AMA welcomes ACCC decision on GP fees
The AMA welcomes today’s final decision from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on GP fee setting, which will come into effect on 15 March.
The ACCC has agreed to an application for authorisation made by the AMA to allow GPs working in the same practice (as defined) to agree on the fees charged to patients attending that practice.
The decision will also permit GPs working in the same practice to negotiate collectively with hospitals and Medicare Locals on fees.
AMA President, Dr Steve Hambleton, said the AMA took a leadership role on behalf of the profession in making this application to the ACCC.
“We want to ensure that GPs who engage in this type of conduct are not exposed to action under competition laws,” Dr Hambleton said.
“The decision will remove this uncertainty.”
The ACCC has recognised the public benefits that flow from the granting of the application, including cost and administrative efficiencies, improved continuity and consistency of patient care, improved recruitment and retention of GPs, and the streamlining of negotiation processes with Medicare Locals and hospitals.
21 February, 2013
CONTACT: John Flannery 02 6270 5477 / 0419 494 761
