Every 12 minutes, an Australian has died of cardiovascular disease, and every 5 minutes an Australian has a heart attack or stroke. “This means that people can better have doctors perform proper inspections,” Health Minister Greg Hunt said on Sunday. “They can see if there is a problem with the lifestyle and whether further action is needed.” These checks will be reimbursed by Medicare from April.
The Australian Medical Association AMA welcomes the decision of the two parties to invest 170 million in family doctors over the next five years. “Supporting a comprehensive physical examination to address cardiovascular issues is an acknowledgement of the importance of family doctors in preventive health care.” AMA Chairman Tony Bartone said in a statement, “Longer treatment time ensures continuity of care, AMA hopes I can see further statements about the detailed plan before the election.”