Today, NSW GPs will bring general practice to the heart of state government, engaging with NSW MPs at Parliament House, Sydney.
The annual ‘GPs for MPs’ event will see NSW MPs receive complimentary health checks from GPs representing the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP), highlighting the importance of preventive care and regular access to general practice. Throughout the day, RACGP NSW representatives will also discuss the key challenges facing general practice and advocate for practical solutions to strengthen patient care.
The RACGP is calling on the NSW Government to:
better connect the healthcare system by establishing GPs with Special Interests (GPwSIs), funding a GP Liaison Officer (GPLO) in every Local Health District, and strengthening links between hospitals and general practice
improve early access to care for young people by piloting a GPs in Schools program across 20 public high schools in disadvantaged communities
support multidisciplinary care by establishing a funding pool to help practices build teams that meet the needs of their local communities
expand timely access to essential treatment by enabling appropriately trained GPs to prescribe medicines including oral isotretinoin for severe acne and dementia medications, while supporting more hospital-level care in general practice
protect the community through greater access to vaccination, including ongoing funding for intranasal influenza vaccines for children and expanded access to meningococcal B, RSV and Q fever vaccines
improve access to care outside business hours through an After-Hours GP Expansion Fund to support evening, weekend and urgent GP appointments.
RACGP NSW&ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman said GPs were looking forward to discussing practical, patient-focused reforms with MPs.
“MPs have demanding roles and, like everyone, need to prioritise their own health,” she said.
“‘GPs for MPs’ provides a timely reminder that regular check-ups and preventive care are essential for everyone – including our elected representatives – while creating an opportunity to discuss the changes needed to strengthen healthcare for communities across NSW.
“Every day, GPs see where patients struggle to access the care they need, whether that’s because of long waits, fragmented services or barriers to accessing treatment close to home.
“Better-connected healthcare, earlier access for young people, stronger multidisciplinary care, expanded GP prescribing and improved after-hours services will also reduce pressure on hospitals.
“Patients should be able to access the care they need, when and where they need it. Implementing these changes will make this a reality and help keep communities across New South Wales healthier.”
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