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SYDNEY (Reuters) – The Australian Labor government has committed to enhancing the nation’s universal healthcare system by introducing a free medical assistance hotline and telehealth services if they secure victory in the upcoming general election on May 3. This promise comes at a time when rising cost-of-living concerns are a prominent issue among voters.
Historically, the center-left Labor party emphasizes its defense of the Medicare system as a key advantage over the conservative Liberal-National coalition, which markets itself as more adept in fiscal management and national security.
To solidify its commitment to Medicare as a central campaign topic, the government announced in February an injection of A$8.5 billion (approximately $5.43 billion) into the program, responding to worries regarding a decline in bulk billing. This billing approach allows doctors to charge Medicare directly, thus alleviating patients from any out-of-pocket costs.
Health Minister Mark Butler stated on Australian Broadcasting Corporation television that the proposed hotline would offer round-the-clock support from medical professionals “for situations requiring immediate attention.”
“When an illness or injury affects your family, 1800MEDICARE will be available – a 24/7 health guidance line and after-hours GP telehealth service funded by Medicare,” Butler emphasized, outlining that the initiative is estimated to cost around A$204 million.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese is anticipated to unveil this policy in Sydney, the capital of New South Wales and a vital electoral territory.
In response, Peter Dutton, leader of the Liberal-National coalition and Albanese’s primary political rival, has declared his intention to allocate A$9 billion to Medicare should his party come to power in the upcoming election.
As early voting commenced on Tuesday, recent polls indicate that Labor holds a narrow lead over the Liberal-National coalition. The electoral campaign has been predominantly shaped by pledges aimed at easing cost-of-living pressures and competitive proposals for improving housing affordability.
($1 = 1.5642 Australian dollars)
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