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Dear ,

The General Practice Group met on 26 November 2025 to discuss key issues affecting general practice, with a focus on prescribing reforms, bulk-billing incentives, GP roles in ADHD management, and growing pressures from private health insurers.

• IMG Working Group
  An outstanding action item from the previous meetings, International Medical Graduate representation, is being progressed, with the AMA (WA) establishing an IMG Working Group expected to commence in 2026. The Group will provide more targeted feedback on IMG issues.

• Pharmacy prescribing
  Members discussed the ongoing expansion of pharmacy prescribing and reiterated concerns about safety, consultation quality, and fragmented care. They emphasised that pharmacy prescribing should not replace GP-led clinical oversight.

• GP management of ADHD
  The group reviewed emerging models for GP-led ADHD diagnosis and prescribing for patients over 10 years of age. RACGP-led training, supported by State Government funding, is underway. Members agreed that fees for ADHD assessments should reflect individual practice models rather than adopting a fixed standard. The group reaffirmed the need for Medicare reform to better support long, complex consultations.

• Review of WA gambling laws
  With the State Government launching a major review of gambling legislation, the group was supportive of  a submission that centred on public health impacts. Key concerns include advertising saturation, online gambling harm, and mental health and addiction risks. Member input will inform the AMA (WA)’s submission due 12 December.

• Medicare Bulk Billing incentives
  Members reported a cautious but positive shift in bulk billing uptake The group agreed to closely monitor uptake and financial impacts over the next six months. Concerns were raised about the risk of a two-tier system if bulk-billing clinics expand disproportionately, potentially undermining general practice autonomy.

• Influenza Program grants
  It was noted that grants for general practice influenza programs may not be available next year. The AMA (WA) and RACGP will continue advocating for funding support to sustain high vaccination coverage and resourcing for practice operations.

• Private Health Fund encroachment
  Members raised concerns about certain private health insurers increasingly engaging in patient outreach, health coaching, and clinical assessments traditionally provided by GPs. Risks of vertical integration, insurer-owned clinics, and increased reliance on online consult platforms were discussed. The group emphasised the need for strong federal advocacy to protect GP autonomy and ensure patient care is not fragmented by commercial interests.

• State Administrative Tribunal reports
  The group highlighted the growing workload associated with the preparation of SAT guardianship and administration reports, without reimbursement. The AMA (WA) will advocate for government funding, including at the upcoming State Budget to ensure fair reimbursement. The group noted that Medicare items are not a viable funding source.

The AMA (WA) is dedicated to advocating for GPs, ensuring their critical role is recognised, supported, and enhanced within WA's healthcare system. For further information on industrial and employment issues, employment contracts, dealing with complaints, ethical issues, Medicare audits and other support services, contact the AMA (WA) Industrial Relations Team by submitting an online query, emailing industrial@amawa.com.au or calling (08) 9273 3000.

Regards,

Dr Mary Wyatt (Chair) & Dr Andrew Png (Vice Chair)
AMA (WA) General Practice Group