Many businesses have been hit hard during COVID-19 and general practitioners are no exception.
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While an essential service, community medical practices have not been immune to challenges. In many respects, they have been dealt with some of the biggest blows.
As restrictions came into place, many were forced to completely reevaluate how to ensure the needs of their patients were met. After all, ongoing health concerns and the need for patient care did not disappear. But the environment needed to provide such care has been dramatically different.
The federal government was quick to take action in ensuring GPs and patients hit hard were supported, with a number of government-subsidised Medicare Benefits Schedule items expanded. Most notably, increased access to telehealth and telephone services were a most welcomed addition.
However, while social distancing was prioritised, the need for face to face care never stopped. Unfortunately, many doctors here in Tasmania and across Australia reported significant drops in appointments as people shied away from physical consultations. Further, as clinics adapted their methods for providing prescriptions - with support of community pharmacies - sadly, corporate services used the opportunity to take advantage.
For Summerdale Medical Centre, news that the Chemist Warehouse franchise was marketing national telehealth services to Launceston patients was the straw that broke the camel's back. GP and practice partner Dr Don Rose said it was important they took a stand against behaviour he said undermined the work of community GPs and risked patient care.
On top of this GPs are facing increased costs leading to more uncertainty over future viability. The government must prioritise ongoing support well beyond the September expiry for existing benefits.
After all, GPs play a vital role in community health. This includes keeping people out of our already overrun hospital emergency departments. Talks of fixing a "broken health system" will mean nothing if this vital link in the chain is forever broken.
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