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Dear ,
The General Practice Group met on 11 February to discuss several advocacy priorities affecting general practice, including access to My Health Record for Department of Justice GPs, remuneration for State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) reports, Medicare funding pressures, and concerns regarding pharmacist prescribing.
Access to My Health Record for Department of Justice GPs
Members discussed ongoing barriers preventing Department of Justice (DOJ) GPs from accessing My Health Record for incarcerated patients. While the custodial environment can enable more structured care, information sharing between prisons, community providers and hospitals remains challenging due to access restrictions, confidentiality concerns and system limitations. Members acknowledged operational and security risks associated with uploading prisoner health information, but noted that appropriate safeguards such as de-identification could allow better continuity of care. The group agreed to pursue further dialogue with the Department of Justice and explore solutions with relevant medical leadership.
State Administrative Tribunal (SAT) payments
Advocacy continues to secure appropriate remuneration for doctors preparing reports for the SAT. Members noted that technical issues with the current electronic lodgement system continue to cause delays and administrative burden, with some doctors forced to physically deliver reports to courts when the portal fails. The AMA (WA) will continue to advocate strongly for our members in this area.
Senate Inquiry into rural and regional Medicare access
The group discussed the Senate Inquiry into rural, regional and remote Medicare access and funding. Members highlighted concerns that current Medicare incentives favour shorter consultations, potentially undermining quality care. Telehealth restrictions for rural patients, particularly the requirement for recent face-to-face visits for mental health consultations, were also identified as problematic. Members supported exploring a tiered payment model to better recognise longer consultations.
Firearms Act advocacy
The group received an update on ongoing advocacy relating to the Firearms Act 2024 (WA) and the role of doctors conducting firearms medical assessments. While legislation provides protection from criminal liability when doctors act in good faith, the AMA (WA) is working with WA Police to improve communication processes, including notification where medical reports are used in court proceedings, and consideration of identity suppression for the safety of our members.
Smoke-free prisons and Justice Health
Members discussed the rollout of smoke-free policies in men’s prisons, and opportunities to strengthen health interventions within custodial settings. Broader health challenges within our prisons were also noted, including workforce shortages, limited access to nicotine replacement therapy, and the need for stronger prevention programs.
Older Adult Care Hubs
Members received an update on the rollout of Older Adult Care Hubs designed to improve coordination between hospital geriatric services and general practice. The East Metropolitan hub has begun a soft launch at Bentley Hospital, with geriatrician support and referral pathways currently being trialled.
Pharmacy prescribing and preventative health
Members reiterated strong concerns regarding the expansion of pharmacist prescribing and its potential impact on continuity and fragmentation of care. The AMA (WA) continues to advocate for robust clinical governance and coordinated care pathways. Declining childhood immunisation rates were also discussed, with members highlighting the need for stronger public education and support for preventative health programs led by general practice. |
