Delivered by the South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute and The Australian Centre for Social Innovation, this research is designed to take a holistic snapshot of the health system in South Australia.  SAHMRI and TACSI examined existing health data and conducted primary research with health professionals and members of the public accessing health services. What this presented was a snapshot of not just what the health system was offering in terms of services but also what it was like as a community member to access the health system and a view of where the need is. 

This research was not designed to dive deep into any one health issue or provide answers as to why particular health needs and priorities exist.  Instead, it provides the facts around population health information, as well as insight into how people interact with the health system.  As we all strive to provide better outcomes, knowing the data and a view from the individual to population allows us to create better solutions with the people whose lives we are trying to impact.

The systems map covers government target outcomes, overarching policies and plans and where funding is increasing or decreasing, visualising the key stakeholders across the South Australian health system.

To better inform and influence a system, one needs to know who is in it, and how it works. We believe that this research is an important step in providing transparency to all of the individuals, groups and stakeholders trying to improve health outcomes in South Australia. 

We encourage you to download the report and map and invite any feedback on how this research can inform solutions that improve the health system in South Australia.

This research informed a shift in the Foundation’s practices to align more closely with the report’s conclusions and to address the gaps illustrated in the systems map. The shift includes a refocus from physical health outcomes to mental health and wellbeing and the launch of a new funding initiative in regional South Australia, Our Town.