Primary Health Care in Queensland

Abstract

In 1993, the Queensland government responded to the challenges facing the Queensland health system when it released the Queensland Primary Health Care Policy. In the Policy, the public sector involvement in health system reform is outlined, and the vital role played by the non-government and private sectors are supported. The direction for the future delivery of health services clearly entails meeting the needs of local populations through an emphasis on community participation and development, intersectoral collaboration and co-ordination of health services. The Policy supports an improved balance between tertiary, high cost institutional care and community-based primary health care. The development and extension of community health services is recognised in the Plan as an important strategy in achieving a more balanced health system.