Health the basis for closing the gap: AMA

A SOLID foundation in improving indigenous health is needed before focusing on employment, training and education, the AMA says.

The AMA says governments looking to reduce indigenous disadvantage must start with health care.

UNLESS government policy targets indigenous health as a priority, it will continue to struggle to get kids into school and adults into jobs, the president of the AMA says.

PROFESSOR Brian Owler is visiting health bodies and clinics in Alice Springs and in remote Aboriginal communities this week to see how health services are delivered locally so the AMA can shape its own policy.