The Doctors Reform Society welcomes the initiatives of Shadow Health Minister Michael Lee, to restore confidence in the Public Hospital System and calls on the Prime Minister, John Howard to match the extra $500 million for public hospitals.

"An extra $500 million in the Public Hospital System would be life saving for patients who might otherwise die while on public hospital waiting lists" said Dr Con Costa, President of the Doctors Reform Society.

"Raising this money from an increase in tobacco tax is appropriate and a good public health measure. An increase in the Medicare Levy of 0.2% is also a great idea. All other taxes are progressive so why not the Medicare Levy" said Dr Costa.

" Clearly the ALP is reaffirming its support for the Public Health System. If Mr Howard and the Coalition want to be re-elected, they too must show their support for the Public Health System" said Dr Costa.

written and seconded by Robert Marr and Con Costa
27 August, 1998