AMA Highlights Pharmacy Reform, Rural Healthcare and Medicare Priorities
17 Jul 2026
The AMA has renewed its call for reforms across several areas of Australia's healthcare system, including community pharmacy, rural maternity services, general practice, and Medicare Urgent Care Clinics.
Following the release of a new Grattan Institute report on community pharmacy, the AMA reiterated its support for greater transparency in the way the sector is regulated and funded. The organisation says healthcare funding should prioritise evidence-based, collaborative care rather than expanding healthcare roles without strong supporting evidence.
The AMA also reaffirmed its long-standing support for reviewing pharmacy ownership and location rules, allowing medicine discounting, and exploring the role of non-dispensing pharmacists working within general practice teams.
Rural healthcare remained another key focus during discussions with the National Rural Health Commissioner. The AMA highlighted the importance of maintaining access to doctor-led maternity care in regional and rural communities while supporting multidisciplinary healthcare teams to improve workforce sustainability.
The organisation also contributed to the final evaluation of Medicare Urgent Care Clinics, emphasising that their success should be measured by patient outcomes, effective communication with a patient's regular GP, reduced pressure on hospitals, and continuity of care.
The AMA continues to support stronger integration between Urgent Care Clinics and general practice, including better clinical handover and follow-up arrangements to ensure patients receive coordinated care.
The update also noted that elections for the AMA Federal Council, President, and Vice President are currently underway.
AMA Highlights Pharmacy Reform, Rural Healthcare and Medicare Priorities
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)