AMA welcomes ACCC decision on GP Fees
The AMA welcomes today’s draft decision from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on GP fee setting.
The ACCC is proposing to authorise an application made by the AMA to permit GPs working in the same practice (as defined) to agree on the fees charged to patients attending that practice.
The draft decision also proposes to permit GPs working in the same practice to negotiate collectively with hospitals and Medicare Locals on fees.
AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton, said today that the AMA took a leadership role in making this application to the ACCC.
“We want to ensure that GPs who engage in this type of conduct are not exposed to action under competition laws,” Dr Hambleton said.
“The draft decision is the first step toward removing this uncertainty.”
The draft ACCC decision recognises the public benefits that flow from the granting of the application, including cost and administrative efficiencies, improved continuity and consistency of patient care, improved recruitment and retention of GPs, and the streamlining of negotiation processes with Medicare Locals and hospitals.
A final decision is expected from the ACCC in February 2013.
12 December 2012
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