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Trend to bigger clinics (Progress Leader, letter to the editor)
2 September 2008
It is disappointing for doctors and their patients when a general practice clinic is forced to close its doors, whether it is a result of a corporate takeover or other factors (Doctor exodus critical in Balwyn North, Progress Leader 19/8).
The reality is that smaller practices are becoming less numerous. Overhead costs and the administrative burdens associated with small or solo practices have reduced the operational feasibility for many doctors and larger clinics are increasingly preferred by doctors to share the load.
Despite these trends, there are still significant numbers of GPs who prefer to practice in smaller or solo practices. Diversity of care is important and these practices should be encouraged.
Some patients prefer small or solo clinics, particularly if they have built a strong relationship with their GP over a number of years. Others prefer the range of services on offer at some larger clinics. Many communities struggle to get a GP appointment.
As Victoria’s doctor shortage intensifies, the government needs to refocus its attention on reducing the administrative burden on GPs so they can maximise the time they can spend with their patients.
In the meantime, corporate general practice owners need to balance commercial interests with good patient care.
Dr Doug Travis
President, Australian Medical Association Victoria
Victorian Medical Directory
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