Malcolm Turnbull has supported cuts to universal health care by lavishing praise on Donald Trump’s attempts to dismantle basic health rights in the United States.
As Americans grapple with the news that another step has been taken which could see 24 million people lose their health cover, Australia’s Prime Minister congratulated the move and said the United States should “keep at it”.
Malcolm Turnbull has praised the progression of a Bill that will take away the requirement for health insurers to cover people with “pre-existing conditions” – such as diabetes, autism or cancer. It could also impact survivors or rape or domestic violence.
It’s a bill that will see low income people miss out on healthcare altogether and see older people’s premiums increase by $20,000 per year.
Is this what Malcolm Turnbull thinks is, in his words, “great”?
If Malcolm Turnbull is happy to publicly laud the repeal of universal health care overseas, he should stand up and admit the same thing to the Australian people.
Australians know Malcolm Turnbull’s atrocious record on Medicare – today is yet another reason why they’ll never trust him with it.
Malcolm Turnbull has shown his true colours on the international stage – shirking an opportunity to stand up for access to health care no matter income or circumstances.
His own Health Minister used his maiden speech to advocate for a US-style health care system where who you work for determines the level of care you receive.
This is yet another example that when it comes to health, Malcolm Turnbull is out-of-touch and can’t be trusted.
FRIDAY, 5 MAY 2017