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Focus on country Victoria’s doctor shortage welcome
AMA Victoria President Dr Mark Yates has welcomed the release of the Victorian Liberal Party’s policy promising support for country GPs.“Recognition of the critical shortage of doctors impacting on country Victoria and the need for proactive measures to ensure we can retain and attract doctors is welcome,” Dr Yates said.
“It is vital we have aggressive initiatives in place, to not only attract new doctors, but to also support doctors already working in country Victoria.
“AMA Victoria welcomes the focus on improving locum support and professional development for country doctors and also improving on-call and after-hours payments for doctors. These are key areas AMA Victoria has previously identified as being vital in helping to retain doctors already working in country Victoria.
“The proposal to provide funds for community country clinics is also welcome. This proposal would hopefully give doctors an opportunity to experience country life before making a decision to set-up practice.”
However, Dr Yates said while the policy highlights the importance of the retention of GPs, similar focus needs to be placed on the shortage of specialists and ensuring they are encouraged to remain and come to country Victoria.
“In addition, improved IT support for doctors is also a priority to help keep doctors practising in country Victoria
“The doctor shortage in country Victoria will only get worse in the next six years, unless action is taken now.
“Country Victorian’s have every right to expect quality and timely healthcare.
“Increased focus on these important issues is a move in the right direction,” Dr Yates said
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