The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) is calling for increased investment in affordable GP care, emphasising its vital role in reducing disease, saving lives, and supporting the health system.
The RACGP argues that equitable access to primary healthcare is essential for ensuring early diagnosis and treatment, reducing the strain on emergency departments and specialist services. The organisation asserts that increased investment will lead to better health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable communities and those in rural and regional areas.
The call for action comes amid concerns about the rising healthcare costs and the financial burden on patients. The RACGP highlights that affordable GP care can prevent costly hospital admissions and chronic disease progression, saving the health system billions of dollars annually.
With Australia’s ageing population and the growing prevalence of chronic disease, the RACGP stresses that maintaining accessible GP services is a critical component of a sustainable healthcare system. The RACGP urges the federal government to increase funding for primary care as part of a broader strategy to build a healthier future for all Australians.