The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners today welcomes the appointment of the Hon. Chris Bowen MP as the new Shadow Federal Health Minister.
RACGP President Dr Harry Nespolon said the appointment of a new Shadow Federal Health Minister was an opportunity for the Australian Labor Party to increase its focus on general practice.
“I congratulate Shadow Minister Bowen on his appointment as Shadow Federal Health Minister,” Dr Nespolon said.
“Here is a fresh opportunity for the Australian Labor Party under the leadership of Shadow Minister Bowen to recommit to the most accessed and cost effective part of Australia’s healthcare system – general practice.”
“Nearly 90% of Australians see their GP every year, so Shadow Minister Bowen now has an opportunity to significantly impact and improve our nation.
“The RACGP looks forward to working with Shadow Minister Bowen to support Australians’ health at every stage of life – not just once they become unwell.
“I am confident Shadow Minister Bowen will be a strong leader in healthcare and will help us ensure all Australians can see their GP whenever they need to.”
Dr Nespolon also thanked former Shadow Federal Health Minister, the Hon. Catherine King MP.
“Shadow Minister King should be commended for the almost six years she dedicated to her role as Shadow Federal Health Minister,” Dr Nespolon said.
“Shadow Minister King regularly took the time to meet with the RACGP and with GPs in the community. She understood the crucial role of GPs and was dedicated to improving the health of our nation.”