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New mandatory notification requirements in 2020

New resources are available for medical practitioners that explain changes in mandatory notifications and when they need to be made.

Changes to mandatory notifications – which will come into effect in early 2020 – only apply to treating practitioners. The changes intend to support practitioners to seek advice for their own health issues (including mental health issues), while continuing to practice. 

AHPRA CEO, Martin Fletcher said that AHPRA wants registered practitioners to know what the changes mean for them and to seek advice and support for their own health and wellbeing, without fear of an unnecessary mandatory notification.

Under the National Law amendments, three of the four types of conduct (impairment, intoxication and practice outside of professional standards) will lead to a mandatory notification if the practitioner has placed the public at substantial risk of harm.

Changes do not apply to Western Australia where current legislation exempts treating practitioners from mandatory notifications when treating a registered health practitioner.

More information and resources about changes to mandatory notifications are available here.

GPs looking for support for their own health and wellbeing can access DRS4DRS – a subsidiary of the AMA that has a large menu of wellbeing strategies and where to find health care support, including links to each doctors’ health service. This allows doctors and medical students to find a GP, join a local support network, seek urgent advice, or participate in key events.

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