Queensland Boosts Healthcare, Vaping Enforcement
Funding injection targets patient flow, supports medical students, tackles vaping.
Queensland’s healthcare system is set to receive a significant boost following recent advocacy efforts. These initiatives aim to improve patient access, support medical students, and crack down on illegal vaping, marking a win for both medical professionals and patients.
State Budget Highlights Healthcare Investment
Following strong advocacy from AMA Queensland, the state budget included record investment in healthcare. Funding will support initiatives designed to improve patient flow and leverage private hospitals to alleviate elective surgery backlogs, acting on key recommendations from their Surgical Wait List Roundtable Action Plan.
The organization voiced optimism about the prioritization of health, while emphasizing the importance of transparent and timely delivery of the allocated funds.
Support for Medical Students Gains Momentum
Amidst the Commonwealth Prac Placement program offering support to nursing, teaching, and social work students during mandatory placements, AMA Queensland is advocating for the inclusion of medical students. Dr. Emma Hodge, Chair of the Committee of Doctors in Training, highlighted the financial challenges medical students face while balancing unpaid placements and study commitments.
Dr. Hodge stressed that expecting medical students to “earn well later” does not address their current struggles. The organization continues to push for the inclusion of medical students in the support program, promoting diversity within the medical field.
Vaping Law Enforcement Strengthened
The Queensland government recently announced the addition of 43 enforcement officers to bolster compliance with vaping and tobacco laws. This move comes in response to growing concerns over youth vaping, with reports indicating use among children as young as 10 years old, according to the Queensland Government (Queensland Government 2024).
AMA Queensland has been a vocal advocate for stricter enforcement, applauding the initiative as a crucial step toward safeguarding young Queenslanders from nicotine addiction and combating the illicit market for vaping and tobacco products.
AI’s Role in Medicine Explored
Dr. Lee Jones, Chair of the Committee of General Practice at AMA Queensland, has been contemplating the implications of artificial intelligence in medicine, particularly in regional Australia, where healthcare worker shortages are prevalent.
“AI systems, deployed responsibly, could provide immediate diagnostic support, reduce dependence on overstretched staff, extend specialist care into the most remote communities and give patients real-time guidance when no clinician is physically present,”
Dr. Jones said.
Dr. Jones believes AI will supplement, but not replace, human care, potentially sustaining access in areas facing clinician shortages.
Active Travel Investment Welcomed
The Queensland Government’s $19.1 million investment in walking and cycling infrastructure has been lauded as a step toward promoting community health and mitigating climate change. AMA Queensland has advocated for transport systems that encourage active travel.
The organization hopes that this funding will encourage healthier choices and contribute to reducing carbon emissions, underscoring the importance of sustained investment for lasting change.
Medical Officers’ Certified Agreement Update
Negotiations for Medical Officers’ Certified Agreement No 7 (MOCA 7) are ongoing. AMA Queensland urges members to update their contact details, employment location, Queensland Health classification, and ASMOFQ member status to support their efforts in achieving the best possible MOCA outcome.
Digital Upgrade in Progress
AMA Queensland is currently upgrading its website and database to provide members with a secure and user-friendly experience. The organization recognizes the importance of protecting members’ personal details and is implementing the latest security features during this transition.
Foundation Exceeds Fundraising Goal
The AMA Queensland Foundation surpassed its $30,000 goal for its End of Financial Year Tax Appeal. The funds raised will enable the Foundation to award scholarships to three more Queensland medical students in 2026.
Private Practice Event Recap
AMA Queensland recently hosted its first Private Practice Refreshed event in Brisbane, uniting members focused on growing and future-proofing their private practices. Attendees participated in team-building activities and expert-led sessions on business structuring, legal frameworks, cyber protection, insurance costs, and challenges facing GPs and specialists.
Upcoming Events Announced
AMA Queensland has announced a series of upcoming events, including a Member Networking event and Women in Medicine Breakfast in Townsville, and a Senior Doctor Conference. Additionally, the Annual Conference 2025 will take place in Vancouver, Canada, offering opportunities to earn CPD points and address key issues within the profession.
