Doctor and patient. Source : Pavel Danilyuk via Pexels
The federal and Tasmanian governments have pledged to a four-year program that seeks to improve rural healthcare.
With the program, GP Registrars, including Rural Generalist trainees have the option to be employed under the Tasmanian Health Service on salary.
This would then allow for final placement in various GP practices around Tasmania, instead of changing employers within each 6-to-12-month placements.
The aim is to make working in rural and general practices more attractive to GPs to improve doctor retention in vital areas of the state.
It will also support graduates in building careers.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said access to healthcare is a vital right that should be given to all citizens, regardless of their locale.
“Australians in every postcode deserve access to world class healthcare.” Mr Albanese said.
“For too long we’ve seen communities across Tasmania like Huon Valley, Bridgewater, Deloraine, and in Latrobe not be able to retain doctors.
“My Government is committed to making it easier for Australians to see a doctor by strengthening general practice, especially in rural areas.
“We will work in partnership with Tasmania and the other states and territories to provide the best possible support to our next generation of rural GPs.” He said.
Tasmanian Premier Jeremy Rockliff said this program will help ensure all Tasmanian citizens have access to healthcare.
“This is all about making sure Tasmanians in rural and regional areas get what they deserve: access to local GPs and the healthcare they need.” Mr Rockliff said.
“A single employer model will make rural practice more attractive for doctors and this agreement is a significant win for Tasmania.
“It will allow us to recruit more doctors and strengthen our rural communities.
“Our government has long been advocating to trial a single employer model for GP registrars, including rural generalists, to make rural practice more attractive for doctors and we now look forward to making it happen.
“I’m committed to working in partnership with the federal government putting Tasmanians first and to deliver real solutions.” He said.
The federal government will provide $8 million to support the program, while the Tasmanian government will contribute $5 million over four years.
