitting on the other side of the chamber and when Senator Button and I used to debate regularly with Senator Baume and Senator Sheil the national health legislation, the purpose of which was to bring in the national health insurance scheme. [More…]

• In the past, when the pensioner health benefit has been extended it has been the custom or the convention for the Government to consult with the Australian Medical Association as to the number of people who would be added to the pensioner health list. [More…]

• Pensioners who hold Health Benefit Entitlement Cards are voluntarily treated by doctors at discounted fees. [More…]

• Services to pensioners eligible for health benefit cards already constitute 25 per cent of the average doctor’s work load and in many practices a much higher percentage. [More…]

• I congratulate the Government for taking it upon itself to decide who is disadvantaged in this community and who deserves to have pensioner health cards. [More…]

• When we wish to extend the pensioner health benefits to further groups of pensioners, to raise the fringe benefit level, to enable long term unemployed people to receive treatment as disadvantaged patients or even to receive pensioner health benefit equivalents, we will introduce that legislation. [More…]

• I wish to deal with the Health Insurance Amendment Bill (No. [More…]

• 2) 1979, which seeks to amend section 3 of the Health Insurance Act. [More…]

• I take the opportunity to remind the Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) of what she said on page 1632 of the Senate Hansard on 25 October 1978 in response to my questions at the Committee stage of the health insurance legislation being considered at that time. [More…]

• She also mentioned that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) and his Department would want to hear about the type of case I have mentioned because the Government intends to take whatever action is necessary to overcome any difficulties that may result from the Government’s proposals for disadvantaged persons’. [More…]

• I wonder whether the Minister, in her reply to the second reading debate, will advise the Senate what advice has been given to the Australian Medical Association about these particular circumstances and what instructions have been given to the State officers of the Department of Health for dealing with such complaints from individual patients. [More…]

• I can only refer to the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) the matter that has been raised by Senator Harradine and seek from him details of what negotiations have been undertaken with the Australian Medical Association and how complaints such as those he has instanced are dealt with when they are brought to the Minister’s attention. [More…]

• The saving in a full year was estimated by the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) in another place to be of the order of $4m. [More…]

• This was compounded by the fact that repatriation pensioners in particular, but also some civilian pensioners, did not benefit by the 1.5 per cent reduction in the consumer price index which was due to changes in health insurance arrangements introduced from 1 November 1978, although those arrangements were subsequently changed in the mini-Budget of 1979. [More…]

• Because repatriation pensioners did not have to take out private insurance or to pay the levy before 1 November 1978, they did not benefit from the 1.5 per cent relative reduction in the consumer price index due to the changes in health insurance arrangements. [More…]

• But they will be eligible to receive income-tested service pensions and funeral benefits and may be eligible to receive a pensioner health benefit card. [More…]

• We all know that the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) has had imposed on him numerous and contradictory health scheme changes. [More…]

• Over the past three or four years they have just become used to one health measure when it has been changed and they have had to get used to another. [More…]

• These changes were not designed to serve the health provisions of the nation; rather they were designed to serve the fiscal needs of this Government. [More…]

• It seems clear to me that this scheme was made on the run, just as were the health policies that I described a couple of minutes ago. [More…]

• School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine: Pre-natal Statistics Unit (Question No. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• and (c) The unit has recently been established under the directorship of Dr P. A. L. Lancaster, M.B., B.S., F.R.A.C.P., whose training has been in neonatal paediatrics and in health statistics and epidemiology. [More…]

• Senator GuilfoyleOn 28 August 1979 (Hansard, page 268), Senator Townley asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning the printing of the percentage of alcohol on the labels of beer containers. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• Over the past few years the printing of the alcoholic content on alcoholic beverage containers has been the subject of investigation by the Food Standards Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council and the Australian Health Ministers’ Conference Working Party on Alcohol. [More…]

• -On 11 October 1979 (Hansard, page 1213), Senator Townley asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health in the Senate, a question without notice concerning the listing of ingredients on the labels of food and drink containers. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council (NH and MRC) at its eighty-fifth session in June 1978 recommended that amendments to the NH and MRC Standard for Labelling providing for ingredient labelling of packaged foods, should be adopted by States and Territories. [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she saw an article in the Australian yesterday which stated in part that the cost to health funds of supplying to the Federal Government statistics and details of each medical service is a main reason for the high cost of health insurance? [More…]

• Is it true that the average cost of supplying the information is $2.40 a service, which therefore amounted to a cost of some $165m to the health funds during the last financial year? [More…]

• If that is true, will the Minister suggest to the Department of Health an examination of its requirements with a view to reducing the cost of health insurance? [More…]

• Will he take urgent steps to remedy this matter before there is more serious damage to Australia’s health and economy? [More…]

• -I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Primary Industry: Is lt a fact that tests on animals in the Launceston area suspected of suffering from an exotic disease have now been proved negative on the advice of the health authorities in Britain? [More…]

• The Minister for Primary Industry, Mr Nixon, has said that the Director of the United Kingdom Animal Virus Institute at Pirbright has advised the Australian Bureau of Animal Health that all tests on material from pigs in Tasmania have been negative. [More…]

• Is the Minister aware of the warnings by Dr Mark Harris, a Sydney paediatrician attached to the environmental health group of the inner Sydney regional council for social development, that the concentration of carbon monoxide and other pollutants in the atmosphere in south-western and centra] Sydney was sufficient to exacerbate bronchia-pneumonic and respiratory complaints in children and heart disease in adults. [More…]

• In view of this and other warnings about the dangers to public health presented by air pollution in metropolitan Sydney, will the Government cease its attacks on the New South Wales Government’s intention to enforce rule 27A on motor vehicle exhaust emission by 198 1? [More…]

• I would take it that, where we have an unusual loading of certain types of residue in the air, there is likely to be some effect on human health. [More…]

• by leave- I wish to make a statement outlining the Government’s response to the report from the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare entitled ‘Through a Glass, Darkly- Evaluation in Australian Health and Welfare Services’, which was tabled by the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Baume, on 3 May 1979. [More…]

• In doing so I should like to express the Government’s appreciation of the Committee’s work and the valuable opportunity which the report has provided for an examination of evaluation policies and procedures in the health and welfare area. [More…]

• The report recommends a major increase in data gathering and evaluation activity throughout the health and welfare system to assist decision-making by parliaments, Commonwealth, State and local governments, and voluntary agencies. [More…]

• In more precise terms the Committee’s recommendations seek: Development of a continuing set of social indicators and substantial upgrading and refinement of other data on the health and welfare of the Australian population and the provision of relevant services; development and dissemination of comprehensive standards for health and welfare services; a commitment by all levels of government to identify and declare needs in Australian health and welfare and to assess these factors continually by reference to these data and standards; clear and public declaration by the Commonwealth Government of broad strategic goals and precise and testable objectives in terms of intended impact on needs for each of its health and welfare programs, whether funded wholly or only in part by it; and continuing evaluation of health and welfare programs. [More…]

