Health in Focus with Dr Katharine Bassett

Harvard health economist Dr Benjamin Sommers examines what universal insurance does and does not solve, why the US spends far more for comparable care, and what countries like Australia should watch as inequality, ageing and fiscal pressures intensify.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(01:19) - Coverage versus access in universal systems(05:11) - The ‘voltage drop’ between insurance and outcomes(06:05) - Massachusetts reform and narrowing disparities(08:34) - Federalism as innovation and inequity(11:35) - National compacts versus patchwork systems(15:21) - How to measure system performance and equity(17:55) - Maternal and early life indicators as stress tests(18:42) - Data capacity, political will and public reporting(22:58) - The real driver of US costs: prices(24:24) - Administrative complexity and fragmentation(26:00) - Where systems fracture under inequality and ageing(28:03) - The limits of market solutions📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s GP billing landscape is shifting rapidly, with new Cleanbill data showing a sharp rise in fully bulk billing clinics alongside continued growth in out of pocket costs, raising complex questions about incentives, sustainability and equitable access to primary care.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:52) - Blue Report headline figures(02:14) - What is driving the bulk billing shift(03:39) - Understanding the rise in out of pocket costs(05:23) - The economics of running a GP clinic(06:23) - Cleanbill methodology versus government data(08:14) - What counts as a GP clinic(11:49) - Geographic variation and incentive design(13:50) - Are costs deterring patients from care(15:31) - The 90 percent bulk billing target(17:39) - Policy settings and structural reform📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Telehealth is no longer a stopgap or crisis response but a permanent pillar of Australia’s health system, reshaping how care is accessed, funded and governed. Former health minister Greg Hunt reflects on how virtual care has matured since its rapid expansion, why access and quality must be advanced together, and what this means for funding reform, workforce capability and the future design of hospitals.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:48) - Life after politics and a portfolio view of health reform(03:52) - Digital health, AI and the shift to system-based care(05:03) - Telehealth’s transition from fringe to mainstream(06:06) - What rapid reform revealed about system capacity(08:55) - Principles for virtual care: access and quality(12:26) - Addressing Australia’s access gap through telehealth(13:38) - Managing innovation, safety and stakeholder interests(16:08) - Clinical, administrative, resourcing and ethical priorities(19:18) - Building principles that endure technological change(21:12) - Oversight, accountability and governance models(23:26) - Bulk billing, incentives and access pressures(27:01) - Hospital funding reform and system integration📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s public hospital system is absorbing billions in additional funding each year, yet avoidable inefficiency remains deeply embedded, raising fundamental questions about how hospitals are funded, governed, and held accountable as the next National Health Reform Agreement is negotiated. Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:48) - Why $1.2 billion in hospital spending is avoidable(02:20) - Variation in care that cannot be explained by patient complexity(03:35) - The limits of blaming primary care and prevention gaps(04:55) - Unrealistic budgets and the loss of productivity signals(06:40) - Commonwealth–state funding tensions and shared responsibility(09:05) - Why pay-for-performance has failed to deliver results(11:00) - Same-day surgery, scope of practice, and evidence-based efficiency(13:20) - What the next National Health Reform Agreement should change📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Health economist Luke Slawomirski examines how incentives, governance and political decision-making have shaped Australia into an illness-focused system, and what structural reforms are needed to shift investment upstream towards prevention, outcomes and population health.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:49) - What an “illness system” looks like in practice(01:47) - The widening gap between lifespan and healthy years(02:36) - Why Australia excels at rescue but struggles with prevention(03:42) - Spending patterns and the imbalance between acute and primary care(05:08) - The political economy of prevention and ribbon-cutting incentives(08:23) - Who the health system is really designed to serve(11:55) - Citizens, governance and setting system-wide priorities(12:28) - The evaluator-general concept and embedded evaluation(16:39) - Performance measures, pay-for-performance and unintended consequences(23:11) - Rethinking the private health insurance rebate(27:54) - Closing reflections📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s health system is often described as one of the world’s best, yet mounting pressures across primary care, hospitals, disability and private insurance suggest a system straining against outdated incentives, fragmented responsibilities and rising demand that current reforms only partially address.