Describe how political structures and policies can function as a determinant of health in Australia. (5 marks)
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Answers could include a selection of the following:
Medicare
- Political structures directly influence healthcare accessibility through universal healthcare programs like Medicare.
- Medicare provides free treatment in public hospitals and subsidised medical services, reducing financial barriers to healthcare
Education and training
- Government policies on education funding impact long-term health outcomes by determining resource allocation to schools.
- Government investment in education and job training programs, such as the NSW Fee Free TAFE initiative, improves employment opportunities and health outcomes.
Public Health
- Health regulations established by government control food safety, pharmaceutical standards and environmental health protections.
- Public health initiatives funded by government address population health issues through vaccination programs and health promotion campaigns.
Housing
- Political decisions on housing policies affect living conditions and associated health outcomes for different population groups.
Workforce Policies
- Government healthcare workforce policies determine the availability and distribution of healthcare professionals across regions.
Health and Safety Standards
- Legislative frameworks establish health and safety standards in workplaces, protecting worker health and preventing occupational injuries.
Budgeting
- Budget allocation decisions by political structures, such as the NSW Ministry of Health, determine funding allocations to health services like hospitals, emergency services and mental health.
- Controlling this critical flow of resources makes the political office a key determinant of health in Australia.
Show Worked Solution
Answers could include a selection of the following:
Medicare
- Political structures directly influence healthcare accessibility through universal healthcare programs like Medicare.
- Medicare provides free treatment in public hospitals and subsidised medical services, reducing financial barriers to healthcare
Education and training
- Government policies on education funding impact long-term health outcomes by determining resource allocation to schools.
- Government investment in education and job training programs, such as the NSW Fee Free TAFE initiative, improves employment opportunities and health outcomes.
Public Health
- Health regulations established by government control food safety, pharmaceutical standards and environmental health protections.
- Public health initiatives funded by government address population health issues through vaccination programs and health promotion campaigns.
Housing
- Political decisions on housing policies affect living conditions and associated health outcomes for different population groups.
Workforce Policies
- Government healthcare workforce policies determine the availability and distribution of healthcare professionals across regions.
Health and Safety Standards
- Legislative frameworks establish health and safety standards in workplaces, protecting worker health and preventing occupational injuries.
Budgeting
- Budget allocation decisions by political structures, such as the NSW Ministry of Health, determine funding allocations to health services like hospitals, emergency services and mental health.
- Controlling this critical flow of resources makes the political office a key determinant of health in Australia.