Victorian Budget misses opportunity to boost health services that keep people well

Not-for-profit community health service, cohealth, says that this year’s state Budget is a win for hospitals, but neglects to provide the investment in community health services that keep people out of hospital. 

Acknowledging that the Victorian Government had the challenging task of repairing a budget that has been ravaged by COVID, cohealth said that investment in preventative health care, health promotion and chronic disease management would save taxpayer dollars in the long-run. 

 “Strengthening the health system requires investment across the health sector, not just at the pointy end of hospitals and emergency services,” said Christopher Turner, Acting Chief Executive, cohealth. 

“Properly funded hospitals are essential, but investment in community health can help prevent costly hospital admissions by managing chronic conditions and targeting care to those most in need.” 

“The community health model delivers enormous benefits to people in need and to the broader health system and we must ensure that it is properly resourced to do this vital work,” said Mr Turner. 

– ends –

More information: Lanie.Harris@cohealth.org.au or 0418 552 377

About cohealth: cohealth is a not-for-profit community health organisation that provides low-cost and free local health and support services including medical, dental, allied health, mental health, aged care and counselling, and many specialist health services across Melbourne’s CBD, northern and western suburbs as well as statewide.