• The Committee suggests that, because there is little evaluation of the kind it favours, the health and welfare system is ‘out of control’. [More…]

• No particular areas of unmet needs or waste were outlined, though I am of course aware of the desire of many people to improve health and welfare programs. [More…]

• Over the past four years the Government has, in fact, reviewed very carefully every health and welfare program. [More…]

• It has given priority to those in need and has introduced important health and welfare reforms. [More…]

• Other actions include: The establishment of the Social Welfare Policy Secretariat to review health and welfare policy; the introduction of vigorous audit and review processes to monitor the efficiency of social security and welfare programs- the Department of Social Security has allocated additional resources to improve the control of programs following major reviews of the Department’s administrative processes; the review by health and welfare departments of available evaluation techniques and the progressive development of capacity to utilise them where shown to be worthwhile; the establishment of the Social Welfare Research Centre at the University of New South Wales; the establishment of a number of mechanisms to ensure that outside advice on programs and current need is provided to the government- for example, the National Consultative Council on Social Welfare; and the development of the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine as a resource for evaluation. [More…]

• Nevertheless, evaluation clearly must play an important role in the Government’s health and welfare programs. [More…]

• Recommendations 10, 14 and 1 6 through to 1 9 suggest greater attention by all levels of government and relevant voluntary agencies to the assessment and articulation of need for health and welfare services. [More…]

• To this end, recommendations 11, 12, 13, 15 and 24 through to 3 1 suggest ways in which health and welfare data might be expanded and/or improved and recommendations 2 1 through to 23 suggest ways in which a comprehensive set of standards for health and welfare services might be developed. [More…]

• While it will rarely be possible to measure need in an objective fashion, reliable data on health and welfare status and service provision is essential for sound policy formulation and assessment. [More…]

• The acquisition and dissemination of data on the social circumstances and health status of the Australian population will be given high priority. [More…]

• The nature of data requirements related to the assessment of health and welfare status, and of priorities for the identification and collection of basic program outcome data will continue to be kept under study. [More…]

• In the health area, the Commonwealth and State Health Ministers have already established a National Committee on Health and Vital Statistics and it is accordingly appropriate that this matter be referred to that body. [More…]

• The Social Welfare Policy Secretariat will coordinate: The identification of data requirements by the health and welfare sector, including nongovernment organisations; the preparation of a report to the Government on priorities for data collection; and approaches to the Australian Bureau of Statistics for additional data collections. [More…]

• While it would not be proper for the Commonwealth to become involved in standard setting in relation to those health and welfare services that are the responsibilities of the States, the Social Welfare Policy Secretariat will assist as appropriate in consultation with the departments of Health and Social Security in the development of a co-operative strategy. [More…]

• The Public Service Board will give attention to the development of adequate evaluative skills within the Public Service, including in the health and welfare field. [More…]

• They relate to goal and objective setting, the generation and dissemination of data, standard setting, the measurement of health status and the measurement of social circumstances from which we can impute need, and evaluation of technology and expertise. [More…]

• Over the past four years the Government has, in fact, reviewed very carefully every health and welfare program. [More…]

• I acknowledge the activity of the Government and have appreciated the ability to participate in, for example, Public Service Board seminars on evaluation or seminars run by the Department of Health on evaluation activity. [More…]

• Those statements are from one of the departments actually involved in health and welfare programs. [More…]

• The Department’s submission merely reinforced other comments by the Royal Commission on Australian Government Administration, by the Bailey Task Force on Co-ordination in Welfare and Health and by the Commission of Inquiry into Poverty, all of which set out areas in which evaluation in health and welfare is inadequate and continues to be insufficient in amount or quality. [More…]

• Nevertheless, evaluation clearly must play an important role in the Government’s health and welfare programs. [More…]

• The Committee suggested at one time that it thought the health and welfare system was out of control. [More…]

• Our report identified that we lack techniques for estimating the need for government programs, that we lack facilities to undertake evaluation of many programs and that, as has been indicated in a number of reports to government in recent years, we lack data on the majority of our health and welfare services in regard to whether they are achieving any objectives, let alone their specific objectives. [More…]

• by leave- As a member of the Senate Standing Committee on Social Welfare which brought down the report on evaluation in Australian health and welfare services, and as a member of the Opposition, I wish to contribute something to this debate. [More…]

• The aims of this Committee were to examine the extent, the quality and quantity of evaluation in this community, particularly in the health and welfare field. [More…]

• The report of the Committee does not cast judgment on any welfare or health program in this community. [More…]

• That is what the Committee meant by the health and welfare system being out of control. [More…]

• Over the past four years the Government has, in fact, reviewed very carefully every health and welfare program. [More…]

• It has given priority to those in need and has introduced important health and welfare programs. [More…]

• The Government has reviewed very carefully expenditure in the health and welfare field, but only to the extent that it has reviewed these programs to see where it can cut Government expenditure. [More…]

• I would suggest that the results of those expenditure cuts have not been to give priority to those in need and have not resulted in the introduction of important health and welfare reforms. [More…]

• I find it difficult to understand how the Minister can really put in her statement that over the past four years she has very carefully reviewed every health and welfare program and that no other government has carried out a more rigorous assessment, et cetera. [More…]

• In the health field alone we have had four major and several minor changes to health insurance programs. [More…]

• We have had the Hospital and Health Services Commission abolished. [More…]

• Currently there is obviously considerable controversy and confusion in the community and, I would suggest, in the mind of the Government about what the Government is to do about health insurance. [More…]

• This is not the way to develop a rational health insurance program. [More…]

• If the Government continues to conceal what evaluation is done and if it continues to accept that what is going on now as a rigorous and careful assessment of its health and welfare programs, I suggest, as in the past, we will get nowhere. [More…]

• That the Commonwealth Government direct the Australian Bureau of Statistics to raise to an appropriate level the proportion of its budget spent specifically on health and welfare statistics. [More…]

• However, the proportion of resources available to the Australian Bureau of Statistics which should be allocated to the development of health/welfare data is a matter for judgment in the light of a continuing examination of competing claims . [More…]

• there are areas of unmet need for data outside the health/welfare sector, e.g. [More…]

• Surely the Senate has to recommend whether it considers essential data to be that dealing with the health and welfare of the Australian population or structural change recommended by the Crawford group? [More…]

• Let me just mention to the Senate from this morning’s newspaper one matter which was released by Mr Stewart, the New South Wales Labor Minister for Health. [More…]

