Problem under investigation and the context - System Thinking Assignment

Internal Code: MAS3452

System Thinking Assignment:

Worldwide, there are an estimated 370 million indigenous peoples, dispersed over approximately 70 countries, these populations of which represent a diverse mix of histories, cultures, and traditions. Despite this, these indigenous populations continue to be among the world's most marginalised population groups (WHO 2007). The health status of these indigenous populations vary significantly from that of non-indigenous population groups in countries all over the world and in many countries, this inequality appears to be improving. Australia, however, appears to be lagging in levelling this disparity. In 2010-11, health expenditure for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) people was estimated at $4.6 billion, or 3.7% of Australia's total recurrent health expenditure. The Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population comprised 2.5% of the Australian population at this time. Expenditure equated to $7,995 per Indigenous person, which was 1.47 times greater than the $5,437 spent per non-Indigenous Australian in the same year. Governments funded 91.4% of health expenditure for Indigenous people, compared with 68.1% for non-Indigenous people (AIHW 2013). Given the disparity in health outcomes and expenditure between ATSI people and non-indigenous Australian people, improving ATSI health is imperative for both population health and financial standpoints. Questions: • Provide a brief description of the system/ problem under investigation and the context • Describe and analyze the system or problem under investigation, unpacking the dynamics involved, exploring how events are linked and the emergent meanings or themes using diagrams where appropriate • Explain what insights and/or solutions the methodology provide(s). You may like to ask questions such as – Does the system have a viable continuing role? Is the system capable of adapting to changes? Is the system working as it was intended providing the expected benefits to its stakeholders? • Evaluate the potential of the methodology used in your work as a project manager