How do Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme support the principles of social justice? (A) They are funded by the Australian government to supply health care services - HSC - SSCE Personal Development and Physical Education - Question 6 - 2014 - Paper 1

The principles of social justice are centered around the idea of fairness and equal opportunity for all individuals. Medicare and the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) illustrate this principle by ensuring that health resources are allocated based on the specific needs of different segments of the population. This means that vulnerable or disadvantaged groups receive the attention and resources they require, thus promoting greater equality in health outcomes.

By focusing on the needs of the population, these systems help to address disparities in access to healthcare. For example, individuals in lower socio-economic brackets often face significant barriers to health services. The PBS reduces out-of-pocket expenses for essential medicines, while Medicare provides universal access to necessary medical services, thereby working towards leveling the playing field in healthcare access.