• An amount of $174,442 allocated for health programs also remained unspent even though Queensland has one of the highest Aboriginal infant mortality rates in Australia. [More…]

• Over the three previous financial years $1,994,015 of Commonwealth funds which had been available to the Queensland Government for health was returned unspent. [More…]

• It is a world in which they do not have equal rights to education, employment, health services or even the restrictive freedoms that other Queenslanders have. [More…]

• It is no wonder that 14 doctors signed a document which resulted in a health organisation being established in north Queensland. [More…]

• That means improving their housing, health, education and all of those things which, statistically it is quite clear are manifestly inadequate. [More…]

• I think that Australians would generally agree that the International Red Cross has shown itself to be a leading expert in this field; it is probably wiser than most, including many of us, in tackling health and distribution matters. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 September 1 979: [More…]

• Has the Department of Health sent a letter to family planning clinics stating that they may use the drug as a contraceptive after obtaining the informed consent of the client; if so, how can the letter be reconciled with any refusal by drug control authorities, in particular the USFDA, to grant approval for the use of Depo-Provera for contraceptive purposes. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Toxicology Review Panel of the World Health Organization’s Special Program of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction after considering all the evidence, including a review of the 10 year monkey study in April 1979, re-affirmed its earlier conclusion that there were no toxicological reasons for discontinuing the use of Depo-Provera in current and planned [More…]

• The Commonwealth Department of Health enjoys a close liaison with the Medical Advisory Committee of the Australian Federation of Family Planning Associations (AFFPA). [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The National Health and Medical Research Council (NH and MRC) has recommended that the maximum limit for mercury in fish, crustaceans, molluscs, the fish content of fish products and the fish content of canned fish products should not exceed 0.S milligrams per kilogram. [More…]

• -On 30 August 1979 (Hansard, pages 426-7) Senator Peter Baume asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a supplementary question, without notice, concerning the financial accounts and statements for 1977-78 pertaining to the Health Insurance Commission (Medibank Private). [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• They are incorporated in the annual report of the Health Insurance Commission that is scheduled to be tabled during the current sittings. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 12 September 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• In my answer I undertook to seek further information from the Minister for Health and he has provided the following details: [More…]

• Victorian health officials therefore consulted with the Centre for Diseases Control, Atlanta, Georgia, and obtained the services of an investigator who visited Australia in June 1979. [More…]

• The Victorian Minister for Health has sent me a copy of the investigator’s report and it is being examined in my Department. [More…]

• The Australian airconditioning, heating and ventilation industry and the Commonwealth Department of Housing and Construction have offered to assist the Health Commission of Victoria, if requested, in any examination of proposed control measures to minimise the potential risk from cooling towers and evaporative condensers. [More…]

• -On 17 October 1979 (Hansard, page 1394) Senator Rocher asked me, as the Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning safety containers for medicines. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• His health has deteriorated to the extent, that he is not expected to live long enough to fee his release from detention. [More…]

• Is it true also that officers were seconded to that Commission from the Commonwealth Department of Health, the Minister’s Department, and the Commonwealth Police? [More…]

• -I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• As far as the attitude of the Government is concerned, it agrees that this is an area which needs attention, but occupational safety and health is primarily the constitutional responsibility of the States. [More…]

• Following a recent meeting of those Ministers a review body is being established to consider national machinery to promote occupational safety and health. [More…]

• That campaign aims at working out the most effective methods of selling safety so that awareness of the need for better safety and health at work is increased. [More…]

• Audio visual programs designed to educate ethnic workers in job safety and health have been produced. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• This latest draft is currently being reviewed by officers of the Capital Territory Health Commission. [More…]

• Not only has the Fraser Government fuelled inflation with its oil and health policies, it has also failed to take action to moderate food price increases. [More…]

• Today aldermen, councillors, wardens and others work on the provision of a wide range of community matters, including community centres, public health facilities, sporting and recreational facilities, libraries and cultural and artistic establishments. [More…]

• It is now well known that the Fraser Government’s policies are adding to inflation due to its tinkering with various policy measures- the health scheme is, I suppose, the best and first example that comes to mind- and its raising of very substantial indirect taxes. [More…]

• There are now signs that the Government’s antiinflationary policies are just not working at all and that some other measures must be taken to stimulate the economy and to restore it to a more healthy position. [More…]

• That question falls properly within the responsibility of the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will refer the matter to him and check with him as to whether, under the community health program, there have been any changes in the arrangements that existed formerly. [More…]

• Our relationship with neighbouring countries like Indonesia is, of course, important, but the sensitivities of the Indonesian Government should not be considered more important than the lives, the freedom, the self-determination and the health of the men, women and children of East Timor who have been sorely abused for centuries by a neglectful colonial power, who have been abandoned in the wake of a revolutionary change in that colonial power and who were then taken over by a neighbour obsessed with unreal fears that a hostile power could develop amongst the 600,000-odd people on the edge of its own country of 1 30 million people. [More…]

• Every member of this Senate is acutely concerned about the present plight of the people of East Timor, both with regard to their lack of adequate food supplies, their malnutrition and the combination of that with threats to their health. [More…]

• I want to say, with all the force I can, that at a time when our main and, indeed, our sole task should be to help the Indonesian people save their lives and restore their health, it is grossly unhelpful, to do things- when we are demanding and seeking the co-operation of the Indonesian Government and its people- which could be insensitive and could destroy the effects we make. [More…]

• They left it in a point of civil war and they left it basically without any medical or health structure. [More…]

• The colonial regime did virtually nothing to develop the territory, and relief efforts are made harder by the need to provide a basic economic, social and health infrastructure. [More…]

• We are talking about a struggle of ideas between thosewhatever their views might be on economic policy, health services, nationalising banks or something else- who believe in a system in which there is freedom of assembly, freedom of speech and freedom of the people to change their government, and those who do not believe in those freedoms. [More…]

• in the interests of national security or public safety, public order (ordre public), the protection of public health or morals or the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. [More…]

• I do not think it is appropriate, although some people do, to talk about a Bill of rights as appropriately containing references to the right to clean air, a basic income, health care and so on. [More…]

• public health or morals or the rights and freedoms of others, and are consistent with the other rights recognized in the present Covenant. [More…]

• Freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs may be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health, or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. [More…]

• The power to interfere with the correspondence of citizens in Australia who happen to be in mental institutions- the power of a superintendent to decide that it may not be delivered to them or from them- is provided in the Mental Health Act of Western Australia, section 59 (2); the Mental Health Act of Tasmania, section 109 (2); the Mental Health Act of Victoria, section 79 (2); the Mental Health Act of South Australia, section 72 ( 1 ); and the Mental Health Act of Queensland, section 53 (2). [More…]

