AMA Focuses on Medicare Reform and Australia's Healthcare Challenges
06 Aug 2026
The Australian Medical Association (AMA) has outlined several healthcare issues it believes need urgent attention, including Medicare funding, pressure on hospitals, gambling harm, urgent care services and bird flu preparedness.
A key priority this week was the launch of the AMA's Medicare Gap campaign. The campaign explains why many Australians are paying more for healthcare and argues that outdated Medicare funding is a major reason for rising out-of-pocket costs. The AMA says improving Medicare rebates would help patients access affordable care and better support general practice.
The AMA also renewed its call for stronger action on gambling reform. It said GPs play an important role in supporting people experiencing gambling-related harm and encouraged Australians to seek help early through their doctor and available support services.
Hospital overcrowding remains another major concern. The AMA said emergency departments continue to face heavy demand and believes the solution is greater investment in healthcare services rather than discouraging people from attending hospital when they need urgent treatment.
The organisation also questioned whether current Urgent Care Centre models are delivering the intended benefits. It says these services should work more closely with general practice and strengthen, rather than compete with, existing healthcare services.
The AMA also provided an update on bird flu, noting that there are currently no human cases in Australia. While the public health risk remains low, health authorities continue to monitor the situation and protect wildlife and poultry industries.
The association says it will continue working with governments and the health sector to improve access to care, strengthen Medicare and support a more sustainable healthcare system for Australians.
AMA Focuses on Medicare Reform and Australia's Healthcare Challenges
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)