The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) Queensland Faculty welcomes positive policy by the Queensland Liberal National Party (LNP) in relation to funding for general practice. The LNP recently launched their proposed ‘Better Access to Specialist Care’ initiative which streamlines the patient journey between hospital outpatient departments and general practice.
The College acknowledges that the issue of outpatient waiting lists in Queensland’s public hospitals needs to be urgently addressed.
Dr Eleanor Chew, Chair of the RACGP Queensland Faculty and a GP in Brisbane, said there needs to be a focus on the patient through improved communication between GPs and outpatient departments. The funding of Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) GP Liaison Officers at 20 public hospitals, which is part of the initiative, is an important first step in this process.
“The RACGP has long advocated for improved interaction between general practice and outpatient departments to both political parties. This policy acknowledges both the central role of general practice within the health system and the need to achieve sustainable change to ensure the future health needs of Queenslanders.
“GPs are at the forefront of primary healthcare and are well positioned to provide input and leadership. Naturally the RACGP would be pleased to work with Queensland Health to assist in the implementation and evaluation of the ‘Better Access to Specialist Care’ initiative.
“The evidence base for quality general practice is very strong, and the coordinating role of general practice is central to achieving strong health outcomes. Improving the interaction between Queensland Health and general practice will help ease pressure on outpatient departments and lead to improved patient outcomes,” Dr Chew concluded.