Core 1. Health Priorities in Australia
Epidemiology
Epidemiology is the study of a disease in groups or populations through the collection of data and information, to identify patterns and causes.
The role of epidemiology is it is used by governments and health-related organisations to obtain a picture of the health status of a population, to identify the patterns of health and disease, and analyse how health services and facilities are being used.
Epidemiology looks at patterns of disease through the:
Prevalence
Incidence
Distribution
Causes
Limitations of epidemiology are:-
variations- do not always show the significant variations in the health status among population sub groups. Eg. Aboriginals
quality- quality of life in terms of impairment, disability or handicap
whole- cannot provide whole health picture. Eg. Mental health people
health inequities- fails to explain ‘why’ they persist
helath determinants- does not account for them (social, economic, environmental, cultural)
National Health Priority Issues 5 selection criteria
SPPPC
-Social Justice Principles
Participation - in planning and making decisions about community health
Equity - fair allocation of resources and entitlements without discrimination
Access - the ability to use a range of health services
Rights - equal opportunity to achieve optimal health
OR-
Supportive Environments
Equity - fair allocation of resources and entitlements without discrimination
Rights - equal opportunity to achieve optimal health
Priority Population Groups
ATSI, Rural and Remote locals, the elderly, disabled people, low ses
Prevalence of the condition- prevalence of disease and illness helps identify risk factors as well as diseases which provide a health and economic burden to Australia.
Potential for prevention and early intervention
- majority of diseases and illnesses result from poor lifestyle behaviours
Costs to the Individual and Community
- Disease and illness place a great...