• Freedom to manifest one’s religion or beliefs may be subject only to such limitations as are prescribed by law and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health, or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health is aware of the report in the Age newspaper which concerned a report from scientists of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation. [More…]

• I understand that the Minister for Health has asked the National Health and Medical Research Council which, as honourable senators will be aware, is currently examining the possible health hazards of various atmospheric pollutants, to investigate this matter. [More…]

• When the Minister has received the report from the National Health and Medical Research Council I feel sure that he would make reference to those matters raised with regard to the environment and the difficulties that can be experienced by people who live in an environment where there is exposure to chemicals. [More…]

• I will see that the Minister for Health gives this matter his urgent attention. [More…]

• One can readily recognise that several departments, such as the Department of Health and the Department of National Development, may be involved in the problem. [More…]

• I think it would be the Department of Health, but I will have that matter investigated. [More…]

• Nevertheless, one finds certain riders, certain exceptions, such as the provision that the right may be subject to certain restrictions, but these shall only be such as are provided by law and are necessary for the protection of national security or of public order, public health or morals. [More…]

• The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights being, as it is, the product of consultations between governments and bearing none of the marks of having been generated in a crucible of conflict between the oppressed and a government of totalitarian complexion or the marks which characterise the United States Bill of Rights, for example, which did emerge from people who felt themselves to be oppressed, it is not surprising that the so-called rights said to be secured are, in fact, constantly modified and eaten away by exceptions in favour of government regulation on grounds as vague as public health or morals. [More…]

• It continues: public health or morals or the rights and freedoms of others . [More…]

• Prescribed by law in Iran, perhaps- and are necessary to protect public safety, order, health, or morals or the fundamental rights and freedoms of others. [More…]

• For example, a Bill might contain words which state that every citizen has a right to good health. [More…]

• I pay tribute to the three principal organisers of the Marihuana Petition Organisation- Neil Hutchinson, Burke Rhys and Tony Kew- who over the last year have carried a tremendous burden of organisation, to the detriment of their careers and their health, and certainly to the detriment of their general wellbeing. [More…]

• 1 ) What measures dues the Bureau of Customs take to monitor imports of industrial chemicals to ascertain: (a) the type and amount of each particular chemical; (b) the identity of the importers; (c) the purpose for which the chemicals are to be used; and (d) the potential occupational health hazard of certain chemical imports. [More…]

• Does the Department of Business and Consumer Affairs refer potentially toxic industrial chemicals to the Department of Health, or medical bodies for examination. [More…]

• and (2) The Department of Business and Consumer Affairs does not monitor on a continuing basis imported industrial chemicals and their end use in Australia for the purpose of determining their potential occupational health hazards. [More…]

• (a) and (b) The Northern Territory Departments of Health (formerly Commonwealth Health) and Community Development have investigated the practice. [More…]

• The point at issue is that to date the Vietnamese authorities have not allowed Australian migration officers to interview persons seeking entry to Australia for residence; nor is it possible for applicants to undergo other normal migrant processing procedures such as health examinations within Vietnam prior to departure. [More…]

• He not only promised that it would be reduced but also said that it was absolutely essential to the economic health of the country that it be reduced. [More…]

• I am not that concerned about the wild pig question but would like to know what supervision, from a health point of view, there will be of exports of kangaroo meat for human consumption. [More…]

• The responsibility for the health aspect that the honourable senator raised will be sorted out, in the first place, by the Department of Primary Industry. [More…]

• After I received those reports, I wrote to the State Minister for Health, Sir William Knox. [More…]

• I received a reply, not from Sir William but from the Director-General of Health and Medical Services, who sent a telex to me which indicated that Sir William was away, hence the DirectorGeneral was replying. [More…]

• That paper reports that a sample of water taken from the Palm Island water supply by the Aboriginal and Islanders Medical Centre and tested by the Federal Department of Health ‘s pathology laboratory in Townsville showed that water contained an unacceptable level of bacteria. [More…]

• The Western Australian Minister for Health and Community Welfare, Mr Ridge, who holds the seat of Kimberley, has admitted in a Western Australian newspaper that the Liberal Party devised and executed a plan deliberately aimed at denying Aborigines in the Kimberleys an effective vote. [More…]

• I see more royalties going to the benefit of Aboriginal people, for their health, schooling, housing and so on. [More…]

• Even disregarding the fact that it will be a number of years before substantial amounts of uranium royalties are available, it will also be a long time before the handicaps which Aboriginals suffer in health, education and other areas will be overcome. [More…]

• Senator Cavanagh has raised a similar point with respect to the National Health Act which also contains this different provision. [More…]

• The National Health Act was amended some time ago in accordance with his suggestion. [More…]

• Originally we discussed this matter some considerable time ago when the Minister was responsible for the carriage of a National Health Bill through this chamber. [More…]

• I had previously protested about the National Health Bill and the Government rectified the position by making the amendment. [More…]

• This clause follows the one adopted in the National Health Act. [More…]

• The National Health Act and the Aboriginal Land Rights (Northern Territory) Act now provide that the regulation or the determination shall have no effect until such time as 15 sitting days have passed for objections to be lodged and, if an objection is lodged, until 1 5 sitting days have passed for consideration of it. [More…]

• Reports by the National Health and Medical Research Council on work under the Medical Research Endowment Act during 1976 and 1977; [More…]

• ACT Public Health (Prohibited Drugs) Ordinance, Section 6A ( 1 )- Authorisations to have in possession a prohibited drug for research purposes. [More…]

• National Health Act, Sections 13, 14, 73, 73b, 73be, 73BFB, 73d, 78, 90 and 95- Refusal to approve a person as an approved patient, attendant or escort. [More…]

• National Health Regulations, Regulation 12 -Decisions on payment of accommodation allowances for patients and approved escorts who live in isolated areas and are referred to consulting physicians at distant towns. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 10 October 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The Commonwealth does not provide neckbraces to persons under the pensioner health benefits arrangements nor does it have any direct involvement in the purchase of eyeglasses. [More…]

• If the honourable senator would care to provide details of specific cases I would be willing to have my Department pursue them with the relevant State health authorities. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 25 October 1979: [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• -On 18 October 1979 (Hansard, page 1475) Senator Walters asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning quarantine laws. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• -Is the Minister for Social Security aware that on 15 September 1977 a meeting was held in the office of her DirectorGeneral in Juliana House, Phillip, attended by Mr Lanigan; Mr Corrigan, First Assistant Director-General of the Department; Mr Prowse, First Assistant Director-General; Mr Lang, First Assistant Director-General of the Department of Health; Mr Davies, Assistant Commissioner of the Commonwealth Police; and Mr Thomas. [More…]

