Darling Downs concerns aired at TDDLMA AGM

AMA Queensland President Dr Maria Boulton attended the Toowoomba and Downs District Local Medical Association (TDDLMA) AGM on 6 September, updating members on AMA work and hearing local concerns.

Most attention focused on payroll tax and the looming deadline for expressions of interest (EOIs) in the Queensland government’s amnesty.

Dr Boulton advised members she has submitted an EOI in the amnesty and encouraged them to consider doing the same before the 29 September deadline.

Members raised questions about private health insurance, particularly around the potential conflict of interest in health funds owning private hospitals and dental clinics, and governing how doctors charge patients for day hospital procedures.

One member noted that more complex procedures cost more due to the nature of the procedural skills, but as soon as the fees are more than the 'known gap', the health fund reduces the rebate. He noted that the same does not happen in dentistry. Dr Boulton agreed that health funds should pay the entire rebate irrespective of the doctor’s fee.

Members also commented on the failure of Medicare patient rebates to keep up with the cost of providing care.

AMA Queensland Council Downs and West Representative Dr Sally Sojan was elected unopposed as TDDLMA President at the meeting.