National meeting focuses on key issues facing general practice
17 Sep 2026
The meeting was the final National Council of Primary Care Doctors meeting attended by the AMA President. The council brings together major organisations across general practice to discuss shared priorities for the profession.
Discussions included the impact of medical students being excluded from clinical placement payments, the Grattan Institute’s Future Pharmacy report and the draft report from the MRAC Time-tiered Working Group.
The MRAC draft report included recommendations supporting longer consultations, continuity of care and comprehensive general practice. Consultation on the report is now underway.
The AMA also discussed issues in the media during the week, including vaccines, tobacco excise and the use of weight-loss medicines. The AMA stressed the importance of these medicines being prescribed safely and appropriately.
Specialist fees were also discussed, with the AMA continuing to raise concerns about the factors affecting healthcare affordability and the need to consider the wider issues involved.
The AMA also reflected on its AMA26 conference in Melbourne, with survey feedback showing strong support from attendees. Planning for the next conference is expected to begin soon.
National meeting focuses on key issues facing general practice
Source: Australian Medical Association (AMA)