The New South Wales Liberals and Nationals have outlined a new $120 million " Preventative Health Fighting Fund" designed to reduce "avoidable" hospital admissions and improve quality of life for families.

 

NSW Opposition Leader announced the initiative with Shadow Minister for Health Jillian Skinner. "I want families to live healthy lives no matter where they live or what their circumstances are. The best preventative health policy we can deliver is one that keeps people out of hospital," Mr O'Farrell said.

 

Mr O'Farrell continued to identify chronic diseases as an increasing pressure placed on the existing health system. "The burden of chronic disease on our health system is increasing as fast as the surge in the incidence of the diseases themselves." he said.

 

The opposition outlined a co-operative initative between the University of Western Sydney and the Office of Preventative Health " to ensure there is a close link between academic evidence, government policy and better health outcomes for 'at risk' population groups.".

 

"Keeping people healthy and out of hospital will improve their quality of life and make our health system more efficient." Mrs Skinner said

 

Professor Kerryn Phelps, president of the Australasian Integrative Medicine Association, welcomed the initiative "A state- based agency such as this would ensure that the needs of the NSW community are considered in any national programs and that all relevant sectors of government are involved in finding solutions" she said.