RACGP Flags Lessons from UK Referral Rule for Australia
07 Apr 2026
The college says Australia must continue to recognise GPs’ role in providing continuous, patient-centred care while keeping their clinical autonomy.
From 1 April, UK GPs must use the Advice and Guidance (A&G) digital system before making referrals. Previously optional, the system now requires all GPs to submit patient details—like clinical history, test results, and images—to a consultant or senior clinician for review. The GP still makes the final decision, but the mandatory step has raised concerns.
The NHS hopes this will reduce unnecessary referrals and send more patients to community-based care. However, UK GPs warn it could delay care and take away their ability to make decisions independently.
RACGP President Dr Michael Wright, who worked as a GP in the NHS, says the A&G system was useful as a voluntary service, but making it mandatory could create extra barriers for patients.
‘We need to be careful about adding steps that make it harder for patients to access hospital care,’ he told newsGP. ‘In Australia, GPs are recognised for their expertise in referrals, and we must continue to protect that.’
Dr Wright highlighted existing Australian services that give GPs specialist advice, such as the Queensland eConsultant Partnership Program and the Psychiatry Support Line. He said these services are helpful but must not become barriers that slow patient care.
‘Our system recognises GPs as the experts in managing referrals through Medicare,’ he said. ‘We need to make sure additional red tape doesn’t make it harder for patients or GPs.’
The RACGP says Australia can take lessons from the UK to ensure GPs retain autonomy while still having access to specialist advice when needed.
https://www1.racgp.org.au/
Source: newsGP