AMA Backs Training Program for Rural Gps
Chair of the AMA's Rural Reference Group (AMARRG), and Batemans Bay GP, Dr David Rivett, said today that extra funding to improve training opportunities for rural GPs will boost health services in regional Australia.
Dr Rivett said the extra $1 million in funding to assist the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) develop an accredited training program for rural GPs recognises the important role played by ACRRM in rural medicine.
"This decision highlights the need for ACRRM to work with the Royal Australian College of General Practice (RACGP) to develop training and support programs for rural and remote GPs," Dr Rivett said.
"Training programs for rural GPs must allow the doctor to work anywhere in Australia, and should not restrict them to rural and remote areas for their working lives.
"Agreement on a common end point for General Practice training must also be established by the RACGP and ACRRM," Dr Rivett said.
On a related matter, Dr Rivett welcomed the Government's decision to extend Rural Procedural Training Grants to provide additional skills in accident and emergency medicine for rural procedural GPs.
"We are pleased the Government has responded so positively to the AMA's call for additional funds for extra training for rural GPs, which was a key part of our 2006-07 Budget Submission," Dr Rivett said.
"The AMARRG recommended an increase in funding earlier this year.
"The extension of funding is a good start, but the Government may need to revisit the two days per year cap on accident and emergency training, which is too restrictive," Dr Rivett said.
22 December 2005
CONTACT: Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306