Drawing inspiration from AMA24 – President's Update

I was proud to lead a strong contingent of South Australian AMA members at the AMA24 national conference on the Gold Coast last weekend.

The theme of this year’s event was ‘inspiring every doctor, every moment’ and indeed there was much to be inspired by – not least of all the new ‘Vision for Australia’s Health’ launched by our Federal President Professor Steve Robson.

The Vision sets out a blueprint to transform Australia’s health system into one that views healthcare as an investment rather than a cost to be managed.

The plan sets out five ‘pillars’ to guide healthcare investment:

1. A sustainable and thriving general practice at the heart of primary care
2. Public hospitals that are funded to provide high-quality and timely care
3. A sustainable private health system
4. Public health that empowers communities and improves health outcomes
5. A health system prepared for the challenges of tomorrow

As Professor Robson told the conference, enacting this plan will require purposeful action and a collective effort from policymakers, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and patients.

You can read more about the Vision and its objectives here. 

NEW ERA OF LEADERSHIP

The national conference provided an opportunity to elect and formally introduce the new Federal leadership team.

Former Vice President Dr Danielle McMullen had earlier been confirmed as President after running unopposed.  Associate Professor Julian Rait, who led AMA Victoria from 2018 to 2021 during a large part of the COVID-19 pandemic, was elected as Vice President at the conference.

Both Dr McMullen and A/Prof Rait are incredibly accomplished and passionate about improving Australian healthcare. I congratulate them on their appointments and look forward to working with them closely when they take the baton on 1 October.

We also have a new Federal Council, including South Australians Dr Michelle Atchison, Dr Clair Pridmore and Professor Ted Mah.

AMA(SA) COUNCILLOR HONOURED

One of the highlights of the conference for me was celebrating AMA(SA) Councillor Dr Bridget Sawyer who was admitted to the Roll of Fellows.

This is a prestigious honour that recognises her dedication to improving the standing of both AMA(SA) and the Federal AMA, and to developing and promoting our advocacy and initiatives.

I’ve had the privilege of working with Bridget for several years and have seen firsthand her impact across the medical profession here in South Australia. As Chair of AMA(SA)’s Committee of GPs she’s been a strong advocate on many issues, voicing concerns about pharmacy prescribing of UTI medications, payroll tax and the need for evidence-based policies during the COVID-19 pandemic. She was also asked by the South Australian Health Minister to join his Ambulance Ramping Taskforce.

This honour is richly deserved, and I thank Bridget for her commitment to AMA(SA).