Time with GP invaluable for patients with chronic health conditions

On World Patient Safety Day, the Royal Australian College of GPs (RACGP) is sending a clear message ‘Patients need more time with their GPs.’ 

This year’s slogan ‘Safe care for life!’ highlights the need for ongoing, comprehensive care for patients with chronic health conditions, like diabetes, asthma or mental health conditions, also known as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) which begins with their family doctor. These conditions are the most common causes of disability and death in Australia and internationally. The RACGP is once again calling for an increase in patient Medicare rebates for longer consultations to ensure all Australians can receive the complex care they need 

RACGP President Dr Michael Wright warned that some people living with these conditions are missing out on the safe, high quality, coordinated care they need due to Medicare funding that currently favours shorter appointments. 

“GPs help patients manage chronic disease, identify changes in symptoms before they become emergencies, adjust treatments as conditions evolve, and coordinate care across multiple providers,” he said.  

"But patient Medicare rebates for longer consultations provide less funding support per minute than shorter appointments which devalues the care people rely on to manage multiple conditions. 

"When this safety net is taken away it becomes harder for those with the most complex needs to receive the time and attention they deserve. 

“This means more people ending up in urgent care or in our emergency departments, putting a big strain on the healthcare system."  

More than half of Australians live with at least one chronic health condition including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, chronic respiratory conditions and mental health conditions. Many require ongoing treatment and regular interactions with the healthcare system, making them particularly vulnerable to harm.  

“Safe care for life starts with strong general practice,” Dr Wright said.  

“If the Government is serious about reducing avoidable harm and improving patient safety, they need to invest in the first point of contact to our health system for the vast majority of patients – and that is general practice. 

“More support for longer GP consultations will help more Australians with chronic disease access the care they need, when they need it, and ultimately lead healthier lives. 

“This World Patient Safety, we are calling on our leaders to give patients more time with their GPs to ensure safe care for life.”