Oral health is important - COAG Health Council

The COAG Health Council has confirmed that oral health is an important part of general health, affecting not only the individual, but also the broader health system and economy.

At the Council's latest meeting, Federal, State and Territory Health Ministers considered and endorsed the new National Oral Health Plan 2015-2024, which provides strategic direction and a framework for collaborative action over the next ten years.

Their communique stated: “Translation of the plan into practice requires jurisdictions and sectors to work together, with the Oral Health Monitoring Group reporting on progress of the National Oral Health Plan every two years”

The Ministers also discussed proposed Federal Government changes to eHealth legislation. The amendments aim to bring forward "the benefits of a connected national eHealth system", thereby improving "health outcomes for consumers through national sharing of information and a more efficient health system".

The Council agreed that, in consultation with all jurisdictions, new models for sufficient health and hospital funding would be explored as part of the broader discussion about the reform of Federation.