April has been another productive month for the NSW&ACT faculty, with continued focus on member engagement and progressing key advocacy activities across the state.
On 15 April, the NSW Government announced the introduction of pharmacist prescribing for oral contraception. In response, the RACGP media release voiced concern regarding this announcement, particularly the lack of evidence underpinning the decision, disregard for advice provided by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, and the potential risks to patient safety. I will continue to advocate for the role of general practitioners as the appropriate specialists for diagnosis and discussion about all available options for patient health including all women’s health, and for models that do not ignore safety advice from our national regulator.
If you’d like to support this work, consider joining the RACGP GP Advocate Network. It’s a practical way to stay informed, connect with peers and add your voice to advocacy efforts on issues like this. To get involved, contact the Government Relations team at gpadvocate@racgp.org.au.
It was positive to engage with the NSW Minister for Health Ryan Park to promote the availability of funded FluMist (intranasal influenza vaccine) for 2–4-year-olds in NSW recently. This initiative reinforces the critical role of general practice in preventive care and protecting our communities, particularly as we enter the winter months. It also provides an important opportunity to highlight the essential contribution of GPs within the broader health system.
Preparations are also underway for upcoming faculty activities, including the ACT member meet-up on 1 May and the ACT Fellowship ceremony on 2 May. These events remain an important opportunity to connect with you and to recognise the achievements of our members and celebrate the strength of the general practice profession across our regions.
This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Health of the Nation report, providing an opportunity to reflect on a decade of insights into the health of our communities and the central role of general practice as the front door of Australia’s healthcare system. Recent reforms, including Medicare changes and increased Federal investment, signal growing recognition of the value of general practice. However, challenges remain, including increasing complexity of care, workforce pressures, and impacts on practice viability. The report continues to highlight the essential role of GPs in delivering accessible, high-quality, and holistic care across all communities, and in supporting multidisciplinary models of care despite ongoing system constraints. The survey is open until 3 May, and we strongly encourage all members to participate. Health of the Nation remains a critical advocacy tool for the RACGP, and member input is vital in shaping the future of general practice.
On a personal note, I am currently taking some time away with family and will return refreshed and ready to continue supporting members and advocating for general practice in NSW and the ACT.
Until next month,
Dr Rebekah Hoffman
Chair of RACGP NSW&ACT