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:32) - Bulk billing targets and political expectations(03:00) - Certainty, transparency and patient behaviour(04:01) - Specialist out-of-pocket costs and referral pathways(05:47) - Urgent care centres and after-hours primary care(08:21) - Commonwealth–state misalignment in urgent care(09:02) - Hospital cost growth and the National Health Reform Agreement(10:27) - Stranded patients and aged care bottlenecks(13:20) - Performance funding and shared incentives(15:10) - NDIS design, accountability and market failure(17:05) - Private hospital viability and insurance design(20:29) - Regulation, consumer protection and market oversight📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Pain affects millions of Australians, yet the health system still treats it as an invisible symptom rather than a condition requiring structured, long term care. In this discussion, Monika Boogs, CEO of Pain Australia, explains why chronic pain remains misunderstood, how stigma shapes care and access, and what systemic reforms are needed to better support people whose lives, work and relationships are shaped by ongoing pain. Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:36) - What Pain Australia does and who it represents(01:32) - Why pain must be treated as a condition in its own right(02:42) - The My Pain Assessment communication tool(04:40) - Designing the tool with patients and international partners(06:21) - Stigma, disbelief and living with chronic pain(08:06) - Economic, social and mental health impacts of pain(08:46) - System reform, funding gaps and the case for an MBS item(10:00) - What multidisciplinary pain care looks like in practice(13:53) - The single most important lever for change📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Endometriosis affects one in nine Australian women, yet the health system continues to respond with delayed diagnosis and fragmented care rather than structured pathways. This panel brings together lived experience and clinical leadership to examine why the condition remains underdiagnosed, how system design contributes to long delays, and what reforms could move Australia beyond awareness towards action, particularly for women in regional and underserved communities.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(01:21) - Why endometriosis remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood(03:41) - Systemic and societal drivers of delayed diagnosis(06:14) - Living with endometriosis in regional Australia(09:22) - The six to ten year diagnosis gap and the role of primary care(12:06) - Being heard and the impact of clinician listening(15:56) - The financial burden of endometriosis care(18:21) - System design, funding models and primary care reform(22:07) - Multidisciplinary care and mental health impacts(25:05) - Moving from awareness to action in policy and practice📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Katharine is joined by Krystal Barter, founder and CEO of Humanise Health, to examine why surgical menopause remains one of the most neglected areas of women’s healthcare. Drawing on lived experience shaped by genetic cancer risk, family history, and abrupt medical menopause, Barter argues that the system still treats ovary removal as a one-off surgical event rather than a lifelong health transition. The conversation makes clear that education, continuity of care, and evidence-based hormone therapy are not optional extras, but core elements of humane and effective health system design.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(01:20) - A family history shaped by cancer and ovary removal(03:00) - The immediate impact of surgical menopause(04:30) - Hormone therapy as the turning point(05:30) - Navigating care without a clear pathway(07:20) - Why women’s health research lagged for decades(09:00) - Generational change and rising expectations(10:00) - Building new models of support and care(14:10) - Genetic testing and informed choice📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s healthcare system is showing clear signs of strain, from hospital ramping and GP access delays to aged care waitlists. According to the Business Council of Australia, these pressures are not isolated failures but symptoms of a system designed for a different era. With chronic disease rising and workforce capacity tightening, reform is increasingly framed as an economic and productivity imperative.In this conversation, Rohan Mead explains the Business Council of Australia’s blueprint for a healthier and more productive nation. Drawing on the BCA’s analysis, the discussion explores how health system design, funding models, and technology adoption must evolve to better meet contemporary health needs and economic realities.Topics covered- Why acute-care models no longer match population health needs- Chronic and non-communicable disease as the central reform challenge- Breaking down silos across Commonwealth and state systems- Linking funding to outcomes rather than activity- Technology, data, and consumer empowerment in care deliverySTAY CONNECTED:🤝 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieo📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s ageing population is forcing governments to rethink how health, housing, and ageing policy intersect. Retirement living is increasingly viewed not just as a lifestyle option, but as a preventative health lever that can support healthy ageing, reduce pressure on hospitals and aged care, and improve system efficiency. The challenge is whether policy settings recognise its role.In this conversation, Dr Katharine Bassett is joined by Shane Martin, Director at Nexus Public Affairs, to unpack what retirement living actually means in the Australian context. The discussion clarifies how retirement living differs from aged care, and why governments should consider it as part of a broader healthy ageing strategy.Topics covered- Retirement living versus aged care: key distinctions- Healthy ageing and preventative health outcomes- Reducing pressure on hospitals and residential aged care- Retirement living’s role in housing and