The Greens today outlined the approach they will take to the Prime Minister's health and hospital's reform plan.

Senator Rachel Siewert said that improvements to Denticare, more and better hospital services, mental health, aged care services and protection of regional hospitals would all be key tests of Greens support for the Government's package of health reforms."The Australian Greens have written today to the Prime Minister seeking early negotiations on a range of issues including:

• The implementation of a universal dental care scheme as part of Medicare
• Guarantees on the protection of rural and regional hospitals
• Ensuring an actual increase in health services as a result of reforms.

"Dental health is essential to good physical health and emotional well-being," said Senator Siewert. 
 


"There are more than 500,000 people on dental waiting lists in Australia.

"We are also seeking to ensure that regional hospitals are protected."

The Greens will announce a full detailed health reform plan in the coming weeks.