MDA National should focus on what's best for the whole

MDA National CEO, Peter Forbes, claims the medical indemnity crisis is not affecting the whole medical profession and that the medical indemnity system does not need fixing.

Dr Glasson says nothing could be further from the truth.

"AMA members, Australia wide, are concerned about the cost and security of the current system.  They don't know how they are going to be covered for past incidents, or when they retire, or when they are unable to work due to illness," Dr Glasson said.

"They are confused about the extent of their cover.

"They are worried about tackling difficult or high risk situations where a less than perfect outcome could result in a claim.

"They feel forced to adopt a very defensive approach to treating patients.

"They hate the thought of being caught up in the legal system and courtroom battles, which are enormously draining and unpredictable.

"The fact of the matter is that the medical indemnity system in Australia is broken.

"The AMA knows that.  The great majority of doctors and their patients know that.  The Prime Minister knows it.  The new Health Minister, Tony Abbott, knows it.

"Together, we are going to fix it.

"We are going to produce a solution that will dramatically lower medical insurance premiums for doctors and put certainty and confidence back into the system.

"By doing this we will keep doctors working and we will make sure that high quality health care remains accessible and affordable for all Australians.

"The medical indemnity crisis is much bigger than MDA National.  It is a national problem that involves a national solution for the long term.  The AMA will work with the Government to deliver that solution."

CONTACT:         John Flannery            (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761