The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is pleased to learn that its GP Psych Support service will continue to be funded for a further 12 months, after the contract for the service expired on Thursday 31 October 2013.
Following a media release from the RACGP distributed yesterday announcing the closure of the service, Minister Peter Dutton, Federal Health Minister, informed the RACGP that the lapse in program funding was a legacy of the former government and that he has committed to funding this important program for another year.
Access to the service will be reinstated for all GPs once the RACGP and the Department of Health (DoH) has finalised necessary arrangements.
Dr Liz Marles, RACGP President, said the RACGP is pleased that the Department of Health (DoH) has committed to funding this valuable GP service, however she urges the Government extend the program beyond the confines of a 12 month agreement.
“The GP Psych Support service has been running since 2006 and throughout that period has managed to assist thousands of GPs deliver appropriate and informed clinical care for at risk patients.
“User feedback has always been highly positive for this service with most users of GP Psych Support turning to the service on repeat occasions,” said Dr Marles.
The RACGP will advise its Members once the GP Psych Support service is again live via Fridayfacts and direct communication.