planning policy- Why policy frameworks lag emerging ageing modelsSUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST:🎧 Watch the Health in Focus podcast on SpotifySTAY CONNECTED:🤝 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieo📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s biotech sector is expanding rapidly, underpinned by world-class research, growing innovation pipelines, and increasing global interest. Yet without a clear, coordinated national strategy, much of that potential risks remaining fragmented or unrealised. The challenge is no longer capability, but intent and alignment.In this conversation, Dr Katharine Bassett is joined by Rebekah Cassidy, CEO of AusBiotech, to examine what it would take to elevate Australia into a globally competitive life sciences leader. The discussion focuses on policy settings, government coordination, and the structural reforms required to scale innovation and sovereign capability.Topics covered- The strengths and gaps in Australia’s biotech ecosystem- Why whole-of-government coordination matters for scale- Sovereign manufacturing and national capability- Translating research into globally competitive companies- Building international partnerships and export pathways📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Health policy sits at the centre of Australia’s most pressing political and economic debates, spanning Medicare sustainability, bulk billing, aged care reform, and the future of the NDIS. As cost-of-living pressures intensify and scrutiny of government policy increases, the Opposition is positioning health as a defining issue for voters and the system alike.In this conversation, Dr Katharine Bassett is joined by Anne Ruston, Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Disability and the NDIS, to outline the Opposition’s approach to healthcare reform. The discussion explores policy priorities, system pressures, and how alternative frameworks could reshape access, affordability, and sustainability across care sectors.Topics covered- Medicare and bulk billing reform pressures- Aged care policy priorities and system capacity- Long-term sustainability of the NDIS- Health policy and cost-of-living pressures- Political accountability and policy alternatives📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s health system is facing mounting pressure as public hospitals struggle with demand, workforce capacity tightens, and chronic disease continues to rise. At the same time, shifts in private health insurance toward managed care and vertical integration are reshaping how care is funded, delivered, and governed. These changes raise fundamental questions about patient choice, clinical autonomy, and long-term system sustainability.In this conversation, Dr Katharine Bassett is joined by Dr Omar Khorshid, former President of the Australian Medical Association, to examine where Australia’s health system is heading and what reforms are required to stabilise it. Drawing on frontline clinical experience and national policy leadership, the discussion explores the structural forces shaping care delivery today.Topics covered- Public hospital capacity constraints and workforce pressure- The rise of managed care and insurer vertical integration- Implications for patient choice and clinician independence- Government regulation, oversight, and market design- The sugar tax debate and broader prevention policy trade-offs📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Ambulance ramping, staff burnout, growing surgical waitlists—Queensland’s health system is under pressure. In the wake of the state budget, which promises big capital investments, is it enough to deliver meaningful change?In this episode of Health in Focus, Shadow Health Minister Hon Mark Bailey MP joins us to unpack what the budget gets right—and what’s missing. From rural health equity to performance measures and private sector integration, we explore what truly matters for better patient outcomes in Queensland.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s medical technology sector is at a tipping point. From digital health breakthroughs to sovereign manufacturing ambitions, medtech is poised to reshape how care is delivered—if the right policies are in place.In this episode of Health in Focus, Ian Burgess, CEO of the Medical Technology Association of Australia (MTAA), joins us to unpack the sector’s biggest opportunities and challenges. From modernising outdated reimbursement systems to fixing the Prescribed List and building a stronger local ecosystem, Ian explains what needs to happen for Australia to lead in health innovation.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Out-of-pocket costs for specialist care are back in the spotlight, with new research highlighting the complexity, and potential unfairness, of fees outside the public system. Patients often struggle to understand what Medicare covers, while doctors face real pressures that aren’t always visible in the debate.In this episode of Health in Focus, Dr Mike Freelander, Federal Member for Macarthur and experienced paediatrician, joins us to unpack the drivers of specialist fees, the need for better transparency, and how policy can reduce financial barriers while still supporting high-quality care.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

For thousands of Australians diagnosed with a rare or less common cancer, the journey can be longer, lonelier, and far more uncertain. From delayed diagnoses to limited treatment options, patients often face additional hurdles — and in many cases, must turn to crowdfunding to access the care they need.In this episode of Health in Focus, Christine Cockburn, CEO of Rare Cancers Australia, discusses the challenges facing patients, the promise of precision medicine, and why rare cancers remain under the radar despite making up more than a quarter of all cancer diagnoses.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

