Fairer Medicare package reportedly getting fairer, but still a way to go - AMA
AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson, today welcomed reported indications that the Government is serious about beefing up its Fairer Medicare package.
Dr Glasson said the reports, if translated to policy, will go some way to addressing AMA concerns about patient access to affordable high quality medical services.
"The Government appears set to announce improvements in the Medicare safety net and the electronic rebate system for patients," Dr Glasson said.
"These changes would come on top of the removal of the compulsion on doctors to 'opt-in' to the package, an issue the AMA has campaigned strongly about.
"Removing the compulsion will ensure equity of access to any benefits for all patients and their doctors.
"Expansion and accelerated implementation of the electronic Medicare rebate system - whereby the rebate goes straight to the patient's account following each consultation - would be a welcome move.
"It would significantly cut administration costs and save time and hassle for patients.
"The reported increase in the number of practice nurses, who would be supervised and directed by GPs in delivering certain primary care activities, is another initiative encouraged by the AMA.
"The AMA looks forward to seeing the complete package when it is announced, particularly the level of increased funding.
"It will then be easier to compare the Medicare policies of the major parties.
"There is still a lot of work to be done from both sides, especially in regard to addressing the medical workforce shortages.
"The best and fairest Medicare package in the world will be of little use if there are not enough doctors and other health professionals in the system to provide the care for patients," Dr Glasson said.
CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761
Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306