Health Reform: deconstruct, reconstruct or reform

Abstract

It was interesting to sit, listen and reflect on the presentations at the recent ACHSE New South Wales (NSW) State Conference held in Sydney where the theme was 'Deconstruct or Reconstruct'. Most speakers prefaced introductions to their papers with a cautionary comment to the effect that in implementing change we should recognise that the Australian Healthcare System is a comparatively good system with a number of strengths. The caution was, that in implementing reform, we need to ensure that these strengths are protected. The concern was that requirements to respond quickly to inquiries and reform proposals might unintentionally weaken those strengths. This is perhaps a vote for reconstruction over deconstruction?