AMA Family Doctor Week 2003 - 27 July to 2 August
The AMA's 11th Family Doctor Week will run from 27 July to 2 August. This year's theme is 'General Practice: The Heartbeat of Health'.
The week is designed to highlight the key role played by GPs in local communities around Australia.
"GPs play a vital role in the health of local communities," said Federal AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson.
"They're the gatekeepers to the Australian health system, the first port of call for medical care and advice.
"They're important members in their communities.
"Over time, GPs develop a unique relationship with their patients. They have a history, not only of the patient, but often with the whole family, grandparents, kids and grandchildren.
"Choosing a family doctor is a very personal thing. Communication between doctor and patient is essential for good care.
"But this traditional role is under threat.
"Doctor shortages reflect big problems with the profession.
"The demands of red tape and rising costs, especially medical indemnity for procedural GPs, are stopping doctors from doing what they love most - caring for their patients.
"And there are workforce issues. Medicine is not the attractive career option it used to be. There is a serious shortage of GPs, especially in regional and outer urban areas. It takes 10 years to train a GP. Bonded scholarships are NOT the way to go.
"More doctors want to work less hours, allowing them to meet other commitments in their lives. The number of university places on offer doesn't reflect these changes in thinking. There is still the assumption that doctors are willing to work 50 or 60 hours a week.
These issues will be under the microscope every day during Family Doctor Week.
Local and national activities will be coordinated federally and at a state level by the AMA, RACGP and ADGP.
Federal AMA President, Dr Bill Glasson, will launch Family Doctor Week at AMA Queensland's National Health Expo at the Brisbane Convention Centre on Saturday 26 July.
Dr Glasson will present a nationally televised speech from the National Press Club in Canberra during Family Doctor Week on Wednesday 30 July.
Dr Glasson and other senior AMA doctors will be available for media interviews during Family Doctor Week. Please contact the Federal office for an interview with Dr Glasson or for contact details for doctors in your local area.
Family Doctor Week is proudly supported by American Express and Telstra
CONTACT: Judith Tokley (02) 6270 5471 / (0408) 824 306