C'wlth passing buck on declining private health insurance membership

December 19, 1995

The Federal Health Minister was passing the buck on the declining membership of private health insurers, State Health Minister Graham Kierath said today.

"According to Dr Lawrence, people dropping out of private health cover at a disastrous rate is somehow due to the States' funding arrangements," he said.

"I find that an extraordinary statement.

"In 1992, during her time as Premier, Health Minister Keith Wilson told Parliament the Commonwealth contribution to public hospitals had plummeted from 52 per cent to 37 per cent.

"At the same time Western Australia's contributions soared from 39 per cent to 56 per cent.

"Dr Lawrence was also Premier when she supported a motion criticising the Federal Government for its poor performance in health funding.

"Now she is using a situation which she helped create to shift the blame.

"The WA Government has taken action to provide more public hospital beds in Bunbury, Mandurah and Joondalup by involving the private sector.

"Instead of applauding such moves Dr Lawrence threatens to withdraw Federal funds."

Mr Kierath said that the Federal Coalition had proposed measures to increase private health fund membership, and lessen the strain on public hospitals.

However, Dr Lawrence had condemned the proposals out of hand.

Among those who did not agree with Dr Lawrence were:

+          the AMA;

+          a national disability health magazine;

+          experts on a suicide prevention committee;

+          the College of Psychiatrists;

+          the Women's Action Alliance;

+          the College of General Practitioners; and -

+          the Roman Catholic Church.

Mr Kierath said while all State Governments were trying their utmost to get the greatest value for taxpayers' money, Dr Lawrence was aiding and abetting the destruction of vital private health insurance funds.

"Dr Lawrence is clearly far too pre-occupied with her own personal political survival," the Minister said.

"The result is that she has abandoned her responsibilities in the health portfolio and should stand aside.

"It is time the Prime Minister replaced her with someone able to deal with the real problems in this area and who will not simply blame everyone else."

Media contact:  Caroline Lacy 481 7844/222 9595