South Australian GPs Present Three-Point plan to Address Workforce Shortages & Improve Patient Care
Adelaide, SA – A coalition of South Australian General Practitioners has presented a comprehensive plan to state Members of Parliament aimed at bolstering the primary care workforce and improving health outcomes across the state. The plan,outlined by Dr. Goodson, focuses on three key priorities: expanding after-hours care, investing in rural practice programs, and fostering stronger, ongoing GP-patient relationships.
The GPs argue that a relatively modest investment can yield meaningful long-term benefits for both patients and the broader healthcare system. A central proposal involves funding after-hours general practice care to prevent unnecessary hospital visits. Dr. goodson emphasized the importance of “everyday preventive care” stating, “Everyday preventive care is how you keep people out of hospital in the longer term, and something that’s been missed with the focus on urgent care.” The plan suggests a $150,000 per practice per year investment to allow GPs to offer services until 8pm on weeknights and Sunday mornings, increasing accessibility for those unable to attend appointments during standard hours.
The benefits of consistent care from a regular GP were also highlighted. Research cited shows patients who see the same GP report “higher quality and better coordinated” care, have increased trust in the health system, and “live longer and healthier lives.” While acknowledging the value of telehealth for flexibility, Dr. Goodson stressed,”there’s no substitute to in-person care with a GP who knows you.”
Addressing the challenges faced by rural and remote communities, the GPs proposed a “Metro to Rural Practice Program.” This initiative would fund metropolitan GPs to undergo training in rural medicine and establish a regular working schedule in rural areas, fostering familiarity with the local practice, hospital, and community. This program aims to reduce reliance on locum GPs – while helpful for immediate gaps – and provide consistent, ongoing care.
“People living in our rural and remote communities often live with poorer health,” Dr. Goodson explained. “That’s partly because they can’t as easily access a regular GP.” The program would also allow rural GPs to take necessary leave without disrupting patient care, mitigating burnout.
The overarching message from the GP coalition is that investing in primary care,and specifically in strengthening the GP-patient relationship,is a crucial step towards a more sustainable and effective healthcare system for all South Australians. The plan emphasizes that consistent, personalized care is not just beneficial for individual patients, but also contributes to a healthier and more resilient overall health system.
