GPs remain central as healthcare goes digital: World Family Doctor Day marked in Australia

GPs remain central as healthcare goes digital: World Family Doctor Day marked in Australia

19 May 2026

The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) says GPs continue to play a vital role in patient care, even as technology becomes more common in healthcare settings.

RACGP President Michael Wright said the theme “compassionate care in a digital world” reflects the need to ensure technology supports, rather than replaces, the relationship between patients and doctors.

He said digital tools can help improve access, support diagnosis, and reduce administrative work, but they must be used carefully so they do not break continuity of care.

World Family Doctor Day is celebrated globally each year by the World Organization of Family Doctors to recognise the role of family doctors and the importance of ongoing, patient-centred care.

WONCA says the day highlights how GPs must adapt to new technology while still providing compassionate, personal care.

Dr Wright said the relationship between a GP and their patient remains the foundation of good healthcare, built over time through trust and understanding.

He also said digital health changes must be guided carefully to ensure they do not increase health gaps, especially for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

He stressed that healthcare is not just about data and systems, but about human connection, continuity, and care that puts patients first.


https://www1.racgp.org.au/

Source: newsGP / RACGP
 

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