The latest frantic manoeuvres to get people to join private health funds are obviously failing. Bribing them with handfuls of cash, saturation taxpayer- funded advertising to that effect, leaves most potential buyers unmoved.

"The latest gimmick is to get rid of community rating which leaves the more vulnerable people carrying the heavier burden i.e. the older and sicker you are, the more you have to pay for your private health insurance" said Dr Con Costa, President of the Doctors Reform Society.

"It’s time that Australians were told that they are already insured and that they have paid for their insurance through their taxes. That is an undeniable fact and it’s probably the reason why no one is jumping up and down with glee over the 30% rebate" said Dr Costa.

"Young people in particular are rejecting private health insurance and choosing Medicare" said Dr Costa.

"Medicare is the fairest, most equitable system of health insurance because it embraces everyone, regardless of their income or age. The little green Medicare care insures that all Australians can get medical treatment wherever and whenever they need it" said Dr Costa.

16 March, 1999

CONTACT: Dr Con Costa
President, Doctors Reform Society