‘Drive change and shape the future of our profession’

GPs are often thrust into leadership roles within the community but may not be adequately equipped with the skills and experience to do so.
 
That is according to Dr Michael Tam, a Sydney-based GP who sits on the RACGP Expert Committee – Quality Care, among other general practice advocacy roles.
 
‘Specialist GPs are often approached to lead various endeavours; within a primary care clinic, in local health service planning and governance, on matters of health advocacy, and in medical education and training,’ he told newsGP.
 
‘[But] unlike the other hospital-based specialities, GPs tend not to have access to institution-based leadership development programs as part of their routine training and work.’
 
That’s where the RACGP Future Leaders Program comes in.
 
The program focuses on leadership development for GPs operating within a complex healthcare system by increasing knowledge, understanding and capabilities.
 
Applications will remain open until the end of the month, with a limited intake of 30 participants.
 
Many alumni, including Dr Tam as well as current RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins, progress into key leadership roles, work on local and international projects, and propose recommendations for the future of general practice – from peer-group mentoring to recommendations for how primary care can address climate change.
 
Dr Higgins told newsGP the program helped to further develop her leadership skills.
 
‘It then helped me put my skills to good use where it matters, especially now as college President,’ she said.
 
‘As GPs we are naturally seen as leaders in our communities, but we don’t always have formal training in leadership or advocacy. The program helps GPs identify how their values relate to their leadership qualities. It also examines techniques for influencing and achieving change.’
 
The program is designed to prepare both current and future generations of GP leaders by critically evaluating and implementing evidence-based methodologies in leadership, connecting an ever-broadening network of GP leaders, and allowing innovative and relevant ideas to be put into action.
 
Each participant is supported by a mentor with all course material, including books and contemporary leadership resources, provided for free.
 
Dr Tam, who is a 2022 alumna of the program and recipient of the 2022 Future Leaders President’s Medal, encourages GPs to apply.
 
‘The Future Leaders Program is a fantastic initiative by the RACGP to invest in its members as the future of the profession and greater health system,’ he said.
 
‘As expert medical generalists who are embedded within their communities, GPs can contribute greatly to these roles, and similarly, these leadership roles enhance and support the clinical care that we provide.
 
‘Indeed, as described in the conceptual model … engaged leadership is the first foundational building block of high-performing primary care.’
 
Running from March to October each year, the Future Leaders Program incorporates a blended learning approach and covers topics such as organisation dynamics, change management, influencing, strategic thinking, advocacy and representation.
 
Dr Higgins said the changing landscape of general practice means now is an opportune time to be part of the program.
 
‘For the first time in decades, Australia has a government that is committed to rebuilding general practice,’ she said.
 
‘The RACGP’s Future Leaders Program is an opportunity for GP advocates to drive change and shape the future of our profession.
 
‘There’s never been a better time to develop your skills to help shape the future of general practice.’
 
Applications for the RACGP Future Leaders Program are open from 11–29 September.
 
Eligible applicants must be current RACGP members with at least five years of practice. The program attracts more than 40 CPD hours, with the potential to quick log more throughout the year.
 
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Future Leaders Program future of general practice general practice advocacy GP leadership