‘Ignoring doctors’ orders could worsen QLD’s health crisis’, GPs warn

The nation’s leading peak body for general practitioners (GP) has warned both sides of Queensland politics not to ignore their advice for a more accessible health system if they want better health outcomes for Queenslanders. 

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) will release a report card grading candidates on their response to the state’s biggest health gaps ahead of the Queensland election. 

RACGP Queensland Chair Dr Cath Hester said that factors like the chronic disease epidemic and an ageing population meant that governments were finding making healthcare affordable and accessible a significant challenge.  

“Queensland’s costly healthcare system is buckling under the strain and Queenslanders can see that in hospital and emergency department waiting times.  

“The most cost-effective investment governments can make is in general practice, ensuring that our GPs are supported in keeping Queenslanders healthy and out of hospital.  

“For better access to affordable healthcare, GPs are calling on the next Queensland government to: 

1. Grow and sustain the GP workforce 

2. Cut red tape to essential treatments 

3. Listen to GPs for a smarter healthcare system 

“Candidates will be measured against how committed they are to supporting the long-term health of Queenslanders based on how they respond to these three policy goals. 

“This means supporting policies that invest in the next generation of GPs, making it easier for people to access ADHD care, expanding access to general practice in regional Queensland, and more,” she said. 

Every year, more than 4.6 million Queenslanders, over 83 per cent of the state’s population, visit their GP accessing more than 33 million episodes of care, making GPs the most accessed healthcare professionals in Queensland. 

“For too long, governments have relied on quick fixes that will only exacerbate labour shortages and increase costs for consumers at every step of their health journey. 

“GPs are experts in primary care in the community and preventative healthcare and are instrumental in helping people stay healthy in the long term. 

“There is no substitute for the high-quality care provided by your GP, who knows you and your history. 

“Listening to GPs and supporting these policies would take significant weight off the hospital system, ensuring better access for all Queenslanders.” 

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