Thoughtful conversations on the future of Australian health and aged care. The policy, the people, and the stories shaping our sector.
The number of older Australians stuck in hospital beds they don't medically need has jumped more than 50 per cent, with some waiting up to 100 days for an aged care or disability place that isn't there. A new 196-page health reform agreement was meant to fix exactly this. Today we break down what that agreement actually delivers, the cut to the over-65 private health rebate, why specialist out-of-pocket costs have nearly tripled since 2009, and where the system passes and fails the ‘Good Samaritan’ test.
Stream the episode here, or open it in your favourite podcast app.
The number of older Australians stuck in hospital beds they don't medically need has jumped more than 50 per cent. A new 196-page health reform agreement was meant to fix it.
Reported in-hospital out-of-pockets average $270, while breast cancer patients routinely pay $30,000 to $50,000. A new federal inquiry begins.
Health economist Dr Luke Slawomirski on the 2026 budget, the PHI rebate, and what real reform looks like.
Fixing private hospital funding with a new efficient pricing model. Why now, and what reform looks like.
Health Matters is the podcast from Catholic Health Australia, the peak body for Catholic hospitals, aged care and community service providers.
Each episode brings together the voices behind Australia's healthcare system: clinicians, carers, policymakers and the people they serve. We dig into the issues that shape how Australians are looked after, from funding reform to workforce to the ethics of care. And we don't shy away from the hard questions.
Hosted by the team at Catholic Health Australia, Health Matters brings the people, policy and purpose behind Australian healthcare to the mic. Thoughtful conversations, genuine curiosity, and the occasional laugh along the way.
