The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) has welcomed a Medical Board of Australia (MBA) decision to not introduce mandatory health checks for GPs aged 70 and over.
Rather than adding to the already burdensome regulatory environment for GPs, the RACGP has consistently argued that the focus should instead be on supporting doctors’ wellbeing.
The MBA had previously proposed introducing general health checks for late-career doctors aged 70 and older to support early detection of concerns but has instead committed to a profession-led approach.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said the MBA had made the right call.
“We are pleased that the MBA has taken our feedback on board,” he said.
“Ageist rules such as mandatory age checks or retirement ages aren’t the answer. We all need to work to the age and with the capacity that we can, should and want to.
“Mandatory health checks don’t reduce patient harms or notifications. Instead, they risk increasing administrative burdens for GPs and worsening workforce shortages.”
Dr Wright emphasised that a focus on supporting doctors’ health and wellbeing so they can practise safely for as long as they choose is the right path.
“Having worked with GPs in their 70s and 80s, including my father, I know the invaluable care our highly experienced senior GPs can offer,” he said.
“The most important message here is that no matter your age, everyone should have a regular GP, and that includes doctors themselves. What we need to do is reduce barriers that prevent clinicians from seeking this care and continue growing the GP workforce.”
Dr Wright also highlighted the Federal Government’s recent investment in GP training.
“The Government’s $600 million-plus commitment in the 2025–26 Budget to better support and incentivise GP training is already helping greatly,” he said.
“There are now 1800 training places funded next year and 1900 in 2027.”
~ENDS
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The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is the peak representative organisation for general practice, the backbone of Australia’s health system. We set the standards for general practice, facilitate lifelong learning for GPs, connect the general practice community, and advocate for better health and wellbeing for all Australians.
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