With the last national nutrition policy dating back to 1992, reform is long overdue.In this episode of Health in Focus, Dr Fiona Willer, President of Dieticians Australia, explores the critical role of nutrition in healthcare. We discuss the reforms needed to expand Medicare access, address aged care gaps, and ensure nutrition services aren’t left behind in NDIS reforms.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s Health Technology Assessment (HTA) system is undergoing its first major reform in more than three decades. With new medicines, vaccines, and devices evolving faster than ever, how can we modernise our approval processes to keep pace - while still ensuring safety, value, and equitable access?Elizabeth de Somer, CEO of Medicines Australia, explains what the HTA Review is really about, why it matters for patients and the healthcare system, and how Australia can better engage consumers in the evaluation of new technologies.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

General practice is the foundation of Australia’s healthcare system — but right now, it’s under immense pressure. From rising demand to stagnant funding, GPs are struggling to deliver the care communities rely on.🎙️ Host: Dr Katharine Bassett🎥 Featuring: Dr Ramya Raman, RACGPSUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST:🎧 Listen to the Amplieo Side Chat podcast on SpotifySTAY CONNECTED:🤝 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieo📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) is a world-leading model for affordable access to medicines. But new tensions—including trade concerns with the United States—have sparked debate about how public health priorities are weighed against the commercial interests of global pharmaceutical companies.In this episode of Health in Focus, Paul Cross, founder of Daily Dispatch and a leading voice in pharmaceutical policy, joins us to unpack the real story behind the headlines. We discuss the risk of foreign influence in PBS reform, the role of industry in shaping policy, and how Australia can protect its sovereignty while improving transparency in pharmaceutical decision-making.SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST:🎧 Watch the Health in Focus podcast on SpotifySTAY CONNECTED:🤝 LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieo📺 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo📸 Instagram: www.instagram.com/amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Private maternity services in Australia are under mounting pressure. Workforce shortages, rising delivery costs, and escalating out-of-pocket expenses are threatening the viability of the sector. At the same time, many private health insurance policies exclude pregnancy cover from lower-tier plans—making access increasingly inequitable.In this episode of Health in Focus, A/Prof Gino Pecoraro, President of the National Association of Specialist Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (NASOG), shares his perspective on the challenges facing private maternity care and the urgent reforms needed to keep it accessible and affordable.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Anaesthesia is vital for safe, modern healthcare — but the specialty is under pressure. From workforce shortages to questions about professional autonomy in private hospitals, anaesthetists face complex challenges that demand clear policy solutions.In this episode of Health in Focus, A/Prof Suzi Nou — respected anaesthetist, advocate, and leader in the Australian medical community — joins us to discuss the realities of anaesthesia practice in Australia. We explore equitable access to services, maintaining professional independence, and the key healthcare reforms she’d like to see ahead of the federal election. Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

How do we build a system that meets their unique needs and ensures dignity, care, and inclusion as we age?In this episode of Health in Focus, Patricia Sparrow, CEO of COTA Australia, joins us to discuss how the organisation is driving change in aged care, health, and social inclusion. From gender-responsive care to aged care reform and election priorities, we explore what’s needed to shape a system that supports ageing with dignity. Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australians in rural and remote areas often face limited access to healthcare, workforce shortages, and infrastructure gaps that impact health outcomes. So how can we close the divide and deliver equitable healthcare to all Australians—no matter where they live?In this episode of Health in Focus, Susi Tegen, CEO of the National Rural Health Alliance, joins us to discuss the most pressing challenges facing rural communities. From workforce shortages to innovative care models and aged care funding, we explore the key reforms and policies needed to ensure rural Australians receive the healthcare they deserve. Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Prevention is better than cure — but why is it so difficult to prioritise prevention? While preventive healthcare can save lives and reduce long-term costs, governments often struggle to invest in strategies where results aren’t immediately visible.In this episode of Health in Focus, Dr Mike Freelander MP — Member for Macarthur, Chair of the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport, and paediatrician — discusses why preventive health matters. We explore key findings from the national diabetes inquiry, the need for equitable healthcare access, and policy changes that could transform Australia’s approach to prevention.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s healthcare system is under growing pressure—strained by an ageing population, rising rates of chronic illness, and workforce shortages. With doctors facing more complex patient needs and a system struggling to keep up, what reforms are urgently needed to meet the moment?In this episode of Health in Focus, Professor Michael Kidd—former Deputy Chief Medical Officer and current Director of the International Centre for Future Health Systems—joins us to examine the road ahead. We explore the balance between hospital and primary care funding, the need for integrated care, and key policy priorities ahead of the federal election.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

