Practice closure shows pressure on GPs
Another GP clinic closure highlights the pressures on primary care. “While Queensland has done more than any other state to mitigate the impact of the new interpretation of the tax law, we need reassurance that GPs who have applied for the amnesty from payroll tax will not have to pay this new tax and that backdated bills issued before the amnesty was announced will be waived.” - AMA Queensland President Dr Nick Yim.
The closure of another general practice highlights the pressures on all GPs, AMA Queensland President Dr Nick Yim says.
The busy Bowen Hills Medical Centre, opposite the RNA Showgrounds, closed on 14 June.
Some patients told The Courier-Mail they were shocked when their phone calls to book appointments this week went unanswered.
A front-door notice told patients their medical records would be securely maintained and could be transferred to two of the three doctors who worked out of the O’Connell Tce clinic.
Dr Yim said economic circumstances were making it harder for general practices to keep their doors open.
“While we don’t know the circumstances behind this particular practice closure, GP clinics are facing mounting bills like rent, power, staff and insurance while Medicare rebates for patients are woefully inadequate,” Dr Yim said.
“We need real reform of Medicare rebates to ensure patients have access to their GP, as GPs are crucial to keeping people well and healthy and out of hospital.
“We also need guarantees from the state government on payroll tax.
“While Queensland has done more than any other state to mitigate the impact of the new interpretation of the tax law, we need reassurance that GPs who have applied for the amnesty from payroll tax will not have to pay this new tax and that backdated bills issued before the amnesty was announced will be waived.”
Ongoing payroll tax advocacy
AMA Queensland has written to the Treasurer and QRO on behalf of members seeking updated advice about the Queensland Government’s payroll tax amnesty. We have specifically requested the QRO provide medical practices with certainty about their ongoing liabilities.
