Experts say expensive and outdated health system leaving young people exposed to future chronic health problems
ABCTwenty two-year-old Zali-Meg McPherson has a chronic autoimmune disease called lupus. Key points: A recent survey shows over half of 18 to 34-year-olds see a GP less often due to cost That rising out-of-pocket cost is even more problematic for those with chronic health conditions Health policy analyst Jennifer Doggett says evidence suggests an ongoing GP relationship provides better outcomes at lower costs "Recently I was quoted $900 to $1,200 for a consult with a doctor. Ms Doggett said if young people at risk of chronic illness continued to abandon the primary health system, it could create serious problems down the track. Ms Doggett said while this should make seeing a GP significantly cheaper, structural change was also needed to attract young people back to the primary health system. "The department is continuing to explore further options to engage young people in primary health care services," they said.
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