Are we ready for the next big thing?

Improved leadership and recognising each others’ humanity are necessary for true health care reform

I write this as an envoi immediately before my departure for a senior health position in Canada. Reflecting on my 35-year career in health care in Australia, I am concerned that, despite all the reform — which has been significant over this period, especially in reducing financial barriers to access — our health care sector still has not tackled fundamental challenges. The health system has been adept in responding to technological change, but our track record in responding to sociological change is poorer, and this gives cause for concern for the future.