The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is encouraged by the announcement by the Australian Greens which commits to the adequate funding of the primary health needs of Australians as proposed in their health election policy.
Dr Frank Jones, RACGP President, said it was promising that the Greens policy on primary healthcare echoes the RACGP’s Vision for general practice and a sustainable health system.
The Greens proposal provides for $1.5 billion ($375 million a year) additional funding, for the management of chronic conditions in general practice. This significant investment, on top of existing funding, would provide $1,000 for general practices per voluntary enrolled patient, for the provision of high quality chronic disease care.
The RACGP understands that the announced funding for coordinated care will be in addition to fee-for-service – not instead of.
“General practice performs an essential function at the coalface of primary care keeping people well and out of hospital, benefitting both individuals and saving the entire health system billions of dollars. While the finer details have to be examined and agreed upon, this announcement by the Greens is encouraging,” Dr Jones said.
The RACGP is an autonomous member based organisation with no political affiliation.
Our support will always focus on the best health outcomes for all Australians and is committed to working with all sides of politics to achieve that goal.