South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWSPHN) notes funding of GP-led urgent care clinics and a new GP grants program as first steps by the new Federal Government in addressing the concerns of our under-pressure primary care system.
Tuesday night’s Budget also confirmed the government’s commitment to establish a new headspace centre in South Western Sydney.
Funding allocations included:
- $1 million in 2022-23, and $1.4 million per annum from 2023-24, to establish and operate a new headspace centre at Edmondson Park
- $229.7 million to the Strengthening Medicare GP grants program, one-off grants of up to $50,000 for innovation, training, equipment and minor capital works to improve patient access to care
SWSPHN Chief Executive Officer, Dr Keith McDonald, says substantial investment in the primary care sector is critical now to bolster what is the cornerstone of our health system.
“It’s been a challenging two-and-a half years for us all, but our healthcare providers, including GPs and general practice staff across South Western Sydney, have done it particularly tough during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
“The strain on our healthcare system is becoming increasingly evident with a shortfall in GPs being reported and waiting times for GP appointments growing.”
Dr McDonald said any investment in primary care was welcome, but more support was needed.
“We are eagerly awaiting the recommendations of the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce later this year and look forward to seeing the government build on this investment in next year’s Federal Budget.”
Other budget commitments of note include:
Aged care
- $312.6 million to modernise aged care information and communications technology
- $23.1 million for research and consultation for reforms to in-home aged care
Aboriginal health
- $164.3 million towards First Nations infrastructure projects
- $54.3 million for training up to 500 First Nations health workers Mental health
- $114 million to support mental health and suicide prevention initiatives
- This includes $23.5 million for an expansion of the headspace network
This article appeared in Practice Pulse on Wednesday, 2 November 2022. If you are a GP, practice nurse or practice manager in South Western Sydney and do not get the weekly Practice Pulse email, speak to your Practice Support Officer.