*********** EMBARGOed UNTILL wed, 18 MARCH 2009 ***********
registrars and students Provide oxygen for the system
General Practice Registrars Australia Ltd. and the General Practice Students Network (GPSN) held the third Breathing NEWLIFE into General Practice conference today at Parliament House, Canberra. Titled “Innovations in General Practice”, this conference focused on looking at new ways to meet some of the current challenges in areas of expanding teaching and training capacity, attracting doctors to general practice, enhancing support to indigenous doctors, preventative health and GP self care..
The Hon. Nicola Roxon MP, Minister for Health and Ageing, provided the keynote address at this conference which was attended by GP Registrars, medical students, key ministers, representatives from the Department of Health and Ageing and the leaders of key GP Stakeholder organisations.
The Presidents Forum, a highlight of the event, explored key areas for innovation to meet current and future challenges in General Practice. The forum was preceded by Prof. John Horvath, Australia’s Chief Medical Officer who shared his views on the role of General Practice and primary care in dealing with Australia’s current and emerging health challenges. Dr Jennifer Thomson, Principle Medical Advisor to DoHA on GP Workforce issues chaired the forum.
“This conference presents a unique opportunity for our future leaders, registrars and medical students, to come together with current leaders of General Practice stakeholder organizations, to share their diversities of opinions and work together to develop innovative ways to meet the challenges in General Practice.”, said Dr Belinda Guest, Chair GPRA
Ms. Elina Gourlas, GPSN Chair and an enthusiastic final year medical student who has already committed to a career in General Practice, commented. “This conference is a great opportunity for medical students since it allows us to interact with our peers and have real input into health policy that will ultimately impact on us. As students we feel greatly encouraged to see such a vast support for General Practice and synergies around the room on ways to improve outcomes for the future.”
“There are ever in increasing demands on the General Practice profession, which include but are not limited to training, standards and workforce requirements. We, as the future of the profession, seek to bring all stakeholders together to work towards sustainable solutions in an environment of goodwill and cooperation” commented Amit Vohra, CEO GPRA.
“General Practice may have numerous organisations but we all have a shared common purpose which is to deliver the best possible care to Australian communities. This conference sets the benchmark for stakeholder collaboration and in working towards innovative and sustainable ways to meet future challenges.” Added Dr Guest.
For more information or comment:
Mr. Amit Vohra, Chief Executive Officer, GPRA- 0431 909 502
