Patients may be soon have increased access to timely point of care testing in general practices, with the launch of the RACGP Standards for Point of Care Testing at the RACGP’s annual conference, GP18.
Following long-term calls by the RACGP, the Minister for Health, Greg Hunt, recognised the importance of the new standards, and the importance of point of care testing as part of the future healthcare system.
President-elect of the RACGP has today reaffirmed general practice’s commitment to increasing timely access to pathology, and improving the patient journey and experience.
“General practice is continuing to evolve. Developing technology allows us to better respond to to patient health needs, and ensuring that the patient experience continues to improve.” Dr Nespolon said.
“Providing a range of pathology tests within general practice will support improved and informed decision making, enhance timely access to pathology, improve patient convenience, and support efficiency in health service delivery.
“We know this is a great opportunity to improve our healthcare, and that is why we continue to develop and expand on our standards, which are evidence based and inform best practice.
Today at the RACGPs conference, GP18 Minister Hunt today answered the long term calls by GPs stating that the Australian Government saw it as ‘inevitable’.
“It is incredibly promising to see general practice accessibility be seriously looked at by the Australian government.
“I look forward to future discussions with the Australian Government to ensure that general practice is an affordable and accessible for patients.