Question mark over plans to establish Coffs Harbour GP Super Clinic
The AMA (NSW) is today questioning the need for a GP Super Clinic in Coffs Harbour, recently announced by the Federal Government, with local doctors saying it will merely duplicate existing services already in place.
“Whether there is a genuine need for a new clinic in Coffs Harbour is questionable,” AMA (NSW) President, Dr Michael Steiner said.
“Local doctors say there are already two, recently opened, privately funded GP Super Clinics in Coffs Harbour that provide access to a wide range of health professionals and services”.
“Coffs Harbour is also currently benefitting from after-hours general practice arrangements, which cover most of the community’s health needs.
“While the town is a district of workforce shortage, there is no scarcity of good medical infrastructure and coordinated health care services. These areas of workforce shortage need doctors, not buildings. The establishment of a GP Super Clinic in Coffs Harbour will only serve to duplicate existing services already provided to the community.”
Dr Steiner said that while the proposed clinic may take some strain off the local hospital, the $7 million earmarked to establish the new clinic would be better spent on existing General Practice infrastructure in Coffs Harbour.
“The proposed $7 million to fund the clinic should be redirected to assist existing General Practices to upgrade or expand their facilities and deliver more benefits to local communities.
“Coffs Harbour is not an area of need - the community enjoys access to coordinated health services as a range of clinics are already located there. A sure way of attracting more doctors is to provide infrastructure support to existing practices to expand and build more rooms to accommodate more doctors.
“The Government needs to consult with local GPs to establish genuine need for these clinics in particular locations. The AMA does not oppose the clinics outright but we insist they complement established general practice services, not compete with or replace them.
“The AMA has been calling on the Government to review its GP Super Clinics program since it became a reality after the 2007 Federal election.”
Media Contacts: Tanzeem Parkar 0419 402 955
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