Remote QLD GPs call historic meeting with Government leaders
Outback Queensland GPs have called an historic meeting with Government leaders to discuss the impact of medical indemnity costs and GP shortages on rural and remote Australia.
GPs from a 100km radius around Biloela, in central Queensland, will meet with Acting Prime Minister, John Anderson, and Agriculture Minister and local MP, Warren Truss, this Wednesday, 10 July in Biloela.
Local GP for 15 years, Dr Ross Woodward, said it was a first for doctors in the area.
"We felt it was past time to spell out some facts about GP workforce issues, particularly the impact of GP shortages out here," Dr Woodward said.
"Because we're a long way from the cities, GPs in central Queensland carry out many more procedures such as caesareans, appendicectomies and, as a result, we have larger workloads.
"Waiting times have increased for patients and GPs are overworked," he said.
"Seven years ago we had seven GPs for a population of up to 8,000 people in greater Biloela, now we have just four.
"We have given up advertising the vacancies because we don't get any replies."
Dr Woodward said the medical indemnity crisis was only adding to the uncertainty and low morale for isolated GPs.
"We've got our hands up and we're crying out for help," he said.
Dr Woodward is a member of the AMA's GP Campaign Network which aims to inform and educate local communities about health and medical issues.
WHEN: 7.30pm, Wednesday 10 July 2002
WHERE: Settlers Motor Inn, Biloela
CONTACT: Dr Ross Woodward 0417 700 175
Sarah Bucknell - AMA 0418 293 205 / 02 6270 5433