GPs cutting back on patient care because of medical indemnity crisis: AMA survey
The survey covered GP proceduralists and non-proceduralists, in solo and group practices, some based in cities, and others in rural and regional areas from across Australia. More than half (53%) of the 118 respondents said they had changed or were considering changing their work practice as a result of the medical indemnity crisis.
Crucially, one quarter (24%) of all respondents have been forced to cut back on patient care; have stopped or reduced their procedural work (obstetrics, surgery or casualty work), reduced their patient intake, or stopped bulk billing in the past 12 months.
Seventy-one per cent have increased or will increase patient fees to cover the costs of increased medical indemnity premiums.
AMA President, Dr Kerryn Phelps, said the survey reflects the ongoing uncertainty about medical indemnity and the effect it is having on GP morale and patient care.
"One regional NSW GP has been forced to stop all bulk billing, obstetrics and general surgery. A northern QLD GP has stopped all procedures. In regional South Australia, another GP has stopped all obstetrics and casualty work. Others are considering retiring early," Dr Phelps said.
Significantly, 92% of respondents said they are concerned or very concerned about their future once the Federal Government UMP guarantee expires on 31 December 2002. Well over half of respondents (65%) said they had little or no confidence in the Federal Government securing a resolution to the ongoing crisis.
"As I said at the National Press Club yesterday, we need strong government action immediately to prevent the further withdrawal of medical services around the country," Dr Phelps said.
18 July 2002
CONTACT: Sarah Bucknell, GP Campaign Network, AMA 02 6270 5433