RACGP calls for better access to epilepsy care and support

The Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is calling for stronger investment in primary care and services for people living with epilepsy, many of whom face major barriers accessing timely diagnosis, specialist care and ongoing support. 

In its submission to the Senate Community Affairs References Committee Inquiry into Epilepsy in Australia, the RACGP warned that long wait times, workforce shortages and high out-of-pocket costs are leaving patients without the care they need. 

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright said GPs play a central role in supporting people with epilepsy throughout their lives, often with limited specialist support available. 

“GPs are usually the first point of contact for people experiencing seizures or unexplained symptoms, and they continue providing care and coordination long after diagnosis,” he said. 

“Too many patients face long waits to see neurologists, difficulty accessing diagnostic testing, and significant financial pressure from specialist fees, travel costs and ongoing treatment needs. This is particularly challenging for people living in rural and remote communities.” 

The RACGP’s submission highlights gaps in access to neurologists and electroencephalography (EEG) services, fragmented care between hospitals and primary care, and inadequate Medicare support for the longer consultations often required for patients. 

“The College is calling for a 40% increase to Medicare rebates for longer GP consultations, to improve affordable care access for all patients with complex, chronic conditions,” Dr Wright said. 

“Epilepsy care is often complex and time-intensive. Current Medicare settings do not adequately support this work.  

“We are also concerned about stigma and poor community awareness surrounding epilepsy, particularly in culturally and linguistically diverse communities where fear of discrimination may discourage people from seeking care.  

“The RACGP wants to see investment in culturally appropriate education, translated resources and workplace training, as well as improved support for Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations [ACCHOs] to help close gaps in care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. 

“More funding for epilepsy research is also vital, including research into non-epileptic seizures and Indigenous-led approaches to care, and nationally consistent evidence-based epilepsy guidelines. 

“People with epilepsy deserve timely access to high quality, coordinated care regardless of where they live or their financial circumstances. 

 “Strengthening general practice and improving access to specialist support will lead to better outcomes for patients and reduce pressure on hospitals and emergency departments.”