The next quarterly progress chart measuring the outputs of the Department of Health is due soon.
In July, Labor called for the progress chart to offer better transparency and change how it measures and monitors the health of Tasmanians.
Shadow Health Minister Rebecca White said to improve how we prevent ill health we need to start measuring how prevalent common ailments are in the community so we can be more effective and accountable for tackling them.
“Labor has argued that the progress chart should include measures against preventable illness such as communicable diseases, tobacco, drug and alcohol-related diseases, avoidable deaths, avoidable hospitalisations and early detection of diseases,” Ms White said.
“It is important that targets are established that encourage early detection and hospital avoidance, shifting resources to this area and keeping people well, rather than spending the bulk of the health budget responding when someone is already unwell.
“The benefits to the community from an improved investment in prevention include improved health and wellbeing including mental health, reduced or delayed chronic disease, reduced work absenteeism and improved workforce productivity.”
Rebecca White MP Shadow Minister for Health