• To compound the problem of student numbers, there are a number of areas at the Canberra TAFE College where poor and crowded accommodation presents health and safety hazards. [More…]

• I direct my question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Given this Government’s professed desire to hold down health costs to the community, why is it that only 35 per cent of new projects are to be funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council? [More…]

• Is the Minister aware that every dollar spent on biomedical science represents an eventual saving of $100 from the national health bill? [More…]

• I will need to refer the matter to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• However, I will refer the matter to the Minister for Health and seek information from him. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• It now being November, and the National Health Act providing that the audited accounts of registered health funds should be in the hands of the Director-General of Health by 30 September each year, can the Minister advise whether those funds that last year defaulted on providing audited accounts by the required date- especially Medibank Private, which functions as the Health Insurance Commission- have this year submitted audited accounts by the date required under section 76(2) of the National Health Act? [More…]

• The Minister for Health has advised that section 76a of the National Health Act provides that the permanent head shall, as soon as practicable after 30 June each year, furnish to the Minister for Health a report on the operations of registered organisations during the year to that date. [More…]

• There is no requirement under the National Health Act for the financial details submitted to be audited, although I understand that the Department of Health does require this to ensure that the report to the Minister and to the Parliament is accurate. [More…]

• Because of changes in 1978-79 to the health insurance system, the Minister for Health has agreed to the DirectorGeneral’s giving funds an extension to 31 October 1979 to submit financial accounts in accordance with the Act. [More…]

• I am informed that, as far as the Health Insurance Commission is concerned, difficulties have arisen in the separation of Medibank Private from Medibank Standard, particularly in relation to the allocation of assets and in the establishment of Medibank Private as a fully operational and independent health fund in competition with other registered organisations. [More…]

• The community has recognised that, where there are large costs involved, such as in health, these costs are supported by community activity. [More…]

• Other major sources of funds for research are the Australian Research Grants Committee, the National Energy Research Development and Demonstration Council and the National Health and Medical Research Council which are the responsibility of my colleagues the Ministers for Science and the Environment and Health respectively. [More…]

• -On 9 October 1979 (Hansard, pages 1054-5) Senator Hamer asked me, as Minister representing the Minister for Health, a question without notice concerning cigarette smoking. [More…]

• In my answer I undertook to refer his question to the Minister for Health. [More…]

• The Minister for Health has provided the following information: [More…]

• However, since then, a meeting has been held of representatives of the Advertising Standards Council, the New South Wales Health Commission, the Australian Publishers’ Bureau and the Tobacco Institute of Australia, under the chairmanship of Sir Richard Kirby, to discuss advertisements relating to the New South Wales north coast ‘Quit for Life’ anti-smoking campaign. [More…]

• The danger of poisoning chemicals seeping into surface and underground water supplies as a result of uranium ore mining and refining of uranium ore could pose serious health hazards for persons living in the Townsville region. [More…]

• I ask the Minister: Is he aware that in 1 977 Air Vice-Marshal Jordan, the Director-General of Health Services, gave the Williams Royal Commission inquiring into drugs detailed statistics of cases of drug addiction in the three armed Services between 1975 and 1977? [More…]

• My understanding is that the Northern Territory Department of Mines and Energy and Department of Health have joint responsibility for ensuring compliance with the code of practice for the mining and milling of radioactive ores issued by the Commonwealth Department of Health in 1975, under which radiation monitoring at both Nabarlek and Ranger has been carried out. [More…]

• He and the Director-General do seem to be referring to the same meeting although Senator Grimes has mentioned the attendance of Mr Lang of the Department of Health. [More…]

• On behalf of Senator Guilfoyle and pursuant to section 42 of the Health Insurance Commission Act 1973 I present the annual report of the Health Insurance Commission 1977-78. [More…]

• That the Health Insurance Commission annual report for 1977- 78 being some 1 7 months after the close of the period being reported upon- be referred to the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Government Operations for investigation and report as to the reasons for the delay in its presentation. [More…]

• The Committee recommends that an Australian agricultural health service be established as an independent unit within the Department of Primary Industry and have transferred to it the existing plant, animal and general quarantine divisions of the Department of Health and the Bureau of Animal Health and be supplemented by a new plant health or plant protection service. [More…]

• The Department of Health would retain responsibility for policy advice and treatment in relation to exotic human diseases and would provide advice to the quarantine service on the health documentation requirements of international travellers to be administered by that service. [More…]

• The Committee has been concerned with many aspects of the current administrative arrangements and considers that many of the existing problems stem from the lack of attention and initiative paid to quarantine matters in the past by the Department of Health. [More…]

• The recently improved performance by the Department of Health has been noted but on balance the Committee considers that the future interests of quarantine will be best served by transferring quarantine from the control of the Department of Health to the Department of Primary Industry. [More…]

• The off-shore quarantine station at Cocos Island will not become fully effective until the new Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation national animal health laboratory at Geelong is completed. [More…]

• The Committee recommends that further investigations be undertaken into extending the licensing of laboratory facilities as quarantine premises and the relationship and access of research establishments to the high security facilities of the Australian National Animal Health Laboratory. [More…]

• Mr Tuxworth, the Executive member responsible for mining and health- that most unusual combination- said: [More…]

• The money available for Aboriginal health purposes is down 1.5 per cent on last year in real terms, despite the appalling conditions in which most Aboriginal people live and the horrendous infant mortality rate of Aboriginal children. [More…]

• The Commonwealth handed over responsibility for health to the Northern Territory Government in January 1979. [More…]

• 1 remind the Senate that that is when the Federal Government was responsible for health. [More…]

• The Federal Government should not have reduced its appropriation for health care in the Department of Aboriginal Affairs . [More…]

• The health care problems among Aborigines are still as acute as ever. [More…]

• When honourable senators consider this and take into account the fact that there was a 1 5 per cent increase in customs duty over the past year, and the savage increases in health insurance costs, the outcome is quite clear. [More…]

• There has been a reduction of nearly $350m in health expenditure. [More…]

• The Government policy which is making it so much harder for Australian families to maintain their living standards on their present wages is that which brought about the added cost of health insurance. [More…]

• This Government promised that Medibank would be maintained, but in the whole history of this country there has never been a greater shambles than the present situation with respect to our health and medical services. [More…]

• Mr Fraser seems to be turning the clock back to the era when people who needed help with respect to health costs would stay away from hospitals and doctors because of the cost involved. [More…]

• They were led to believe that in a country such as ours, with such wealth available, everyone should be entitled to the best possible health service. [More…]

• Only recently in Tasmania the Minister for Health officially cited examples of part time practitioners in public hospitals earning $90,000 to $100,000 a year. [More…]

• Unless some lead is given by the Government towards a better attitude to health services and to the maintenance of the various social amenities in this society, it will pay very dearly for it. [More…]

