The Australian Greens believe a more proactive, early intervention approach to tackle the growing burden on our ailing hospital system should be a key response to the 2010 Intergenerational report.

The report predicts ageing of the Australian population will contribute to substantial pressure on government spending over the next 40 years - an extra $40 billion on top of existing spending on health by 2050.

"We know that high quality primary care can dramatically reduce avoidable hospitalization and keep people in better health," said Senator Rachel Siewert, Greens health spokesperson.

"This would also reduce waiting lists and free up resources to treat other patients," she said.

"Many people fail to make regular visits to their GP for various reasons, be it lack of money or transport, geographic or cultural barriers.

"Some are apathetic or feel a sense of futility about their condition, and many elderly people fail to report their illnesses and health needs until they reach an advanced stage of disease and disability.

‘We need a national programme of assessment, referral and health counselling practices in relation to control of disorders such as high blood pressure and diabetes, cancer screening and keeping immunizations up-to-date.

"People over-65 should be seen regularly every two years and those over 75 should be seen annually for assessment, and when necessary a home visit.

We must also be more proactive on aged care. For example there needs to be more community support packages to keep people mobile and independent and enable them to stay at home longer before moving into residential age care.

‘We have welcomed the Government's desire to establish a national preventive health agency with its emphasis on alcohol, tobacco and obesity. But a national programme of preventive care management doesn't mean we marginalise the health equity of the frail and the aged.

"The current health system is preoccupied with hospitalization which we believe should be considered as a last resort when other options fail, we need to stop people having to go to hospital in the first place," Senator Siewert concluded.

Media Contact: Fernando de Freitas 0417 174 302