The AMA calls on Senate to pass Medicare safety net legislation
AMA Vice President, Dr Mukesh Haikerwal, said today there is no justification for the Senate to hold up the Medicare safety net legislation that will protect all Australians, especially those with chronic medical problems and those facing major medical bills.
"We must strive to achieve reasonable access for patients to GPs at an affordable cost to patients," Dr Haikerwal said.
He emphasised that Australia's health system is not delivering this basic right of all Australians today as waiting lists lengthen, doctors are forced to close their patient books and in some areas GP services are not available at all.
Achieving access and affordability for patients while there is such an acute shortage of general practitioners is a major challenge for all political parties.
Dr Haikerwal said: "Linking GP policy to levels of bulk billing will only provide further disincentives for an already stretched and depleted workforce.
"Government and Opposition policies must encourage GPs to stay in the workforce and provide the optimal level of quality services for patients.
"The AMA believes it is vital that the proposed seven-tier general practice consultation item structure be introduced on a fully funded basis as soon as possible. This will provide a much more current, effective and efficient framework for delivery of general practice services.
"Patients will have a schedule that more accurately reflects services they have received.
"Concentrating on the rate of 'bulk billing' is folly and completely misses the real issues facing our system."
He added Australia has the opportunity to provide affordable, universal health services to our population. With the mix of private health care, excellent public hospital, improved community care and appropriate public health measures our system could be the envy of the world.
CONTACT: Dr Mukesh Haikerwal (0407) 599 332
Sarah Crichton, AMA Public Affairs (02) 6270 5472