With access to doctors a continuing issue locally, and nationally, the Deni Local Health Advisory Committee has launched a social media information campaign to try and explain why.
As part of the campaign, it has called on community members to share their experiences of accessing medical care with the decision makers that can help find the solutions.
“Our GPs work incredibly hard to care for our community, but the reality is there are simply not enough doctors,” the group’s post read.
“Here’s how we, as a community, can help.
“Advocate for change. This can be done by speaking/writing to the appropriate MPs about what comes under their jurisdiction – with the GP crisis most of it is federal.”
“We also support the call by the AMA (Australian Medical Association) for all of us to take action with regards to the newly launched ‘Modernise Medicare Campaign’, by writing to your Federal MP at https://www.ama.com.au/modernise-medicare/for-australia.
“There is a ‘take action button’ which takes you to a sample letter. If you fill in your details on this page, it generates a letter that is sent directly to your local member (Federal Member for Farrer Sussan Ley).”
Doctor shortages have been ongoing for decades right across the country, due to a number of factors.
Deni LHAC lists increased demand for chronic healthcare and a lower rate of medical students choosing general practice among them.
There are also fewer overseas trained doctors coming to Australia, and flaws within the Medical Monash Model and Distribution Priority Area systems which identify shortage areas.
Deni LHAC member Lourene Liebenberg said the response to the information campaign has been positive so far.
“The posts were overall well received, with many people getting an understanding about why people are not getting to see GPs and why they’re not taking new patients.
“It’s not that GPs don’t want to or that they don’t care.
“I think the posts also captured well what alternative services there are and what the community can do.
“We believe providing information and awareness is the best method.”
Mrs Liebenberg said lobbying decision makers is not the only action community members can take to improve local GP numbers.
“The most important thing that the community can do is be inclusive.
“Be welcoming – students, new doctors, and their families are more likely to stay if they feel included.
“Help new GPs feel a connection to the community and treat them with kindness - they’re people too. A friendly, supportive and inclusive community makes all the difference.
“Show understanding and respect – our doctors and clinic staff are doing their best.
“You should also be mindful of social media posts - derogatory comments can make it harder to attract and keep doctors in our town.”
• If you are unable to access a doctor, you can use the 24/7 healthdirect service symptom checker at www.healthdirect.gov.au or call 1800 022 222. Locals can also use the healthdirect GP After Hours service, available week nights from 6pm to 10pm and weekends and public holidays from noon to 4pm by calling 1800 272 767.
29°C