Make it cheaper for Australians to see a doctor by strengthening Medicare will help ease cost of living pressures facing many Australians, including older Australians, COTA Australia says.
The call comes in response to the Federal Government's announcement today that it will invest $8.5 billion into Medicare to extend bulk-billing to all adults. The reform has now gained bi-partisan support.
COTA Australia - the leading advocacy organisation for older people - Chief Executive Officer, Patricia Sparrow said today's announcement will come as welcome relief to Australians, including many older Australians, who have historically been ineligible for bulk-billing incentives.
"Anything that eases the cost of living pressures facing Australians is welcome," Ms Sparrow said.
"The fact that both major parties have committed to ensuring the future of Medicare is incredibly important.
"For too long we've been in a situation where many Australians over the age of 50, and indeed Australians of all ages, have been forced to think twice about whether they can afford to go and see a doctor.
"Whether or not you can see a doctor shouldn't depend on how much money you have in your bank account.
"This is a common-sense reform that will hopefully improve the wellbeing of older Australians while also helping to ease some of the cost of living pressures people are facing."
Ms Sparrow said the next step in Medicare reform needs to focus on the introduction of a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme.
"We need to see both the Federal Government and the Opposition support the introduction of a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme. Too many older Australians are missing out on crucial oral and dental care because they simply can't afford it.
"Good oral health is vital for maintaining good overall health, and the risks of not getting the care people need can be incredibly serious - even life-threatening in some extreme cases.
"But the unfortunate reality is too many older people can't afford the oral care they need. That needs to change and a Seniors Dental Benefit Scheme is crucial to ensuring that."
"Making sure all Australians, including older Australians, get access to the quality, affordable health and dental care they need will keep them healthier for longer – decreasing the burden on our public health care system and freeing it up for those who need it most.