General practitioners are the backbone of Australia’s healthcare system, yet the pressures they face are greater than ever. With Medicare remaining largely unchanged for decades and the demands on general practitioners increasing, how can we ensure the future of primary care remains strong?In this episode of Health in Focus, Dr Kerrie Aust, general practitioner and President of the Australian Medical Association ACT, joins us to discuss the urgent reforms needed to modernise Medicare, the evolving role of general practitioners, and the critical importance of mental health training in primary care.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Prevention is better than cure — but why is it so difficult to prioritise prevention? While preventive healthcare can save lives and reduce long-term costs, governments often struggle to invest in strategies where results aren’t immediately visible.In this episode of Health in Focus, Dr Mike Freelander MP — Member for Macarthur, Chair of the Standing Committee on Health, Aged Care and Sport, and paediatrician — discusses why preventive health matters. We explore key findings from the national diabetes inquiry, the need for equitable healthcare access, and policy changes that could transform Australia’s approach to prevention.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s health system delivers world-class care, yet its long-term sustainability is under strain from chronic disease, workforce shortages, and rising costs. Professor Steve Robson argues that without a decisive shift towards prevention and a whole-of-government approach to health, policy settings will continue to reward treatment over long-term wellbeing, undermining equity, productivity, and economic resilience. Chapters(00:00) - Intro(01:16) - Why prevention must become the system’s central priority(02:26) - Health as an economic investment, not a budgetary cost(04:36) - Funding models, incentives, and the limits of health portfolios(06:26) - Social determinants, silos, and whole-of-government reform(06:52) - What Australia can learn from international health systems(08:04) - The real role of AI and technology in healthcare delivery(12:08) - Election-year priorities and the politics of prevention📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s fastest-growing neurological condition exposes deep inequities in care access, fragmented funding systems, and a lack of nationally coordinated support for people living with Parkinson’s and their families.Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:08) - Parkinson’s disease in Australia and why it matters(00:43) - Personal experience shaping leadership and advocacy(01:55) - Motor and non-motor symptoms and daily impact(03:11) - The case for holistic, multidisciplinary care(04:30) - Age-based funding divides in care and support(05:49) - Limitations of aged care assessment tools(06:29) - Access challenges and early intervention under the NDIS(07:41) - Policy priorities and election platform asks(08:24) - The role of conferences, peer support, and connection(09:05) - AI, data, and the future of symptom tracking(09:35) - Essential tremor and unmet neurological need📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s healthcare system is facing a structural inflection point as rising chronic disease, workforce shortages and population ageing collide with funding models designed for acute, episodic care, raising urgent questions about sustainability, prevention and system integration. Chapters(00:00) - Intro(00:39) - A health system at an inflection point(02:25) - Why funding models no longer match patient need(03:12) - Shifting from illness care to prevention(04:30) - Movement, food and the drivers of chronic disease(06:35) - Where health, aged care and disability fail to connect(08:30) - The limits of the NDIS and system coordination(08:38) - The case for shared hospital and primary care funding📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Mental health is a vital part of Australia’s healthcare system, yet accessing services remains a major challenge for many. With workforce shortages, legal complexities, and rising demand, how can we ensure better mental healthcare for all?In this episode of Health in Focus, Natasha Robinson, health editor at The Australian, joins us to discuss the key barriers to mental healthcare access. We explore the impact of psychiatrist shortages, balancing patient autonomy with involuntary treatment, and how social media has shaped public perception of mental health. Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s private health system is critical to national healthcare—handling around two-thirds of elective surgeries and relieving pressure on the public system. But with outdated policies and growing inefficiencies, reform is urgently needed.In this episode of Health in Focus, former PHI executive and an expert, Justin James, discusses how Australia reached this breaking point, the most urgent areas for reform, and why aligning funding with preventive care is key to sustainability.