National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission calls for submissions

The recently established National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission (NHHRC) has called for submissions to help the Commission design Australia’s future health system.

The NHHRC is seeking input from the public, frontline health workers, professional and consumer groups, and other interested people and organisations.

Chair of the NHHRC, Dr Christine Bennett, said that the Commission would engage with the community and health professionals as it works to design a health system that provides what people and families need and, importantly, which is geared to serve the Australian community well into the future. The Commission has developed draft principles for the Australian health system and is also inviting comment on these.

Dr Bennett said there would be several stages of the NHHRC engagement program over the life of the Commission to link with key reporting dates. The NHHRC intends to submit an interim report in November 2008. The final report of the Commission will be completed in mid 2009.

Individuals and organisations are encouraged to make submissions to the NHHRC by email to talkhealth@nhhrc.org.au. Submissions may also be made by mail to PO Box 685 Woden ACT 2606, or by calling 1800 017 533. Submissions will be accepted from now until the end of May.