Dangerous trends emerging

Media Statement
From the president of the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners,
Dr Jim Vause

6 May 2005

Dangerous trends emerging

The workforce report released today by the New Zealand Medical Association shows clearly how fragile the foundation on which the Government’s Primary Health Care Strategy rests, says the College of GPs.

General practitioners are the heart of primary care, yet the analysis of the GP workforce shows clearly how stretched the sector is.

“Declining numbers, the ageing population, an ageing workforce – these are issues that need to be addressed; the sector has already warned Government,” College president Dr Jim Vause said.

The survey uses data from the College’s 2003 membership and workforce survey.

“We are already seeking additional funding for general practice education for next year,” Dr Vause said. “We had over 90 applications for the 55 places on our 2004 registrar training programme. We hope to extend the numbers next year.

“It is essential the working conditions in general practice both recruit and retain our GP specialists,” Dr Vause said.

ENDS

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