More than a check-up: GPs bring solutions to Parliament

From the clinic to the chamber – GPs from across New South Wales have brought their consults straight to Parliament House.
 
The annual GPs for MPs campaign saw a cohort of doctors offering complementary health checks to the state’s politicians on Wednesday, all while having a one-on-one discussion about what must change in general practice.
 
RACGP NSW&ACT Chair Dr Rebekah Hoffman said GPs enjoyed the chance to have a practical, patient-focused discussion with MPs. 
 
‘MPs have demanding roles and, like everyone, need to prioritise their own health,’ she said.  
 
‘GPs for MPs provides a timely reminder that regular check-ups and preventive care are essential for everyone, including our elected representatives, while creating an opportunity to discuss the changes needed to strengthen healthcare for communities across NSW.’

The group brought with it a clear set of advocacy asks to chat to MPs about, starting with establishing GPs with special interests and funding a GP Liaison Officer.
 
GPs on the ground also discussed piloting a GPs in Schools program across 20 public high schools in disadvantaged communities, funding to help practices build teams that meet the needs of their local communities, as well as enabling trained GPs to prescribe oral isotretinoin.
 
Finally, the state’s GPs called for ongoing funding for intranasal influenza vaccines for children and expanded access to meningococcal B, RSV and Q fever vaccines, and an After-Hours GP Expansion Fund to support evening, weekend and urgent GP appointments. 
 
Dr Hoffman said every day, GPs see where patients struggle to access the care they need, whether that is because of long waits, fragmented services or barriers to accessing treatment close to home.
 
‘Better-connected healthcare, earlier access for young people, stronger multidisciplinary care, expanded GP prescribing and improved after-hours services will also reduce pressure on hospitals,’ she said.
 
‘Patients should be able to access the care they need, when and where they need it. Implementing these changes will make this a reality and help keep communities across NSW healthier.’
 
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GPs for MPs GPs@Parliament New South Wales