As Medicare turns 40, regional and remote communities struggle to access healthcare

Yesterday Medicare turned 40, and although many Australians have felt the benefits of universal health care since its inception in 1984, there are concerns the scheme hasn’t evolved in line with the nation’s changing health needs.

Health Minister Mark Butler praised bulk billing and Medicare, saying it’s boosted social equity no matter where Australians live. but with rebate increases and a lack of GPs in regional and remote areas, for many Australians, adequate healthcare is becoming less accessible.

Image: Image: Shutterstock/Robyn Mackenzie

Produced By: Noah Secomb

Featured In Story: Hon. Michael McCormack- Federal MP for Riverina

First aired on The Wire, Friday 2 February 2024