The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) today welcomes the appointment of the Hon. Sussan Ley as the new Federal Minister for Health and Sport.
RACGP President, Dr Frank R Jones said the RACGP is anticipating a reinvigorated focus on general practice and primary healthcare, at a time where rebuilding the standing of general practice is an absolute necessity.
“Minister Ley’s long-standing experience inside and out of parliament, including her financial background, provides her with a strong foundation in addressing the challenges currently facing the Australian healthcare system,” said Dr Jones.
“Minister Ley’s rural background will bring a strong rural perspective into the health portfolio; an attribute that is welcomed by the RACGP and the over 10,000 rural members it represents.
“Minister Ley’s broad rural experience will be critical in addressing the continuing workforce shortages facing general practice and the sustainability of rural communities.
“A Government focus on general practice and the recognition of the central role that general practice plays in delivering optimal health outcomes must be a priority.
“I am confident that if Minister Ley genuinely engages with the profession, she will be able to deliver policy reform that reflects the healthcare needs of all Australians.”
In shaping the future of the Australian healthcare system, the RACGP urges Minister Ley to reconsider the recently revised funding model for general practice.
“It is time to listen to GPs and the Australian community and halt any measure that jeopardises general practice services and quality health access and outcomes,” said Dr Jones.
“General practice has always been the solution, never the problem, yet it continues to be the target of ill-founded policy measures.
“A commitment to a sustainable general practice model is the best way to ensure that all Australians, now and in the future, will have continued access to high quality and affordable healthcare services.
“There is considerable work to be done, and the RACGP is committed to working with the Government in achieving these goals.”
The RACGP wishes outgoing Health Minister, the Hon. Peter Dutton every success in his new role as Minister for Immigration and Border Security.
The RACGP looks forward to meeting with Minister Ley and members of the Government’s health team to discuss how GPs can be best supported to best meet the healthcare needs of all Australians.