'First of its kind' framework will embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values in GP training

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values and ways of being and doing will be embedded in GP education and training Australia-wide with a new framework being implemented by the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP).

The RACGP’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultural and Health Training Framework launches today on the first day of GP24, Australia’s premier annual GP conference, in Perth.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander medical education experts and leaders led development of the framework, which sets out a plan to embed Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values and ways of being and doing in GP training.

Dr Karen Nicholls, Chair of RACGP Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health, said she is proud of the College’s leadership in developing the first of its kind framework. 

“It’s essential that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health and GPs’ clinical education is framed by the needs and perspectives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities,” she said. 

“This framework embeds Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values and knowledge across the College and our GP training program. As part of the plan, we’re aiming for 100% participation in cultural and health education among GPs in training and higher numbers of practising GPs undertaking training, as well as progress to grow Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander GP workforce.” 

RACGP National Clinical Head of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Training Olivia O’ Donoghue said the framework aims to drive transformational change. 

“Holding space for and prioritising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander values and wisdom is essential for the transformative change needed to enhance training and health outcomes for Our Peoples,” she said. 

“Our framework sets out a plan to make this happen, with 12 guiding principles underpinning the way we will grow and evolve as a College that supports 50,000 GPs across Australia, including our next generation of GPs in training.” 

RACGP President Dr Nicole Higgins said the framework marks an important step forward.  

“As the peak body responsible for training 90% of Australia’s GPs, the RACGP is committed to improving the health of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by supporting and training our GPs to deliver culturally safe care,” she said. 

“Recognising rights and sovereignty is essential to close the gap in health inequities. Our framework will ensure this is visible across the College, and will enhance our GP training program, ultimately helping to improve health outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.”