Explain how big data is shaping health policy in Australia. (5 marks)
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- Big data provides large volumes of health information that governments can analyse to detect patterns in disease and how health services are used. This occurs because big data links datasets and reveals where resources are most needed.
- Policymakers use this information to design prevention strategies. As a result, focus shifts from treating illness to preventing it, which reduces long-term costs.
- The National Health Data Hub connects government and aged care data. This system-level data sharing provides information that has a direct link to better health planning.
- Big data highlights gaps in service delivery, such as access issues in rural areas. This in turn leads to targeted funding and resource allocation.
- Further, big data uses predictive analytics to identify chronic disease risks early. This produces evidence that helps policymakers plan long-term strategies.
- In this way, health policy can prioritise early intervention programs that ultimately result in less demand for hospital beds.
Show Worked Solution
- Big data provides large volumes of health information that governments can analyse to detect patterns in disease and how health services are used. This occurs because big data links datasets and reveals where resources are most needed.
- Policymakers use this information to design prevention strategies. As a result, focus shifts from treating illness to preventing it, which reduces long-term costs.
- The National Health Data Hub connects government and aged care data. This system-level data sharing provides information that has a direct link to better health planning.
- Big data highlights gaps in service delivery, such as access issues in rural areas. This in turn leads to targeted funding and resource allocation.
- Further, big data uses predictive analytics to identify chronic disease risks early. This produces evidence that helps policymakers plan long-term strategies.
- In this way, health policy can prioritise early intervention programs that ultimately result in less demand for hospital beds.