AIDA welcomes $8.5bn Medicare funding

AIDA welcomes $8.5 Billion Prioritisation of Primary Health Care Funding 

“Primary health care is a fundamental right, and for First Nations people across Australia access is critical to improved health outcomes. The bipartisan commitment to Prime Minister Albanese’s announcement is welcomed by Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association.

“It is important to acknowledge that the changes advantage shorter consultations, therefore AIDA cautions that this does not cause a disincentive for longer consultations, which are fundamental for chronic disease and complex care management,” said Dr Newchurch.

The funding boosts for improving employment conditions for GP doctors in training and funding for additional training rotations in general practice for junior doctors are important steps in attracting and keeping more doctors in the primary health care system.

This is a major investment and areas of need will potentially be serviced with more access to GP bulk-billed care. However, it won’t meet the needs and overheads of all practice types but we recognise this is significant progress and applaud the prioritisation of primary health care services.

AIDA is ready to work with governments to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors are not only increasing in numbers but thriving in the health system to ensure best outcomes in Indigenous health.

ENDS 

About AIDA

The Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association (AIDA) is the peak professional body for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander doctors and medical students. AIDA’s purpose is to strengthen the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical workforce, from students to specialists, through advocacy, leadership, and cultural mentorship. We also continue to work towards and advocate for a culturally safe Australian healthcare system, free from racism, and with accountability measures in place.

Our vision is that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have self-determination and equitable health and life outcomes in a culturally safe health system.