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Oral health isn’t just about teeth — it’s a major public health issue with serious consequences for overall wellbeing. In this episode of Health in Focus, Dr Chris Sanzaro, President of the Australian Dental Association, discusses the various challenges facing Australia’s dental sector, from access barriers for vulnerable communities to the concerning influence of private health insurers.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Behind the scenes, pathology services provide critical information that guides diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. But do we truly understand its role and importance?In this episode of Health in Focus, Liesel Wett OAM, CEO of Australian Pathology, joins us to explore the impact of pathology on patient care. We discuss the lessons learned from COVID-19, the challenges of bulk-billing, and the policy changes needed to strengthen this vital service.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Pathology is one of the most essential yet often overlooked components of our healthcare system. Behind the scenes, pathology services provide critical information that guides diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. But do we truly understand its role and importance?In this episode of Health in Focus, Liesel Wett OAM, CEO of Australian Pathology, joins us to explore the impact of pathology on patient care. We discuss the lessons learned from COVID-19, the challenges of bulk-billing, and the policy changes needed to strengthen this vital service.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Palliative Care Australia CEO Camilla Rowland joins Katharine to discuss why quality end-of-life care is so often overlooked and under-prioritised in our health system.They explore the policy reforms needed to improve access, the common misconceptions about palliative care, and the emotional toll on patients, families, and carers alike.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

As healthcare costs rise and demand increases, how can Australia ensure access to quality, affordable care for all? With an ageing population and growing financial strain on the system, innovative solutions are needed to maintain sustainability.In this episode of Health in Focus, Professor Francesco Paolucci, a leading expert in health economics and policy, joins us to break down the key challenges facing Australia’s healthcare system. We explore cost containment versus value for money, the potential of regulated competition, and lessons from international health systems that could help shape future reforms.📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Healthcare is under pressure from rising demand and outdated workflows. Tom Blinksell explains how AI could help redesign care delivery — and why healthcare adoption has lagged behind other sectors.Topics discussed:(00:06) Why healthcare workflows are breaking under pressure(00:17) AI as a redesign opportunity — not just automation(00:23) Australia’s National AI Plan and health sector response(00:37) Why healthcare is behind other industries on AI adoption(04:10) Human-centred health technology and clinician trust(07:45) Where AI can add value today — realistically(11:30) What must change to embed AI into day-to-day care📥 JOIN Amplieo+ on Substack for early access to episodes, exclusive videos, and bonus content: https://amplieo.substack.comLEARN more about Amplieo: https://www.amplieo.com📲 FOLLOW Amplieo on socialsLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram: https://instagram.com/amplieoYouTube: https://youtube.com/@amplieo Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Heart disease is often diagnosed too late, with many Australians missing early symptoms or facing barriers to timely testing and follow-up care. In this episode of Health in Focus, Tanya Hall, CEO of Hearts4Heart, shares her personal journey with congenital heart disease and explains why underdiagnosis remains common, what signs people often overlook, and how greater awareness, education, and support can lead to earlier detection and better outcomes for patients and families.Topics include:Why heart disease is frequently undiagnosedSymptoms people misunderstand or missBarriers to accessing timely cardiac testingThe role of awareness in early detectionHow Hearts4Heart supports patients and familiesThe importance of lived experience in advocacy📲 Sign up for full episodes on Amplieo ► https://www.amplieo.com📥 Subscribe on Substack for EXCLUSIVE content ► https://www.amplieo.substack.comWatch & listen to the show:🎧 Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/7c6smawqKvss3aUPjbZ8FT🎥 YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@amplieoFollow Us:LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram ► https://www.instagram.com/amplieo#news #healthcare #podcast Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe

Australia’s health system is at a crossroads — from hospital congestion and NDIS pressures to specialist fees and GP access. Professor Stephen Duckett breaks down what’s going wrong, what’s improving, and the reforms Australia needs next.📲 Sign up for full episodes on Amplieo ► https://www.amplieo.com📥 Subscribe on Substack for EXCLUSIVE content ► https://www.amplieo.substack.comWatch & listen to the show:🎧 Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/7c6smawqKvss3aUPjbZ8FT?si=434e10bf45d64788🎥 YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@amplieoFollow Us:LinkedIn ► https://www.linkedin.com/company/amplieoInstagram ► https://www.instagram.com/amplieo#news #healthcare #podcast Get full access to Amplieo at amplieo.substack.com/subscribe