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Patterson letter a satisfactory downpayment on a long-term medical indemnity solution

AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said this evening that Health Minister Senator Kay Patterson's letter to Australian doctors spelling out the Government's guarantee to cover doctors affected by the UMP situation is most welcome, but much more needs to be done.

Dr Phelps said the Minister's letter should provide sufficient certainty for now for most doctors to provide medical services in the way they did before UMP chose to apply for a provisional liquidator on 29 April.

"The medical indemnity crisis is 'on pause', it is far from over," Dr Phelps said.

"We are yet to see a plan to deal with future claims that may arise from incidents before 29 April or a plan to deal with events post-30 June.

"I am pleased that Senator Patterson has made mention of the future claims issue in her letter and the AMA looks forward to working with the Government to secure a workable and affordable long term solution for doctors and patients.

"While the AMA is satisfied that the Government's guarantee will provide the security for most doctors to resume normal work practices, I understand there may be some doctors - especially surgeons in high-risk specialties - who may need further reassurance.

"I urge these doctors to contact the AMA or the Government's new hotline - 1 800 007 757.

"The medical indemnity crisis and the fate of UMP are issues that affect the whole community.

"There is still much more to be done to ensure that doctors and patients can have full confidence in the medical indemnity system in Australia, but today's guarantees from the Government are a good start," Dr Phelps said.

CONTACT: John Flannery (02) 6270 5477 / (0419) 494 761

Sarah Crichton (02) 6270 5472 / (0419) 440 076

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