• Mr Searle, First Assistant Director-General, Quarantine Division, Department of Health, appeared before the Committee. [More…]

• On the same day, 24 September, Dr Travers, First Assistant Director-General, Medical Services Division, Department of Health, also appeared before the Committee. [More…]

• When discussing uranium mining in Rum Jungle some 25 years ago, information was given that the Department of Health had checked many miners in those days to see whether the mining of uranium had had any effect on them. [More…]

• I have a letter dated 2 November from the Minister for Health, Mr Ralph Hunt, who described the search of the archives for results of examinations of people who worked in the uranium field and how he sees the situation at present. [More…]

• Minister for Health Parliament House, Canberra, A.C.T. [More…]

• No addresses for any of these individuals were given as the samples were submitted by the employing authority, Territory Enterprises Pty Ltd, to the then Department of Health in Darwin and, as previously stated, forwarded by them to the School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. [More…]

• Oversight of the results was undertaken by the Occupational Health Section of the School and some copies of their reports back to the employing authority were also forwarded to Central Office. [More…]

• As mentioned in the Depanment’s reply to the Secretary, Senate Estimates Committee C, the Department of Health in the Northern Territory has some further results of tests conducted up until January 1971 but again these do not show any abnormalities. [More…]

• Because of the absence of the original addresses of the miners it would be almost impossible at this time to undertake further health checks of them. [More…]

• This gives a more accurate determination of the exposure and will prove to be a greater safeguard in protecting the health of all those employed in the industry. [More…]

• All the results obtained up to September from the miners working in the Alligator Rivers Region of the Northern Territory have been within normal limits and I can assure you that if any further tests show that the limits set out in the Code of Practice on Radiation Protection in the Mining and Milling of Radioactive Ores are being approached, urgent advice will be provided to the employing authority and to the Department of Health in the Northern Territory. [More…]

• That the lead content levels in Australian motor spirit have been proven to have detrimental health effects on our child population. [More…]

• As the Minister would have the health and comfort of the men of the Melbourne at heart, will he or perhaps the Minister for Science and the Environment be able to give advice as to how the vessel could be fumigated or how the cockroaches could possibly be eradicated without the vessel coming temporarily out of service? [More…]

• I ask the Minister representing the Minister for Health whether she is aware of a statement made by a spokesman for the Minister for Health, Mr Hunt, that further changes to the Government’s ill fated health insurance scheme are to be announced later this week and that the necessary changes to computer programming for health services are being made right now? [More…]

• Does she agree that the very major and contradictory changes made last November and again in September of this year have already caused a great deal of confusion to people in need of health care? [More…]

• Finally, is it not a fact that each new problem occurring in the Government’s health scheme is due to a so-called solution of a previously created problem? [More…]

• As Senator Puplick indicated, it shows that, as a result of a health survey conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics during 1977-78, 12.4 per cent, or about one student in eight, lost one or more days from school in the two weeks before the ABS interview, probably due to illness or injury. [More…]

• The Government is extremely concerned at the health statistics reported in the publication. [More…]

• As to the whole issue of positive health, I have had discussions with elements of my Department, including the Curriculum Development Centre, to see whether one could devise curricula, not only by way of remediation but also by way of prevention, so that we would be developing in Australia an attitude towards positive health. [More…]

• -Yesterday Senator Wriedt asked me whether the Minister for Defence was aware that in 1977 Air Vice-Marshal Jordan, to whom Senator Wriedt attributed the position of Director-General of Health Services, gave the Williams Royal Commission detailed statistics of cases of drug addiction in the three Services between 1975 and 1977. [More…]

• I am now advised by the Minister for Defence as follows: It is a fact that in December 1977 Air Vice-Marshal Jordan, who was Assistant Chief of Defence Force Staff and not Director-General of Health Services, provided the Royal Commission with evidence on matters specified in the Royal Commissioner’s letters patent insofar as they related to the responsibilities of the Department of Defence. [More…]

• The Government recognises that there remain many areas of inadequacy in the field of Aboriginal affairs- be it health, housing, education or employment. [More…]

• It was very difficult for us to ascertain the general standard of health in that camp because of the sheer weight and mass of people. [More…]

• It was proposed that the congress be attended by up to 2,000 participants from more than 100 countries, including Ministers of justice, judges, criminologists and leading figures in the field of corrections, police, social welfare, mental health, education and a number of related areas. [More…]

• and others are of remote or uncertain significance to nuclear health and safety or of no significance at all. [More…]

• Allegations of uncertainty concerning its health and safety effects were not substantiated at the recent Windscale Inquiry in the UK. [More…]

• If one turns to annex 2 of the Atomic Energy Commission’s explanation one sees the heading ‘Random examples of quotations out of context, incomplete or of no nuclear health and safety implication’. [More…]

• For too long we have allowed the industry to neglect the matter of the health of the workers in the industry, in particular the long term consequences that are now starting to show in many of these industrial processes. [More…]

• It has been estimated that the health records of workers pick up only 2 per cent of the occupationally related chronic diseases. [More…]

• The South Australian Department of Health has recently and belatedly attempted to follow up these men to check on their health. [More…]

• We never hear Senator MacGibbon or any of his colleagues on that side speak on this aspect, and yet it is a source and possibly a basic cause of untold damage to the lungs and to the general health of those engaged in the industry. [More…]

• The code of practice on radiation protection in the mining and milling of radioactive ores adopted by the Commonwealth Department of Health sets the radiation dose limits for workers in the uranium industry. [More…]

• It was quoted just recently during the course of a debate in the Senate that uranium miners receive a radiation dose far below the level where there are any detectable health consequences; yet recent studies indicate that the harmful effects of low doses of radiation may be substantially greater than estimated previously. [More…]

• But what is meant by detectable health consequences? [More…]

• These men will have left the industry and probably will have moved to other areas before the health consequences of uranium mining become apparent. [More…]

• How could any company ensure that the workers whose future health is at stake will follow safety procedures, when the induction course booklet at one mine contained no information on the hazards of radiation and was pitched at a level more suitable for engineers or other professional people? [More…]

• From the recommendations of the Report, it seems to me to be absolutely essential that a central register of uranium workers be kept so that their future health can be monitored. [More…]

• Senator Guilfoyle quoted from a report of the Department of Health in South Australia which had made an assessment. [More…]

• She announced recently that, as a result of that survey, she is now having a health check done on everyone who worked at Radium Hill. [More…]

• I commend her for having that health check done. [More…]

• There are dangers and I do not want to exaggerate them, but the figures suggest that we must move with caution, that we must examine everyone who has been in contact with uranium and that at some time we must make a decision as to whether the risk to human health is greater than the profits we can get from uranium mining. [More…]

