This month has been another busy month with GPRA advocating fiercely on GP Registrars’ behalf – regardless of their training pathway. Here are some of the issues GPRA has been representing members on:
Australian Medicines Handbook
We continue to escalate the matter of having the Australian Medicines Handbook reinstated for GP registrars across Australia. I continue to receive feedback from you concerned that you no longer have access to this valuable resource. GPRA’s position remains that no registrars should be worse off post transition of training and should continue to have access to quality resources to support their training and patient care.
Portability of leave scheme for GPs in Training
GPRA has been a strong advocate for the implementation of a portability of leave scheme for GPs in training. Next week, we head into another round of consultation with consultants appointed by the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care to inform them of your views on the options. Currently there are various models being considered, and I am collating feedback from members, RLOs and GPRA elected Board members to ensure GPRA’s position, informed by registrars in training across all parts of Australia, are considered.
Scholarships for NT
Scholarships for those registrars training in the NT will continue! We’re excited that GPRA has been engaged to continue administering the Northern Territory Scholarships initiative for GPs in training from 2024. GPRA CEO and I will travel to the NT next month to meet with stakeholders, and importantly meet with NT registrars while we are in Darwin. For any current NT registrars who may be in Darwin on Tuesday 1st August, check your email for your catch up invite!
College Exams
It’s certainly been a busy and no doubt stressful period for our members, and I hope you all did well in sitting or having just sat your recent exams. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to GPRA at enquiries@gpra.org.au if you need support.
On a final note, I would like to recognise NAIDOC Week 2023, which is always a highlight in our annual calendar and an important opportunity to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, many of whom are GPRA members.
Until next time.
