September was an important month for our Faculty with several significant developments.
We celebrated a major advocacy win with the commencement of continuous prescribing of Tier 1 ADHD medications from 1 September. This change represents a vital step forward in reducing barriers for patients and supporting GPs in delivering seamless, ongoing care.
On 9 September we hosted an ADHD webinar: NSW ADHD reforms- expanding GP care of ADHD. We provided members with an overview of the new reforms, pathways to participate as continuation or endorsed prescribers and clinical updates on ADHD care across the lifespan.
The webinar also covered SafeScript NSW and practical prescribing guidance, alongside resources available to support GPs. Strong attendance and feedback underscored the importance of ongoing education in this evolving area of practice.
On 17 September I hosted the NSW GPs @ Parliament event, where GPs conducted health checks for Members of Parliament while also engaging in important conversations about the challenges facing general practice on behalf of our members. This event remains one of our strongest advocacy tools, allowing us to build meaningful relationships with policymakers and raise awareness of the issues that directly impact GPs and their patients.
At this year’s event, we highlighted four key priorities:
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Priority one: Expand access to vaccination against Influenza, Meningococcal B, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)
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Priority two: Attract and retain doctors in remote communities
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Priority three: Allow GPs to prescribe oral Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) for severe acne
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Priority four: Provide greater support for GPs during natural disasters
Our focus on ADHD prescribing by GPs in the ACT also continues, with ongoing advocacy to ensure cross-border challenges are included in reform initiatives. The aim is that patients are not disadvantaged and that they have improved access to GPs who are supported in managing ADHD across all settings.
During the last week of September, I travelled to the south coast of NSW, where I visited several members at local practices. These visits continue to provide valuable insights into the realities of practice in regional communities and help us ensure that your voices are heard in our advocacy and Faculty planning.
Looking ahead, our NSW&ACT Faculty Annual Member Meeting will be held on Wednesday 8 October, from 6.30–8.30 pm at our North Sydney office (with hybrid access for regional, rural and remote members). The evening will feature the delivery of the Charles Bridges-Webb oration on “Preparing for General Practice in 2070”, alongside the presentation of Faculty awards and recognition of Life Members. If you have not yet registered, I encourage you to do so via the following link: NSW & ACT Faculty Annual Member Meeting Registration. I look forward to seeing you there.
Until next month,
Dr Rebekah Hoffman
Chair, RACGP NSW&ACT