• If it is heartless enough to say that dollars are more important than health, let us mine regardless of the issues. [More…]

• But if the Government has enough humanity to say that health is more important, we should hesitate until we have conclusive figures from the investigation in South Australia which a Liberal Party colleague of members of the Government is making. [More…]

• Two years before the death, workers had complained of a health problem which they thought was related to their work with epoxies. [More…]

• The safeguards which are being observed now by the authorities and which honourable senators opposite seem to decry are such that the Department of Health will continue to oversee the standards of health of the workers in those mines. [More…]

• But the question is: Are we concerned about dollars or health? [More…]

• What I am concerned about is what effect it has on health. [More…]

• During an urgency debate I expressed the opinion that we would find no trace of ill health in the people who worked at Rum Jungle because the time span of the operations at Rum Jungle and Radium Hill is different. [More…]

• All that Senator Kilgariff could draw upon to justify his claim that uranium mining is not unhealthy was a report of Mr Hunt, who said that he had held a Federal inquiry. [More…]

• Senator Kilgariff’s colleague in South Australia, Mrs Adamson- the young Liberal Minister for Health in South Australia- who surely is entitled to some respect is now having an investigation conducted into the health of everyone who worked at Radium Hill. [More…]

• When the health of men is at stake, surely we should seek greater assurances than Senator Kilgariff can give. [More…]

• I believe access to health and to other services must be considered. [More…]

• I understand that when Estimates Committee C was dealing with the estimates for the Department of Health it was indicated that the animal quarantine establishment at Abbotsford in New South Wales was being phased out gradually. [More…]

• All health insurance funds have faced considerable problems since October 1976 when the Medibank 1 arrangements were replaced by private health insurance or a health levy. [More…]

• The problems for the Health Insurance Commission have been considerably greater. [More…]

• The changes introduced in October 1976 were significant-particularly the requirement to introduce what has become a major private health fund in such a short time. [More…]

• However, the Government had firm, clear policies in the health insurance area and even if the full extent of administrative problems had been recognised at the time the broad policy goals would still have been obtained. [More…]

• It has established Medibank Private as a strong fund in the health insurance industry. [More…]

• Problems in the development of computer systems appropriate to the commercial demands of Medibank Private were an important factor in this regard and this was despite a high priority being given to the area from the computer resources of the Department of Health. [More…]

• In addition, the health insurance arrangements to apply from 1 November 1978 and announced in the 1978-79 Budget caused the Commission considerable administrative upheaval resulting in transfer of resources-to ensure that Medibank Private was competitive with other funds on 1 November 1978- away from the task of finalising the 1977-78 accounts, which is a significant exercise in itself since it is the only fund which operates in all States. [More…]

• As indicated, on S September 1979, the Auditor-General reported to the Minister for Health on the Health Insurance Commission’s accounts for 1977-78. [More…]

• The Minister for Social Security (Senator Guilfoyle) will recall that at Question Time today I asked her a question in respect of an announcement on behalf of the Minister for Health (Mr Hunt) by one of his officers to the effect that there was going to be a change in the national health scheme. [More…]

• The Minister was going to refer the matter to the Minister for Health for reply. [More…]

• I have a very brief question in relation to item 07, subdivision 3, division 325 of the estimates for the Department of Health. [More…]

• -My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Did the recent Royal Commission on the National Health Service in Great Britain, chaired by Sir Alec Merrison, recommend in paragraph 2.6 that the first objective of the National Health Service should be ‘to encourage and assist individuals to remain healthy’? [More…]

• I understand that the Department of Health has received a copy of the report of the Royal Commission on the National Health Service in Great Britain and is currently studying its implications for Australia. [More…]

• The Royal Commission on the National Health Service believed that the National Health Service should ‘encourage and assist individuals to remain healthy’ and that a significant improvement in health could come through prevention. [More…]

• The Commission considered that it was both legitimate and desirable to use public resources to maintain and promote personal health through exhortation, education and incentives. [More…]

• The Commission considered that the major areas where government action could result in improvements to health were: A tougher attitude towards smoking; a tougher attitude towards preventing road accidents and mitigating their results; a clear commitment to fluoridation; and a program to combat alcoholism. [More…]

• Other necessary measures included placing a greater emphasis on health education and the development and monitoring of its techniques; a greater involvement of general practitioners and other health professionals in health education; and better in-service training for teachers in health education. [More…]

• The Commission also believed that the imaginative use of radio and television would be important and that much more could be done to emphasise the positive virtues of health and the risks of an unhealthy life style. [More…]

• The recommendations of that report are being studied closely in connection with the Australian Government’s National Health Promotion Program. [More…]

• On 24 May this year the Minister for Health announced that the Government would provide $500,000 during 1979-80 to develop and test a program aimed at improving the general level of health in Australia. [More…]

• That program, the National Health Promotion Program, will seek to motivate individuals to take a responsible attitude towards their personal health care and will make extensive use of television as well as seeking to involve health educators and other health professionals. [More…]

• If you study the figures you will find that not only do the ethnic community in Australia bear the brunt of over 40 per cent of all industrial accidents (although they make up some 28 per cent of the population) they bear more than double their share of unemployment, fail to take advantage of the advanced education system, earn at rates of pay well below the Australian average, live at conditions which are substandard, bear children at a greater rate than native-born Australians, have a higher level of ill-health, possess fewer skills, and fill the ranks of menial workers when they are able to obtain employment. [More…]

• We still need major research into the areas of migrant disadvantage in regard to health, the law, industrial safety, workers compensation and the cost effectiveness of providing one-year’s full time tuition, say, in English to all English-speaking migrants on arrival and providing them with an acceptable living allowance, as was suggested by the Adult Migrant Education Service in New South Wales. [More…]

• He means the Timorese- lives and restore their health. [More…]

• Present at the meeting were Mr Lanigan, Mr Corrigan and Mr Prowse, Mr Lane from the Department of Health, Mr Davies, Assistant Commissioner of the Commonwealth Police and Detective Chief Inspector Thomas of the Commonwealth Police. [More…]

• On 8 November 1979 (Hansard, page 2047), Senator Melzer directed a question to me, in my capacity as Minister representing the Minister for Health, concerning the addresses of women’s refuges. [More…]

• In my interim reply, I advised the Senate that I would refer the matter to the Minister for Health who has now provided the following advice: [More…]

• The honourable senator’s question apparently relates to circumstances connected with the residential addresses of a small number of women’s refuges, all of which are located in Victoria and which are included in a total of 94 refuges funded under the Community Health Program. [More…]

• In financial terms, the Commonwealth commitment under the Community Health Program for the years 1974-75-1979-80 inclusive, has exceeded $9.3m. [More…]

