AMA meeting with the Medical Board to discuss health checks for late career doctors

The AMA is working through the Medical Board of Australia’s (MBA) consultation on the introduction of regular health checks for doctors over the age of 70. 

There are three options presented in the consultation, however the option the Board is supporting proposes introducing a health check with a doctor’s GP every 3 years for doctors 70-80 and every year for those over 80. A health check is not revalidation, and the outcomes are not reported to the Board.

The Board in its consultation paper recommends against a fitness to practice assessment, something the AMA has not supported throughout discussions with the MBA in the lead up to the release of this consultation.

AMA President Professor Steve Robson told the media last week that the right balance had to be found between protecting patients and “unlawful and unjustified aged-based discrimination”. 

“Health checks must be evidence-based, fair and consistent and not drive or force doctors into earlier retirement,” Professor Robson said.

“Older doctors have greater experience and are often seen as sources of guidance. They play important roles in leadership and training of younger doctors and other health professionals.”

Medical Board Chair, Dr Anne Tonkin, will discuss the proposal with the AMA Federal Council in the near future. The AMA will work to ensure the balance between protecting the public and avoiding unlawful and unjustified aged-based discrimination is achieved. 

The Board’s proposals for keeping late career doctors in safe practice are now open for public comment.