• Such Aid is saving precious lives, giving undernourished and homeless people encouragement and help, bringing malnourished children to health, education and a better life, giving people friendship and a new hope. [More…]

• My question is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• I will ask the Minister for Health to have the records checked to see whether there are work-related difficulties that should be covered, as requested by Senator Bishop. [More…]

• My question, which is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, is prompted by a report tabled recently in the Senate entitled ‘Health Promotion in Australia 1978-79’, issued by the Commonwealth Department of Health, distributed by the Australian Government Publishing Service and printed by the Government Printer. [More…]

• I know the attitude of parliamentarians to anyone who interferes with their election signs so I ask the Minister to ask her colleague the Minister for Health what his attitude is towards that reference and whether he is aware that, if a statement is not made on it, it could be interpreted as being the policy of the Department and those people whose property is being attacked may be forced into the position of having to protect their property. [More…]

• While the Minister is making representations to the Minister for Health will she also ask him whether he does not think his Department is over-reacting to and being emotional regarding this advertising campaign? [More…]

• What health motive is there in the campaign literature distributed among school children in the Hunter region of New South Wales which says: ‘Kiss a Non-Smoker . [More…]

• I am not aware of the statements on page 132 of the report ‘Health Promotion in Australia 1978-79’. [More…]

• -My question also is directed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• All additives approved for use in foods in Australia, including cyclamates, are maintained under continual review by the Food Science and Technology (Reference) Sub-Committee of the National Health and Medical Research Council. [More…]

• This was caused in a large part by the reduction in this Government’s spending on capital works in health, education and social services. [More…]

• It seems to me it would be valuable if a review into Aboriginal health were conducted to draw together information on the broad range of Commonwealth programs which directly or indirectly aim to improve the health and lifestyle of Aboriginals, and to clarify the direction of Commonwealth policy. [More…]

• As with previous PER’s I would like to envisage that a senior level task force should undertake the reviewthe members of the task force drawn from the Departments of Aboriginal Affairs, Health and Finance, Prime Minister and Cabinet, and the Social Welfare Secretariat. [More…]

• If you agree that a review of the Aboriginal health programme would be of benefit, I would appreciate it if you could nominate an appropriate officer to co-ordinate with my Department. [More…]

• I am forwarding a copy of this letter to our colleague the Minister for Health. [More…]

• Aborignal Health ( Including Alcoholism ) [More…]

• With reference to the future provision of assistance for Aboriginal healthExamine the quantum and quality of Aboriginal health programmes and their effectiveness in lifting health standards amongst all Aboriginals; [More…]

• on Aboriginal health. [More…]

• Senior level task force drawn from PM&C, Aboriginal Affairs, Health, Social Welfare Policy Secretariat and Finance. [More…]

• The task force to take account of relevant studies such as the Hay report, the House of Representatives Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs reports on alcohol problems of Aboriginals (1977) and Aboriginal health (1979), the National Trachoma and Eye Health Programme’s draft report (Aug 1979) and the report on Aboriginal Statistics in Australia ‘A Survey and a Plan’. [More…]

• The task force should familiarise itself with Aboriginal Health projects- there may be need for informal ‘In Confidence ‘ consultation with relevant State and Northern Territory officials. [More…]

• Does it mean that there will be less money for Aboriginal health, or a cutting back in some of the more sensitive areas which are not readily available to the scrutiny of the Australian public? [More…]

• A number of months ago now a national black health program was proposed. [More…]

• If in view of the inequitable distribution of funds from DAA to Aboriginal medical services in comparison to the ineffective and inefficient State and Territory programmes, this task force is the first step towards adopting the national black health programme then we would welcome it. [More…]

• But two of these 1 8 witnesses were unable to come to Geneva for health reasons. [More…]

• International Year of the Child: Commonwealth Funding of Aboriginal Health (Question No. [More…]

• 1 ) What has been the total amount of Commonwealth funding of Aboriginal health and welfare projects undertaken to mark the International Year of the Child. [More…]

• 1 ) It is not possible to estimate the total amount of Commonwealth funding of Aboriginal health and welfare projects undertaken to mark the International Year of the Child (IYC). [More…]

• International Year of the Child: Commonwealth Funding of Migrant Health (Question No. [More…]

• 1 ) What has been the total amount of Commonwealth funding of migrant health and welfare projects undertaken to mark the International Year of the Child. [More…]

• 1 ) It is not possible to estimate the total amount of Commonwealth funding of migrant health and welfare projects undertaken to mark the International Year of the Child (IYC). [More…]

• What objections, if no action is proposed, does the Government have to such action, which would both improve community health and reduce the road toll. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 8 November 1979: [More…]

• Sentor Guilfoyle- The Minister for Health has provided the following answer to the honourable senator’s question: [More…]

• The number of cases recorded in surveys of medical benefits claims processed by Medibank and the major private health funds is so small that reliable estimates of the total number of times item 6299 has been used cannot be prepared. [More…]

• Standard Definitions and Rules for the National Brucellosis and Tuberculosis Eradication Campaign set out these guidelines and copies are available from the Bureau of Animal Health. [More…]

• It deals with the recent utterances of senior Ministers of the Thatcher Government in which they have accused overseas visitors of sponging and of being bludgers- a word which I do not use- in relation to the British health system and even employment rights, as though they are going to put the cleaners through everybody. [More…]

• I agree with the tributes paid to him by Senator Murphy and Senator Cant and wish him well in his new activities as Minister for Health. [More…]

• I direct a question to the Minister representing the Minister for Health, fs the Minister aware that since 1964 more than 200 sufferers from arteriosclerosis, at great cost to themselves in some cases necessitating the mortgage of their homes, have travelled to Germany from Australia to Dr Moller’s clinic in Kassel, Germany, for oxygen therapy treatment as practised by Dr Moller? [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice: [More…]

• Will the Minister immediately consult with State Ministers for Health as to the need for an urgent survey of the processes followed in the Australian canning industry. [More…]

• My question is addressed to the Minister representing the Minister for Health. [More…]

• In view of the urgent necessity to upgrade facilities at Ayers Rock to ensure adequate health facilities, to give impetus to the tourist industry and to safeguard this unique area, what are the Government’s intentions concerning each of the 4 recommendations of the Committee? [More…]

• I regret that Senator Melzer has not had an answer to her previous question with regard to the private health funds. [More…]

• I will again seek that information from the Minister for Health and see whether he is in a position to make a statement immediately with regard to the matters that have been raised. [More…]

• asked the Minister representing the Minister for Health, upon notice, on 20 February 1979: [More…]

• -I saw the Press report to which the honourable senator has referred but have received no advice from the Minister for Health on this matter. [More…]